27307 Foundation and Slab-on-Grade

Course Syllabus: NCCER Module 27307-14

Foundations and Slabs-on-Grade

Course Information

• Module ID: 27307-14
• Level: Typically included in Carpentry Level 3, Concrete Finishing Level 2, or Construction Craft Laborer curricula
• Duration: Approximately 30–40 hours (adjustable based on program; includes classroom instruction, hands-on labs, and performance testing)
• Delivery Format: Blended (classroom theory, demonstrations, and practical application)
• Instructor: Qualified NCCER Craft Instructor
• Credit Hours: Varies by program (contributes toward NCCER certification in related crafts)

Course Description

This module introduces trainees to the tools, methods, and safety practices used in site layout and the construction of deep and shallow foundations, as well as slabs-on-grade and suspended slabs. Topics include establishing building lines and elevations, constructing foundation forms, installing reinforcement and embedded items, and basic concrete volume estimation. Emphasis is placed on safety, accuracy, and industry-standard techniques.

Learning Objectives

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

1. Identify and apply safety practices related to site layout, excavation, and formwork.
2. Use site layout tools and instruments to establish building lines, corners, and elevations.
3. Describe and differentiate between deep and shallow foundations.
4. Select, construct, and install forms for footings, walls, steps, edge forms, and slabs.
5. Install reinforcing bars, anchor bolts, and other embedded items.
6. Estimate concrete volumes for foundations and slabs.
7. Demonstrate proper procedures for placing reinforcement and preparing for concrete placement.
8. Perform hands-on tasks to meet NCCER performance standards.

Prerequisites

• Completion of NCCER Core Curriculum (Basic Safety, Introduction to Construction Math, Tools, etc.) or equivalent.
• Basic understanding of blueprints and construction drawings recommended.

Required Materials

• NCCER Trainee Guide: Foundations and Slabs-on-Grade (Module 27307-14)
• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Hard hat, safety glasses, gloves, steel-toed boots, high-visibility vest
• Tools (provided or trainee-supplied as per program): Tape measure, builder’s level, laser level, plumb bob, string line, hammers, saws, etc.
• Access to formwork materials, rebar, and mock-up sites for hands-on practice

Course Outline

The course is divided into sessions aligning with the NCCER module structure.

Session 1: Safety and Introduction to Site Layout (5–7.5 hours)

• Overview of module content and objectives
• Safety hazards in excavation, formwork, and concrete placement
• Personal protective equipment and fall protection
• Basic site layout principles and control points

Session 2: Site Layout Tools and Methods (5–7.5 hours)

• Tools: Levels, transits, theodolites, laser levels, tapes, and squares
• Establishing building lines and corners using batter boards and templates
• Differential leveling and height of instrument (HI) calculations
• Hands-on: Set up batter boards and lay out a building perimeter

Session 3: Foundations – Types and Construction (7.5–10 hours)

• Deep vs. shallow foundations (footings, piers, piles)
• Types of foundation forms (job-built, manufactured)
• Constructing footing forms, wall forms, and steps
• Reinforcement placement in foundations
• Hands-on: Build footing and wall forms; install rebar

Session 4: Slabs-on-Grade and Suspended Slabs (7.5–10 hours)

• Characteristics and classes of slabs-on-grade
• Edge forms, isolation joints, and control joints
• Preparing subgrade and base materials
• Forming and reinforcing slabs (including two-course slabs)
• Installation of embedded items (anchor bolts, dowels)
• Hands-on: Construct edge forms and install reinforcement for a slab mock-up

Session 5: Concrete Estimation and Placement Preparation (5 hours)

• Calculating concrete volumes for footings, walls, and slabs
• Factors affecting slab placement and finishing
• Review of curing basics and common issues

Session 6: Review, Performance Testing, and Assessment (Remaining hours)

• Module review and Q&A
• Hands-on performance evaluations
• Written exam preparation

Assessment and Grading

• Written Exam: Multiple-choice test covering module content (70% passing required per NCCER standards)
• Performance Tasks: Graded practical evaluations on key skills (e.g., layout accuracy, form construction, reinforcement installation). Must complete all performance profiles to NCCER standards.
• Grading Criteria:
  • Participation and safety adherence: 20%
  • Performance tasks: 40%
  • Written exam: 40%
• Certification: Successful completion (passing exam and all performance tasks) earns NCCER module credential, recorded in the National Registry.

Policies

• Attendance: 100% attendance recommended; missed sessions must be made up.
• Safety: Zero tolerance for violations; unsafe behavior results in removal from lab activities.
• Academic Integrity: All work must be original; cheating on exams results in failure.
• Accommodations: Available for qualified students per institutional policy.

This syllabus aligns with NCCER standards and prepares trainees for real-world application in concrete construction and carpentry trades. Adjustments may be made based on class size, facility availability, or program needs.