Além da lona: atividades circenses nas aulas de Educação Física em Coari-Am

Abstract

In recent decades, Physical Education has consolidated its place in basic education, especially after the enactment of the Brazilian National Education Guidelines and Framework Law (LDBEN – Law No. 9,394/96). The initial challenge was to overcome a restricted view centered solely on sports, expanding its scope to include a broader range of bodily practices. With the implementation of the National Common Curricular Base (BNCC), circus activities were officially incorporated into Physical Education in the early years of Elementary School. Thus, this study aimed to analyze the perceptions of students from the Ursulina Souza de Oliveira Municipal School, located in the municipality of Coari, Amazonas, regarding their experiences with content related to circus activities in Physical Education classes. This applied research adopted a qualitative approach and was conducted as participatory action research. The sample consisted of 30 third-grade elementary school students of both sexes. The data collection instruments included: a portfolio of drawings; participant observation and field notes recorded in a field diary; and focus groups. Data analysis was conducted using the technique of Elaboration and Analysis of Units of Meaning, based on three methodological stages: (1) naïve description; (2) identification of attitudes; and (3) interpretation. At the end of the study, it was possible to understand the students' perceptions regarding the inclusion of circus activities in Physical Education classes, highlighting changes in their perceptions and understandings of this content following the pedagogical intervention. It is suggested that further research be conducted to expand discussions on circus activities within the school context, as well as the use of the educational resource developed as a support material for teachers interested in implementing and strengthening this theme in Physical Education classes