Learning Objectives

Notes

1. To understand different ways to build a house.

Identify the ways of building a house and list the advantages and disadvantages for each.

• general contractor
• sub-trading
• building it yourself
• community building (Hutterites, Habitat for Humanity)

A poster with a scale "weighing" the pros and cons could be used.

2. To gain an understanding of the responsibilities of a general contractor and owner. (TL)

Students may brainstorm to determine the responsibility for a general contractor and the owner.

• obtain a lot
• obtain permits
• organize trades
• contact inspectors
• supervise construction warranty work
• make final inspection
• assist in choosing lights, carpet, etc.
• control costs

Cards with each of the tasks written on them could be distributed to the students in random order. Cards with other tasks not done by the general contractor might be included. Students could then try to sort the cards into two piles, explaining why each could or could not be done by the general contractor.

Discuss the importance of communication between owner and builders.

3. To understand how allowances work, as well as what purpose they serve. (NUM)

Students may research what different aspects of a home would add cost (flooring, lights, etc.) and then set up an allowance structure.

4. To understand what is involved in the final inspection of a house. (CCT)

Students may create a checklist of criteria for inspecting or evaluating a building. A mock inspection of the school could be performed.

5. To understand how warranties apply to new houses.

Students may research warranties for home construction and other items such as cars and make a comparison list.

6. To understand the meaning of sub-trading.

Students may consult the yellow pages to identify the many different types of sub-trades. What are the career pathways?

7. To understand the process each sub-trade performs and the results each sub-trade produces. (IL,TL)

Students may select a specific sub-trade and research the role of the sub-trade. Students may do an oral presentation on their findings.

Students may create a concept web that identifies the specific duties of sub-trades.

Guest speakers from the different trades could visit the classroom or students could visit them at a worksite, if possible. Focus on:

• blueprints
• basements
• flooring
• framing
• electrical
• plumbing
• installation of natural gas
• insulating
• drywall
• doors and windows (exterior)
• painting
• soffits/fascia
• roofing
• exterior
• finishing carpentry.

8. To develop a knowledge of what trades are involved in the construction of a house.

This objective overlaps with Module 13. Teachers may wish to teach them concurrently so that students are aware of what trades are involved as well as their job description. Career development opportunities are possible.