,QUESTION 1[30 MARKS]
1.1.1 Scientist
A scientist is a person who seeks to understand how the natural world
works by using observation, experimentation, and analysis. Scientists
follow a systematic process known as the scientific method, which includes
formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, and drawing conclusions
based on evidence (SASA, 2014). Scientists can work in various fields
such as biology, physics, chemistry, and environmental science. Their work
is crucial for innovation, solving real-world problems, and advancing
knowledge. Scientists are guided by curiosity and critical thinking to
generate reliable and tested knowledge (DoE, 2011).
1.1.2 Indigenous Knowledge (IK)
Indigenous Knowledge (IK) refers to the local knowledge developed by
communities over generations through experience and interaction with the
environment. It includes understanding weather patterns, medicinal plants,
farming practices, and cultural traditions (Snively & Corsiglia, 2001). IK is
usually transmitted orally and is specific to a culture or geographic location.
In education, incorporating IK allows learners to connect scientific content
with their lived experiences, promoting relevance and inclusivity.
Recognising IK in classrooms fosters respect for diverse knowledge
systems (DoE, 2011).
1.1.3 Curriculum and Assessment Policy Standard (CAPS)
, The Curriculum and Assessment Policy standard (CAPS) is a national
policy developed by the South African Department of Basic Education. It
provides detailed guidance on what to teach and assess in each subject
and grade (DBE, 2011). CAPS aims to ensure standardisation, equity, and
clarity in the South African education system. It outlines content topics,
skills, and assessment standards for all phases of schooling. CAPS also
supports inclusivity by recommending the integration of Indigenous
Knowledge and local context into the curriculum (DBE, 2011).
1.2
1.2.1 Traditional Energy Sources
Traditional energy sources refer to natural forms of energy that
communities have used for centuries, often before the advent of modern
electricity. These include firewood, animal dung, coal, and paraffin. In many
rural areas of South Africa, firewood remains the primary source of energy
for cooking and heating due to limited access to electricity (Department of
Minerals and Energy, 2007). These sources are typically non-renewable
and can have significant environmental and health impacts, especially
when used indoors without proper ventilation.
Despite these drawbacks, traditional energy sources have been essential
for survival, particularly in indigenous and rural communities. For example,
animal dung is commonly used in Lesotho and parts of the Eastern Cape,
where it is dried and burned for cooking and heating. Paraffin, another
widely used source, is popular in informal settlements for lighting and
cooking due to its low cost and availability.
1.1.1 Scientist
A scientist is a person who seeks to understand how the natural world
works by using observation, experimentation, and analysis. Scientists
follow a systematic process known as the scientific method, which includes
formulating hypotheses, conducting experiments, and drawing conclusions
based on evidence (SASA, 2014). Scientists can work in various fields
such as biology, physics, chemistry, and environmental science. Their work
is crucial for innovation, solving real-world problems, and advancing
knowledge. Scientists are guided by curiosity and critical thinking to
generate reliable and tested knowledge (DoE, 2011).
1.1.2 Indigenous Knowledge (IK)
Indigenous Knowledge (IK) refers to the local knowledge developed by
communities over generations through experience and interaction with the
environment. It includes understanding weather patterns, medicinal plants,
farming practices, and cultural traditions (Snively & Corsiglia, 2001). IK is
usually transmitted orally and is specific to a culture or geographic location.
In education, incorporating IK allows learners to connect scientific content
with their lived experiences, promoting relevance and inclusivity.
Recognising IK in classrooms fosters respect for diverse knowledge
systems (DoE, 2011).
1.1.3 Curriculum and Assessment Policy Standard (CAPS)
, The Curriculum and Assessment Policy standard (CAPS) is a national
policy developed by the South African Department of Basic Education. It
provides detailed guidance on what to teach and assess in each subject
and grade (DBE, 2011). CAPS aims to ensure standardisation, equity, and
clarity in the South African education system. It outlines content topics,
skills, and assessment standards for all phases of schooling. CAPS also
supports inclusivity by recommending the integration of Indigenous
Knowledge and local context into the curriculum (DBE, 2011).
1.2
1.2.1 Traditional Energy Sources
Traditional energy sources refer to natural forms of energy that
communities have used for centuries, often before the advent of modern
electricity. These include firewood, animal dung, coal, and paraffin. In many
rural areas of South Africa, firewood remains the primary source of energy
for cooking and heating due to limited access to electricity (Department of
Minerals and Energy, 2007). These sources are typically non-renewable
and can have significant environmental and health impacts, especially
when used indoors without proper ventilation.
Despite these drawbacks, traditional energy sources have been essential
for survival, particularly in indigenous and rural communities. For example,
animal dung is commonly used in Lesotho and parts of the Eastern Cape,
where it is dried and burned for cooking and heating. Paraffin, another
widely used source, is popular in informal settlements for lighting and
cooking due to its low cost and availability.
