27303 Properties of Concrete

Course Syllabus: Properties of Concrete (NCCER Module 27303)

Course Information

• Course Title: Properties of Concrete
• Course Code: NCCER Module 27303 (also referenced as 27303-07 or 27303-14 in various curricula)
• Level: Typically part of Carpentry Level Three; also incorporated into Construction Craft Laborer, Concrete Construction, and related crafts
• Credit Hours: 10 Hours (recommended training time, including classroom and hands-on activities)
• Format: Blended (classroom instruction, discussion, hands-on demonstrations, and review)
• Delivery Method: In-person or hybrid, aligned with NCCER standardized curriculum

Course Description

This module introduces the fundamental properties, characteristics, and uses of cement, aggregates, admixtures, and other materials that form concrete mixtures. Learners explore how these components affect concrete performance, including strength, workability, and durability. The course also covers ordering, measuring, testing, placing, finishing, and curing concrete, with emphasis on industry standards and safe practices.

Prerequisites

• Completion of NCCER Core Curriculum (Basic Safety, Introduction to Construction Math, Hand Tools, Power Tools, etc.)
• Recommended: Prior modules in related crafts (e.g., Carpentry Levels 1–2 or equivalent experience in construction basics)

Learning Objectives

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

1. Identify various types of cement and describe their uses.
2. Identify types and sizes of concrete aggregates and explain their role in concrete mixtures.
3. Identify various admixtures and describe their effects on concrete properties.
4. Describe how concrete is ordered, measured, calculated (e.g., volume for forms), and tested (e.g., slump tests, strength tests).
5. Identify the tools used to place, finish, and cure concrete.
6. Describe the procedures for placing, finishing, and curing concrete to achieve desired properties.

Trainees who pass the written exam and complete performance tasks earn NCCER credentials and digital badge (e.g., via Credly) for this module.

Course Outline

Week/Session 1: Introduction to Concrete and Cement (2.5 Hours)

• Overview of concrete as a construction material
• Types of cement (e.g., Portland cement Types I–V, blended cements)
• Chemical and physical properties of cement
• Hydration process and water-cement ratio effects on strength

Week/Session 2: Aggregates and Mixture Components (2.5 Hours)

• Fine and coarse aggregates: sources, sizes, grading, and characteristics
• Role of aggregates in concrete strength, volume, and durability
• Suitable aggregate materials (e.g., natural, manufactured, slag for high-strength concrete)
• Effects of aggregate properties on workability and finishability

Week/Session 3: Admixtures and Concrete Testing (2.5 Hours)

• Common admixtures (accelerators, retarders, water reducers, air-entraining agents, etc.)
• Effects of admixtures on fresh and hardened concrete
• Ordering and specifying concrete (prescriptive vs. performance specifications)
• Measurement and volume calculations (e.g., for slabs, columns, footings)
• Basic testing methods (slump, compression, air content)

Week/Session 4: Placing, Finishing, and Curing Concrete (2.5 Hours)

• Tools for placing (chutes, pumps, vibrators), finishing (trowels, floats, edgers), and curing (membranes, compounds)
• Procedures for placement, consolidation, screeding, floating, troweling, and edging
• Curing methods and importance for strength development and crack prevention
• Common issues (e.g., shrinkage, cracking) and prevention

*Note: Sessions include hands-on demonstrations where feasible. Total time includes review and Q&A.

Required Materials

• NCCER Contren Learning Series textbook/module for Properties of Concrete (Carpentry Level Three or equivalent)
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, steel-toed boots
• Calculator for volume and mixture calculations
• Access to concrete samples, tools, and testing equipment (provided by training facility)

Assessment and Grading

• Written Exam: NCCER standardized multiple-choice exam (minimum passing score: 70%)
• Performance Tasks: Hands-on verification of key skills (e.g., identifying materials, calculating volumes, demonstrating basic testing or finishing techniques) — must complete 100% of profiled tasks
• Attendance and Participation: Expected for full module credit
• Credentialing: Successful completion enters into NCCER National Registry

Policies

• Safety: All activities comply with OSHA standards; zero tolerance for unsafe practices.
• Attendance: Full attendance required for credentialing.
• Academic Integrity: NCCER exams are proctored; cheating results in disqualification.

Instructor Contact

(To be completed by training provider)

This syllabus aligns with NCCER’s standardized curriculum for Module 27303 and prepares trainees for safe, effective work with concrete in construction settings.