Title: Coimisiún na Scrúduithe Stáit State Examinations Commission
Subject: Leaving Certificate 2022 Deferred Examinations Marking Scheme
Area of Study: Construction Studies Higher Level
Purpose of Marking Schemes
Not standalone documents; essential for examiners' training.
Marking schemes for deferred examinations are less detailed than main examination schemes.
Document Nature
Working documents, finalized after application to candidates’ exams.
Feedback from examiners is crucial for adjustments post-evaluation.
Variability
Detail may vary by question in deferred exams due to a smaller response set.
Model solutions are not exhaustive; variations are recognized.
Future Marking Schemes
Avoid making assumptions based on past schemes; details may evolve.
Elements of marking structure can change annually.
Leaving Certificate Examination
Subject: Construction Studies, Higher Level
Note: Graphics are illustrative and not exhaustive; relevant responses will be credited.
Question 1
(a) Vertical section through:
Strip foundation
Suspended timber ground floor
External wall and window
Key focus on detailing best practices for construction elements.
Foundation and External Wall Detailing
R.C. Strip foundation: 1350 mm x 450 mm
Blockwork and render specifications (19 mm external render, etc.)
Full-fill cavity & insulation properties detailed (Basalt coated low conductivity wall ties, etc.)
Floor Structure
Compacted hardcore and various layers, emphasizing airtightness and insulation.
Window Detail
Specifics regarding window cill, framing, Glazing options (Triple).
(b) Ventilation detail for suspended floor identified.
Question 2 (a)
Discuss the importance of:
Safety Signage
Must be prominent and easily understood.
Multilingual signage is advised.
Color-coded categories explained (Green for safe, Red for prohibited, etc.)
Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)
Mandatory for all construction workers, law enforced.
Itemized PPE requirements included.
Awareness
Mandatory completion of safety training before work starts.
Importance of worker knowledge in hazard prevention is emphasized.
(b) Risks associated with:
Use of Vehicles
Multiple risks involve worker safety, vehicle operation hazards.
Use of Ladders
Risks of falls, improper ladder use, and injury potential.
Demolition Work
Risks include falling objects, collapse possibilities, inhalation hazards.
(c) Safety procedures to mitigate risks identified:
Use of Vehicles
Training and signage protocols for safety.
Ladders
Structural integrity and proper securing of ladders.
Demolition Work
Warning signage and isolation of necessary services before demolition.
Question 3 (a)
Design for maximum daylighting and effective layout for occupants.
Daylight Maximization
Utilization of high-performance glazing
Structural Connection
Recommended materials and design considerations detailed.
Link with Surrounding Garden
Glazing designs to connect visually and physically with nature indicated.
Strategies to preserve occupant space and movement highlighted.
(b) Reasons for design choices listed while highlighting benefits.
Question 4
(a) Typical pipework layout for space heating and hot water in a house is required.
(b) Advantages of stoves over open fires discussed in detail.
(c) Key considerations for stove selection are emphasized.
Question 5
(a) Calculation of U-value for specific structures detailed.
(b) Required thickness for insulation outlined with methodology.
(c) Annual heat loss calculations with numerical examples provided.
Cost analysis for heat loss through upgraded flooring is included, demonstrating financial implications.
Question 6
(a) Environmental impact features explored.
(b) Significance of design flexibility, recycled materials, and thermal efficiency discussed.
Importance of local materials highlighted for sustainability.
Question 7
Specific detailing for external wall elements and energy-efficient connections outlined.
Additional emphasis on thermal bridging prevention mechanisms at specific design points.
Question 8
Functional requirements for the external wall along with functional detailing requirements.
Differentiation of three wall construction designs aligning with nZEB standards.
ICF Detailing
Features and advantages of ICF in wall constructions compared.
Question 9
Discussing moisture prevention and function requirements mentioned.
Materials specified for moisture barrier effectiveness outlined.
Question 10
Importance of various design elements in passive house concepts detailed.
Orientation considerations detailed for maximizing thermal performance.
Strategies for preventing overheating explained comprehensively.
Recommendations for modifications to counteract overheating issues are included.
Discussion of embodied energy in building materials covered in detail with relevant examples.
Summary of Construction Studies marking scheme provided.
Perfomance criteria for various questions and assessment rubrics are specified.