HISTORY OF EDUCATION
HED4805
DEPARTMENT OF
EDUCATIONAL
FOUNDATIONS
Assignment 01
MAY 16, 2025
UNIQUE ASSIGNMENT NUMBER: 149215
, With reference to the text provided, answer the following questions:
1.1 Explain which one of the two hunting methods i.e., the use of
bows and arrows, or the use of poisoning do you think was the most
effective for the San people. (15)
While both methods were essential to the San people’s hunting
practices, the use of poisoned arrows was arguably the most effective
method. This technique demonstrated a combination of physical skill,
environmental knowledge, and cognitive planning that allowed for
successful hunting in a challenging environment.
Firstly, poisoned arrows compensated for the limitations of San weapon
technology. The arrows, lacking fletching, were often inaccurate or
failed to kill large animals instantly. Poisoning solved this by ensuring
eventual death even with a poorly placed shot. The San used natural
poisons—from caterpillars, beetle larvae, snake venom, and toxic
plants—demonstrating deep indigenous knowledge of their
environment.
Secondly, poisoned arrows allowed for delayed action, giving hunters
the freedom to track the animal over time rather than engage in a
dangerous, immediate confrontation. Although the process could take
hours or days, it minimized risk and increased hunting success rates.
Furthermore, the technique reflects advanced cognition and problem-
solving. It required understanding animal behavior, patience, and the
skill to track wounded prey across vast terrains. This method ensured
HED4805
DEPARTMENT OF
EDUCATIONAL
FOUNDATIONS
Assignment 01
MAY 16, 2025
UNIQUE ASSIGNMENT NUMBER: 149215
, With reference to the text provided, answer the following questions:
1.1 Explain which one of the two hunting methods i.e., the use of
bows and arrows, or the use of poisoning do you think was the most
effective for the San people. (15)
While both methods were essential to the San people’s hunting
practices, the use of poisoned arrows was arguably the most effective
method. This technique demonstrated a combination of physical skill,
environmental knowledge, and cognitive planning that allowed for
successful hunting in a challenging environment.
Firstly, poisoned arrows compensated for the limitations of San weapon
technology. The arrows, lacking fletching, were often inaccurate or
failed to kill large animals instantly. Poisoning solved this by ensuring
eventual death even with a poorly placed shot. The San used natural
poisons—from caterpillars, beetle larvae, snake venom, and toxic
plants—demonstrating deep indigenous knowledge of their
environment.
Secondly, poisoned arrows allowed for delayed action, giving hunters
the freedom to track the animal over time rather than engage in a
dangerous, immediate confrontation. Although the process could take
hours or days, it minimized risk and increased hunting success rates.
Furthermore, the technique reflects advanced cognition and problem-
solving. It required understanding animal behavior, patience, and the
skill to track wounded prey across vast terrains. This method ensured
