Materials: Concrete, Timber, Metals & Synthetics is one of 9 topics in the Grade 11 Civil Technology CAPS syllabus, covered across 3 lessons on Study Vault. Below are real practice questions from this topic with full worked answers.
Sample practice questions
Easy
1. Which material is used specifically to bond masonry units such as bricks or blocks together?
Mortar
Screed
Concrete
Shutter board
Answer: Mortar — Mortar, made from cement, sand, water and sometimes lime, is used specifically to bond masonry units such as bricks and blocks together.
Easy
2. What is the main purpose of screed applied over a concrete floor slab?
To create a smooth, level surface ready for a final floor finish
To reinforce the slab against cracking
To waterproof the underside of the slab
To replace the need for a concrete slab entirely
Answer: To create a smooth, level surface ready for a final floor finish — Screed is a thin, finely graded top layer applied over a concrete slab to create a smooth, level surface ready for a final finish such as tiles or carpet.
Medium
3. Name the chemical reaction between cement and water that causes a concrete or mortar mix to harden.
Answer: hydration — Hydration is the chemical reaction between cement and water that causes concrete or mortar to harden and gain strength over time.
