Module: Graphics 4 - Applied Geometry

Latest Module Specifications

Current Academic Year 2025 - 2026

Module Title	Graphics 4 - Applied Geometry
Module Code	EDS1011 (ITS: GP08004)
Faculty	STEM Ed, Innov, Global Studies	School	DCU Institute of Education
NFQ level	8	Credit Rating	5

Description

Building on the Advanced Geometry module, in this module students will engage with applied geometry reflective of and beyond the leaving certificate curriculum. Through practical lab sessions, students will engage in advanced level geometric problems, and engage with conceptual design briefs where the emphasis is on the application of geometric concepts and principles in both the design and communication of ideas. Through this module students will gain a significant understanding of the importance of conceptual understanding and the transferability of principles in geometric problem solving, and of the applicability of geometric principles to design activities.

Learning Outcomes

1. Identify how core geometry principles transfer to applied areas of study in graphics
2. Consider and determine appropriate pedagogical strategies for the teaching of Senior Cycle graphics
3. Illustrate the movement of dynamic mechanisms including linkages, cams and gears
4. Plot the loci of cycloids and trochoids
5. Illustrate the derivation of involute and epicycloidal gear teeth
6. Differentiate between singly and doubly ruled surfaces
7. Generate doubly ruled surfaces using plane directors and present this orthogonally
8. Illustrate geologic sections (cuttings, embankments, and outcrops)
9. Determine the dip, strike and thickness or strata based on core concepts associated with skew lines
10. Generate detailed assembly drawing in accordance with appropriate standards and conventions
11. Determine the surface developments of surface geometries with consideration for manufacture
12. Transfer learning of plane geometry to roof geometry problems
13. Appreciate the role of parametric CAD as a pedagogical tool and a problem solving tool within graphics
14. Design pedagogical resources associated with core and applied geometric principles
15. Create a thematic design brief which aligns with the philosophy of design within Senior Cycle graphics, and generate an appropriate CAD solution and design brief in alignment with third level standards

*Type*	*Hours*	*Description*
Workload	Full time hours per semester
Laboratory	48	Practical in Drawing Studio
Independent Study	77	Independent learning
Total Workload: 125

Section Breakdown
CRN	20008	Part of Term	Semester 2
Coursework	0%	Examination Weight	0%
Grade Scale	40PASS	Pass Both Elements	Y
Resit Category	RC1	Best Mark	N
Module Co-ordinator	Paul Grimes	Module Teacher

Type	Description	% of total	Assessment Date
Assessment Breakdown
Assignment	Portfolio of solutions to authentic problems using applied geometry	30%	n/a
Formal Examination	Applied Geometry Exam	70%	End-of-Semester

Reassessment Requirement Type
Resit arrangements are explained by the following categories; RC1: A resit is available for both^* components of the module. RC2: No resit is available for a 100% coursework module. RC3: No resit is available for the coursework component where there is a coursework and summative examination element. ^* ‘Both’ is used in the context of the module having a coursework/summative examination split; where the module is 100% coursework, there will also be a resit of the assessment

Pre-requisite	None
Co-requisite	None
Compatibles	None
Incompatibles	None

All module information is indicative and subject to change. For further information,students are advised to refer to the University's Marks and Standards and Programme Specific Regulations at: http://www.dcu.ie/registry/examinations/index.shtml

Indicative Content and Learning Activities

Pedagogical implications:
Planning for teaching and learning in graphics, problem types (well-defined, ill- defined, open-ended, closed, ended), competency assessment of graphical understanding, knowledge transfer (vertical and lateral transfer).

Dynamic mechanisms:
Loci, linkages, cam profiles and displacement diagrams, cycloids and trochoids, involute and epicycloidal gear profiles.

Structural forms:
Singly and doubly ruled surfaces, hyperbolic paraboloid, plane directions, hyperboloid of revolution

Geologic geometry:
Contours, skew boreholes, dip, strike, thickness, outcrops, cutting and embankment of sections

Assemblies:
Exploded and assembly drawings, drawing layout and conventions, sectional views, advanced geometric dimensioning and tolerancing, dimensioning symbols

Surface geometry:
Roof geometry, dihedral angles, ductwork and transition piece developments

Design:
Applied design, thematic design briefs, teaching, learning and assessment of design, CAD as a pedagogical tool, design and parametric modelling.

Indicative Reading List

Books:

Bertoline, G., Wiebe, E., Hartman, N. and Ross, W. (2008): 0, Technical Graphics Communication. London: McGraw-Hill Education.,
Lombard, M. (2019).: 0, Mastering SolidWorks. Indianapolis, IN: Wiley & Sons.,
Ormrod, J. (2014).: 0, Human learning (7th Ed). New Jersey: Pearson.,

Articles:

Kimbell, R. (2012).: 0, Evolving project e-scape for national assessment. International Journal of Technology and Design Education, 22(2), 135–155., 47515
0: The method of adaptive comparative judgement. Assessment in Education: Principles, Policy & Practice, 19(3), 281–300., 43961, 1
The validity and value of peer assessment using adaptive comparative judgement in design driven practical education. International Journal of Technology and Design Education, 22(2), 205–226.:

Other Resources

None