Zimbabwe Lower 6 Curriculum - Building Technology and Design

This information is based on the Zimbabwe Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education Building Technology and Design Syllabus for Forms 5-6 (equivalent to Lower 6). While a syllabus specifically titled "Design and Technology" for Lower 6 was not found, this syllabus likely covers similar content.

Introduction:

The Building Technology and Design syllabus for Forms 5-6 builds upon the Forms 1-4 curriculum. It emphasizes practical skills, theoretical knowledge, research, and problem-solving within the context of Zimbabwean architecture and indigenous knowledge systems. The curriculum promotes inclusivity and aims to prepare learners for the construction industry, further studies, and entrepreneurial endeavors.

Aims:

The syllabus aims to:

• Instill an appreciation for health and safety in the building environment.
• Enable learners to apply scientific and engineering principles to building construction.
• Equip learners with site surveying skills.
• Develop the ability to estimate and quantify building materials.
• Foster an understanding of architectural principles and their application in building design.
• Promote an understanding of building project management and legislation.
• Cultivate a culture of maintenance, value addition, and resource optimization.
• Encourage the use of renewable energy sources in buildings.

Objectives:

Learners should be able to:

• Adhere to health and safety regulations.
• Select appropriate construction materials.
• Apply material science knowledge to building projects.
• Demonstrate proper tool and equipment usage.
• Calculate building material quantities.
• Apply architectural concepts and principles to address construction challenges.
• Budget resources for building projects.
• Analyze forces acting on building structures.
• Understand principles of maintenance and renovation.
• Demonstrate knowledge of building regulations and legislation.
• Explain the importance of renewable energy in buildings.
• Exhibit appropriate interpersonal skills and ethical values.
• Demonstrate entrepreneurial skills through project planning, development, and evaluation.

Topics Covered:

The syllabus covers the following topics:

• Health and Safety
• Science of Materials
• Site Surveying
• Quantity Surveying and Estimating
• Structural Analysis
• Architecture (Zimbabwean, African, and Exotic)
• Management of Construction Projects
• Maintenance and Renovation
• Building Control and Development
• Renewable Energy
• Intellectual Property Rights

Assessment:

Assessment is both continuous (40%) and summative (60%). Continuous assessment includes practical exercises, theory exercises, design and drawing exercises, and a design project. Summative assessment consists of three written papers and a practical exam. The design project is a significant component of the continuous assessment, starting in Form 5 and completed by October of Form 6. More details on the assessment breakdown can be found in the syllabus document.