Construction Studies
Leaving Certificate construction studies provides students in the senior cycle of post-primary education with an introduction to the knowledge and skills involved in construction technology and construction materials and processes.
This subject has proven to be very popular with over 7,000 students nationally taking the subject last year.
Why Study Construction Studies
This practical subject gives students hands-on experience working with tools and machinery. Students also undertake theoretical and background work for their final examinations which provides the students with useful skills for working in the sector.
What kind of Student Would Construction Studies suit?
- It is recommended that a student taking Leaving Certificate Construction Studies has a general interest in buildings and the built environment.
- Each student should have an aptitude for and an interest in design and practical work.
Course Overview-
Construction Studies introduces students to the knowledge and skills associated with construction technology and construction materials and practices.
This is achieved through both theoretical study and integrated practical projects which provide a basis for the thorough exploration of materials and processes.
If you are interested in taking this subject to Leaving Certificate level it would be an advantage but it is not necessary to have studied Materials Technology Wood to Junior Certificate level.
Course Content-
The course is essentially about the study of buildings and the built environment. The theoretical part of the course examines all parts of building from the planning stages to the completed building. The course is studied under the following main headings:
- Planning and Design
- Drawings and Documents
- Site Preliminaries and Foundations
- Walls, Partitions
- Floors, Roofs
- Fireplaces
- Windows and Doors
- Stairs
- Plastering and Painting
- Plumbing and Heating
Exam Structure-
- Construction studies is assessed at two levels, Ordinary level and Higher level
- There is a written examination, a practical test, and an assessment of student project work.
The examination at both higher and ordinary level has three separate components:
Section A Three hour written paper worth 300 marks (50%). The exam consists of 10 questions out of which five have to be attempted. Question 1 is a compulsory drawing question of a building detail.
Section B 4-hour practical woodwork exam where the student makes a small item out of timber under exam conditions. The exam normally takes place in May. This accounts for 150 marks. (25%)
Section C Building Project where the student makes a building detail, a scale model of a building or a craft piece. The student also produces a portfolio to accompany the project that they make. This accounts for 150 marks. (25%)
Career Possibilities-
Studying this subject will be useful for anyone thinking of working/studying in the following areas: building management, carpentry, electrician, town planning, insurance claims, heating and ventilation and housing management.
Teachers:
Philip Curley
David Burke
Brendan Reddan
Construction_Studies