, MTE1501 Assignment 4 (COMPLETE
ANSWERS) 2025 - DUE 31 August 2025
Question 1: Mathematics in Society (20 marks)
1.1 Three Views of Mathematics (6 marks)
a) Instrumentalist / Toolbox View
Definition: Mathematics is seen as a set of rules,
procedures, and formulas — like tools in a toolbox — used
to solve real-life problems. It is practical and utilitarian,
without necessarily seeking deeper meaning.
Example: In a classroom, learners use the formula Area =
length × width to calculate the size of a school garden.
They focus only on applying the formula to get the answer.
b) Platonist View
Definition: Mathematics is regarded as a fixed, universal
truth that exists independently of human thought.
Mathematical concepts are “discovered” rather than
invented, and they are eternal.
Example: Explaining that the ratio of a circle’s
circumference to its diameter (π) is always the same, no
matter where you are in the world or what circle you
measure.
c) System View
ANSWERS) 2025 - DUE 31 August 2025
Question 1: Mathematics in Society (20 marks)
1.1 Three Views of Mathematics (6 marks)
a) Instrumentalist / Toolbox View
Definition: Mathematics is seen as a set of rules,
procedures, and formulas — like tools in a toolbox — used
to solve real-life problems. It is practical and utilitarian,
without necessarily seeking deeper meaning.
Example: In a classroom, learners use the formula Area =
length × width to calculate the size of a school garden.
They focus only on applying the formula to get the answer.
b) Platonist View
Definition: Mathematics is regarded as a fixed, universal
truth that exists independently of human thought.
Mathematical concepts are “discovered” rather than
invented, and they are eternal.
Example: Explaining that the ratio of a circle’s
circumference to its diameter (π) is always the same, no
matter where you are in the world or what circle you
measure.
c) System View
