ACCESSIBLE MATHEMATICS: LECTURES USING CONTEXTUALIZATION AS A MOTIVATIONAL TOOL

Abstract

 The importance of mathematics in the development of logical thinking and essential skills is undeniable. However, in Brazil, including in the State of São Paulo, indicators of the quality of mathematics learning, obtained in evaluations conducted at the state and national level, remain alarming. Resolving this situation is a key point in promoting the sustainable development of the country. In order to contribute to progress in this regard, at the local level, mathematics lecturers at the Chemistry Institute of UNESP in Araraquara developed an extension project called “Accessible Mathematics for Everyone”. The aim was to give talks in public schools in Araraquara and the wider region, focusing on the teaching of mathematics by means of contextualization, modeling, and problem solving. The intention was to motivate students to study and understand the subject, and to provide the teachers with new approaches to teaching the contents of the discipline, giving greater meaning to them. This article reports on the experience of this project and its first results, which have already been highly positive, especially in terms of encouraging the high school students to deepen their study of mathematics through scientific initiation projects supported by the PIBIC Jr - UNESP/CNPq  program. The partnership established between the lecturers involved in the project and the public schools has contributed to the development of these goals and has helped the high school students to pass the exams for entry to highly regarded public universities.