LEAVING CERT CONSTRUCTION:TEACHERS HAVE welcomed a well-balanced and perfectly pitched architectural and construction studies exam.
According to Noel Scott, who teaches architectural and construction studies at Loreto Milford Community School in Donegal, both the higher- and ordinary-level papers were very pupil-friendly.
“The higher-level paper was permeated by an eco-green theme – very suitable for the knowledge economy – but paid good regard to traditional aspects,” he said. “They seem to be moving towards a more modern, design-based exam and this is very welcome.”
The paper featured questions on new technologies such as wheelchair-accessible design, reducing the environmental impact of a house, improving thermal insulation in the home and mechanical heat recovery.
“One interesting question on sustainable urbanisation was very appealing,” Mr Scott added. “They had to answer questions based on a speech by Anthony Reddy of the Royal Institute of Architects and discuss the idea of sustainable communities.”
Teachers and students commended topical questions on passive houses, building energy rating regulations and air tightness in houses.
Pat Murphy, head of technology at Wesley College, Dublin, said that students would, overall, be happy. “It followed a similar format to papers from previous years and is increasingly dealing with up-to-date and modern matters.”
The ordinary level paper covered the breadth of the syllabus but had a more traditional focus. “It was very pupil-friendly, with the language, layout, and questions making it accessible to students,” said Mr Scott.