NST2601
ASSIGNMENT 2
DUE DATE: 29 MAY 2025
, NST2601 Assignment 2 2025
1.1 Explain the following concepts.
1.1.1 Scientist
A scientist is a person who systematically studies the natural world through
observation, experimentation, and analysis in order to develop knowledge and
understand how things work. Scientists contribute to the advancement of knowledge
by creating new theories or refining existing ones, often participating in scientific
debates and publishing their findings (NST2601 Learning Unit 1, 2025).
1.1.2 Indigenous Knowledge (IK)
Indigenous Knowledge (IK) refers to the traditional knowledge, skills, practices, and
beliefs developed and maintained by local communities over generations. It is often
acquired through day-to-day experiences in the local environment, such as
understanding local plants, animals, seasons, and cultural practices, and is crucial
for survival and sustainable living (NST2601 Learning Unit 1, 2025). Indigenous
knowledge has historically been marginalized in formal education but is increasingly
being included in curricula to bridge learners’ home experiences and school
knowledge.
1.1.3 Curriculum and Assessment Policy Standard (CAPS)
CAPS is a policy document that outlines the curriculum and assessment standards
for schools in South Africa. It provides detailed guidance on what teachers should
teach and how learners should be assessed at each grade level, including the
integration of Indigenous Knowledge in subjects like Natural Sciences and
Technology in the Intermediate Phase (Grades 4-6) (NST2601 Learning Unit 1,
2025).
ASSIGNMENT 2
DUE DATE: 29 MAY 2025
, NST2601 Assignment 2 2025
1.1 Explain the following concepts.
1.1.1 Scientist
A scientist is a person who systematically studies the natural world through
observation, experimentation, and analysis in order to develop knowledge and
understand how things work. Scientists contribute to the advancement of knowledge
by creating new theories or refining existing ones, often participating in scientific
debates and publishing their findings (NST2601 Learning Unit 1, 2025).
1.1.2 Indigenous Knowledge (IK)
Indigenous Knowledge (IK) refers to the traditional knowledge, skills, practices, and
beliefs developed and maintained by local communities over generations. It is often
acquired through day-to-day experiences in the local environment, such as
understanding local plants, animals, seasons, and cultural practices, and is crucial
for survival and sustainable living (NST2601 Learning Unit 1, 2025). Indigenous
knowledge has historically been marginalized in formal education but is increasingly
being included in curricula to bridge learners’ home experiences and school
knowledge.
1.1.3 Curriculum and Assessment Policy Standard (CAPS)
CAPS is a policy document that outlines the curriculum and assessment standards
for schools in South Africa. It provides detailed guidance on what teachers should
teach and how learners should be assessed at each grade level, including the
integration of Indigenous Knowledge in subjects like Natural Sciences and
Technology in the Intermediate Phase (Grades 4-6) (NST2601 Learning Unit 1,
2025).
