A. Lead in: People ask “is civil engineering for me?

” The following quiz will help to

find out if civil engineering career fits you.
1. Do you get good grades in math and science?
2. Do you enjoy knowing how things work?
3. Do you ever think of new or better ways to do things?
4. If you get a gift that says “Assembly Required”, do you put it together yourself?
5. Do you like to work with computers and play video games?
6. Do you like to play maze and jigsaw puzzle?
7. Do you usually make sound decisions, and do people trust your judgment?
8. Can you express yourself easily and clearly?
9. Do you work well with others?
10. Do you like to know why?

B. Read what subjects The Institution of Civil Engineers recommends to British

students and compare with your ideas. What subjects should I choose?

1. Maths
If you want to become an engineer, you'll have to study maths. Engineers use maths
to understand the theory of engineering and to analyse materials and structures. For
most engineering courses at university you need to have a maths A-level. You could
also take further maths, if it's available as an option, but further maths is helpful, not
essential. (There will also be some maths in the first year of your university course.)

2. Physics
The second most important subject to study at this stage is probably physics. The laws
of physics dictate how and why things behave the way they do. Studying physics will
help you understand concepts such as energy, forces and motion, which are key to
solving the problems that engineers face on a daily basis. There are lots of other useful
subjects.

3. Geography and geology

These subjects will build your understanding of the physical world, like the behaviour
of rivers, tides and currents in the sea, and the strengths of different rocks and soils.

4. ICT
If you want to develop skills in using computer software, you must study ICT. You'll
be able to apply those skills to the programs you'll use as a civil engineer.

5. Languages
Learning a modern foreign language will be useful if you want to work
abroad. Generally, it’s best to choose what you enjoy and are good at. You might also
want to look at some university websites to see if they have any specific requirements
or preferences.