Structures: Frame Structures & Structural Members is one of 9 topics in the Grade 8 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. What is a frame structure?
A structure built from a skeleton of thin members joined together, rather than solid walls
A structure made entirely from one solid block of material
A structure with no structural members at all
A structure that can only be built from wood
Answer: A structure built from a skeleton of thin members joined together, rather than solid walls — A frame structure is built from a skeleton of thin members (bars) joined together, rather than solid walls -- an electrical pylon is a real example.
Easy
2. What shape is naturally the most rigid (stiff) and cannot change its form without one side changing length?
A triangle
A square
A circle
A rectangle
Answer: A triangle — A triangle is the only simple shape that cannot change its form without one of its sides changing length, making it naturally rigid.
Medium
3. Give ONE term for the zig-zag or X pattern of steel bars seen inside an electrical pylon.
Answer: cross-bracing — Internal cross-bracing is the zig-zag or X pattern of steel bars seen inside a pylon, giving it stiffness.
