This paper aims to analyze the history of science content of six chemistry textbooks selected in 2007 by the Brazilian National High School Textbook Program (PNLEM 2007). An analysis instrument originally developed by L. Leite (2002), and modified for the present investigation, was used. Results indicate that, in general, the history of science is presented in chemistry textbooks in a linear and superficial fashion, consisting mostly of the mere mention of names, facts and dates. One can conclude that the history of science content of the analyzed textbooks do not contribute to help students to develop an image of the scientific endeavor in keeping with current educational goals.
History of science; Textbooks; Chemical education
