BuildingSkills CTAs
BuildingSkills enables instructors to successfully expand their program to cover all major trade areas. Students pair up to work collaboratively in each of the 20 Construction Trade Areas (CTAs).
Each ten-day CTA begins with tool, vocabulary and material identification using worksheets and the Taylor Home story. Every video lesson starts with an overview if the activity which sets the expectations for learning. Next, the video present step-by-step instruction wich carefully guides students and supports instructors in CTAs they have not previously taught. Each lesson contains a Sixty Second Review to reinforce the learning sequence and key concepts. Finally, the video instructor explains the Best Practices, which are those skills that produce true craftsmanship.
Every student that takes a construction course does so because they want to actually experience what it’s like to work in the industry. Reading about construction can help a student understand the concepts and theory, but practice is what really builds on the basics and improves skill and knowlege.
20 10-day Construction Trade Areas
Blueprint Reading
The ability to do basic drawing and read a set of blueprints is a valuable skill needed in all areas of construction. Students do a simple sketch of their lab and then transfer their sketch to a drafting board where they add the correct symbols for doors, windows, electrical and plumbing fixtures. They gain an understanding of plot plans and how to use a floor plan to determine where walls are placed. Students use the elevation drawings to measure window and door locations and the placement of cabinets. Blueprint Reading reinforces math and reading skills.
Stock No. 74-0030
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Cabinetmaking
In this CTA, students will identify basic tools and equipment used in the cabinetmaking trade. They will identify and describe materials used in cabinetmaking, understand basic techniques, and then design and build a sample cabinet using 32mm technology. Students also explore the applied mathematics of the cabinetmaking trade.
Stock No. 74-0004
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Communications
In this CTA, students will identify basic tools and equipment used for communication system in structures. They will identify and describe applications of communication systems, understand installation techniques for cable and internet connections, telephone, security and lighting systems. Science and applied mathematics will be explored.
Stock No. 74-0006
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Concrete
In this CTA, students will identify and describe basic tools, equipment, and materials used in the concrete trade. They will gain and understanding of basic concret and reinforcing applications. Students will prepare, form, reinforce and pour concrete slab and curb, wihile exploring applied science and mathematics to the trade.
Stock No. 74-0008
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Drywall
In this uniquely designed CTA, students assamble a steel stub wall as the basis for the rest of the activities. Using an abrasive saw and steel studs, students measure and cut stud sections and then fasten them in place with drill and screws. After squaring the wall students cut and hand drywall pieces to form a butt joint, taper joint, and inside and outside corners. Students apply tape, fit corner beading, and apply joint filler. Then they sand and apply different types of decorative finish.
Stock No. 74-0010
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Electrical
Students will explore the types of wire and connections used in typical residential electrical installations. While carefully following the onscreen video instruction, students use a low voltage (12 volt) portable electrical panel to wire a typical duplex residential outlet. Students also gain an understanding of circuits, 220 volt outlets and the differences between 110 and 220 volt wiring.
Stock No. 74-0012
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Estimation Skills
Students perform material estimations for the construction of a simple house. They will calculate the number of yards or concrete; the number of rafters, studs and plating; roofing material; plumbing and electrical fixtures; doors and windows. The estimate is ttoaled and presented to the instructor for review. The Estimation CTA allows students to get a good feel for the cost of their labor and the materials they are using.
Stock No. 74-0014
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Finish Carpentry
In this CTA students use a full size window and door trainer to install a pre-hung door and window. They learn to use techniques for applying flashing and using shims, levels and squares to correctly set the door and window. Once the door is installed students use the compound mitre saw to cut and fit the door casing. They also learn how to use a "coping" saw for crown moulding and trim work.
Stock No. 74-0016
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Green Construction
Green Construction is an exciting exploration into the process of environmentally responsible and sustainable construction techniques that will attract a lot of student interest. Activities include: installation and testing of a solar panel array, installation of energy saving plumbing components, lighting, electrical efficiency
Stock No. 74-0340
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Hand Tools
The fundamental use of hand tools is important for any construction trade. In this CTA studetns use a variety of hand tools to perform basic woodworking operations. Using inexpensive pine or poplar studetns gain valuable skills and also build some
Stock No. 74-0018
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