Construction Studies is a complex Leaving Certificate Subject that teaches pupils the science behind all elements of a modern house structure.
Topics include Planning permission, Foundations, Walls, Damp proofing, Floors, Windows, Roofs, Doors, Air-tightness, U-Values, Passive housing and Stairs.
This is predominantly a theory subject, with 50% of the marks awarded for the written paper in June of Leaving Cert year.
Further marks are awarded for a four hour practical exam in April or May of 6th year, 25%.
The final 25% of marks are awarded for a project
More information about each part of the subject is available here
In Construction Studies, pupils will opt for either higher or ordinary level. This subject is arguably the most relevant to "the real world" where content is strongly related to current building regulations, best practice and changes as regulations change.
It is a very technical subject where pupils will need a high degree of understanding of intricate details, a strong ability to progress project work on their own and to research topics to a detailed degree.
Current on trend topics include passive housing, nZEB builds, renewable heating sources and modern window and glazing structure such as low-E glazing. This is no longer a basic subject about the how to assemble a house but a complex subject about the science of building. Certainly more why, than how.
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