A timber-frame house, a wheelchair friendly kitchen and a thermal insulation were just three of the "topical" building trends on yesterday's higher level construction studies paper

The 7,725 higher students were reportedly "tested" by the five-page paper which demanded close reading and concentration, said commentators.

"The format of the paper was fairly predictable but students found the reading hard going," said TUI subject expert Pat Conway. "Question 10, on urban depopulation, was an essay style questions better suited to a geography paper."

The exam was praised for its relevance to modern building practice. Many questions rewarded students with a knowledge of current affairs and the latest construction trends.

"Accessibility and safety are big issues in the trade right now and both featured on today's papers," said Pat Conway.

The paper also invited students to discuss the merit of timber-frame housing and to design a sunroom on the new house.

Even though this course dates from the 1970s, the exams have always reflected industry developments.

The evolving nature of the construction studies exam has meant teachers and students must keep a close eye on industry throughout the two-year programme.

"It can be hard to lay your hands on suitable text books for the subject because it is always changing. Teachers have to cast a wide net for classroom resources," said Conway.

"However, some techniques in building don't change and the exam always follows the same format."

Yesterday's paper included predicted questions on hot and cold water systems and foundations.

Yesterday's ordinary level paper was completed by 1,613 students.

The paper was also considered unusually long and detailed.

Construction studies students sit a skills exam in May and submit a construction project earlier in the year.

Yesterday's exam counted for 40 per cent of their overall mark. The subject usually attracts about 10,000 students, about one in 15 of whom are female.