1.1.1 History of Civil Engineering and Architecture

Activity 1.1.1 History of Civil Engineering and Architecture Introduction Can you name any of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World? Each was a feat of civil engineering and architecture. What causes structures such as these to fill us with awe even today? What is it that makes them seem more wondrous in our time of modernization? These structures have paved the way for many new advances in the design of the structures you see today. In this activity you will learn about the history of civil engineering and architecture. You will see differences between the two professions and learn of their beginnings. Equipment  History of Civil Engineering and Architecture presentation Procedure In this activity you will investigate the history of civil engineering and architecture. You will see differences between the two professions and learn of their beginnings. 1. Define civil engineering. An engineer trained in the design and construction of public works, such as bridges, dams, and other large facilities. 2. Define architecture. Art and science of designing buildings for human habitation 3. Describe the origination of the concept of architecture? Houses were first built in the Neolithic period out of mud and bricks 4. In ancient times how were building materials chosen? On availability and climate 5. Give two examples of vernacular architecture. An igloo and an Apache wickiup are examples of vernacular architecture. 6. Name and describe the type of system used to create many early buildings. Slaves were used to build a lot of early buildings. 7. What was the purpose of the Egyptian pyramids? Mexican pyramids? The Egyptian Pyramids were made as monuments for the pharos. The Mexican pyramids were made for religious and scientific use. 8. What kind of construction method was used to build the Parthenon? Make a simple sketch to illustrate. It is made with post-and-lintel construction methods. 9. What problem in architecture led to this form of construction? The problem was how could doors and windows be made without giving up support 10. Explain how an arch is created. Smaller and lighter blocks are placed in an curved formation and the wedged shap gives them a lot more support. 11. How is the vault used in civil engineering? It is used to help create bridges, walkways, and other pathways 12. Give an example of an arch and dome system. The Taj Mahal Is an example of an arch and dome system 13. Give an example of a modern material we have that was not available to the ancients. How did the absence of this material restrict construction in ancient times? We have steel now, but the ancient people did not. The could not build buildings that were as strong, sound, and tall as we have now. 14. What was the purpose of the Roman aqueducts? The roman aqueducts were used to move large amounts of water through the city 15. Compare ancient Greek roads to ancient Roman roads. The Greek roads were primarily used to transport goods and textiles, it would get muddy and dirty in winter. The roman roads were made of stones, cement and sand. They were mostly used to transport troops. 16. Describe an ancient Roman bridge. Most Roman bridges use the arch structure and were made of concrete and stone and used the arch style to support the bridges. 17. How did building materials and methods change after the Romans? There was little change until the 18th century. There was use of cranes, iron, and wedges. The roofing style changed and were pointed compared to the romans rounded roofs. Conclusion 1. Give an example of a modern pyramid not shown in the presentation. How does its function differ from that of the Egyptian pyramids? The Bass Pro Shop pyramid in Memphis Tennessee is the largest pyramid in the united states. It functions as a shopping experience and an awe factor. It also helps people know about the size and structure of the pyramids in Egypt 2. Give an example of a modern structure that uses an arch and dome system. The Sydney Opera House is a modern example of an arch and dome system. 3. What is the main purpose of modern roads? How is the cost of modern roadways defrayed? The main purpose of roads now is to be able to travel quickly and efficiently. It is funded by the tax’s citizens pay.