OPM1501
Assignment 2
2023 (566940)
UPDATED
QUESTIONS AND
ELABORATE
ANSWERS
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OPM1501
2023
ASSESSMENT 02
UNIQUE NUMBER – 566940
Closing date: 19 June 2023
The questions are based on learning units 2, 3 and 4
1 From a constructivist perspective, it is important to create learning environments
and learning activities that enable learners’ construction of knowledge rather than
just absorb it. Write a 1000-word essay in which you critically respond to this
statement with a lens on the teaching of numbers, patterns, and relationships in
any grade in the Intermediate Phase. You should include examples, either from
your learning experience at school, general reading, or observation as a learner
to illustrate the points that you make.
Please use the rubric 1, provided at the end of this Tutorial Letter, to guide the
structuring of your essay. It is important that you use this rubric to do self-evaluation
before you submit to ensure that you have completed all the required elements for
the essay adequately.
[30]
Title: Constructivism and the Teaching of Numbers, Patterns, and Relationships in the
Intermediate Phase
Introduction: Constructivism is an educational philosophy that emphasizes the active
role of learners in constructing their own understanding of knowledge. From a
constructivist perspective, learning environments and activities should be designed to
facilitate learners' construction of knowledge rather than merely absorbing it
passively. This essay critically examines the importance of constructivist approaches in
teaching numbers, patterns, and relationships in the Intermediate Phase, drawing
upon personal experiences, general reading, and observations.
Constructivist Learning Environments: In a constructivist classroom, the learning
environment plays a crucial role in fostering active engagement and meaningful
learning experiences. Teachers should create an environment that encourages
exploration, discovery, and collaboration. For instance, in a mathematics class,
teachers can set up learning centers with manipulatives, puzzles, and games that
allow students to explore numbers, patterns, and relationships in a hands-on manner.
This approach helps students develop a deep understanding of mathematical
concepts through personal discovery and experimentation.
, lOMoAR cPSD|9482797
OPM1501
2023
Personal Experience: During my time in the Intermediate Phase, I had a teacher who
embraced constructivist principles in mathematics instruction. Instead of relying solely
on textbooks, she used real-world examples and encouraged us to actively participate
in problem-solving. For instance, when introducing the concept of patterns, she
brought in objects like leaves, seashells, and tiles, asking us to identify and analyze
the patterns they exhibited. This hands-on experience helped us develop a strong
conceptual understanding of patterns and how they are represented numerically.
Active Learning Activities: Constructivist teaching emphasizes the use of active
learning activities that engage students in constructing their own knowledge. Such
activities provide opportunities for students to explore, analyze, and make
connections between mathematical concepts.
One example of an active learning activity in teaching numbers, patterns, and
relationships is the "Number Walk." In this activity, students are asked to observe their
surroundings and identify different instances of numbers in the environment. They
might find numbers on street signs, buildings, or even in nature. By actively seeking
and documenting numbers, students develop an awareness of the relevance and
application of numbers in their daily lives.
Personal Experience: I recall participating in a similar activity during my Intermediate
Phase. Our teacher took us on a walk around the school, and we were tasked with
identifying and recording numbers we encountered along the way. This activity not
only made us more attentive to numbers in our environment but also encouraged us
to discuss and analyze the patterns and relationships we observed. By engaging in
this active learning experience, we developed a deeper understanding of numbers
and their significance beyond the classroom.
Collaborative Learning: Constructivism also emphasizes the importance of
collaborative learning, where students engage in discussions and problem-solving
activities together. By working in groups, students can share their ideas, challenge
one another's thinking, and construct knowledge collectively.
In the context of numbers, patterns, and relationships, collaborative learning can
involve group projects, such as creating number patterns, solving puzzles, or
investigating mathematical relationships. Through these activities, students learn from
their peers, develop communication and teamwork skills, and reinforce their
understanding of mathematical concepts.
General Reading: Research studies have consistently shown the benefits of
collaborative learning in mathematics education. A study by Johnson and Johnson
(2009) demonstrated that students who engaged in cooperative learning activities
showed improved mathematical understanding and problem-solving abilities