Aims

i. To develop the students’ ability to carry out standard tests in the soils
laboratory and to appreciate the purpose of the tests being undertaken.

ii. To develop the students’ ability to appreciate the reliability and accuracy of
data obtained during tests on soils.

iii. To develop the students understanding of soil test characteristics.

Objectives

i. To review the use of standard laboratory test procedures.

ii. To process results.
iii. To interpret results.

Tasks

For the Quick Undrained Triaxial, Shear Box and Oedometer test sheets
placed on Moodle:

1. READ the laboratory test instruction sheets provided on moodle.

For each test, describe the main purpose of each test, and evaluate what the
main soil parameters to be determined for each test will be and describe the
limitations for each test as well as stating specific advantages.

Calculate the data for each test and provide a conclusion / define the soil
parameters obtained for each.

30 marks for each test type = 90 Marks

2. Describe in-site tests and why they might be used in the field instead of laboratory
tests.
10 Marks

Assessment Weighting

Task Max Mark

Mark awarded
1 i) Triaxial 30
1 ii) Shear Box 30
1 iii) Oedometer 30
2 In situ testing 10
Total 100

Assessment criteria include report presentation, clearly set out calculations,

neat plots and individual effort.

1 of 2
Limit your total number of words to 1,500.

2 of 2