Building and Construction Course

Lesson 1 • The Construction Industry Overview

Covers industry sectors, key stakeholders, and career pathways. Provides context for understanding how all roles and trades interconnect on a project.

Lesson 2 • Regulatory and Code Framework

Explains the purpose of building codes, permits, and inspections. Students learn how compliance is enforced and why it matters at every project stage.

Lesson 3 • Core Construction Terminology

Introduces essential vocabulary used across drawings, contracts, and site communication. Accurate terminology reduces errors and improves professional credibility.

Lesson 1 • Quantity Takeoff from Documents

Applies document-reading skills to measure and count materials from drawings. Accurate takeoffs feed directly into cost estimating covered in the next chapter.

Lesson 2 • Architectural Drawing Fundamentals

Introduces drawing types, scales, and standard symbols used in construction sets. Accurate drawing interpretation is the basis for all field and coordination work.

Lesson 3 • Specifications and Project Manuals

Explains the role of written specifications alongside drawings. Students learn to locate material standards, workmanship requirements, and submittal procedures.

Lesson 4 • Structural and MEP Drawings

Covers structural framing plans and mechanical, electrical, and plumbing drawings. Students learn to identify conflicts and coordination requirements across disciplines.

Lesson 1 • Structural Steel and Metals

Introduces steel grades, shapes, and connection types used in structural frames. Students identify appropriate steel sections for beams, columns, and bracing.

Lesson 2 • Finishing Materials and Composites

Reviews interior and exterior finish materials including gypsum board, tile, and composite cladding. Students evaluate durability, maintenance, and aesthetic suitability.

Lesson 3 • Insulation, Waterproofing, and Membranes

Covers thermal and acoustic insulation types plus waterproofing systems for roofs and foundations. Proper selection prevents moisture damage and energy loss.

Lesson 4 • Concrete and Masonry

Covers mix design, curing, and compressive strength of concrete plus masonry unit types. Students understand how mix ratios and curing conditions affect final strength.

Lesson 1 • Deep Foundation Systems

Covers driven piles, drilled shafts, and helical piers for poor or deep bearing soils. Students understand load transfer mechanisms and installation quality control.

Lesson 2 • Site Assessment and Surveying

Introduces topographic surveys, soil borings, and site boundary identification. Accurate site data prevents costly design changes and construction errors.

Lesson 3 • Shallow Foundation Systems

Examines spread footings, strip footings, and mat foundations for low-rise structures. Students match foundation type to soil conditions and structural loads.

Lesson 4 • Drainage, Utilities, and Site Utilities

Addresses underground utility installation, storm drainage, and erosion control measures. Proper sequencing of underground work prevents rework and schedule delays.

Lesson 1 • Roofing Systems and Details

Covers low-slope and steep-slope roofing assemblies, drainage, and critical flashing details. Correct detailing at penetrations and edges prevents the most common moisture failures.

Lesson 2 • Steel and Concrete Frame Systems

Examines steel moment frames, braced frames, and cast-in-place concrete systems. Students identify lateral load-resisting elements and their connection requirements.

Lesson 3 • Exterior Wall Systems

Reviews cavity walls, curtain walls, and insulated panel systems for exterior enclosure. Students evaluate thermal performance, air barriers, and moisture management.

Lesson 4 • Windows, Doors, and Glazing Systems

Addresses fenestration performance ratings, installation sequences, and weatherproofing. Proper installation integrates windows and doors into the continuous air and water barrier.

Lesson 1 • Lighting, Controls, and Low-Voltage Systems

Addresses lighting fixture types, occupancy controls, and low-voltage data and fire alarm systems. Integrated controls reduce energy use and improve occupant safety.

Lesson 2 • Electrical Distribution and Wiring

Covers service entrance, panel sizing, branch circuits, and conduit installation. Students verify that electrical layouts comply with load calculations and safety standards.

Lesson 3 • MEP Coordination and Clash Detection

Applies coordination drawings and digital clash detection to resolve MEP conflicts before installation. Early resolution reduces costly field changes and schedule delays.

Lesson 4 • Plumbing Systems and Fixtures

Examines supply, drain-waste-vent, and storm drainage systems plus fixture rough-in. Students sequence plumbing rough-in within the overall construction schedule.

Lesson 1 • Project Closeout and Commissioning

Covers punch list completion, systems commissioning, and owner training for project handover. A structured closeout ensures all contractual obligations are fulfilled before final payment.

Lesson 2 • Procurement and Subcontractor Management

Covers bid solicitation, subcontract award, and ongoing subcontractor performance management. Effective procurement secures competitive pricing and reliable trade partners.

Lesson 3 • Project Scheduling Techniques

Covers critical path method, bar charts, and look-ahead schedules for construction projects. Students build and update schedules to reflect actual progress and forecast completion.

Lesson 4 • Contract Administration and Documentation

Addresses RFIs, submittals, variation orders, and daily reporting as contract administration tools. Thorough documentation protects all parties and supports dispute resolution.

Lesson 1 • Safety Planning and Hazard Identification

Covers site-specific safety plans, job hazard analyses, and pre-task planning methods. Identifying hazards before work begins is the most effective injury prevention strategy.

Lesson 2 • Incident Investigation and Continuous Improvement

Covers root cause analysis, corrective action tracking, and leading indicator metrics. Learning from incidents and near-misses drives continuous safety and quality improvement.

Lesson 3 • Fall Protection and Excavation Safety

Addresses fall protection systems, leading edge work, and excavation entry requirements. Falls and cave-ins are the leading causes of construction fatalities and must be controlled.

Lesson 4 • Crane, Rigging, and Equipment Safety

Covers crane inspection, rigging hardware selection, and equipment operator qualifications. Proper lift planning prevents dropped loads and equipment tip-overs.