, MIP1501 ASSIGNMENT 4 ANSWERS
DUE DATE: 22 JULY 2026
Question 1
1.1 As an Intermediate Phase Mathematics teacher, how would you respond if a
learner's parent asks: "Why should my child learn about ancient number systems
when modern mathematics uses the Hindu-Arabic system?" (8 marks)
As an Intermediate Phase Mathematics teacher, I would explain to the parent that although
modern mathematics mainly uses the Hindu-Arabic number system, learning about ancient
number systems forms an important part of developing mathematical understanding. The
Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) encourages learners to understand
mathematical concepts, recognise patterns, and appreciate that mathematics has developed
through the contributions of different civilisations over many centuries (DBE, 2011).
Learning about ancient number systems therefore helps learners understand not only how
mathematics works but also why the current system is so effective.
Real-life relevance (4 marks)
Ancient number systems demonstrate that mathematics has always been used to solve
practical everyday problems. Civilisations such as the Egyptians, Romans and Babylonians
developed their own methods of counting, measuring land, trading goods and recording
time long before the Hindu-Arabic system became widely accepted. This allows learners to
appreciate that mathematics is a universal language that has evolved to meet human needs
(Van de Walle, Karp & Bay-Williams, 2019).
In my classroom, I would present learners with different examples of number systems.
Learners could compare the Roman numerals that still appear on some clocks and building
cornerstones with the Hindu-Arabic numerals they use daily. I would also create a classroom
DUE DATE: 22 JULY 2026
Question 1
1.1 As an Intermediate Phase Mathematics teacher, how would you respond if a
learner's parent asks: "Why should my child learn about ancient number systems
when modern mathematics uses the Hindu-Arabic system?" (8 marks)
As an Intermediate Phase Mathematics teacher, I would explain to the parent that although
modern mathematics mainly uses the Hindu-Arabic number system, learning about ancient
number systems forms an important part of developing mathematical understanding. The
Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) encourages learners to understand
mathematical concepts, recognise patterns, and appreciate that mathematics has developed
through the contributions of different civilisations over many centuries (DBE, 2011).
Learning about ancient number systems therefore helps learners understand not only how
mathematics works but also why the current system is so effective.
Real-life relevance (4 marks)
Ancient number systems demonstrate that mathematics has always been used to solve
practical everyday problems. Civilisations such as the Egyptians, Romans and Babylonians
developed their own methods of counting, measuring land, trading goods and recording
time long before the Hindu-Arabic system became widely accepted. This allows learners to
appreciate that mathematics is a universal language that has evolved to meet human needs
(Van de Walle, Karp & Bay-Williams, 2019).
In my classroom, I would present learners with different examples of number systems.
Learners could compare the Roman numerals that still appear on some clocks and building
cornerstones with the Hindu-Arabic numerals they use daily. I would also create a classroom
