In the second term of the Junior Secondary School (JSS 1) curriculum, students are expected to understand and apply key concepts that form the foundation of their mathematics education. This revision focuses on different topics, breaking them down to help students grasp essential ideas. The terms such as “harshe,” “adabi,” and “al’ada” have cultural and educational significance. We will explore each one in detail, providing a clear understanding and setting up practice questions for revision.
1. Harshe (Language)
In this topic, “harshe” refers to the concept of language, focusing on how mathematics and communication overlap. Understanding mathematical language is crucial because it allows students to interpret problems and solutions effectively.
Key Areas:
- Basic mathematical terminology (e.g., addition, subtraction, multiplication, division)
- Mathematical symbols and their meanings
- Understanding word problems and interpreting mathematical scenarios
Revision Points:
- Recognizing mathematical terms in word problems.
- Converting mathematical problems written in words into numbers and symbols.
- Applying mathematical operations based on the language in the problem.
Sample Questions:
- What does “sum” mean in a mathematical problem?
- How do you convert the phrase “three more than a number” into a mathematical expression?
- Identify the operation: “difference between two numbers.”
- Solve the word problem: “If you add 5 to a number, the result is 12. What is the number?”
- What does the phrase “multiply a number by 4” mean mathematically?
- Which operation would you use to solve: “The product of a number and 3 equals 15”?
- Convert the following statement into a mathematical equation: “The total of a number and 8 is 20.”
- What is the meaning of the word “quotient” in mathematics?
- How do you translate the phrase “divide a number by 2” into an equation?
- If a number is reduced by 6, what operation is used?
2. Adabi (Ethics)
“Adabi” in mathematics refers to ethics, which can include the ethical use of mathematical methods, honest problem-solving, and respect for the work of others. It’s essential to understand the importance of working with integrity, both in mathematics and life.
Key Areas:
- Understanding the importance of honesty in mathematics.
- How to avoid cheating or copying.
- The value of using accurate methods and calculations.
Revision Points:
- Ethical behavior during examinations.
- How to correctly solve problems without shortcuts or plagiarism.
- The importance of showing work in solutions.
Sample Questions:
- Why is it important to solve mathematics problems honestly?
- How would you demonstrate ethical behavior in a mathematics exam?
- What should you do if you don’t understand a problem during an exam?
- How can you avoid copying in a mathematics test?
- Why is it important to check your work in mathematics?
- What are the consequences of not showing your calculations in an exam?
- What does “plagiarism” mean in mathematics assignments?
- Describe a situation where ethical behavior is crucial in mathematics.
- How do you ensure that you are following ethical practices in group work?
- What should you do if you suspect a classmate is cheating during a test?
3. Al’ada (Traditions and Customs)
In the context of mathematics, “al’ada” refers to the traditional methods of solving problems passed down from generation to generation. It involves both formal mathematical procedures and community-based ways of thinking and problem-solving.
Key Areas:
- Traditional mathematical practices.
- Community-based problem-solving methods.
- Connecting mathematical problems to real-life scenarios.
Revision Points:
- How traditional ways of thinking influence the understanding of mathematical concepts.
- The application of math in daily life, especially in Nigerian communities.
- Different methods of solving problems, both formal and informal.
Sample Questions:
- How does the traditional way of calculating items in a market relate to arithmetic?
- What is the importance of mental arithmetic in daily life?
- Can you describe a traditional method of measuring land or crops?
- How do traditions influence the way you approach mathematical problems?
- What are some community-based methods of problem-solving you know?
- Why is it important to understand traditional approaches in mathematics?
- How does community-based problem-solving help in real-life situations?
- What traditional measurement units are used in your community?
- How would you use traditional methods to solve a mathematical problem?
- Can traditional practices be adapted to modern mathematical techniques? Explain.
4. Combining Harshe, Adabi, and Al’ada in Mathematics
The three concepts—harshe (language), adabi (ethics), and al’ada (traditions)—interact and complement each other in the study of mathematics. Understanding these connections helps build a well-rounded approach to learning and problem-solving.
Key Areas:
- How language affects understanding and solving problems.
- The role of ethics in using mathematics for good.
- Integrating traditional methods with modern mathematical techniques.
Revision Points:
- Recognizing the importance of language in understanding mathematical problems.
- Applying ethical behavior while solving problems.
- Incorporating traditional methods and values into solving contemporary problems.
Sample Questions:
- How does understanding mathematical language help you solve problems better?
- What is the relationship between ethics and mathematics?
- How can traditional methods be used in modern-day mathematics?
- Why is it important to respect the traditions of mathematical learning?
- How does language affect your understanding of math problems?
- What role does ethics play when you use technology for solving math problems?
- How can you combine traditional and modern techniques in your approach to mathematics?
- Why is it important to consider both language and ethics in solving math problems?
- How does tradition help maintain cultural identity in mathematics?
- Can ethical behavior change the way you solve a mathematics problem? Explain.