BCPM0017: Technology 2: Construction Materials and Methods
Assignment 2
1. Introduction
This document includes important information regarding your summative assessment. Please read this document in full and refer to it while preparing your assignment.
The module has two assignments: Assignment 1 (weighted 30%) is a group coursework and Assignment 2 (weighted 70%) is an individual coursework. Together, they contribute to the overall module mark. This brief is for the 2nd summative assessment (Assignment 2)
Assignment 2 requires you to produce a 1,500-word report. Assessment 2 has a weighting of 70% of the overall module mark.
Please note that this is an INDIVIDUAL assignment.
2. Assessment Brief
You are required to produce an assignment of approximately 1,500 words, that is presented in a PDF format based on contents of a website that you have developed, demonstrating your understanding of construction materials through a real-world case study.
You are required to select a residential building located in London - ideally one you live in or can easily access (e.g. a UCL hall of residence, apartment block, private house). Please note that large iconic structures such as The Shard, O2 Arena, shopping centres, or railway stations are not permitted. You will need to check with a course tutor if your selected structure is suitable for the assignment.
Following the selection, identify two construction materials used in the building (e.g. concrete, timber, glass, masonry, metal) and select three specific locations for each material (e.g. façade, roof, internal wall). These materials will form. the basis of your analysis.
Primary Data Collection:
You are expected to visit the building in person to collect primary data, including photographs, measurements, and observations. This assignment is designed to encourage direct engagement with the built environment and you should not rely on published sources for images or data.
Health and Safety
Your safety is a priority. You must remain in publicly accessible areas at all times. Do not attempt to access roofs, restricted zones or any high-risk locations.
Assignment Focus:
Your submission should demonstrate how material selection varies across different locations in the building and why, with insight into construction techniques and relevant performance requirements (e.g. load-bearing capacity, durability, thermal insulation). You should also consider any visible or potential maintenance issues.
Your analysis should be specific to the building you have chosen. Avoid generic statements, these will not contribute meaningfully to your mark. Support your discussion with scientific evidence and references where appropriate.
Structure:
You are required to develop a website that should be clearly structured using the following headings:
Acknowledgement
Acknowledge any use of AI, such as the name, version and URL of the AI tool and briefly describe how it was used. Please note that most translator programs are also AI powered.
Example: “I acknowledge the use of GenAI tools in the production of this report. Microsoft Copilot (version GPT-4, Microsoft, http://copilot.microsoft.com/) was used to gather initial information on material selection.”
1) Introduction
Provide a brief overview of the residential building (e.g. type of building, approximate date of construction, location, structural type, height, primary use). Avoid extensive historical background as it will not contribute meaningfully to your mark.
2) Reasons for the material choices
Select two construction materials in the residential building and discuss the likely reasons for their use in the building (e.g. structural, construction methodology, environmental, cost, availability).
3) Material specification and performance requirements
For each of the two selected construction materials, identify three distinct locations within the building where the material is visibly used (e.g. façade, roof, internal wall).
What are the likely material specifications and performance requirements for the specific locations of each material? How does the building context influences material specification, construction process and performance requirements?
Make use annotated photographs, figures, and graphs throughout.
For performance requirements use estimated figures and refer to the European standards wherever possible.
4) Maintenance or performance issues
Identify any visible or likely maintenance or performance issues or signs of destress (e.g. cracks, corrosion). Discuss possible causes and implications for long-term performance and maintenance.
5) Conclusions
Summarise key insights gained from your analysis. Reflect on how material choices and performance requirements interact in real-world construction.
References
Include full referencing using Harvard referencing style.
Assessment expectations:
You will be assessed based on the use of primary evidence, depth of analysis, critical justification, clarity and relevance of visual materials, structure and presentation of your website.
Use pictures, annotated photographs, graphs and figures wherever possible. Use of published images and secondary sources will not contribute meaningfully to your mark.
Marks will reflect whether your understanding and analysis are outstanding, excellent, good, adequate, or superficial.
You may use AI tools to assist with background research, but AI (including translation software) must not be used to write or analyse your assignment. The focus is on your own observations and your ability to relate them to material specifications and performance requirements discussed in lectures (e.g. Eurocodes).
Submission format:
1. Website creation:
a. Create a website using https://sites.google.com or another suitable platform.
b. Use a single web page, avoid multiple pages.
c. Do not include your name or student ID on the website to ensure anonymous marking.
d. Ensure the website is accessible via a shared link or provide access permissions.
2. Save the website as a PDF document and upload it via Moodle. The website address should automatically be included in the PDF document when saved. The document should include all relevant details for the assignment. Ensure that the document contains all relevant details for the assignment and is easily readable. Only the content within the PDF will be assessed.
Your assignment will be marked based on the submitted PDF document only.