, MTE1501 Assignment 4 (COMPLETE ANS
Question 1: Mathematics in Society (20 marks)
1.1 Define mathematics using the three views and provide
examples (6 marks)
1. Instrumentalist / Toolbox View
o Definition: Mathematics is seen as a practical tool or
set of techniques for solving real-world problems. It
focuses on applying mathematical methods to
achieve specific outcomes.
o Example: In a classroom, a teacher uses fractions to
help students calculate the correct dosage of
medicine in a science experiment. In real life, a
carpenter uses measurements and geometry to
construct a bookshelf.
2. Platonist View
o Definition: Mathematics is viewed as the study of
abstract, eternal truths that exist independently of
humans. Numbers, shapes, and mathematical
relationships are discovered rather than invented.
o Example: Studying the properties of prime numbers
in number theory reflects the belief that these
patterns exist independently of human observation.
Question 1: Mathematics in Society (20 marks)
1.1 Define mathematics using the three views and provide
examples (6 marks)
1. Instrumentalist / Toolbox View
o Definition: Mathematics is seen as a practical tool or
set of techniques for solving real-world problems. It
focuses on applying mathematical methods to
achieve specific outcomes.
o Example: In a classroom, a teacher uses fractions to
help students calculate the correct dosage of
medicine in a science experiment. In real life, a
carpenter uses measurements and geometry to
construct a bookshelf.
2. Platonist View
o Definition: Mathematics is viewed as the study of
abstract, eternal truths that exist independently of
humans. Numbers, shapes, and mathematical
relationships are discovered rather than invented.
o Example: Studying the properties of prime numbers
in number theory reflects the belief that these
patterns exist independently of human observation.
