TNST7411 Mo

IIE Learn Module Outline TNST7411
TEACHING INTERMEDIATE PHASE NATURAL SCIENCES AND

TECHNOLOGY 3A
TNST7411
MODULE OUTLINE 2024
(First Edition: 2021)
This guide enjoys copyright under the Berne Convention. In terms of the Copyright Act, no 98
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© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 1 of 20

Table of Contents
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................ 3
Using this Module Outline ....................................................................................................................... 4
This Module on Learn .............................................................................................................................. 7
Icons Used in this Document and on Learn ............................................................................................. 8
Module Purpose ...................................................................................................................................... 9
Module Outcomes................................................................................................................................... 9
Assessments .......................................................................................................................................... 10
Module Pacer ........................................................................................................................................ 12
Glossary of Key Terms for this Module.................................................................................................. 20

Introduction
Welcome to the last year of the IIE Bachelor of Education Intermediate Phase Teaching
programme. You have come a long way in your journey from first to fourth year. We hope that
the programme has equipped you to teach learners in the 21st century and that you have
gained sufficient knowledge and skills to address the current educational needs in South Africa.
This module, TNST7411, is a Natural Science and Technology didactics module that has been
developed to familiarise you with mechanical systems, concepts, and principles. There are four
major strands in Natural Science and Technology, and mechanical systems fall into the Systems
and Control strand. It is important to understand that, as a teacher, you always need to improve
your knowledge of the content you are teaching to a level higher than the learners in the
classroom. This module seeks to provide you with the necessary knowledge of mechanical
systems and equips you with the skills needed to teach mechanical systems to Intermediate
Phase learners.
The content covered in this module focuses on the aims of the technology process concepts
found in the CAPS (2011) curriculum. The module will assist you in the transition from Grades
4-6 to Grade 7 Natural Science and Technology concepts and seeks to provide a link between
the two phases.

Using this Module Outline

This module outline has been developed to support your learning. Please note that the
content of this module is on Learn as well as in the prescribed material. You will not
succeed in this module if you focus on this document alone.
• This document does not reflect all the content on Learn, the links to different resources,
nor the specific instructions for the group and individual activities.
• Your lecturer will decide when activities are available/open for submission and when
these submissions or contributions are due. Ensure that you take note of
announcements made during lectures and/or posted within Learn in this regard.

Module Resources
Prescribed PM1: Module Manual TIP NAT SCIENCES AND TECHNOLOGY 3A.
Material (PM) for
this Module PM2: Department of Basic Education, Republic of South Africa. 2011.
Natural Science and Technology. Curriculum and Assessment Policy
Statement Grade 4-6. Pretoria. [Online]. Available at:
https://www.education.gov.za/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=IzbFrpzoQ44%3
d&tabid=572&portalid=0&mid=1568
[Accessed 13 October 2023].
PM3: Department of Basic Education, Republic of South Africa. 2011.

Natural Science and Technology. Curriculum and Assessment Policy
Statement Grade 7-9. Pretoria. [Online]. Available at:
https://www.education.gov.za/Portals/0/CD/National%20Curriculum%2
0Statements%20and%20Vocational/CAPS%20SP%20%20TECHNOLOGY
%20GR%207-9.pdf?ver=2015-01-27-160218-077 [Accessed 13 October
2023].
PM4: The Ukuqondo institution. 2013. Technology Grade 7 Book 1 CAPS

Learner Book. Rietondale: The Ukuqonda Institute.
http://www.mstworkbooks.co.za/downloads/Tech1_Gr7_LB.pdf
PM5: The Ukuqondo institution. 2013. Technology Grade 7 Book 2

CAPS Learner Book. Rietondale: The Ukuqonda Institute.
http://www.mstworkbooks.co.za/downloads/Tech2_Gr7_LB.pdf
Recommended Please note that a number of additional resources and links to resources
Readings, Digital are provided throughout this module on the Learn platform. You are
and Web encouraged to engage with these as they will assist you in mastering the
Resources various objectives of this module. They may also be useful resources for
completing any assignments. You will not, however, be assessed under
examination conditions on any additional or recommended reading
material.
Bezuidenhout, W., Bosh, D., Engelbrecht, R., Marchant, J., Scott., A. and
Volker, A. 2013. Solutions for all Natural Science and Technology. Grade
4. Gauteng: Macmillan.

Bezuidenhout, W., Bosh, D., Engelbrecht, R., Marchant, J., Scott., A. and
Volker, A. 2013. Solutions for all Natural Science and Technology. Grade
5. Gauteng: Macmillan.
Module You will find an overview of this module on Learn under the Module
Overview Information link in the Course Menu.
Assessments Find more information on this module’s assessments in this document
and on the Student Portal.

This Module on Learn

Learn is an online space, designed to support and maximise your learning in an active manner.
Its main purpose is to guide and pace you through the module. In addition to the information
provided in this document, you will find the following when you access Learn:
• A Module Pacer;
• A list of prescribed material;
• A variety of additional online resources (articles, videos, audio, interactive graphics, etc.)
in each learning unit that will further help to explain theoretical concepts;
• Critical questions to guide you through the module’s objectives;
• Collaborative and individual activities (all of which are gradable) with time-on-task
estimates to assist you in managing your time around these;
• Revision questions, or references to revision questions, after each learning unit.
Kindly note:
• Unless you are completing this as a distance module, Learn does not replace your
contact time with your lecturers and/or tutors.
• TNST7411 is a Learn module, and as such, you are required to engage extensively
with the content on the Learn platform. Effective use of this tool will provide you
with opportunities to discuss, debate, and consolidate your understanding of the
content presented in this module.
• You are expected to work through the learning units on Learn in your own time –
especially before class. Any contact sessions will therefore be used to raise and
address any questions or interesting points with your lecturer, and not to cover
every aspect of this module.
• Your lecturer will communicate submission dates for specific activities in class and/or
on Learn.

Icons Used in this Document and on Learn

The following icons are used in all your modules on Learn:
Icon Description
A list of what you should be able to do after working through the learning
unit.
Specific references to sections in the prescribed work.
Questions to help you recognise or think about theoretical concepts to be

covered.
Sections where you get to grapple with the content/theory. This is mainly
presented in the form of questions which focus your attention and are
aimed at helping you to understand the content better. You will be
presented with online resources to work through (in addition to the
textbook or manual references) and find some of the answers to the
questions posed.
Opportunities to make connections between different chunks of theory in

the module or to real life.
Real life or world of work information or examples of application of theory,

using online resources for self-exploration.
REMEMBER:
You need to log onto Learn to:

• Access online resources such as articles, interactive graphics, explanations, video
clips, etc. which will assist you in mastering the content; and
• View instructions and submit or post your contributions to individual or group
activities which are managed and tracked on Learn.

Module Purpose
The purpose of this module is for students to focus specifically on mechanical systems as
part of the Systems and Control strand in Natural Sciences and Technology. A variety of
machines such as wheels and axles, gears, levers, inclined planes, hydraulics, and
pneumatics are covered. Students are required to make several models of these machines
out of pre-used materials, and to explore ways in which to use children’s literature and
media to introduce relevant topics in the Natural Sciences and Technology.
Module Outcomes
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of the key concepts, principles and
MO1
practices associated with mechanical systems.
Develop the technology processing skills required to work with a variety of pre-
MO2
used materials to make models of machines.
MO3 Apply basic physical and mathematic equations related to mechanical systems.
Make use of children’s literature and media to introduce concepts related to
MO4
the Natural Sciences and Technology.

Assessments
Integrated Curriculum Engagement (ICE)
Minimum number of ICE activities to complete 4
Weighting towards the final module mark 10%
Summative Assessment
Assessment Weighting
Assessment Name Total Marks
Type
Task 1 30 90%
Portfolio of Task 2 30
Evidence Task 3 40
Total: 100
Duration 20 hours
Open/Closed book Open book
Resources required Module Manual and own additional research
Learning Units covered All

Assessment Preparation Guidelines

Format Preparation Hints
• There are three activities that To prepare effectively for the PoE:
make up the Portfolio of Evidence.
• There will be two compulsory ICE • Ensure that you work through
tasks that must be submitted for all the activities, exercises, and
marking by your lecturer as per revision questions in the
their timeline. This need not be module guide and prescribed
included in the PoE and will be materials.
done through the course of your • Make sure that you are able to
module at various times decided answer all of the objectives for
by your lecturer. The aim of the each learning unit.
two compulsory ICE tasks is to • Pay close attention to the
render additional support to you instructions in the PoE, as well
so that you can be able to as to the guidance and
Portfolio of complete your summative PoE feedback provided by your
Evidence effectively. lecturer, prior to submitting
(PoE) your final PoE.
You will have three lecturer-facilitated • Work consistently throughout
touchpoints, which will be scheduled the semester. Ensure that you
prior to the expected completion of use the material on Learn for
the PoE activities as per pacer. This is the relevant learning units, and
an opportunity for you to receive your prescribed material to
developmental feedback for your prepare yourself for the
three PoE activities, which you will be successful completion of your
working on throughout the module tasks.
and will submit as a summative at the
end of the module.
PS: Activities will only be marked on

the final summative submission.

Module Pacer
Code Programme Lecture Hours Credits
TNST7411 BEI 24 8
Learning Unit 1 Technology and mechanical systems - CAPS
Overview:
In this learning unit, you will focus on mechanical systems and their role in Technology.
Mechanical systems are broken down into different types of control systems. You will learn
about the basic principles, examples of these systems in our daily lives, as well as the
importance of mechanical systems to assist us with day-to-day work that human beings
cannot always do. Since you are required to design and build mechanical systems, this unit
will explain the link between mathematical concepts and technology (mechanical systems).
Mechanical systems are complex concepts. In the last section, we will explore how using
narratives makes it easier to assist Intermediate Phase learners to understand and learn
mechanical system concepts.
Please work through Themes 1, 2, and 3 on Learn, together with the relevant sections of
your prescribed source/s. To ensure that you are working towards mastering the objectives
for this learning unit, please also ensure that you complete all the activities on Learn.

Learning Unit 1: Theme Breakdown

Sessions: Theme 1: Technology and CAPS Prescribed Material (PM)
1-4
Related LO1: Explain technology according to the PM: Module Manual LU6
Outcomes: CAPS. CAPS Grade 4 – 6
MO001 LO2: Discuss the role of mechanical CAPS Grade 7
MO002 systems in Natural Science and
MO003 Technology in the intermediate
MO004 phase (Grades 4 – 6).
LO3: Discuss the specific aims that
mechanical systems address.
LO4: Evaluate the knowledge strands
between the different grades in the
Intermediate phase and Grade 7
Technology as per the CAPS.
Theme 2 Mechanical Systems
LO5: Discuss the key concepts and PM1: Module Manual LU1
principles of mechanical systems. CAPS Grade 4 – 6
LO6: Identify examples of mechanical CAPS Grade 7
systems that can be found in our
daily lives.
LO7: Describe the role mechanical
systems play in our daily lives.
Theme 3: Application of Mechanical PM1: Module Manual LU1
Systems CAPS Grade 4 – 6
LO8: Evaluate the concepts of movement CAPS Grade 7
and energy required for a
mechanical system to function.
LO9: Apply simple mathematical
concepts in mechanical systems.
LO10: Create narrative artefacts (e.g.,
cartoons, videos, and storybooks)
to assist learners in developing a
clearer understanding of
mechanical systems.

Learning Unit 2 Mechanical System 1 - Wheels and Axles
Overview:
The unit explores mechanical system one-wheels and axles-which was introduced to you in
your second year of Natural Science and Technology. Wheels and axles are often found in
our vehicles, wheelbarrows, and other objects that are used in our daily lives for easy
movement. Wheels and axles must be designed in such a way that they are able to move
without wobbling or breaking. In this unit, we will define a wheel and axle system and
consider how it forms a technological process. We will look at the principles of the wheel
and axle system at the hand of examples. Because it is important for teachers to
investigate methods to make concepts that can be difficult for learners to grasp, the use of
narratives will again be considered.
Please work through Themes 1 and 2 on Learn, together with the relevant sections of your
prescribed source/s. To ensure that you are working towards mastering the objectives for
this learning unit, please also ensure that you complete all the activities on Learn.


Sessions: Theme 1: Wheels and Axles Prescribed Material (PM)
5- 8
Related LO1: Label a wheel and axle system. PM: Module Manual LU2
Outcomes: LO2: Explain the wheel and axle CAPS Grade 4 – 6
MO001 mechanical system as a CAPS Grade 7
MO002 technological process.
MO003 LO3: Identify principles of the wheel and
MO004 axle mechanical system.
Theme 2: Applications of Wheels and PM: Module Manual LU2
Axles CAPS Grade 4 – 6
LO4: Apply the wheel and axle system to CAPS Grade 7
an example found in our daily lives.
LO5: Analyse a wheel and axle system to
determine mathematical integration.
LO6: Create a video narrative suitable to
teach the wheel and axle system to
children.
LO7: Build a wheel and axle system by
using the design process system.

Learning Unit 3 Mechanical System 2 - Lever System
Overview:
This learning unit introduces you to a simple machine that falls within mechanical systems.
During the ancient Greek civilisation, scholars, and philosophers such as Archimedes and
Socrates studied and developed the lever system. It was one of the early simple machines
developed and it was used to assist humans to hoist heavy objects or lift objects off the
ground. We will explore the technology principles that apply to levers, the three classes
found in levers. using a simple formula to calculate the work done by levers and how to use
the design process system to build a lever system. As in the previous learning units, we will
explore the use of narratives to explain the lever system to learners.
prescribed source/s.

Sessions: Theme 1: Lever Systems Prescribed Material (PM)
9 - 14
Related LO1: Label a lever system. PM: Module Manual LU3
Outcomes: LO2: Apply technological process CAPS Grade 4 – 6
MO001 principles to the lever system. CAPS Grade 7
MO002 LO3: Explain the different classes found
MO003 in levers.
MO004 Theme 2: Applications and Lever Systems PM: Module Manual LU3
LO4: Apply the lever system to an CAPS Grade 4 – 6
example found in our daily lives. CAPS Grade 7
LO5: Apply more than one lever class
type to one device or tool.
LO6: Calculate a lever system using a
simple mathematical formula.
LO7: Build a lever system by using the
design process system.
LO8: Create a cartoon narrative to teach
children the lever system concept.

Learning Unit 4 Mechanical System 3 - Pulley System
Overview:
This learning unit focuses on a mechanical system that is a little more complicated than a
lever system and involves pulling an object upward or downwards using a force. We will
define a pulley system, consider the different types of pulley systems, and look at the
mathematical formula and calculations associated with pulley systems. We will also explore
the value of using narratives to explain concepts to learners.

Sessions: Theme 1: Pulley System Prescribed Material (PM)
15 - 18
Related LO1: Label a pulley system. PM: Module Manual LU4
Outcomes: LO2: Apply the technological process CAPS Grade 4 – 6
MO001 principles to the pulley system. CAPS Grade 7
MO002 LO3: Explain different types of pulley
MO003 systems.
MO004 Theme 2: Application of Pulley Systems PM: Module Manual LU4
LO4: Apply the pulley system to an CAPS Grade 4 – 6
example found in our daily lives. CAPS Grade 7
LO5: Calculate a pulley system using a
simple mathematical formula.
LO6: Create a narrative artefact to teach
children the pulley system
concepts.
LO7: Apply the pulley system to solve a
problem.

Learning Unit 5 Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems
Overview:
This unit focuses on hydraulic and pneumatic systems and why it is important to have an
understanding of these two systems. These systems are often used in mechanical systems
to support power. Ensure that you are able to define hydraulic and pneumatic systems,
that you can recognise both systems, and that you understand their use with mechanical
systems.

Sessions: Theme 1: Hydraulic and Pneumatic Prescribed Material (PM)
19-21 Systems
Related LO1: Describe hydraulic and pneumatic PM: Module Manual LU5
Outcomes: systems. CAPS Grade 4 – 6
MO001 LO2: Apply principles of mechanical CAPS Grade 7
MO002 systems to describe how hydraulic
MO003 and pneumatic systems work.
MO004 Theme 2: Applications of Hydraulic and PM: Module Manual LU5
Pneumatic Systems CAPS Grade 4 – 6
LO3: Apply the pneumatic and hydraulic CAPS Grade 7
systems to the “jaws of life”.
LO4: Design an artefact to teach the
hydraulic and pneumatic systems
concept.
LO5: Build a hydraulic and pneumatic
system.

Learning Unit 6 Assessments for Technology
Overview:
In this learning unit, we will explore the assessment guidelines provided by the CAPS for
Technology. We will examine progression in assessments between the different grades,
investigate assessments for the intermediate phase, and develop a mini-PAT for Grade 7
learners.
Please work through Themes 1, 2, and 3 on Learn, together with the relevant sections of
your prescribed source/s. To ensure that you are working towards mastering the objectives
for this learning unit, please also ensure that you complete all the activities on Learn.

Sessions: Theme 1: Assessment Guidelines Prescribed Material
22 - 24
Related LO1: Analyse the assessment guidelines PM: Module Manual LU6
Outcomes: provided in the CAPS Grades 4-6 CAPS Grade 4 – 6
MO001 and 7 knowledge strands. CAPS Grade 7
MO002 LO2: Examine the assessment
MO003 progression of Grade 4-6
MO004 mechanical systems to Grade 7
mechanical systems.
Theme 2: Developing Assessments PM: Module Manual LU6
LO3: Analyse the assessments for CAPS Grade 4 – 6
Intermediate Phase Technology. CAPS Grade 7
LO4: Develop a Mini-PAT assessment for
Grade 7 learners.

Glossary of Key Terms for this Module

Term Definition
Axle A rod that holds a wheel and allows the wheel to turn.
Design Brief A short, clear statement that explains what needs to be done to solve a
problem.
Mechanism Something that is designed to be useful when some of its parts move.
Mini-PAT A short Practical Assessment Task which makes up the main formal
assessment of a learner’s skills and knowledge application during each
term. It may be an assignment covering aspects of the design process, or
it may be a full capability task covering all aspects of the design process
(IDMEC).
Model A 3D representation of an object or structure made on a smaller scale
than the original.
System A number of parts that work together to perform a function.
Technological A method of work used by technology and consists of the ordered
process sequence of steps that should be followed to solve a problem.
Vehicle A system with wheels and axles used on land for carrying people and
goods.

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IIE Learn Module Outline TNST7411

TEACHING INTERMEDIATE PHASE NATURAL SCIENCES AND

The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd is registered with the

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 1 of 20

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 2 of 20

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 3 of 20

Using this Module Outline

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 4 of 20

PM3: Department of Basic Education, Republic of South Africa. 2011.

PM4: The Ukuqondo institution. 2013. Technology Grade 7 Book 1 CAPS

PM5: The Ukuqondo institution. 2013. Technology Grade 7 Book 2

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 5 of 20

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 6 of 20

This Module on Learn

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 7 of 20

Icons Used in this Document and on Learn

Specific references to sections in the prescribed work.

Questions to help you recognise or think about theoretical concepts to be

Opportunities to make connections between different chunks of theory in

Real life or world of work information or examples of application of theory,

You need to log onto Learn to:

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 8 of 20

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 9 of 20

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 10 of 20

Assessment Preparation Guidelines

PS: Activities will only be marked on

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 11 of 20

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 12 of 20

Learning Unit 1: Theme Breakdown

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 13 of 20

Learning Unit 2 Mechanical System 1 - Wheels and Axles

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 14 of 20

Learning Unit 2: Theme Breakdown

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 15 of 20

Learning Unit 3 Mechanical System 2 - Lever System

Learning Unit 3: Theme Breakdown

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 16 of 20

Learning Unit 4 Mechanical System 3 - Pulley System

Learning Unit 4: Theme Breakdown

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 17 of 20

Learning Unit 5 Hydraulic and Pneumatic Systems

Learning Unit 5: Theme Breakdown

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 18 of 20

Learning Unit 6 Assessments for Technology

Learning Unit 6: Theme Breakdown

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 19 of 20

Glossary of Key Terms for this Module

© The Independent Institute of Education (Pty) Ltd 2024 Page 20 of 20

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