Code
STEN2004
Credits
25
Graduate Attributes
Introduction
Understanding how materials respond to different types of loads is essential for the safe and efficient design of structures in civil and construction engineering. This unit develops foundational analytical skills in structural mechanics, focusing on the calculation of stresses and strains under axial, bending, shear, and torsional actions. Building on prior knowledge (from Engineering Mechanics, Design & Communication and Mathematics units) students will apply principles of statics, material behaviour, and calculus to evaluate how geometry and material properties influence the performance of structural elements. Key topics include stress-strain relationships, shear and torsion, combined actions, compatibility, and the analysis of biaxial stress systems using methods such as Mohr’s circle. The unit introduces more advanced structural behaviours—such as plastic bending, composite beams, and unsymmetrical sections—preparing students for future studies in structural design and analysis. Through laboratory work and problem-based tasks, students will refine their ability to interpret and predict structural responses—an essential competency in the design of safe, resilient infrastructure.
Lecture
1 x 2 Hours Weekly
Science Laboratory
3 x 1 Hours Semester
Tutorial
1 x 2 Hours Weekly
Unit Learning Outcomes
- 1 identify appropriate analysis techniques to determine stresses and strains in structural elements, GC1, GC3, GC6
- 2 evaluate the internal stress and strain response to applied axial, flexural, shear and torsion actions, GC1, GC3, GC6
- 3 identlfy critical scenarios by applying transformation techniques for combinations of actions, GC1, GC3, GC6
- 4 engage in laboratory experimentation in groups to gather relevant data for analysis, GC1, GC3, GC5, GC6
- 5 verify theoretical principles by analysing laboratory data, GC1, GC3, GC6
Course Learning Outcomes
- 1 Demonstrate a conceptual understanding of fundamental science, mathematics, data analytics, information science, and computing underpinning the broad field of engineering
- 5 Select and use current and emerging technologies to develop and communicate effective and innovative engineering solutions to complex problems
Assessment Breakdown
Recent Unit Changes & Response to Student Feedback
Students are encouraged to provide feedback through student surveys (such as Insight and the annual Student Experience Survey) and interactions with teaching staff. Listed below are some recent changes to the unit as a result of student feedback. Online subscription to Hibbeler, Mechanics of Materials, 11th Edition, has been made available to all enrolled students to improve access to learning and practice materials. Marks are being awarded for attempts at practice problems to encourage utilisation of this valuable resource. The structure of the laboratory component of the unit has been modified to encourage active participation in the laboratory activities. The weighting of the final exam mark towards the final unit mark has been reduced to better reflect effort applied throughout the semester.