• Structures and Load Distribution: 

• Basic structural terminology, including classification of forces, loads, structural elements and forms.
• Application of basic structural principles for both load bearing domestic buildings and simple framed structures. 

• Overview of “the building” as an integrated form and “system” of connected parts.
• The common construction techniques used for the major components of domestic dwellings, including analysis of related design criteria / conditions and resulting construction choice from common methods. 

• Foundations 
• Ground floors, 
• Building Enclosure (overview) 
• Exterior walls 
• Roof structure 
• Roof coverings and enclosure 
• Interior construction 

• Partitions 
• Stairs 
• Second-Fix 

• Domestic building services

Although mainly based on current construction methods, examples from the recent past will also be used in order to illustrate the evolution of current techniques and complement key principles as appropriate. 

The content for each building category will also include discussion of related resource and operational concerns as well as an introduction to analysis of various building site and design conditions that influence the choice of specific methods of construction. Environmentally responsible design and low-carbon methods of construction are also a consistent theme. 

• Relating and adapting domestic construction approaches towards small, simple framed structures. 
• Technical drawing as a medium of communication for construction; 

• Technical drawing as a language
• Basic technical sketching techniques 
• Drawing interpretation

• Sustainable Building Assessment Programmes and classification systems.
• Integrated, passive design methods incorporating construction fabric and form with building services

• Identify a range of common and emerging construction materials and discuss their properties. 

• Explain how each material can be analysed and evaluated using established scientific processes.

• Identify and summarise the legislative constraints affecting material selection, environmental design and energy efficiency. 

• Identify the different parameters of a building’s materials and internal environment that contribute towards human health and comfort.  

• Explain the scientific principles underlying heat, humidity, light, sound, air quality and ventilation; and how each of these is influenced by different building materials. 

• Describe the role of energy systems in providing healthy and comfortable environments.

• Calculate the rates of energy flows in simple interactions between buildings, their environment. 

• Produce text and graphical material to describe the measurement of physical parameters. 

• Intro to legal system
• Intro to economic system
• Intro to construction industry: clients, contractors & initiatives
• Market structures & competition
• Contractual agreements
• The public sector: government
• Law of property
• Business organisation & ownership
• Environmental economics & planning legislation
• Obligations (Tort)
• Government policy
• Construction company: Annual General Report
• Construction company: Corporate Social Responsibility
• Starting a business
• Competing for work (GeBiz and Tenders)
• Management & construction
• Benchmarking
• Ethics & collusion
• Government initiatives for change
• Awarding of contracts and prizes etc.
• Staff support and exercises to complete the summative essay

• The process of design, including constraints and regulations
• Criteria for the design of interior space
• Models used for evaluating potential design solutions.
• Design considerations for thermal, lighting and ventilation solutions.