BUILDING ADMINISTRATION N4
CLASS ASSIGNMENT 06
TOTAL MARKS: 100
INSTRUCTIONS
1. Answer ALL questions.
2. Number your answers according to the numbering system used on this paper.
3. Write neatly and legibly.
4. This is a practice assignment - use it to identify areas where you need additional study.
SECTION A: PLANNING & PROGRAMMING (25 MARKS)
Question 1.1
State whether the following statements are TRUE or FALSE. (5 marks)
1.1.1. The critical path in a project schedule consists of activities that have zero float time.
1.1.2. A baseline programme can be updated regularly throughout a project's duration.
1.1.3. Resource levelling aims to distribute resources evenly across a project timeline.
1.1.4. Lead time refers to the duration between ordering materials and their delivery to site.
1.1.5. Overlapping activities in a construction schedule is always considered poor practice.
Question 1.2
Define the following terms: (6 marks)
1.2.1. Float time
1.2.2. Program of works
1.2.3. Milestone
Question 1.3
For the construction activities below, create a Gantt chart showing the sequence and duration: (8
marks)
- Site preparation: 1 week (Week 1)
- Excavation: 2 weeks (Weeks 2-3)
- Foundation work: 3 weeks (Weeks 4-6)
- Wall construction: 4 weeks (Weeks 7-10)
- Roofing: 2 weeks (Weeks 11-12)
- Electrical and plumbing: 3 weeks (Weeks 13-15)
- Interior finishes: 3 weeks (Weeks 16-18)
- External works: 2 weeks (Weeks 17-18)
Question 1.4
Explain THREE factors that must be considered when developing a construction programme and
how each impacts the schedule. (6 marks)
SECTION B: CONSTRUCTION EQUIPMENT (25 MARKS)
Question 2.1
Match the construction equipment in COLUMN A with its primary function in COLUMN B. Write only
the letter (A-L) next to the question number. (10 marks)
COLUMN A COLUMN B
2.1.1. Backhoe loader A. Breaking up concrete and rock
2.1.2. Transit mixer B. Vertical transportation of materials
2.1.3. Plate compactor C. Compacting soil in confined areas
2.1.4. Tower crane D. Moving and loading excavated material
2.1.5. Jackhammer E. Digging trenches and loading material
2.1.6. Bulldozer F. Removing water from excavations
2.1.7. Concrete pump G. Transporting and delivering concrete to site
2.1.8. Dewatering pump H. Levelling and pushing large amounts of soil
2.1.9. Pneumatic roller I. Delivering concrete to difficult-to-reach areas
2.1.10. Power float J. Finishing concrete surfaces
K. A rare type of bird used to keep pests under
control
L. Used to prepare delicious meals on site
Question 2.2
For each of the following construction scenarios, identify the most appropriate equipment and
explain TWO reasons why it is suitable: (6 marks)
2.2.1. Excavating foundations for a large commercial building
2.2.2. Lifting heavy precast concrete panels to the 10th floor of a building
2.2.3. Compacting a large area of soil for a parking lot
Question 2.3
Explain FOUR important safety considerations when operating heavy construction machinery. (4
marks)
Question 2.4
List FIVE factors to consider when deciding whether to purchase or rent construction equipment.
(5 marks)
SECTION C: FOUNDATIONS (25 MARKS)
Question 3.1
Name and describe THREE types of foundations commonly used in building construction. Include
information about when each type is most appropriate to use. (9 marks)
Question 3.2
Draw a clearly labelled cross-section of a strip foundation showing all components and
appropriate dimensions. (6 marks)
Question 3.3
Explain FOUR reasons why underpinning of an existing foundation might become necessary. (4
marks)
Question 3.4
List SIX important site investigations that should be conducted before designing a foundation. (6
marks)
SECTION D: SUPERVISION & ORGANIZATION (25 MARKS)
Question 4.1
Draw an organisational chart for a large construction project showing at least 10 positions and
their reporting relationships. (10 marks)
Question 4.2
Describe the roles and responsibilities of each of the following construction professionals: (8 marks)
4.2.1. Project Manager
4.2.2. Clerk of Works
4.2.3. Site Engineer
4.2.4. Health and Safety Officer
Question 4.3
Explain FOUR different leadership styles that could be applied in construction supervision, and
provide an example of when each would be most effective. (4 marks)
Question 4.4
List THREE effective methods of communication on a construction site and explain why each is
important. (3 marks)
TOTAL MARKS: 100
