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.
Public stuff like bridges and highways and dams.
2. Define architecture.
Making things look appealing
3. Describe the origination of the concept of architecture?
Basically architecture came from early humans starting to group together and
form communities.
4. In ancient times how were building materials chosen?
Building materials were chosen by whatever geographical resources were
available.
5. Give two examples of vernacular architecture.
1. Igloos made of snow in areas without trees
2. Wood and straw huts in Africa where there isnt snow
6. Name and describe the type of system used to create many early buildings.
Vernacular Architecture- Using local resources
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7. What was the purpose of the Egyptian pyramids? Mexican pyramids?

They were each used for religious reasons on the most part. Sacrifices and
afterlife kind of thing.
8. What kind of construction method was used to build the Parthenon? Make a
simple sketch to illustrate.
Post-and-lintel

9. What problem in architecture led to this form of construction?

The need for windows without sacrificing support
10. Explain how an arch is created.
Curved blocks know as voussoir are stacked on each other and the very center
one, the keystone, holds it all together with the support from the others.
11. How is the vault used in civil engineering?
It is used in bridges, walkways, and some pretty fancy hallways.
12. Give an example of an arch and dome system.
Football stadiums, baseball stadiums, the desert dome at the zoo
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?
Steel. Its incredibly stronger and more flexible than stone which allowed us to
build bigger structures whereas the ancients were constricted.

14. What was the purpose of the Roman aqueducts?

To transport water from A to B.
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15. Compare ancient Greek roads to ancient Roman roads.

Greek roads were almost primitive compared to Roman roads. The Greek style
roads were paths worn down by traffic. Roman roads were much more complex
and superior, giving them the reputation as the masters of road engineering.
16. Describe an ancient Roman bridge.
Used the arch as a structure and used concrete as material.

17. How did building materials and methods change after the Romans?
After the Romans, stronger and more flexible materials were used.

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? What do you think accounts
for this difference?

2. Give an example of a modern structure that uses an arch and dome system.

3. What is the main purpose of modern roads? How is the cost of modern roadways
defrayed?

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