Recommended Prior Knowledge

-

Objectives

- Understands science concepts in the field of Biology and Geology.
- Recognize and use scientific terminology in the field of Biology and Geology.
- Mobilize scientific knowledge according to the grade level of their future pupils.
- Search for information using diverse sources.
- Collect and analyse empirical data.
- Conduct experimental investigations.
- Mobilize scientific knowledge in socio-scientific discussions and decision making.
- Recognize the complexity and uncertainty of scientific knowledge.
- Develops questioning skills and critical thinking.

Teaching Methods

A student-centered teaching-learning methodology is employed, involving the following learning activities: reading and comprehending various texts and documents; guided discussion of topics; participation in in-person debates and online forums; preparation of reports (discussion and presentation of results); conducting experimental, research, and/or investigative activities; and conducting fieldwork. These active methodologies align with the principles defined in the ESE/IPS Pedagogical Model, particularly in the emphasis on cross-cutting competencies (critical thinking, collaborative work, and use of technologies).

The planned tutorial support involves assisting groups with their assignments and providing individual support whenever necessary. This support may sometimes be scheduled by the instructor and other times at the students’ request.

The organization and preparation of activities using the Moodle platform is a requirement for monitoring work in the course unit.

Internship(s)

Não

Syllabus

1. Ecosystems
- Interactions between living beings and the environment
- Energy flow and matter cycle
- Disorders in the balance of ecosystems
2. Earth Dynamics
- Plate tectonics and Earth’s structure
- Geological processes: diversity of rocks and minerals; the rock cycle
- Geological resources: geological heritage and sustainability.

Content Explanation

In this subject, it is intended that students deepen their knowledge of biology and geology concepts and simultaneously develop skills of
questioning, research, selection, and analysis of information, using diverse sources and resources. These skills are essential for scientific
updating throughout their professional future and for the development of interest and curiosity about science. Content management is done
taking into account the discussion of socio-scientific issues and controversies often associated with biology and geology themes. Emphasis
is also given to the development of science processes skills, namely those associated with conducting experimental investigations.

Methodology Explanation

Teaching methodologies are centred in students’ activities, considering their future role as teachers. Emphasis is
placed on multiple practical activities, including simple experiments, investigations, field trips, discussions, and
debates. Science is presented as an active process of research and construction of scientific knowledge and not as a finished body of
knowledge. The teaching methodologies pretend to stimulate critical thinking, research skills using scientific information and credible
sources of science communication, focusing on the training of future professionals, not only in terms of their initial teaching training, but also
in terms of their continuous updating and will to learn.

Responsible Lecturer(s)

Sílvia Cristina dos Reis Ferreira - 2.º Semester

Bibliography

Bryson, B. (2013). Breve história de quase tudo. Bertrand Editora.
Costa, J. B. (1998). Estudo e classificação das rochas por exame macroscópico. Fundação Calouste Gulbenkian.
Cunningham, W., & Cunningham, M. (2023). Environmental Science: A Global Concern (16th ed.). McGrawHill
Galopim de Carvalho, A. (2011). Dicionário de Geologia. Âncora Editora.
Galopim de Carvalho, A. (2021). As pedras na ciência e na cultura. Âncora Editora.
Grotzinger, J., & Jordan, T. (2020). Understanding Earth. Macmillan Learning.
Martins-Loução, M. (2021). Riscos Globais e Biodiversidade. Fundação Francisco Manuel dos Santos.
Reece, J., Urry, L., Cain, M. Wassermen, S., & Minorsky, P. (2021). Campbell Biology. Benjamin Cunmings.
Santos, F. (2021). Alterações climáticas. Fundação Francisco Manuel dos Santos.