Abstract
This study compares the Scientific Literacy of Brazilian and Japanese students based on PISA results, aiming to contribute with evidence to the discussion of educational inequalities. It analyzes empirical data obtained through observation of Science classes in schools in Brazil and Japan, a questionnaire answered by teachers who were observed and interviews with specialists in the science area and with those responsible for PISA in the two countries considered in this study. The analysis shows that the differences in performance of Brazilian and Japanese students are associated with the way in which the education system of each country approaches the curriculum and continuing teacher education, and also with the different use that they make of PISA results.
SCIENTIFIC LITERACY; SCIENCE; PISA