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.
A civil engineer designs public works/facilities, such as railroads and bridges.
2. Define architecture.
Architecture is the art and science of designing and focusing on the aesthetics of private
works.
3. Describe the origination of the concept of architecture?
Architecture originated when agriculture became more popular and there began a need
to settle down, and therefore the need to create stable structures.
4. In ancient times how were building materials chosen?
Building materials were chosen based on the availability of that material and the
climate of the area.
5. Give two examples of vernacular architecture.
Native Americans and others who lived near the Artic regions and Alaska area lived in
igloos because ice was abundant and kept them warm. Another example was of people
settled in areas of Mexico and used clay to build adobes because of the heat- clay was
able to resist it.
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6. Name and describe the type of system used to create many early buildings.
Bearing walls, were solid walls used as roofs and support for early structures.
7. What was the purpose of the Egyptian pyramids? Mexican pyramids?
The purpose of many pyramids in Egypt were to serve as monuments for the
tombs of pharaohs. In Mexico, they used pyramids for astronomy.
8. What kind of construction method was used to build the Parthenon? Made a
simple sketch to illustrate.
Post and intel was used to build the Parthenon.
9. What problem in architecture led to this form of construction?
The problem that led to this system was trying to create doors, windows,
and openings without disruption the support.
10. Explain how an arch is created.
Small and light blocks are placed in a curve and there is a vouissour –the
keystone at the top of the arch, that basically locks the other blocks in place.
11. How is the vault used in civil engineering?
The vault helps with the creation of bridges, passageways, and walkways in civil
engineering.
12. Give an example of an arch and dome system.
The Pantheon is an example of an arch and dome system.
13. Give an example of a modern material we have that was not available to the
ancients. How did this restrict construction in ancient times?
In modern day there is Portland cement which is a “hydraulic cement” used
in concrete that hardens in reaction to water because it is water-proof.
14. What was the purpose of the Roman aqueducts?
The purpose of the aqueducts were top constantly keep a flow of fresh water.
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CEA – Unit 1 – Lesson 1.1 – Activity 1.1.1 – History Civil Engineering and Architecture– Page 2
15. Compare ancient Greek roads to ancient Roman roads.
Greek roads had two wheel ruts and were 8x3 or 9x4. Roman roads were
built with large stratumen as the base and rudus (debris) WAS COVERED by
sand with basalt as the road surface.
Describe an ancient Roman bridge.
Roman bridges were made of stone and concrete and used the arch and dome system.
16. How did building materials and methods change after the Romans?
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?
2. Give an example of a modern structure that uses an arch and dome system.
3. What is the main purpose of modern roads? How is the cost of modern roadways
defrayed?
Project Lead The Way, Inc.
Copyright 2010
CEA – Unit 1 – Lesson 1.1 – Activity 1.1.1 – History Civil Engineering and Architecture– Page 3