WAEC Syllabus for Building Construction 2025

WAEC Syllabus for Building Construction: If you are preparing for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) and planning to take Building Construction, it is important to understand the syllabus.

The WAEC syllabus for Building Construction is a guide that outlines the topics, skills, and knowledge you need to master for the exam.

This syllabus is designed to help students learn the principles, techniques, and materials used in construction work. It covers both theory and practical aspects to ensure that students gain hands-on experience and a solid understanding of the subject.

In this article, we will show you the key topics in the syllabus, explain what you need to focus on, and give tips on how to prepare effectively for the WAEC Building Construction exam. Make sure you follow the information provided in this article to help you prepare effectively for the WAEC examination.

Table of Contents

WAEC Syllabus for Building Construction

Examination Structure

The Building Construction exam consists of three papers: Papers 1, 2, and 3. Papers 1 and 2 are combined and taken in one sitting.

Paper 1: 40 multiple-choice questions to be answered in 45 minutes, worth 40 marks.
Paper 2: Five short-structured essay questions; candidates must answer four in one hour for 60 marks.
Paper 3: A practical test divided into Sections A and B, lasting 2½ hours and carrying 100 marks.
Section A (Nigeria, Sierra Leone, The Gambia): Focuses on Building Drawing with four questions, including a compulsory one. Candidates must answer three questions.
Section B (Ghana): Contains six essay questions, including a compulsory one. Candidates must answer four questions.

Detailed Syllabus

Introduction to Building

Definition, types, and classification of buildings
Overview of National Building Codes, regulations, and bylaws

Building Construction and Construction Team

Purpose and process of building construction
Roles and responsibilities of the construction team (clients, contractors, and regulatory personnel)

Safety Practices

Safety rules, accident prevention, and first aid
Common hazards in workshops and construction sites
Safe handling of dangerous materials and equipment

Basic Tools, Equipment, and Machines

Identification, functions, and maintenance of building tools

Site Clearing and Levelling

Procedures for site clearing and levelling
Required tools and equipment

Site Organization and Layout

Initial site preparation and layout procedures
Setting up boundaries, access roads, and temporary structures

Setting Out

Techniques such as the 3:4:5 method and the Builders’ square
Tools and procedures for accurate setting out

Building Drawing

Use of drawing tools and basic geometric exercises
Symbols, scales, and types of building drawings
Introduction to AutoCAD for building design

Excavation and Earthwork

Soil types, excavation methods, and safety procedures
Solutions to excavation challenges (timbering, dewatering, etc.)

Foundation

Types, functions, and selection factors for foundations

Ground Floors

Types and construction methods
Explanation of basements and their associated challenges

Suspended Floors

Types, functions, and construction techniques for concrete and timber upper floors

Concrete

Composition, types, and properties of concrete
Cement alternatives (e.g., Pozzolana, PFA, Rice Husk Ash)
Concrete production process and testing

Walls

Types, functions, and materials for wall construction
Methods of constructing walls and openings (doors, windows)

Doors and Windows

Types, functions, and installation methods

Staircases

Types, materials, and construction methods for stairs

Plumbing Installations and Drainage Systems

Plumbing materials, sanitary fittings, and installation procedures
Drainage system types, materials, and maintenance

Electrical Installation and Solar Energy

Electrical wiring, components, and solar energy systems

Roofs

Types, functions, materials, and protection against environmental factors

Finishes

Floors: Types, application methods, and maintenance
Walls: Plastering, rendering, and finishing techniques
Ceilings: Types, functions, and finishing materials

External Works

Types and construction of fences, gates, roads, and landscaping

Business Organization and Finance in Construction

Types of business structures in the construction industry
Sources of capital and financial management

Bookkeeping

Record-keeping for small-scale construction businesses

Contracts in Construction

Types of. contracts, essential documents, and contract parties

Recommended Books

A variety of textbooks cover these topics, including works by Stephen Emmitt, R. Barry, S.C.O.A. Ezeji, and others. Some notable ones include:

Barry’s Introduction to Construction in Buildings – Stephen Emmitt & Christopher A. Gorse
Building Construction Handbook – R. Chudley
Advanced Building Construction – C.M.H. Barritt
Building Construction for Senior Secondary Schools – Adesokan & M.O. Adeniyi

This syllabus provides essential knowledge and practical skills for students preparing for the WAEC Building Construction exam.

By following the information provided in this syllabus and understanding the WAEC syllabus for building construction, candidates will be able to write the examination and pass. We believe you found this article helpful, for mire inquiries regarding the WAEC Syllabus for Building Construction.