FACULTY OF SCIENCE

LEARNING GUIDE
MODULE: CONSTRUCTION SCIENCE

BACHELOR OF CONSTRUCTION SCIENCE

MODULE CODE: PHYB1Y1

DEPARTMENT: PHYSICS
(DOORNFONTEIN CAMPUS)

COMPILER OF LEARNING GUIDE: DR. M.L.A. LETSWALO

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT: PROF. B SONDDZI

MODULE MODERATOR: MR. MJ MVELASE

DATE: JANUARY 2025

 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

1. WELCOME AND PURPOSE STATEMENT ................................................................ 2

2. STRUCTURE OF THE MODULE .............................................................................. 3
3. MODULE LEVEL DESCRIPTOR AND CREDITS ...................................................... 4
4. LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE .................................................................. 4
5. PURPOSE OF THE MODULE ..................................................................................... 4
6 MODULE LEARNING OUTCOMES ................................................................................... 4
7. ACADEMIC CALENDAR ………………………………………………………….. 5
8. SCHEDULED LECTURES/TUTORIALS ...................................................................... 5
9. LECTURER(S) AND CONTACT DETAILS ................................................................ 5
10. SUPPORT RESOURCES ............................................................................................. 6
11. PSYCAD ................................................................................................................. 6
12. ASSESSMENT METHODS ……….......................................................................... 7
13. ASSESSMENT SCHEDULE ………......................................................................... 7
14. PASS REQUIREMENTS ……….................................................................................. 8
15. GLOSSARY OF TERMS ............................................................................................. 9
16. ACTION VERBS ........................................................................................................ 10
17. OUTLINE OF MODULE CONTENT WITH LEARNING OUTCOMES AND ASSESSMENT
CRITERIA

Section 1: Optics ................................................................................................. 11

Section 2: Mechanics............................................................................................. 12
Section 3: Hydraulics .......................................................................................... 18
Section 4: Heat........................................................................................................ 19
Section 5: Photometry........................................................................................... 21
Section 6: Sound.................................................................................................... 22

APPENDIX
17.1 CLASS RULES
17.2 PLAGIARISM
17.3 APPLICATION FOR SUPPLEMENTARY/SICK TEST (SEE ATTACHED FORM)
17.4 GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE (SEE ATTACHED FORM)

1
1. WELCOME AND PURPOSE STATEMENT

Dear Student

Welcome to Construction Science. I am here as a facilitator and I am willing to

help you in your quest to conquer and be successful in your studies.

Your lecturer is highly qualified. Dr. M.L.A Letswalo holds a PhD in Physics.

Continual advances in physical sciences and their wide application in all fields
mean that students are dealing with increasingly sophisticated physical apparatus
and are forced to know something of advanced physical concepts.

This course, therefore, is an attempt to present physics in a simple and relative

Calculus manner in order to give the students some understanding of matters
which loom large in their later courses.

By participating and applying the principles that you will learn, you will be able to
master the following life skills, also known as critical outcomes:

o Identify and solve problems.

o Work effectively as a member of a team or group.
o Communicate effectively verbally and in writing.
o Organize yourself and your activities effectively.
o Use science and technology effectively.
o Understand how the decisions you make affect other people and situations.
o Collect, analyse, organise and critically evaluate information.

It is therefore essential that you as the student participate continuously, either

in groups or individually to be successful and competent at the end of the course.
It will contribute to your achieving the specified outcomes or final competencies
related to the Bachelor of Construction degree.

Wish you the very best of luck in your studies this year.

Dr M.L.A Letswalo (B.Sc. (UL), M.Sc. (UJ & UWC) and PhD (UJ))



2
2. STRUCTURE OF THE MODULE

CONSTRUCTION SCIENCE (PHYB1Y1)

MODULE A (PHYSCA1) MODULE B (Practical)

(Theory) ± 24 weeks (20 practical periods)
14 weeks (±70 lecture periods)

SECTION 1
Optics: Reflection, refraction and
lenses
± 5 periods (2 week)

SECTION 2
Mechanics
± 15 periods (3 weeks)

SECTION 3
Hydraulics
± 5 periods (2 week)

SECTION 4
Heat
± 10 periods (2 weeks)

SECTION 5
Photometry
± 15 periods (3 weeks)

SECTION 6
Sound
± 10 periods (2 weeks)

3
3. MODULE LEVEL DESCRIPTOR AND CREDITS
NQF-level: 7
NQF-credits: 8
Module Type: Year Module

4. LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE

Grade 12 Mathematics and Physical Science.
Competence in written and oral English.

5. PURPOSE OF THE MODULE

The purpose of this module is to provide knowledge of definitions, methods
and principles in physics, and provide a broad background of applying basic
physics to problem solving as needed in Construction Science.

6. MODULE LEARNING OUTCOMES

On completion of this module, the student should be able to:
• Compute scientifically and convert units in the decimal system.
• Explain and formulate the basic principles and laws encountered in
geometrical optics, draw ray diagrams and solve problems using formulae and
sign convention.
• Manipulate vector quantities, describe and solve problems on motion in a
straight line with constant acceleration.
• Define the moment of a force and solve problems on equilibrium and
centroids.
• Draw a vector diagram to determine the forces in the members of a framed
structure.
• Draw shear force and bending moment diagrams.
• Solve problems on the effect of forces on rigid materials.
• Apply Newton’s laws to objects moving in a straight line with and without
friction.
• Define work, energy, power and momentum and solve problems.
• Formulate laws and explain the concepts in hydrostatics and apply these
concepts to stationary fluids and fluids in motion.
• Discuss and explain the effects of heat transfer such as expansion of solids and
liquids and apply the law of conservation of heat in problem solving.
• Use the principles of photometry to design suitable lighting systems for
buildings.
• Solve problems using the inverse square law for sound and the combined
effect of a number of sound sources on the human ear.
• Apply theoretical concepts studied into relevant practical situations pertaining
to the building industry.

4
7. ACADEMIC CALENDAR

1st Term Classes: 10 Feb – 28 March 2025

Mid Semester Vacation: 29 March – 06 April 2025

2nd Term Classes: 07 April – 23 May 2025

Module and Teaching Evaluation: 15 May 2025

Study Break: 24 – 28 May 2025
1st Semester Final Assessment Period: 29 May – 20 June 2025
Winter Vacation: 21 June – 06 July 2025

3rd Term Classes: 14 July – 29 Aug 2025

Mid-Year Supplementary Assessments: 07 – 11 July 2025
Mid Semester Vacation: 01 – 7 September 2025

4th Term Classes: 08 September – 17 October 2025

Module and Teaching Evaluation: 15 October 2025
Study Break: 18 – 22 October 2025
2nd Semester Final Assessment Period: 23 October – 14 November 2025
Study Break: 15 – 23 November 2025
Semester 2 Supplementary Assessments: 24 – 28 November 2025
Summer Vacation: 10 December 2025

8. SCHEDULED LECTURES/TUTORIALS:
Lectures: MO 8 and 9 in Venue JOB 3407
TUE 6 and 7 in Venue JOB 3709
Tutorials: WED 6 in Venue JOB 3223

Tutorials are compulsory.

9. LECTURER AND CONTACT DETAILS

Name Office no. Contacts Consultation

Lecturer
Dr. M.L.A Letswalo JOB 7162 011 559 6012 Wed 8 and 9
[email protected]
Dept. Secretary John Orr
Ms. Refiloe 7th Floor 011 559 6007 08:00 – 15:00 weekdays
Motloung Foyer

5
10. SUPPORT RESOURCES

 PowerPoint lecture notes.

 U-Link (access via student portal: URL – https://student.uj.ac.za).
 Office Consultations (see consultation times on item 9 above).
 Tutorials (See item 8 above).
 Laboratory Manuals (Method and Result Books).
 Prescribed Textbooks in Library:
Physics for Scientists and Engineers with Modern Physics by Serway and
Jewett, 9th Edition.
 Other Recommended Textbooks:
Students may find copies of the following textbooks in the library:
Statics and mechanics of materials by Ferdinand, Russell, John, DE Wolf,
and David, 1st edition.
Introduction to Physics by Cutnell and Johnson, 10th edition
Advanced Level Physics by Nelkon and Parker
Physics for Engineering (Hendricks and others)
Schaum’s Outline Series

11. PsyCaD
The Centre for Psychological Services and Career Development (PsyCaD)
provides services on every UJ Campus. Using highly professional and
completely confidential, sympathetic and scientific support, PsyCaD seeks to
broaden and deepen the learning experiences of students and the
psychological well-being of students through:

• A Peer Buddy group that helps students find their feet at the
university.
• Counselling services for students with all kinds of problems, personal
or otherwise.
• Various career services, advising students and linking them with
prospective employers.
• A 24-hour Crisis Line in case a student has a major life crisis.

Email: [email protected]
DFC Tel: 011 559 6042
Crisis Line: 082 054 1137
Location Opposite the administration building

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12. ASSESSMENT METHODS

 Self-assessment: The student is expected to perform self-assessment by

completing the activities at the end of each learning unit as well as the
tutorials at the end of each module.

 Continuous assessment: During and after each weekly practical session

in the laboratory, the student will be assessed, and these assessments
accumulate to form a mark for the practical component B.

 Formative assessment: Six (6) class tests will be written during the year
from which a year mark is compiled. This year mark will comprise 70%
theory and 30% practical of the final mark.

 Summative assessment: A three-hour examination will be written at the

end of the year covering all the work done in the module. The year mark
together with the examination mark will constitute the final pass mark for
the theory component of this module.

13. ASSESSMENT SCHEDULE

COMPONENT A COMPONENT B
PHYB1Y1 (Theory) PHYB1Y1 (Practical)
Major Date Time Venue Dates: Weekly as
Test per timetable.
Tuesday, 11 March 08:00 – To be Venues:
1 09:30 announced Laboratories as per
Tuesday, 29 April 08:00 – To be timetable.
2 09:30 announced (Consult the roster
Tuesday, 20 May 08:00 – To be to be posted outside
2 09:30 announced Office 7310 –John
*Aegrotat Tuesday, 10 April Physics Orr Building).
(Sick) Boardroom
Test (JOB 7151)

*Aegrotat Friday, 22 May Physics

(Sick) Boardroom
Test (JOB 7151)

Tuesday, 26 August 08:00 – To be

3 09:30 announced
Tuesday, 23 Sept 08:00 – To be
4 09:30 announced
*Aegrotat Tuesday, 02 October 09:00 – Physics
(Sick) 10:30 Boardroom
Test (JOB 7151)

7
* Note: in order to qualify for the aegrotat test, a student must submit a completed
application form for the aegrotat test (see appendix) together with a written & valid
reason(s), such as a doctor’s note, death certificate, affidavit etc.

NO SUBMISSION, NO AEGROTAT TEST!

The aegrotat test will cover all content taught in the module before the date of the
aegrotat test.

14. PASS REQUIREMENTS (INCLUDING WEIGHTING OF ASSESSMENT

AND COMPILATION OF FINAL MARK)
COMPONENT A COMPONENT B
PHYB1Y1 (Theory) PHYB1Y1 (Practical)
70% of the final period mark (FPM) or year 30% of the final period mark (FPM)
mark = or semester mark:
Semester 1

Major Theory Test 1 (Term 1) 15% Mean of the practical marks

Major Theory Test 2 (Term 2) 15% accumulated during the weekly
Tut Tests and Assignment 05% practical sessions

Semester 2

Major Theory Test 4 (Term 3) 15%

Major Theory Test 5 (Term 4) 15%
Tut Tests and Assignment 05%

Admission to the final examination:

At least 40% and a minimum of 80% attendance
of lectures and tutorials (See UJ Academic
Regulations)

Final mark (FM) Weighting:

= Final Period Mark (FPM): Exam Mark (EM) =
50 % : 50 %

Final Examination Pass Mark = 50%

Admission to Supplementary Examination
= 40 – 49%

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15. GLOSSARY OF TERMS

Critical outcomes Those generic outcomes which inform all teaching

and learning.

Specific outcomes Means contextually demonstrated knowledge, skills

and values. Describe specific learning outcomes and
say what the person must be able to achieve.

Assessment criteria Specify the required level of performance for each

specific outcome.

Credits Indicates the time an average student would take to

achieve the standard. Each credit = approximately
10 hours of learning time.

Notional hours The learning time that is conceived it would take an

average student to meet the outcomes defined, and
includes concepts such as contact time, time spent in
structured learning in the workplace and individual
learning.

Summative assessment Is for making judgement about achievement. It is

carried out at the end of a program of learning in
order to be deemed competent or not competent yet.

Formative assessment Takes place during the process of learning and

teaching.

Continuous assessment All forms of assessment which is ongoing.

__________________________________________________________________________

9
16. Action verbs (Based on Bloom’s taxonomy)

Action verbs are used to assist you in the completion of the required
activities, assignments and/or tests/exams. This is a list of definitions
for some examples
Apply Put to practical use or make use of a relevant equation or law.
Calculate Determine the value, using formulae or specific calculation methods.
Group concepts or subjects together based on certain characteristics or
Classify
commonalities.
Point out the similarities and differences between objects or points of view. The
Compare
word contrast can also be used.
Transform a quantity expressed in one unit to a quantity expressed in another
Convert
unit.
Define Give a short and clear description of a term or concept.
Demonstrate Show clearly/prove/make clear by reasoning or evidence/illustrate and explain,
especially with many examples.
Derive Deduce or infer something from the given information.
Tell in detail how a process works or how a subject appears. You need not
Describe
comment on the process or the subject or give your own point of view.
Differentiate Find differences between objects or statements.
Explain terms or concepts in your own words. Give comments or give your
Discuss
own point of view.
Distinguish Write down the differences between subjects or concepts.
Draw Create a drawing, diagram or representation of a subject or concept.
Write about the subject in your own words. Clarify or give reasons – use
Explain
examples or illustrations. You must prove that you understand the content.
Formulate Express in a concise, systematic way.
Identify Establish the identity or recognize a process.
Illustrate Explain by means of detailed descriptions and drawings.
Interpret Explain or clarify the meaning of a concept/value.
List/Name Briefly write down the facts or main points.
Motivate Give reason(s) for your answer.
Name Nominate or specify a site or process.
Organize Arrange data according to certain criteria.
Predict Use the facts available to derive an outcome.
Relate Show the relation/connection of entities, how the concepts can be linked.
Solve Find an answer by using critical thinking and/or calculations.
Summarize Briefly state/list/write down only the most important detail/facts.

10
17. OUTLINE OF THE MODULE CONTENT OF COMPONENT A (THEORY)
IN SECTIONS WITH LEARNING OUTCOMES AND ASSESSMENT
CRITERIA

SECTION 1: OPTICS

 PURPOSE OF THIS SECTION

To impart to the learner the basic principles in Optics required as basic practical
application in a wide field, for example optical instruments, architecture
(lighting in buildings), etc.

Preparation to be done
Read Chapter 35 (Serway & Jewett)

Resource Material
PowerPoint lecture Notes

Self-assessment
Do problems at the end of Chapter 35 (Serway & Jewett).

LEARNING OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if

student should be able to

1. Explain the terms: incident ray, 1. The listed terms adequately

reflected ray, incident angle, explained.
reflected angle, angle of deviation, 2. The laws of reflection correctly
magnification. stated.
3. Ray diagrams correctly drawn.
2. State the laws of reflection of light.
4. Clear distinction between real and
3. Draw ray diagrams relating to plane
virtual images.
and curved mirrors. 5. Problems solved correctly using
4. Distinguish between real and virtual the mirror formula and sign
images. convention.
5. Use the mirror formula and sign
convention to solve problems.

11
 Learning Unit 2 – Refraction of light

LEARNING OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if

student should be able to

1. Explain the terms: refraction, 1. The listed terms correctly explained.

refracted ray, refracted angle, 2. The laws of refraction correctly
refractive index, critical angle, total stated.
internal refraction. 3. Refractive index correctly
2. State the laws of refraction of light. determined by use of alternative
3. Use alternative formulae to formulae.
determine refractive index. 4. Problems relating to refraction
4. Solve problems relating to the above correctly solved.
subject matter. 5. The listed terms correctly explained.
5. Draw ray diagrams relating to 6. Problems on prisms correctly solved.
convex and concave lenses. 7. Ray diagrams correctly drawn.
6. Use the lens formula to solve 8. Problems correctly solved by using
problems on lenses. the lens formula.
7. Explain the term dispersion
8. Draw a ray diagram to illustrate
dispersion of light by a prism.

SECTION 2: MECHANICS

 PURPOSE OF THIS SECTION

To impart to the student the basic principles governing all motion and related
concepts in order that the student may form a coherent picture of the
mechanical world and the forces governing it.

 Learning Unit 1 – Measurements, significant digits, scientific notation, unit

manipulation and the pocket calculator.

Preparation to be done
Read Chapter 1 (Cutnell & Johnson)

Resource Material
Introduction to Physics by Cutnell & Johnson
PowerPoint lecture Notes

Self-assessment
Do problems at the end of Chapter 1 (Cutnell & Johnson).

12
 LEARNING OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

On completion of this learning event, the Competence will be evident if:

student should be able to:
1. Significant digits correctly applied
1. Interpret and apply significant digits. 2. Data rounded off correctly
2. Round-off data 3. Scientific notation correctly used
3. Use the scientific notation 4. SI-units correctly manipulated
4. Manipulate SI-units 5. Areas and volumes correctly
5. Calculate area and volume of calculated
architectural forms

 LEARNING UNIT 2 – Vectors

Preparation to be done
Read Chapters 4 & 5 (Cutnell)

Self-assessment
Do problems at the end of Chapter 4 & 5 (Cutnell).

LEARNING OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if

student should be able to

1. Define the terms scalar, vector, 1. Listed terms correctly defined

resultant, equilibriant. 2. Laws correctly stated
2. State the triangle and parallelogram 3. Vector diagram correctly constructed
laws of vector addition. 4. Resultant and equilibriant correctly
3. Construct a vector diagram to calculated
determine the size and direction of the 5. Condition correctly stated.
resultant of a number of vectors.
4. Calculate the resultant and
equilibriant of a number of vectors.
5. State the condition for translational
equilibrium.

13
 LEARNING UNIT 3 – Statics

LEARNING OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if

student should be able to

1. Define the term “moment of a force”

(torque) 1. The moment of a force correctly
2. State the condition for rotational defined.
equilibrium. 2. Condition correctly stated.
3. Use the conditions for equilibrium to 3. Problems correctly solved.
calculate reaction forces in supports
and the tension in ropes.

 LEARNING UNIT 5 – Centre of gravity and centroids

Preparation to be done
Read Chapter 4 in Construction Science notes

Self-assessment
Do exercise 4.1.

LEARNING OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if

student should be able to

1. Define the terms centre of gravity, 1. Terms correctly defined.

centre of mass, lamina, centroid. 2. Calculations correctly done.
2. Calculate the position of the centroid
of objects of various shapes.

14
 LEARNING UNIT 6 – Framed structure
Preparation to be done
Read Chapter 5

Self-assessment
Do exercise 5.1.

LEARNING OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if

student should be able to

1. Define compression and tension. 1. Terms correctly defined.

2. Calculate the reactions at the supports. 2. Reactions correctly calculated.
3. Use Bow’s notation to label the space 3. Space diagram correctly labeled.
diagram and name the different 4. Vector diagram correctly drawn.
members of the frames. 5. All results correctly tabulated.
4. Draw the appropriate vector diagram
with its load line.
5. Determine from the diagrams whether
the forces are tensions or compressions.

 Learning Unit 7 – Shear force and bending moment

Preparation to be done
Read Chapter 10 in Construction Science notes

Self-assessment
Do exercise 10.

LEARNING OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if

student should be able to

1. Describe shear in beams, bending, 1. Terms correctly described.

bending moment and deflection of 2. Calculations correctly done.
beams. 3. Diagrams correctly drawn.
2. Calculate the magnitude of the shear 4. The behaviour of different materials
force and bending moment along the under loading correctly understood
length of a supported loaded beam.
3. Draw to scale the shear force and
bending moment diagrams of a
supported loaded beam.

4. Discuss the structural behaviour of

bricks, concrete, timber and steel under
loading.

15
 Learning Unit 8 – The effect of forces on materials
Preparation to be done
Read Chapter 11 in construction Science notes

Self-assessment
Do exercise 11.

LEARNING OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if

student should be able to

1. Distinguish between tensile force, 1. Terms correctly explained or defined.

compressive force and shear force. 2. Hooke’s law correctly stated.
2. Define the terms stress, strain and 3. Listed terms correctly explained.
percentage strain. 4. Problems correctly solved.
3. State Hooke’s law.
4. Explain the terms stiffness, ductility,
brittleness, factor of safety, thermal
stress and Young’s modulus, limit of
proportionality, elastic limit, yield
point, tensile strength and do
calculations involving stress, strain,
ultimate strength, factor of safety,
shear force, percentage elongation
and percentage reduction in area of
various materials.

 Learning Unit 9 – Kinetics

LEARNING OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if

student should be able to

1. Explain the terms: distance, 1. The listed terms correctly explained.

displacement, speed, velocity, 2. Problems correctly solved through
acceleration. correct application of the equations of
2. Apply the equations of motion to motion.
solve problems.

16
 Learning Unit 10 – Dynamics
LEARNING OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if

student should be able to

1. Explain the terms: force, mass, weight, 1. The listed terms correctly explained.
the newton, friction, coefficient of 2. Newton’s laws correctly stated.
friction. Problems correctly solved
2.State Newton’s law of motion.
Apply Newton’s laws to solve
problems.

 Learning Unit 11 – Work, energy and power

LEARNING OUTCOMES ASSESSMENT CRITERIA

On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if

student should be able to

1. Explain the concepts: work done, the 1. The listed concepts correctly
joule, kinetic energy, potential explained.
energy, conservation of energy, 2. Problems correctly solved.
power, the watt, kilowatt-hour.
2. Solve problems involving the above
concepts.

SECTION 3: HYDRAULICS

 Purpose of this section:

To study the properties of fluids at rest and in motion.

 Learning unit 1: Behaviour of fluids

Preparation to be done
Read Chapter 1 in Construction Science notes

Self-assessment
Do exercise 1 & 2.

17
Learning Outcomes Assessment Criteria
On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if
student should be able to

1. Define the terms density (solid and 1. Listed terms correctly defined.
bulk), relative density, pressure and 2. Archimedes’ principle correctly stated.
hydraulic press efficiency. 3. Archimedes’ principle correctly
2. State Archimedes’ principle as applied applied in calculations.
to totally submerged bodies and to 4. Correct use of Hare’s apparatus in
floating bodies. problems.
3. Apply the principle in calculating the 5. Pascal’s principle correctly stated and
relative density of solids, liquids and applied.
floating solids. 6. Bernoulli’s principle correctly stated
4. Use Hare’s apparatus to determine the and applied.
relative density of a liquid. 7. Problems correctly solved.
5. State Pascal’s principle and apply the
principle in calculating the mechanical
advantage of the hydraulic press.
6. Explain the terms streamline flow,
turbulent flow and flow rate.
7. State Bernoulli’s principle and apply
the principle in calculating the flow rate,
speed and pressure of water flowing in a
pipe and Do calculations involving the
effects of friction and diameter on the
flow rate of water through simple pipes.

SECTION 4: HEAT

 Purpose of this Section

To introduce the student to the concept of heat which refers to the transfer of
energy from one body to another because of a difference of temperature and to
make a study of the state changes of matter, to introduce the student to the
concept that a body expands or contracts when the temperature changes and
to acquaint the student with the conduction of heat through multi-layered
walls or roofs.

18
 Learning Unit 1 – Measurement of heat
Learning Outcomes Assessment Criteria
On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if
student should be able to

1. Define the terms specific heat capacity, 1. Listed terms correctly defined.
heat capacity, latent heat of fusion and of 2. Principle correctly stated.
vaporization. 3. Problems correctly solved using the
2. State the principle of conservation of method of mixtures.
heat energy. 4. Clear distinction between energy
3. Calculate the specific heat capacity of supplied and useful energy.
substances, using the technique known as 5. Calculations correctly done
the “method of mixtures”.
4. Calculate the amount of heat to change
the state of a specific substance.
5. Distinguish between useful energy
and energy supplied and calculate the
efficiency of machines and heating
devices.

 Learning Unit 2 - Expansion of matter

Learning Outcomes Assessment Criteria
On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if
student should be able to

1. Define the terms linear, area and 1. Expansivity correctly defined.

volumetric expansivity for solids. 2. Know the factors on which the amount
2. Discuss the three factors on which the of expansion depends.
amount of expansion of a solid 3. Calculations correctly done.
substance depends.
3. Do calculations involving the
expansivity of various materials and
Explain the terms true and apparent
expansion of liquids and solve problems
and State the gas laws and do problems.

19
 Learning Unit 3 - Heat transfer
Preparation to be done
Read Chapter 8 in Construction Science notes

Self-assessment
Exercise 8.1 , 5&6.

Learning Outcomes Assessment Criteria

On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if
student should be able to

1. Explain the terms conduction, 1. Terms correctly explained or defined.

convection and radiation. 2. Problems correctly solved.
2. Define the terms thermal conductivity, 3. Temperature distribution correctly
thermal resistance and thermal displayed on a graph.
Conductance.
3. Calculate the thermal resistance of a
multi-layered wall or roof, the u-value,
the rate of heat transfer through a multi-
layered wall or roof, the interface
temperatures and Demonstrate the
temperature distribution throughout the
construction graphically.

Section 6: Photometry

 Purpose of this section

To make a study of basic photometry principles and to design suitable lighting
systems in buildings.

Preparation to be done
Review Chapter 12 in Construction Science notes.

Self Assessment
Exercise Page 12.8

20
Learning Outcomes Assessment Criteria
On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if
student should be able to

1. Distinguish between luminous 1. Listed terms and laws correctly stated.

intensity, luminous flux and illumination.
2. Define the terms candela, lumen and 2. Calculations correctly done.
lux. 3. Lumen method of design correctly
3. State Lambert’s cosine law. described.
4. Describe the basic principle of 4. Correct use made of manufacturer’s
operation of the photometer and Explain table.
utilization factor, maintenance, factor, 5. Suitable lighting system correctly
room index. designed.
5. Do calculations involving the inverse
square law, illumination, luminous
intensity, number of light fittings
required in a room, method of spacing
and determine the utilization factor by
using the manufacturer’s table.

Section 7: Sound

 Purpose of this Section

To make a study of the effect of sound on the human ear and to solve problems
on sound insulation in buildings.

Preparation to be done
Review Chapter 13 in Construction Science notes.

Self Assessment

21
 Exercise Page 13.15 and 13.26

Learning Outcomes Assessment Criteria

On completion of this learning event the Competence will be evident if
student should be able to

1. State the nature of a sound wave. 1. The nature of a sound wave correctly
2. Define the terms frequency, stated.
wavelength, amplitude, longitudinal wave, 2. Listed terms correctly defined.
transverse wave and threshold of hearing. 3. Clear distinction between Wm-2 and
3. Distinguish between Wm-2, bels and decibels.
decibels. 4. Problems correctly solved.
4. Do calculations involving the inverse 5. Acoustics of a room clearly described.
square law and the addition or removal of 6. Measurement of insulation of floors
sound sources. clearly described.
5. Define the terms reverberation and 7. Calculations correctly done.
reverberation time.
6. Describe the acoustics of a room in
terms of the reflection and absorption of
sound, contribution and effects of the
walls, ceiling, floor, seats and audience on
a typical hall.
7. Define the terms airborne insulation,
transmission coefficient, sound reduction
index, flanking transmission, absorption
coefficient and impact sound insulation.
Describe the measurement of airborne
sound insulation and impact sound
insulation of floors and Do calculations
involving transmission coefficient, sound
reduction index and sound pressure levels
at certain frequencies.

22
17.1 APPENDIX

CLASS RULES

Class rules highlighted here are excerpts from 2025 UJ Academic Regulations (AR). Students are
encouraged to READ the full version of these Regulations. This document may be accessed from the UJ
website, https://www.uj.ac.za.

1. Attendance

1.1 Students have the responsibility to attend all teaching and learning interactions (such as classes,
tutorials, practicums etc.), whether these are contact or online, unless they have a legitimate reason,
and where appropriate, the necessary evidence thereof, for being absent (AR 5.11.1). Students may
be penalized for irregular lecture attendance.

1.2 Students are not allowed to sign attendance registers on behalf of other student(s) who are either
absent or present during classes, tutorials and practicals. Students who have been found guilty of
such an offense; necessary disciplinary action will be taken against them in keeping with academic
regulation AR 11.1.4.

1.3 Students may not participate in any academic activities unless they are registered for the relevant
module or programme for the relevant academic year (including conditionally registered; for
postgraduate students, this includes pre-registration). Participation includes attending classes or any
contact sessions in a module, receiving study material or supervision, having access to any
electronic study material or sources or being assessed in a module. (AR 5.1).

1.4 Students are expected to attend a minimum of 80% of tutorials that are indicated as compulsory
tutorials. (AR 5.11.4).

1.5 Students might be required at any time to account for their irregular class attendance, by providing
a legitimate and reasonable written explanation and/or relevant evidence to their lecturer (AR
5.11.2).

1.6 Students who are not registered are not allowed to attend classes or take part in any activities (tutor
classes or practicums) or assessments (AR 5.11). Therefore, students are not allowed to invite and
bring their friends who are not registered for the PHYB1Y1 module into lecture, tutorial and practical
venues.

2. Assessments

2.1 A valid student access card must be presented to gain admission to campuses, assessment venues
and the library. A lecturer may request that a student’s access card be replaced when a student can
no longer be identified or verified. Refer to the Policy on Issuing Access Credentials for the
University (AR 5.4.3). Students must identify themselves as required for admission to an
assessment venue (AR 11.8.2). Students must always carry their student access cards with them
when they are on university premises (AR 5.4.2). Therefore, no student will be allowed to write an
assessment without a valid UJ student access card. A “Home Affairs” ID document and/or proof of
registration is not acceptable for admission into an assessment venue.
2.2 Students may not enter a summative assessment venue later than 30 minutes after the official
starting time of the summative assessment opportunity to take part in the assessment opportunity,
and neither may they leave the assessment venue during the first 30 minutes of an assessment
opportunity or during the last 15 minutes of the allocated assessment time. (AR 11.8.1).

2.3 If a student misses any assessment, lecture, or tutorial session, necessary and valid documentation
(such as doctor’s/hospital note, police affidavit, death certificate of next-of-kin, etc.), must be
produced to validate such absenteeism. Such documentation must be submitted to the Lecturer
within 7 working days from the date of the missed assessment and must be accompanied by the
completed form in Appendix of this Learning Guide. Students are allowed to miss ONE theory
assessment, of which an aegrotat assessment may be granted. If a student misses two theory
assessments, the assessment with the least weighting will be awarded a zero mark. There will be
ONE aegrotat theory assessment for all students who missed either theory assessments 1, 2, 3, or
4, and it will include all the work covered from Sections 1 to 7. See the assessment schedule on this
Learning Guide for the tentative date of this assessment.

2.4 All submitted medical/doctor’s notes will be vetted by the University’s relevant authorities to verify
their authenticity.

2.5 The information supplied on the assessment schedule on pages 9 and 10 of the Learning Guide
(viz. assessment dates, duration, scope, grand total, weightings, and venues) is not rigid, i.e., it is
subject to change at any time at the Lecturer’s professional discretion.

2.6 No assessment result obtained by a student is official if the student was not registered for the
relevant module when the result concerned was obtained.

2.7 Any form of misconduct, dishonesty, including plagiarism, in relation to any assessment event in
any program, will be dealt with in accordance with the University’s disciplinary code and/or criminal
law (AR 11.1.4).

2.8 Students are allowed to view their theory assessment scripts after being marked, graded, and
moderated. Note that for audit purposes, assessment scripts are required to remain the property of
the University. Students are allowed to complain about the marking of their assessment scripts and
will be given seven (7) working days to challenge the marking thereof. Such complaints must be
directed strictly at the Lecturer’s office. After 7 working days have elapsed, no
queries/complaints from students will be allowed and marks allocated will be deemed final.

2.9 Assessment marks and scripts are treated as private and confidential by UJ, and the University can
disclose marks only to registered students. No assessment marks will be communicated to or shared
with third parties such as Tutors, training centres, bursars, etc.

2.10 According to the UJ Assessment Policy, the moderation of assessment scripts will be restricted
only to 30%-weighted assessments.

2.11 The marking memoranda of all theory assessments will not be made available to students.
Instead, students will be required to compile all assessment memoranda and submit them to the
Lecturer on dates that will be specified.
2.12 Negative marking in assessments may be imposed where students’ responses are deemed to be
in gross violation of basic science principles.

2.13 All designated assessments are compulsory to participate in. All assessments will contribute
toward the determination of your final period mark.

3. Tutorial Sessions

3.1 Students are expected to attend a minimum of 80% of tutorials that are indicated as compulsory
tutorials (AR 5.11.4). During the year, students who have failed to attend the required minimum of
80% of designated tutorials, will be required to sign an acknowledgement of such an offence and
provide reason(s), in writing, explaining why they have failed to satisfy this requirement. Signed
acknowledgements will be filed and copies submitted to the HoDs of Physics.
3.2 Saturday tutorial/revision workshops may be arranged at the Lecturer’s discretion and will be
announced timeously in class and on Moodle. These sessions are not compulsory to attend but
strongly recommended.

4. Plagiarism

4.1 Any form of misconduct, dishonesty, including plagiarism, in relation to any assessment event in any
program, will be dealt with in accordance with the University’s disciplinary code and/or criminal law
(AR 11.1.4). READ carefully, appendices C and D on pages 28 and 29, respectively, of this Learning
Guide.

5. Final Marks

5.1 A final mark of 50% is required to pass an assessment and the module. If a student does not
achieve 50% in a 30%-weighted assessment but achieves a mark between 40% and 49%, the
student will be granted a supplementary assessment but cannot achieve more than 50% (i.e.,
supplementary assessment results are capped at 50%).
5.2 In borderline academic result cases, information on class attendance is taken into account by
faculties in making decisions (AR 5.11.3). NOTE: A borderline academic result refers to final marks
of 48%, 49%, 73% or 74%. In lieu of academic regulation AR 5.11.3, should any student become a
“borderline case”, she/he will be promoted to a pass mark of 50% or to a distinction mark of 75%, if
ALL the following requirements are met:
5.2.1 She/he has attended all theory lectures, in keeping with academic regulation AR 5.11.1.
5.2.2 She/he has passed at least one (out of four) written theory assessment. A pass in this regard
does not include a pass in the supplementary assessment.She/he has attended at least 80% of
the tutorial sessions designated as compulsory, in keeping with academic regulation AR 5.11.4.

5.3 After the final mark for a module has been published (on uLink), students who wish to dispute their
marks may apply to the lecturer for an explanation of the mark awarded in the cases where the student
has failed the module with a FM of at least 45% (AR 11.4.1a).
 6. Consultations
6.1 Students are allowed to consult the Lecturer and Tutors whenever they are facing academic
challenges.

7. General Classroom Behaviour

7.1 The University does not permit student behaviour that disrupts formal teaching and learning
activities (AR 11.1.3). Late coming is considered disruptive and is therefore a violation of academic
regulation AR 11.1.3. However, students are allowed a 10-minute grace period to be late. Students
arriving more than 10 minutes late for a lecture, tutorial or practicum sessions will NOT be allowed
into the venue. Furthermore, noisemaking and ill-disciplined behavior are NOT permitted during
lectures, practicum, and tutorial sessions. Students are allowed to step out to the toilet during
lectures, practicum, or tutorial sessions, but must do so quietly, without causing any disruption to
the proceedings. In line with academic regulation AR 11.1.3, the Lecturer reserves the right to
remove disruptive students from lecture/tutorial venues, laboratories, and online platforms and to
report such students to the HoDs of Physics for possible disciplinary action.

7.2 Students are not allowed to video-record or voice-record any lecture, practicum, or tutorial
proceedings without prior consent from the Lecturer or any other relevant authority. Such a
transgression may lead to legal action against responsible student(s).

7.3 Students are required to complete all tasks as specified for the module(s) for which they are
registered (AR 5.12.2).

7.4 Students are allowed to voice their complaints and personal grievances regarding any academic
issue (AR 13). As per protocol, complaints must first be directed to the Lecturer verbally, via email
([email protected]) or by completing the student grievance form on this Learning Guide.
Anonymous and profane email communications to any member of staff are strictly prohibited
and will NOT be attended to. Students who are found guilty of such offense; necessary disciplinary
action may be taken against them in keeping with academic regulation AR 11.1.4.

7.5 For any academic activity or instruction designated to students as compulsory, but is ignored and
not carried out, transgressing students may expect to be penalized. Penalties will be in the form of
assessment mark deduction.

Students are further encouraged to read UJ’s Teaching & Learning Policy and the Assessment
Policy documents. These are available on UJ’s website.

*************************************************************************************************************************
UNIVERSITY OF JOHANNESBURG

FACULTY OF SCIENCE

DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS

WARNING ABOUT PLAGIARISM

The Department of Applied Physics and Engineering Mathematics at the University of Johannesburg
places great emphasis on integrity and ethical conduct in the preparation of assignments. It is very
important to us that all of our students know how secondary material should be used, as well as the
scholarly method of presenting and acknowledging references.

Plagiarism is the unacknowledged use of the words or ideas of others. It is tantamount to academic theft,
and is therefore a very serious offence. To plagiarize means to use the words or ideas of another to
create the false impression that these words and ideas are your own. In order to avoid committing
plagiarism, you must, at all times, acknowledge the source from which you have borrowed certain words
or ideas.

If after reading this warning about plagiarism you are still uncertain about how to avoid committing
plagiarism, you should speak to your lecturer about it before your assignment is submitted.

Students who submit assignments in which plagiarism can be demonstrated will be referred to the Dean
of the Faculty for disciplinary action.
 APPLICATION FOR DEFERRED (AEGROTAT) TEST(S)/EXAMINATION(S)

Deferred Assessment Application Form

APPLICATION FOR SPECIAL (SUBSTITUTE OR AEGROTAT) ASSESSMENT OPPORTUNITY

To be completed by student // applicant

1. Initials and Surname

2. Title (Mark with an X) Mx Mr Mrs Ms Other

3. Student number

4. Telephone number // email address

(details where we can reach you)

5. Address during studies

6. Name of Qualification

7. Module(s) and date(s) of assessments //

Module code Date Module code Date
learning activities missed

8. Reason for absence

Signature of
Date of application student or legal
guardian

THIS FORM MUST BE ACCOMPANIED BY A MEDICAL CERTIFICATE FROM A REGISTERED MEDICAL PRACTITIONER REFLECTING THE DATES THE APPLICANT
COULD NOT WRITE OR PERFORM AN ASSESSMENT OPPORTUNITY AND/OR BY ANY OTHER RELEVANT SUBSTANTIATING DOCUMENTS.

[S
 STUDENT GRIEVANCE FORM

1. Name of Grievant: _____________________________________________________

Postal Address: _______________________________________________________________________
Tel: ________________________________ E-mail: ________________________________________

2. Name(s) of party or person(s) against whom grievance is being filed.

1.____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
2.____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
3.____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________

3. Nature or Type of Grievances -- (include the date(s) of incident(s)

4. Name(s) & Address(es) of any witnesses -- (if applicable)

5. Remedy or Action being Requested

Signature of student: __________________________________ Date:_____________

Received by: _________________________________________ Date: ______________

 DECLARATION BY STUDENT

I, …………………………………………………………………….,

Student Number:………………………………..,

declare that I have read, with understanding, the entire Learning Guide for PHYB1Y1 (Construction
Science) and that I am acquainted with all its relevant contents.

SIGNATURE OF STUDENT:………………………………………

DATE:…………………………………