09.10.2019

8th graders go on a Field Trip to Minas Gerais for the first time

8th graders (Y8) went on a Field Trip to Minas Gerais in order to analyze the Brazilian historical context of the 18th century – in its political, economic, social, and cultural aspects – and expand their knowledge of History, Geography, Science, Portuguese Language, and Art.

They visited the cities of Tiradentes and São João Del Rey. The Field Trip study addressed cultural manifestations of the region, the destination of Brazilian gold in the 18th century, internal historical changes, the importance of mining for the development of the Brazilian territory, a further in-depth analysis of the “Inconfidência Mineira”, the recognition and relationship between climate, relief, soil, and vegetation of the region related to the mineral exploration and its environmental impacts, and knowledge about the Brazilian Baroque art.

On arrival, the students were overwhelmed by the unusual landscape of Tiradentes. Its study went well beyond personal impressions, as the students were invited to pay attention to the several elements around the churchyard of the Igreja de São Francisco de Paula, whether cultural or natural, dynamic or static, new or old, centered or dispersed, as well as the visual aspects such as colors, shapes and textures.

They also visited the Fountain of São José de Botas, considered one of the most beautiful fountains of the country. They analyzed several construction details and functions that make this space so special.

Thereupon, the students participated in a workshop about Puppet Plays and observed the techniques of construction, painting and handling of puppets. In the evening, they were presented with a Flute and Keyboard Concert at the Igreja Matriz Santo Antônio, and participated in a cultural experience promoted by a presentation by a Congado group (an Afro-Brazilian cultural and religious manifestation) on the hillsides of the city.

Knowledge in the area of Science was also expanded through a great adventure:  a long walk along the trails of the Serra de São José.

In São João Del Rey, they visited the Igreja de São Francisco de Assis and the Museu do Sino. They also climbed the tall tower of the Igreja Nossa Senhora do Carmo in order to contemplate the language of bells. The students also increased their repertoire about Baroque art and architecture and watched an out-of-the-ordinary performance of Lendas São Joanenses.

On the last day, the group got together for a discussion and the trip closure at the Praça Central de Tiradentes after the last activities at Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário dos Homens Pretos. With a cultural load of knowledge, the students returned to São Paulo brimming over with emotion and warmth.