Demonstrate understanding of advanced concepts related to structural frameworks
This internal standard (assessed by your teacher, not an exam) is worth 3 credits and is all about how structures like bridges, roof trusses, and frames are built to handle forces and loads. You need to show you understand how the different parts of a structural framework work together — including the types of joints, the forces acting inside members, what shapes and forms members come in, and how engineers make sure structures are safe enough.
You can describe where different joints are used, explain how members and forces work together to resist loads, and explain how safety factors are determined. You cover the basics clearly and correctly.
On top of the Achieved content, you can explain the forces (tension, compression, torsion, shear) that exist inside specific framework members — including using vector diagrams to calculate those forces — and explain different member profiles and forms and where they are used.
On top of Merit, you go further and discuss how safety factors have actually been applied to a specific framework to ensure its integrity. This means linking safety factor choices to real decisions about joints, member form and profile, and loading conditions — not just listing what safety factors are.
Standards typically taken alongside or after this one. Same subject, grouped by level.