00105

Course Syllabus: NCCER Core Module 00105-15 — Introduction to Construction Drawings

Course Information

• Course Title: Introduction to Construction Drawings
• Module ID: 00105-15
• Duration: 10 hours (typically delivered over 2–4 sessions, including classroom instruction, hands-on activities, and review)
• Credit Hours: Non-credit (NCCER certification module)
• Prerequisites: Completion of NCCER Core Modules 00101–00104 (Basic Safety, Introduction to Construction Math, Introduction to Hand Tools, and Introduction to Power Tools) recommended
• Delivery Mode: Classroom instruction with hands-on practice using sample drawings
• Certification: Successful completion (passing written exam and performance profile) earns NCCER credential in this module, contributing to Core Curriculum certification

Course Description

This module introduces trainees to the fundamental elements of construction drawings (blueprints). Trainees learn to identify common types of drawings, recognize standard components, interpret scales and measurements, and understand symbols, lines, abbreviations, and dimensions. Construction drawings, combined with specifications, provide detailed instructions for building projects. Emphasis is placed on practical skills for reading and using drawings accurately on the job site.

Learning Objectives

Upon successful completion of this module, trainees will be able to:

1. Identify and describe various types of construction drawings (e.g., civil/site, architectural, structural, mechanical, plumbing, electrical).
2. Recognize and explain the purpose of the basic components of construction drawings, including title block, revision block, notes, legend/schedule, and drawing views.
3. Interpret common lines, symbols, abbreviations, and gridlines used in construction drawings.
4. Use architect’s and engineer’s scales to measure drawings accurately.
5. Locate and interpret dimensions, scales, and specifications on drawings.
6. Perform basic calculations of distances and measurements based on scaled drawings.
7. Demonstrate the ability to read and extract information from a set of construction drawings (performance task).

Course Outline

The module is divided into the following sections (approximate time allocations based on standard NCCER guidelines):

1. Overview of Construction Drawings (1 hour)
   • Role of drawings and specifications in construction projects
   • Importance of accurate interpretation for safety and quality
2. Types of Construction Drawings (2 hours)
   • Civil/site plans (grading, utilities, landscaping)
   • Architectural plans (floor plans, elevations, sections, details)
   • Structural plans (foundations, framing)
   • Mechanical, plumbing, and electrical (MEP) plans
3. Basic Components of Construction Drawings (2 hours)
   • Title block (project identification, scale, dates, approvals)
   • Revision block and change management
   • General notes and specifications
   • Legend/schedule
   • Drawing views and scales
4. Lines, Symbols, Abbreviations, and Dimensions (2 hours)
   • Common line types (object, hidden, center, dimension, break)
   • Standard symbols and abbreviations
   • Gridlines and reference systems
   • Dimensioning practices
5. Scales and Measurements (2 hours)
   • Architect’s scale and engineer’s scale
   • Measuring drawings to determine actual dimensions
   • Hands-on practice with scales and sample drawings
6. Practical Application and Review (1 hour)
   • Interpreting a full set of drawings
   • Common errors and best practices
   • Module review and exam preparation

Required Materials

• NCCER Core Curriculum Trainee Guide (5th Edition or current)
• Sample construction drawings (provided by instructor or NCCER resources)
• Architect’s scale ruler
• Engineer’s scale ruler (optional)
• Notebook, pencil, and calculator
• Personal protective equipment (PPE) if hands-on activities involve job site simulation

Teaching Methods

• Lectures and presentations
• Group discussions
• Hands-on exercises with scales and drawings
• Review of real-world drawing examples
• Quizzes and trade terms review

Assessment and Evaluation

• Written Examination: Multiple-choice test covering module objectives (70% passing score required for NCCER certification)
• Performance Profile: Hands-on tasks evaluated by a certified NCCER instructor, including:
  • Identifying drawing components and types
  • Measuring distances using scales
  • Interpreting symbols and dimensions
• Attendance and Participation: Expected for all sessions
• Grading: Pass/Fail based on NCCER standards (no letter grade)

Policies

• Attendance: Full attendance required for certification eligibility
• Safety: Follow all NCCER safety guidelines during activities
• Academic Integrity: All work must be original; cheating results in failure
• Accommodations: Available upon request for qualified individuals

This syllabus aligns with NCCER’s standardized Core Curriculum and prepares trainees for entry-level construction roles requiring blueprint reading skills. Successful completion contributes to the NCCER Construction Site Safety Technician credential path.

For official NCCER resources or updates, visit nccer.org.