Assignment 3
(Portfolio)
EXCEPTIONAL ANSWERS
Due 19 September 2025
,RDF2601
Assignment 3
(Portfolio)
Due 19 September 2025
QUESTION 1
1.1. Critique the use of natural materials in teaching mathematical concepts
Advantages:
• Sensory and Tactile Engagement: Natural materials like stones, leaves, or
sticks stimulate multiple senses, aiding young learners’ understanding. For
example, children can physically count stones, connecting numbers with tangible
objects, which enhances number sense.
• Real-World Relevance: Using environment-based materials makes learning
meaningful. Sorting leaves by shape introduces classification and early geometry
concepts naturally.
• Cost-Effective & Accessible: These materials are usually free or inexpensive,
readily available in local environments, making them especially suitable for
resource-constrained settings.
• Encourages Creativity & Problem-Solving: Open-ended natural materials
inspire exploration, such as pattern creation with pinecones, promoting critical
thinking.
Limitations:
• Inconsistency & Variability: Natural materials vary in size, shape, and texture,
which may confuse learners or lead to misconceptions (e.g., larger stones don’t
always mean more).
• Durability & Maintenance: Organic materials decay or get damaged quickly; for
example, leaves may rot after a few uses, requiring frequent replacement.
, • Safety Concerns: Sharp objects like sticks or allergens in plants pose risks,
necessitating careful selection and handling.
• Limited Precision for Complex Concepts: Natural materials suit basic ideas
like counting or patterns but are inadequate for teaching precise measurements
or fractions, which require standardized tools.
Example: Using acorns for addition helps children visualize combining sets. But if
acorns differ significantly in size, children might focus on appearance rather than
quantity, reducing conceptual clarity.