NST2601 Assignment 2 Memo | Due 29 May 2025 • Course • Natural Science and Technology for classroom III (NST2601

NST2601
ASSIGNMENT 2
MEMO | DUE 29
MAY 2025
NO PLAGIARISM
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NST2601 Assignment 2 Memo | Due 29 May
2025
Course

 Natural Science and Technology for classroom III (NST2601)
 Institution
 University Of South Africa (Unisa)
 Book
 Natural Sciences and Technology for Grade 6

NST2601 Assignment 2 Memo | Due 29 May 2025. All questions fully
answered.



QUESTION 1 [30 MARKS] 1.1 Explain the following concepts. 1.1.1 Scientist
(2) 1.1.2 Indigenous Knowledge (IK) (2) 1.1.3 Curriculum and assessment
policy standard (CAPS) (2) 1.2 Discuss the following and give examples. 2.1.1
Traditional energy sources (12) 2.1.2 Traditional musical instruments (12)

QUESTION 1 [30 MARKS]
1.1 Explain the following concepts (6 marks)

1.1.1 Scientist (2 marks)

A scientist is a person who studies the natural world using observation, experimentation, and
evidence-based reasoning to understand how things work. Scientists aim to discover new
knowledge or solve problems using systematic methods of inquiry.

1.1.2 Indigenous Knowledge (IK) (2 marks)

Indigenous Knowledge (IK) refers to the local, traditional knowledge developed over
generations within a specific culture or community. It includes understanding of the
environment, medicine, agriculture, and spirituality and is often passed down orally through
storytelling, rituals, and practice.

1.1.3 Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) (2 marks)

CAPS is the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement used in South African schools. It
provides teachers with detailed guidelines on what content to teach and assess in each subject
and grade, ensuring standardisation and consistency across the education system.

, 1.2 Discuss the following and give examples (24 marks)

1.2.1 Traditional Energy Sources (12 marks)

Traditional energy sources are naturally occurring energy sources that have been used for
centuries by communities, especially in rural or indigenous settings. These sources are often
sustainable and locally available.

Examples include:

 Firewood: Used for cooking and heating. In many African villages, wood is gathered
from forests.
 Dung (animal waste): Used as fuel in the form of dried cow dung cakes. It is common in
rural India and some African regions.
 Charcoal: Made by burning wood in low-oxygen environments. It is a widely used
cooking fuel in many parts of Africa.
 Crop residue: Leftover parts of crops like maize stalks or husks are dried and used as
fuel.
 Human labor (muscle energy): Used for transportation (e.g., pulling carts) and farming
before the use of engines.

Importance and Challenges:

 Traditional energy is often low-cost and accessible.
 However, over-reliance on firewood and charcoal leads to deforestation and health
risks from indoor air pollution.



1.2.2 Traditional Musical Instruments (12 marks)

Traditional musical instruments are locally crafted instruments used in cultural, spiritual, and
communal events. They are made from natural materials and reflect the musical heritage of a
community.

Examples include:

 Drums (e.g., Djembe, talking drum) – Common in West and Southern Africa; used in
ceremonies and storytelling.
 Mbira (thumb piano) – Originating from Zimbabwe, used in spiritual and traditional
ceremonies.
 Uhadi (musical bow) – Used by Xhosa people in South Africa.
 Shekere – A gourd covered with beads, used in West African musical traditions.