Geotechnics & Soil Mechanics — Pearson Alternative Academic Qualification Construction & Building Services Revision

    This subtopic explores fundamental geological and geotechnical principles essential for construction managers, including rock type identification, soil cla

    Topic Synopsis

    This subtopic explores fundamental geological and geotechnical principles essential for construction managers, including rock type identification, soil classification systems, and analysis of soil properties through laboratory and field tests. It equips learners to assess ground conditions, interpret geotechnical data, and propose practical solutions to mitigate risks such as settlement, slope instability, or bearing capacity failure, ensuring safe and cost-effective project delivery.

    Key Concepts & Core Principles

    Exam Tips & Revision Strategies

    Common Misconceptions & Mistakes to Avoid

    Examiner Marking Points

    Geotechnics & Soil Mechanics

    PEARSON
    vocational

    This subtopic covers the classification of rock types and their engineering applications, alongside soil description and classification using current codes of practice. It investigates geotechnical procedures to determine soil properties and their behaviour under load. Finally, it equips learners to analyse geotechnical problems and produce practical proposals to mitigate weaknesses, ensuring structural integrity in modern construction.

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    Learning Outcomes
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    Assessment Guidance
    35
    Key Skills
    10
    Key Terms
    39
    Assessment Criteria

    Assessment criteria

    Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Modern Methods of Construction
    Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Civil Engineering
    Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Construction Management
    Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Architectural Technology
    Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Modern Methods of Construction
    Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Civil Engineering
    Pearson BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Building Services Engineering
    Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Construction Management
    Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Building Services Engineering
    Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Architectural Technology

    Topic Overview

    The Pearson BTEC Level 4 Higher National Certificate in Construction Management is a comprehensive vocational qualification designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and practical skills required for a successful career in the construction industry. This programme covers core areas such as construction technology, project management, health and safety, and sustainable building practices. It is structured to provide a solid foundation for those aspiring to become construction managers, site supervisors, or quantity surveyors, bridging the gap between academic theory and real-world application.

    This qualification is particularly valuable because it combines rigorous academic study with hands-on, industry-relevant projects. Students engage with topics like building regulations, contract administration, and digital construction techniques, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of modern construction sites. The HNC is widely recognised by employers and professional bodies, offering a direct pathway to further study, such as a BTEC Level 5 Higher National Diploma or a university degree in construction management.

    Within the broader context of Construction & Building Services, this HNC sits as a key stepping stone for career progression. It addresses the growing need for skilled managers who can oversee complex projects while adhering to strict safety and environmental standards. By the end of the course, students will have developed critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership abilities, making them valuable assets to any construction team.

    Key Concepts

    Core ideas you must understand for this topic

    • →Construction Technology: Understanding modern methods of construction (MMC), including off-site fabrication, reinforced concrete, steel frames, and timber structures, along with their applications and limitations.
    • →Project Management: Mastery of project life cycles, work breakdown structures (WBS), critical path analysis (CPA), and resource allocation using tools like Gantt charts and Primavera P6.
    • →Health and Safety: In-depth knowledge of CDM Regulations 2015, risk assessment methodologies (e.g., HSE's five steps), and the importance of a positive safety culture on site.
    • →Sustainable Construction: Principles of BREEAM and LEED certification, embodied carbon reduction, waste management (Site Waste Management Plans), and the use of recycled materials.
    • →Contract Administration: Understanding JCT and NEC contracts, variations, interim valuations, and dispute resolution mechanisms such as adjudication.

    Learning Objectives

    What you need to know and understand

    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.

    Assessment Criteria

    Key criteria assessors look for in your portfolio

    • Award credit for demonstrating accurate classification of common rock types (igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic) with clear links to their engineering properties and typical uses in civil engineering projects.
    • Award credit for correctly applying soil classification systems (e.g., BS 5930, Eurocode 7) to describe soil types, including particle size distribution, plasticity, and consistency, with reference to grading curves and Atterberg limits.
    • Award credit for formulating coherent proposals for ground improvement or foundation solutions (e.g., soil stabilisation, piling, drainage) that directly address identified geotechnical issues, supported by justified reasoning.
    • Classify rocks into igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic.
    • Describe soil classification using the Unified Soil Classification System.
    • Interpret results from soil tests (e.g., Atterberg limits).
    • Propose solutions for common geotechnical issues (e.g., slope stability).
    • Award credit for accurately describing rock formation processes and identifying appropriate engineering uses for common rock types (e.g., granite, limestone, sandstone) in construction contexts.
    • Assess the correct application of soil description and classification in accordance with BS 5930:2015 or Eurocode 7, including particle size distribution and plasticity characteristics.
    • Credit should be given for thorough analysis of geotechnical test data (e.g., triaxial, SPT, CPT) to derive parameters like cohesion and angle of friction, with clear interpretation of implications for design.
    • Evaluate proposals for addressing geotechnical problems based on justified selection of ground improvement techniques (e.g., compaction, drainage, grouting) and foundation solutions, linked to soil properties.
    • Award credit for correctly describing the formation processes (igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic) of rock types found on a given site, linking each to its typical engineering uses (e.g., granite for aggregates, limestone for cement manufacture).
    • Expect systematic soil description to BS 5930:2015+A1:2020, including particle size distribution, plasticity (Atterberg limits), and in-situ density, with clear reference to the Unified or British Soil Classification systems.
    • Credit demonstration of analysing triaxial, shear vane or SPT results to derive drained and undrained shear strength parameters, and calculating total and effective stress states in layered ground.
    • Require proposals to address identified weaknesses (e.g., deep foundations for soft clay, ground improvement by vibro-compaction) that are justified by quantitative settlement and bearing capacity estimates following Eurocode 7 principles.
    • Award credit for accurately identifying and describing the formation processes of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks, and providing relevant civil engineering or building uses for each.
    • Award credit for correctly classifying a given soil sample according to BS 5930:2015 (or current equivalent), including field and laboratory description of consistency, particle size distribution, and plasticity characteristics.
    • Award credit for demonstrating analysis of at least three key soil properties (e.g., shear strength, permeability, compressibility) using results from standard tests such as triaxial, oedometer, or in-situ SPT data.
    • Award credit for producing a feasible geotechnical proposal that addresses an identified problem (e.g., selecting an appropriate foundation type or ground improvement technique) and justifying the solution with reference to soil properties and site conditions.
    • Award credit for accurate identification of igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rock types and their respective formation processes, with clear links to civil engineering applications (e.g., basalt for aggregates, limestone for cement manufacture).
    • Give credit for precise soil description and classification using BS 5930/ISO 14688 series, including proper use of field tests (e.g., hand penetrometer, visual inspection) and laboratory-based particle size distribution and plasticity indices.
    • Award credit for thorough analysis of soil properties such as shear strength, permeability, and compressibility, referencing standard geotechnical procedures (triaxial tests, oedometer tests, etc.) and interpreting results in the context of design parameters.
    • Credit proposals that logically assess identified geotechnical weaknesses (e.g., settlement, slope instability) and justify remediation strategies (e.g., ground improvement, drainage, foundation redesign) using engineering principles and cost-benefit considerations.
    • Award credit for accurately identifying and describing the three main rock types (igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic) with relevant examples of their engineering uses in construction.
    • Expect clear application of current British or European standards (e.g., BS 5930, Eurocode 7) when classifying soils, including particle size distribution and plasticity characteristics.
    • Assess the ability to interpret laboratory and in-situ test results (e.g., triaxial, SPT) to derive key soil parameters such as shear strength, compressibility, and permeability.
    • Credit should be given for developing coherent proposals that address specific geotechnical problems, supported by site data and referencing appropriate ground improvement or foundation techniques.
    • Award credit for accurately identifying rock types (igneous, sedimentary, metamorphic) and linking their properties to civil engineering uses (e.g., granite for aggregates, limestone for cement).
    • Expect precise application of BS 5930 or Eurocode 7 terminology when describing soil particle size distribution, plasticity, and consistency.
    • Require correct interpretation of triaxial test results to derive shear strength parameters (c', φ') and their significance in design.
    • Look for well-reasoned proposals addressing specific geotechnical issues, such as recommending ground improvement techniques or foundation design changes based on soil analysis.
    • Award credit for accurate differentiation between igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rock types, including their formation processes and typical civil engineering applications (e.g., granite as aggregate, limestone for cement).
    • Look for precise soil classification using the British Soil Classification System (BSCS) as per BS 5930:2015, including identifying particle size distribution, plasticity, and organic content.
    • Evidence must demonstrate analysis of key soil properties from geotechnical reports, such as interpreting shear strength parameters from triaxial tests or consolidation settlement from oedometer tests.
    • Proposals for geotechnical problems should be justified with reference to site investigation data, clearly addressing specific issues like slope instability, excessive settlement, or contaminated land.
    • Award credit for correctly identifying igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks and explaining their formation processes and typical civil engineering applications (e.g., granite for aggregates, limestone for cement).
    • Expect accurate soil classification in accordance with BS 5930:2015, including particle size distribution, plasticity, and consistency, using appropriate terminology (e.g., well-graded sand, high-plasticity clay).
    • Assess demonstration of analysing soil properties such as shear strength, compressibility, and permeability from laboratory and field test results, linking them to geotechnical design considerations.
    • Credit proposals that clearly address identified issues like slope instability, settlement, or groundwater control with technically justified methods (e.g., retaining structures, ground improvement, drainage).

    Assessment Guidance

    Guidance for achieving higher grades

    • 💡When discussing rock types, always relate their formation (e.g., cooling rate for igneous rocks) to the resulting texture and mineralogy, and then to their suitability for construction.
    • 💡In exams, clearly reference the relevant codes of practice (e.g., BS 5930, Eurocode 7) when describing soil classification and testing procedures to demonstrate applied knowledge.
    • 💡For proposals, structure your answer by first summarising the geotechnical data and identified problem, then outline feasible solutions with a brief justification focused on cost, time, and effectiveness in relation to the site conditions.
    • 💡Use standard codes (e.g., BS 5930) for classification.
    • 💡Understand the significance of soil compaction.
    • 💡Relate theory to real construction scenarios.
    • 💡Always reference the specific code of practice (e.g., BS 5930) when describing or classifying soils to demonstrate professional context.
    • 💡When analysing soil properties, show clear calculations and cross-reference with typical values to check for reasonableness, and explain how parameters influence design decisions.
    • 💡In proposal tasks, structure your answer using a logical sequence: identify the weakness, evaluate options, and justify the chosen solution with technical reasoning, linking back to test data.
    • 💡Always state the current standard used for soil classification (BS 5930:2015+A1:2020) and geotechnical design (Eurocode 7), and cross‑reference specific clauses where relevant.
    • 💡Structure your response to soil property analysis using a systematic approach: state the test method, present the derived parameters with units, then interpret them for the design scenario.
    • 💡In proposal questions, start with a concise summary of the geotechnical problem, then present two or three feasible solutions, comparing cost, programme and environmental impact to justify your chosen recommendation.
    • 💡Include a simple annotated sketch (cross‑section or phase diagram) to clarify ground conditions, effective stress distribution or the proposed engineering solution.
    • 💡Always reference the current British Standard for soil description (BS 5930) when classifying soils, and use the precise terminology for consistency, structure, and colour.
    • 💡In assignment work, explicitly state the assumptions and limitations of any geotechnical analysis or proposed solution to demonstrate critical awareness.
    • 💡For problem-solving tasks, structure your proposal logically: identify the geotechnical weakness, review relevant soil parameters, evaluate possible solutions, and justify your final recommendation with technical reasoning.
    • 💡In assignment write-ups, always cross-reference the site investigation data with the chosen classification system to demonstrate a systematic approach.
    • 💡When analyzing soil properties, explicitly state the implications for design (e.g., 'This low shear strength will require shallow foundations with large bearing area to avoid failure').
    • 💡For proposals, structure answers by stating the problem, evaluating options, and justifying the chosen solution with reference to relevant codes and sustainability principles.
    • 💡Use industry-standard terminology consistently; marks are awarded for professional language such as 'cu, φ', 'consolidation settlement', and 'ground improvement techniques'.
    • 💡Always structure your assignment reports with clear sections: introduction, methodology, results, analysis, and recommendations, mirroring professional geotechnical reports.
    • 💡Reference the relevant codes of practice explicitly in your work to demonstrate professional competence and ensure your classifications and designs are defensible.
    • 💡Use graphs, charts, and borehole logs effectively to illustrate your findings and support your proposals, as visual presentation can significantly enhance clarity.
    • 💡When analyzing geotechnical data, always state assumptions and reference relevant codes of practice.
    • 💡In proposal questions, structure answers using the 'identify, analyze, propose' logic to demonstrate systematic problem-solving.
    • 💡Use annotated sketches to illustrate ground profiles and failure mechanisms—this gains marks for clarity.
    • 💡For classification questions, remember the mnemonic 'Gravel, Sand, Silt, Clay' and be precise with definitions of fine/coarse soils per BS 5930.
    • 💡Always reference the current code of practice (e.g., BS 5930, Eurocode 7) when describing soil classification or geotechnical design scenarios.
    • 💡Structure your response to the learning outcomes: first classify the material, then analyse relevant properties, and finally propose a targeted solution with clear justification.
    • 💡Use real-world site investigation excerpts to support analysis; this demonstrates application of theory to practical building services contexts.
    • 💡For higher marks, critically evaluate the limitations of geotechnical procedures used, such as sample disturbance in cohesionless soils.
    • 💡When discussing rock types, always relate their geological properties (strength, durability) to specific construction uses, using case study examples.
    • 💡For soil classification, systematically work through the grading and plasticity characteristics; refer directly to the BS 5930 framework step-by-step to avoid errors.
    • 💡In analysing soil properties, present calculations clearly, and interpret results in context—e.g., a low shear strength implies potential bearing capacity failure.
    • 💡For proposals, prioritise a logical sequence: identify the problem, evaluate options, and justify the chosen solution with reference to codes and sustainability.
    • 💡Always use specific examples from real construction projects or case studies to illustrate your answers. For instance, when discussing risk assessment, reference a real scenario like working at height on a steel frame and explain the control measures implemented.
    • 💡Pay close attention to command words in questions. 'Analyse' requires you to break down a topic into components and discuss relationships, while 'Evaluate' demands a balanced judgement with pros and cons. Use frameworks like SWOT or PESTLE where appropriate.
    • 💡For calculations (e.g., quantities, cost estimates), show all working steps clearly and include units. Many marks are awarded for method, even if the final answer is slightly off. Double-check your arithmetic and ensure you use the correct formulas from the specification.

    Common Mistakes

    Common errors to avoid in your coursework

    • Confusing the engineering behaviour of similar-looking rock types (e.g., granite vs. basalt) without considering their mineral composition and formation process.
    • Misapplying soil classification by neglecting the fines content or plasticity characteristics when using recognised classification systems.
    • Proposing generic foundation solutions (e.g., mass concrete pad) without addressing specific problems like differential settlement or groundwater effects.
    • Confusing rock types and their formation.
    • Misapplying soil classification codes.
    • Ignoring groundwater effects on soil properties.
    • Confusing soil classification systems (e.g., using Unified system when BS system is required) or misidentifying fine-grained soils based solely on visual inspection without plasticity index.
    • Misinterpreting the results of standard penetration tests (SPT) without correcting for overburden pressure or ignoring the influence of groundwater on effective stress calculations.
    • Providing generic proposals for ground improvement without tailoring them to specific soil conditions, such as recommending vibro-compaction for cohesive soils where it is ineffective.
    • Failing to distinguish between rock weathering grades and soil horizons, leading to inappropriate assignment of engineering parameters.
    • Classifying a soil based solely on visual appearance without laboratory particle size data, resulting in misidentification (e.g., confusing silt with clay).
    • Neglecting the influence of groundwater conditions when calculating effective stresses, causing unsafe foundation or slope design.
    • Proposing generic ‘pile foundations’ without comparing driven versus bored options or considering installation effects on adjacent structures.
    • Confusing the formation processes and key characteristics of rock types, for example misidentifying marble as sedimentary instead of metamorphic, or granite as sedimentary.
    • Incorrectly applying soil classification systems, such as using the Unified system when UK codes (BS 5930) require descriptive terminology, or misinterpreting the plasticity chart.
    • Misinterpreting geotechnical test data, for instance equating undrained shear strength with drained parameters, or failing to account for sample disturbance in laboratory results.
    • Proposing generic ground improvement solutions without linking them to specific soil weaknesses, like suggesting vibro compaction for cohesive soils.
    • Confusing rock and soil engineering behavior, such as treating badly weathered rock as intact rock rather than a soil-like material.
    • Misclassifying fine-grained soils by relying solely on particle size distribution without considering plasticity characteristics, leading to incorrect group symbols in BS 5930.
    • Overlooking the importance of in-situ conditions (e.g., saturation, stress history) when interpreting laboratory soil test results, leading to unrepresentative design parameters.
    • Proposing generic geotechnical solutions without a detailed root-cause analysis of the specific weakness, such as recommending dewatering for excess settlement without checking consolidation characteristics.
    • Confusing soil classification terms, such as mistaking silt for clay, or misapplying the plasticity chart, leading to incorrect soil descriptions.
    • Failing to consider the influence of groundwater and drainage conditions on soil behaviour, which can result in unrealistic stability or settlement analyses.
    • Proposing generic foundation solutions without tailoring them to the specific ground conditions, often overlooking cost and constructability factors.
    • Confusing soil description (based on visual/manual methods) with soil classification (based on laboratory test results).
    • Applying incorrect soil parameters in bearing capacity calculations, leading to unsafe designs.
    • Failing to consider the effect of groundwater on effective stress and slope stability.
    • Misidentifying rock types, leading to inappropriate use in construction (e.g., using shale as aggregate without testing durability).
    • Confusing the engineering behaviour of residual soils with transported soils, leading to incorrect assumptions about in-situ properties.
    • Misapplying Atterberg limits; for instance, assuming a high liquid limit always indicates high compressibility without considering the plasticity index.
    • Overlooking the importance of groundwater conditions when interpreting bearing capacity or designing drainage for building services.
    • Providing generic solutions (e.g., 'improve drainage') without linking them to quantified soil properties like permeability or void ratio.
    • Confusing soil classification terms, such as mislabeling a silty clay as a clayey silt, or incorrect use of the plasticity chart.
    • Overlooking the importance of groundwater conditions and their impact on effective stress and soil behaviour.
    • Providing generic solutions without linking to specific geotechnical data or site constraints.
    • Misconception: 'Health and safety is just paperwork and slows down the project.' Correction: Effective H&S management actually improves efficiency by reducing accidents, delays, and legal costs. It is integral to project planning, not an add-on.
    • Misconception: 'Sustainable construction is too expensive and not practical.' Correction: While initial costs may be higher, lifecycle cost analysis often shows long-term savings through energy efficiency, reduced waste, and enhanced building performance. Many sustainable techniques, like passive solar design, are cost-neutral.
    • Misconception: 'Project management is just about following a plan.' Correction: Successful project management requires adaptability, communication, and leadership. Plans must be dynamic, with regular monitoring and corrective actions to handle unforeseen issues like weather or supply chain disruptions.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Common questions students ask about this topic

    Before You Start

    Prior knowledge that will help with this topic

    • •Basic understanding of construction materials and methods (e.g., from a Level 3 BTEC or A-Level Design & Technology).
    • •Familiarity with mathematical concepts such as algebra, geometry, and basic statistics for quantity surveying and cost analysis.
    • •An awareness of health and safety principles, ideally through prior study or work experience in a construction environment.

    Key Terminology

    Essential terms to know

    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.
    • 1. Discuss rock types, their formation and uses within civil engineering and building projects.2. Explain the description and classification of soils using current codes of practice.3. Analyse soil properties determined by geotechnical procedures.4. Produce proposals to address identified geotechnical weaknesses and problems.

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