Activity 1.1.1 History of Civil Engineering and
Architecture
Introduction
Can you name any of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World? Each was a feat of
civil engineering and architecture. What causes structures such as these to fill us
with awe even today? What is it that makes them seem more wondrous in our time
of modernization? These structures have paved the way for many new advances in
the design of the structures you see today.
In this activity you will learn about the history of civil engineering and architecture.
You will see differences between the two professions and learn of their beginnings.
Equipment

History of Civil Engineering and Architecture presentation
Procedure
In this activity you will investigate the history of civil engineering and architecture.
You will see differences between the two professions and learn of their beginnings.
1. Define civil engineering.
Civil engineering is the oldest branch of engineering that an engineer trained in
design and construction of public works.
2. Define architecture.
Architecture is the art and science of designing for building for human habitation.
3. Describe the origination of the concept of architecture?
The concept of architecture is started when people began to live in constructed
dwellings and with communities.
4. In ancient times how were building materials chosen?
The building materials were chosen based on availability and climate.
5. Give two examples of vernacular architecture.
Two examples of vernacular architecture are African hat and igloo.
6. Name and describe the type of system used to create many early buildings.
The type of system used to create many early buildings is vernacular architecture
which uses locally available resources and traditions to address the local needs.
© 2010 Project Lead The Way, Inc.
Civil Engineering and Architecture Activity 1.1.1 History Civil Engineering and Architecture– Page 1
7. What was the purpose of the Egyptian pyramids? Mexican pyramids?
The purpose of the Egyptian pyramids is to house the tombs of pharaohs.
Mexican pyramids is built for astronomical purposes.
8. What kind of construction method was used to build the Parthenon? Make a
simple sketch to illustrate.
Post and lintel is the construction method that was used to build the Parthenon.
9. What problem in architecture led to this form of construction?
The problem in architecture led to this form of construction is that how can door
and window openings be provided in bearing walls without sacrificing support.
10. Explain how an arch is created.
An arch is created by a curved structure for spanning an opening, designed to
support a vertical load primarily by axial compression.
11. How is the vault used in civil engineering?
Vault is used to form a continuous arched covering. It allows for the construction
of bridges and walkways.
12. Give an example of an arch and dome system.
An example of an arch and dome system is the Pantheon.
13. Give an example of a modern material we have that was not available to the
ancients. How did the absence of this material restrict construction in ancient
times?
An example of a modern material we have that was not available to the ancients
is hydraulic cement. The absence of this material restricted construction in ancient
times.
© 2010 Project Lead The Way, Inc.
Civil Engineering and Architecture Activity 1.1.1 History Civil Engineering and Architecture– Page 2
14. What was the purpose of the Roman aqueducts?
The purpose of the Roman aqueducts is to provide Rome with an ample supply for
fresh water.
15. Compare ancient Greek roads to ancient Roman roads.
Ancient Greek roads were needed for event of religious exodus. Highways consisted
of two wheels ruts of about 4ft 11in. Roman roads is created by using large stones for
the base, over which broken stone was covered by a layer of road which could
constructed 50,000 miles of paved roads.
© 2010 Project Lead The Way, Inc.
Civil Engineering and Architecture Activity 1.1.1 History Civil Engineering and Architecture– Page 3
16. Describe an ancient Roman bridge.
An ancient Roman bridge used the arch as basic structure and were typically made of
stone and concrete.
17. How did building materials and methods change after the Romans?
The methods didn’t change after the Romans. The building materials changed to iron
because it became cheaper and more readily available in the middle of 18th century.
The use of iron allowed longer spans and lighter structure.
Conclusion
1. Give an example of a modern pyramid not shown in the presentation. How does
its function differ from that of the Egyptian pyramids? What do you think accounts
for this difference?
The Louvre Pyramid. This functions different from that of the Egyptian pyramids
by being a main entrance to the Louvre Museum.
2. Give an example of a modern structure that uses an arch and dome system.
Eden project is an example of a modern structure that uses an arch and dome
system. It is located in Cornwall and it is the largest greenhouse.
3. What is the main purpose of modern roads? How is the cost of modern roadways
defrayed?
The main purpose of modern road is for transportation and travelling. The cost of
modern roadways is defrayed by taxes.
© 2010 Project Lead The Way, Inc.
Civil Engineering and Architecture Activity 1.1.1 History Civil Engineering and Architecture– Page 4