Português

English

Abstract

The problem with this study is the lack of methods that connect theory and practice in the teaching of Biology, particularly in emerging areas such as forensic science. Biology, in addition to being a broad and diverse field, needs to be taught in a way that students can not only understand theoretical concepts, but also apply them to real-world situations. The growing demand for forensic science professionals and the need to engage students in STEM disciplines drive the creation of didactic activities that link school content to the professional context. In this study, practical techniques such as bioluminescence, DNA extraction, and fingerprint collection were applied in an educational context, providing students with a tangible experience of using these methodologies in criminal investigations. Bioluminescence, for example, proved effective in detecting biological traces, while DNA extraction from strawberries and fingerprint collection demonstrated the fundamentals of molecular biology and forensics. The integration of hands-on activities into biology teaching allowed students to experience forensic science in an accessible way, promoting greater engagement and understanding of scientific concepts, in addition to preparing them for future careers in STEM.