QUESTION 1
1. Read the following statements and indicate whether they are true or false.
1.1) Indigenous knowledge is static and does not change over time.
False
The document explicitly states that "indigenous knowledge is dynamic." It is created over time in
response to changes in the local environment and the needs of the community (Page 6).
1.2) Charles Lyell claimed to be the true originator of the basic principles of geology.
True
The text states that in his Principles of Geology, Lyell "created the myths which allowed him to set
himself in a privileged position in the Pantheon of Geology" and did this by "claiming to be the true
creator of the basic principles of that science" (Page 3).
1.3) Traditional energy sources such as wood are entirely sustainable and pose no threat to the
environment.
False
The document explains that "a reliance on wood biomass as a source of energy puts stress on the
natural vegetation... The long-term result of this is deforestation and environmental degradation."
While sustainable strategies existed, the source itself is not entirely sustainable without careful
management (Page 10).
1.4) Traditional musical instruments in Southern Africa were originally made using locally
available natural materials.
True
The text clearly states, "All traditional musical instruments in the past were made from locally
available materials" (Page 12).
1.5) The CAPS curriculum has fully integrated Indigenous Knowledge into all learning areas.
False
The document notes that while Indigenous Knowledge aspects have now been included in the
curriculum, "Our school curricula have, to a large extent, been highly Westernised, with little
opportunity for including Indigenous Knowledge." It mentions inclusion is evident in the CAPS for
Intermediate Phase Natural Sciences and Technology, not all learning areas (Pages 6-7).
1.6) Scientists in the 19th century often wrote history in a way that emphasised their own
contributions.
True
The text says that 19th-century scientists were conscious of their work's innovative character and
"did not hesitate to draw self-justifying historical pictures that promoted appreciation of the
significance of their contributions." It uses Lyell's work as a key example of this (Page 2).