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 design and construction of public works. This includes
structures such as bridges, dams, and other large facilities.
2. Define architecture.
Architecture is the art and science of designing buildings for human habitation such
as houses, work buildings and schools.
3. Describe the origination of the concept of architecture?
Architecture began when people began to live in constructed dwelling communities
as a society. Food was the center of early engineering since the development of tools
was to increase the efficiency of farming and hunting.
4. In ancient times how were building materials chosen?
In ancient times, the building materials were chosen based on the availability and
climate of the region. This is still used since some materials can be helpful in certain
climates but in others with either be ineffective or will be broken down and ruined.
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5. Give two examples of vernacular architecture.
One example of vernacular architecture is the use of ice to construct igloos in a
climate consisting only on ice. Another example is of the use of dry wood and
leaves to construct a hut in places such as Cameroon.
6. Name and describe the type of system used to create many early buildings
Bearing walls was a system used in many early buildings which was made of solid
walls that provide support for each other and the roof.
7. What was the purpose of the Egyptian pyramids? Mexican pyramids?
The purpose of the Egyptian pyramids was to house the tombs of the pharaohs as
suppose to the Mexican pyramids which were used for religious ceremonies or
scientific use.
8. What kind of construction method was used to build the Parthenon? Made a
simple sketch to illustrate.
Post and lintel construction
was used to construct the
Parthenon where horizontal
beams were placed across
vertical posts.
9. What problem in architecture led to this form of construction?
The need to reach greater heights and to build larger spans with less materials
brought the new construction method of post and listel.
10. Explain how an arch is created.
An arch is created by blocks being placed in a curved formation in such a way that they
give each other support. At the crown of the arch, a voussoir is placed to lok the other
blocks in place.
11. How is the vault used in civil engineering?
The vault is used in civil engineering by being used as tunnels in most highways, for the
construction of bridges and walkways.
12. Give an example of an arch and dome system.
The United States Capitol is an example of a dome system and the Arc de Triomphe is
an example of an arch 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 times, we use Partland cement that is an important part in concrete unlike
what the ancients had due to Hydraulic cement being able to harden by reacting with
water causing it so that it hardens faster and is water resistant which allows for it to be
made during any time.
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14. What was the purpose of the Roman aqueducts?
The purpose of the Roman aqueducts was to supply the city of Rome with fresh water
by multiple arch systems on a small decline which allowed for the flow of water to the
city.
15. Compare ancient Greek roads to ancient Roman roads.
Ancient Greek roads were much smoother than the ancient Roman roads so that they
were more available for the event of religious exodus. Roman roads were usually made
of broken stones, large blocks of stones, and a layer of sand set in lime mortar.
16. Describe an ancient Roman bridge.
The first Roman bridge was usually comprised of wood and constructed using columns
and beams. The foundation was made by excavating and clearing the floor and then
driving piles of wood into the ground as close as possible and the remaining spaces
was filled with ashes. Most ancient Roman bridges used the arch as a basic structure
and were usually made of stone and concrete.
17. How did building materials and methods change after the Romans?
Building materials changed after the Romans due to iron becoming cheaper and more
readily available. This new availability of iron allowed for a longer spanned bridge with a
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?
In most modern pyramids shaped buildings such as Muttart Conservatory, which is
a botanical garden, the shape is mostly used to deflect the rain but also give it a
sense of beauty with its shape. Both this and the Egyptian pyramids were used to
monument a certain aspect in life, yet one is more symbolic than the other.
2. Give an example of a modern structure that uses an arch and dome system.
The Capitol building uses both arch and dome systems such as in its detail at the base
and the dome at the top.
3. What is the main purpose of modern roads? How is the cost of modern roadways
defrayed?
The main purpose for modern roads is to make a clearer and more reliable and
sufficient way to get from one place to another in a way so that modern cars
would not be damaged due to not being all terrain vehicles. The cost for these
roadways is defrayed since the priced to renew the roads get higher since most or
all of the roadway will have to be blocked which can cause traffic and back ups.
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CEA – Unit 1 – Lesson 1.1 – Activity 1.1.1 – History Civil Engineering and Architecture– Page 3