CNTK 1520 Blueprint Reading for Construction

This course is designed to instruct students in how to interpret and use blueprint terms, components, and symbols. Students will be exposed to civil, architectural, structural, mechanical, and electrical blueprint drawings and will learn how to use drawing dimensions and scales to measure drawings. Students will also use basic mathematical functions and geometry and their application in the construction trades. Prerequisite: Completion of or concurrent enrollment in CNTK 1510. (2 lect., 2 lab)

Credits

3 credits

Major Topics

  • Introduction to Construction Math
  • a. Whole Numbers
  • b. Working with Measurements
  • c. What are Fractions
  • d. Decimals
  • e. Conversion Processes
  • f. Introduction to the Metric System
  • g. Introduction to Construction Geometry
  • Introduction to Blueprints
  • a. Components of the Blueprint
  • b. Scale
  • c. Lines of Construction
  • d. Abbreviations, Symbols, and Keynotes
  • e. Using Gridlines to Identify Plan Locations
  • f. Dimensions
  • Reading Plans and Elevations
  • a. Reading and Using Blueprint Specifications
  • b. Drawings and Types of Information that are Relevant to the Carpentry Trade
  • c. Quantity Takeoffs

Outcomes

In order to successfully complete this course, the student will:

1. Add, subtract, multiply, and divide whole numbers, with and without a calculator.

2. Use a standard ruler and a metric ruler to measure.

3. Add, subtract, multiply, and divide fractions.

4. Add, subtract, multiply, and divide decimals, with and without a calculator.

5. Convert decimals to percentages and percentages to decimals.

6. Convert fractions to decimals and decimals to fractions.

7. Explain what the metric system is and how it is important in the construction trade.

8. Recognize and use metric units of length, weight, volume, and temperature.

9. Recognize some of the basic shapes used in the construction industry, and apply basic geometry to measure them.

10. Recognize and identify basic blueprint terms, components, and symbols.

11. Relate information on blueprints to actual locations on the print.

12. Recognize different classifications of drawings.

13. Interpret and use drawing dimensions.

14. Describe the types of drawings usually included in a set of plans and list the information found on each type.

15. Identify the different types of lines used on construction drawings.

16. Identify selected architectural symbols commonly used to represent materials on plans.

17. Identify selected electrical, mechanical, and plumbing symbols commonly used on plans.

18. Identify selected abbreviations commonly used on plans.

19. Read and interpret plans, elevations, schedules, sections, and details contained in basic construction drawings.

20. State the purpose of written specifications.

21. Identify and describe the parts of a specification.

22. Demonstrate or describe how to perform a quantity takeoff for materials.

Other Information

Any information placed here must be adhered to by all instructors:

Contact on-campus instructor for required textbook. During this course, students should expect to be exposed to various tools, materials, substances, and liquids that are used in the construction industry. These products may be hazardous if handled improperly. Students are required to follow established safety procedures and to consult Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) when necessary. Students must contact the instructor for guidance before using unknown materials or tools in class or on the work site. Students are required to possess basic personal safety equipment including eye and hearing protection and to wear shirts, long pants, supporting/protective footwear, and other clothing necessary to work safely at a construction shop/worksite. Failure to come to class prepared or failing to follow safe work procedures may result in dismissal from class.