LCA Graphics and Construction Studies study plan

Sketch and fully dimension a plan, elevation and section of a simple single-storey building to a stated scale, applying correct line weights and hatching conventions.

Produce a labelled orthographic projection set (first-angle or third-angle, stated explicitly) from a given pictorial drawing, including hidden detail where required.

Annotate a drawing with correct British/ISO dimensioning practice: dimension lines, extension lines, arrowheads, leader lines and text placement.

Identify and correct at least ten common draughting errors in a set of flawed drawings you source or create yourself, listing the rule breached for each.

Produce a freehand and instrumented isometric and one-point perspective sketch of a small structure, keeping proportions consistent with a supplied set of overall dimensions.

Explain in writing how graphical conventions communicate material information (hatching for masonry, insulation, concrete, timber, glass) and match each hatch to its material.

Compile a one-page material data sheet for five common construction materials covering density, thermal conductivity, strength class and typical use.

Interpret a simple bar chart and a schedule table of material quantities, and convert the data into a labelled drawing annotation.

Compare the properties of timber, steel, concrete, masonry and glass under the headings of strength, durability, thermal performance, fire behaviour and workability.

Select and justify appropriate materials for four given building elements (external wall, floor slab, roof covering, internal partition) with reference to their properties.

Explain how moisture movement, thermal expansion and corrosion affect material choice and detailing, giving one worked example per mechanism.

Calculate a simple U-value for a two-layer construction from given thicknesses and thermal conductivities.

Describe the sequence of operations for constructing a strip foundation, a suspended timber floor and a cavity wall, in correct order.

Draw a detailed section through a cavity wall at a wall/floor junction, showing damp-proof course, insulation, cavity ties and weep holes.

Explain the structural roles of lintels, padstones, wall ties and restraint straps, and state where each is required.

Compare timber-frame, steel-frame and loadbearing masonry construction in terms of speed, span capability and sequencing.

Produce a simple roof section showing rafters, ridge, insulation, ventilation path and underlay, with correct cold-roof ventilation detailing.

Describe the principles, components and layout of domestic cold water, hot water and above-ground drainage systems, including trap and vent requirements.

Explain the purpose and typical placement of a consumer unit, ring final circuit, and earthing and bonding arrangements in a dwelling.

Produce a schematic services layout on a floor plan showing incoming supply, meter position, distribution board and key outlets.

Explain how insulation, glazing specification, airtightness and thermal bridging combine to determine a dwelling's heat loss, and state the role of a ventilation strategy.

Calculate a simple heat-loss figure for one room from given dimensions, U-values and temperature difference.

Identify the hazards and required controls for five common site activities, referencing the hierarchy of control.

Explain the purpose of a risk assessment, method statement and permit-to-work, and describe how each is recorded on site.

List the correct personal protective equipment and welfare provision required on a typical construction site.

Work through a design brief for a small building and produce a bubble diagram, a site-response sketch and two alternative concept options.

Evaluate the two concept options against stated criteria (daylight, circulation, cost, buildability) and justify a preferred solution in writing.

Identify and resolve three design conflicts, such as structure versus services routing or daylight versus overheating risk, showing the resolution on a sketch.

Apply a simple sustainability measure to the chosen design and explain its effect on performance.

Assemble a portfolio of your week 1-7 deliverables, checking each against a self-written criteria checklist covering accuracy, annotation and completeness.

Complete a full timed practice paper under exam conditions and mark it against the mark allocation, recording your score per domain.

Re-draught the weakest drawing from your portfolio to improve line quality, dimensioning and clarity.

Write a one-page reflection identifying your two weakest domains and the specific actions you will take before the exam.