NST2601
ASSIGNMENT 2 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DUE: 29 MAY 2025
,NST2601 – Assignment 2 (2025)
Unique Number:
Due Date: 29 May 2025
Natural Science and Technology for the Classroom III
QUESTION 1
1.1 Define the following concepts:
1.1.1 Scientist (2 Marks)
A scientist is a person who investigates the natural world through structured methods
such as observation, experimentation, and analysis. Their goal is to build and test
explanations (hypotheses) that help to broaden our understanding of how nature works.
1.1.2 Indigenous Knowledge (IK) (2 Marks)
Indigenous Knowledge refers to the skills, experiences, and insights developed by local
communities over generations through close interaction with their environment. This
knowledge is often passed down orally and is specific to a cultural or geographic
context.
1.1.3 Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) (2 Marks)
CAPS is an official guideline provided by the South African Department of Basic
Education. It outlines what should be taught in each subject and grade, and gives
teachers clear instructions on content coverage, assessment practices, and teaching
approaches.
, 1.2 Discuss the following and give examples
1.2.1 Traditional Energy Sources (12 Marks)
Traditional energy sources are natural resources used by indigenous or rural
communities for generations to produce energy.
Examples include:
Wood – used for cooking and heating.
Animal dung – dried and used as fuel in rural areas.
Coal – used in traditional stoves for cooking and warmth.
Crop waste – used as biomass for generating heat.
These sources are often renewable and locally available, although some may have
negative environmental effects such as deforestation or air pollution.
1.2.2 Traditional Musical Instruments (12 Marks)
These are instruments created and used by indigenous communities to express culture
and spirituality.
Examples include:
Drums (e.g., Djembe, Ngoma) – used in ceremonies and storytelling.
Mbira (thumb piano) – common among the Shona people.
Uhadi (musical bow) – played in Xhosa traditions.
Marimba – a wooden xylophone used in African music.
These instruments play a role in preserving oral traditions, teaching moral values, and
creating a sense of community.
QUESTION 2 [40 MARKS]
2.1 Role of Indigenous Knowledge in Education (10 Marks)
Promotes relevance and cultural identity in learning.
Encourages critical thinking by integrating learners’ cultural experiences.
ASSIGNMENT 2 2025
UNIQUE NO.
DUE DUE: 29 MAY 2025
,NST2601 – Assignment 2 (2025)
Unique Number:
Due Date: 29 May 2025
Natural Science and Technology for the Classroom III
QUESTION 1
1.1 Define the following concepts:
1.1.1 Scientist (2 Marks)
A scientist is a person who investigates the natural world through structured methods
such as observation, experimentation, and analysis. Their goal is to build and test
explanations (hypotheses) that help to broaden our understanding of how nature works.
1.1.2 Indigenous Knowledge (IK) (2 Marks)
Indigenous Knowledge refers to the skills, experiences, and insights developed by local
communities over generations through close interaction with their environment. This
knowledge is often passed down orally and is specific to a cultural or geographic
context.
1.1.3 Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) (2 Marks)
CAPS is an official guideline provided by the South African Department of Basic
Education. It outlines what should be taught in each subject and grade, and gives
teachers clear instructions on content coverage, assessment practices, and teaching
approaches.
, 1.2 Discuss the following and give examples
1.2.1 Traditional Energy Sources (12 Marks)
Traditional energy sources are natural resources used by indigenous or rural
communities for generations to produce energy.
Examples include:
Wood – used for cooking and heating.
Animal dung – dried and used as fuel in rural areas.
Coal – used in traditional stoves for cooking and warmth.
Crop waste – used as biomass for generating heat.
These sources are often renewable and locally available, although some may have
negative environmental effects such as deforestation or air pollution.
1.2.2 Traditional Musical Instruments (12 Marks)
These are instruments created and used by indigenous communities to express culture
and spirituality.
Examples include:
Drums (e.g., Djembe, Ngoma) – used in ceremonies and storytelling.
Mbira (thumb piano) – common among the Shona people.
Uhadi (musical bow) – played in Xhosa traditions.
Marimba – a wooden xylophone used in African music.
These instruments play a role in preserving oral traditions, teaching moral values, and
creating a sense of community.
QUESTION 2 [40 MARKS]
2.1 Role of Indigenous Knowledge in Education (10 Marks)
Promotes relevance and cultural identity in learning.
Encourages critical thinking by integrating learners’ cultural experiences.
