PLTW CEA EOC Final Exam – Project Lead The Way:
Civil Engineering and Architecture Exam
QUESTIONS AND VERIFIED ANSWERS WITH
RATIONALES JUST RELEASED
PLTW CEA EOC Final Exam – Project Lead The Way: Civil Engineering and Architecture Practice
High-yield topics: Engineering design process, architectural design, structural systems, building
materials, construction documents, site analysis, sustainability, building codes, surveying, foundations,
structural loads, residential systems (electrical, plumbing, HVAC), estimating, CAD/BIM, project
management, accessibility, and professional ethics.
1.
A civil engineering team begins planning a new community library. What is the first step of the
engineering design process?
A. Construct the building.
B. Define the problem and project requirements.
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C. Purchase construction materials.
D. Obtain a certificate of occupancy.
Answer: B
Rationale: Every engineering project begins by identifying the problem, client needs, and design
constraints.
2.
Which document provides scaled drawings that contractors use to construct a building?
A. Building permit
B. Construction drawings (blueprints)
C. Warranty certificate
D. Occupancy permit
Answer: B
Rationale: Construction drawings communicate dimensions, materials, and specifications.
3.
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Which type of load represents the permanent weight of the building itself?
A. Live load
B. Dead load
C. Wind load
D. Seismic load
Answer: B
Rationale: Dead loads include structural components and permanently attached materials.
4.
Furniture, occupants, and movable equipment are classified as:
A. Dead loads
B. Live loads
C. Snow loads
D. Impact loads
Answer: B
Rationale: Live loads vary depending on building occupancy.
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5.
Which structural member primarily carries compressive loads from the roof to the foundation?
A. Beam
B. Column
C. Joist
D. Header
Answer: B
Rationale: Columns transfer vertical loads safely to the foundation.
6.
What is the primary function of a building foundation?
A. Improve insulation only.
B. Transfer structural loads safely to the soil.
C. Increase natural lighting.
D. Support plumbing fixtures.