Practice A3.2 Introduction to structural systems (HL only) with authentic IB Design Technology (First Exam 2027) exam questions for both SL and HL students. This question bank mirrors Paper 1, 2, 3 structure, covering key topics like materials and processes, product design, and sustainability. Get instant solutions, detailed explanations, and build exam confidence with questions in the style of IB examiners.
Paper
Level
Question 1
HLPaper 1
What is keeping this structure in equilibrium?
Question 2
HLPaper 1
Why are structures often made up of multiple interconnected components?
Question 3
HLPaper 1
Why might materials with different stiffness be used in this product?
Question 4
HLPaper 1
A designer labels a structure as “frame” rather than “solid.” What type of classification is this?
Question 5
HLPaper 2
1.[6]
Explain how safety factors are applied in structural design and why values above 1 are common.
Question 6
HLPaper 2
A design consultancy is developing three types of public-use structures. These include a cantilevered balcony system, a modular pedestrian bridge, and a public art canopy. Each design prioritizes different structural principles for stability, safety, and aesthetics.
1.[1]
Figure 1 shows a cantilevered steel balcony protruding from a modern building façade.
i.) Identify one structural force acting on the cantilevered balcony.
2.[1]
ii.) Explain one way in which cantilevers resist the force identified in part (a).
3.[2]
Figure 2 shows a temporary modular pedestrian bridge made from prefabricated trusses.
i.) Explain one advantage of using a truss structure for the modular bridge.
4.[3]
ii.) Describe how the shape of a truss provides rigidity.
5.[2]
Figure 3 shows a large public canopy made from a grid shell structure supported by tension cables.
i.) Outline two reasons why tension members are suitable for the canopy.
6.[6]
ii.) Compare the structural behavior of the grid shell canopy with a rigid frame structure in public architecture.
Question 7
HLPaper 1
Which factor most influences the choice of Young’s Modulus when selecting a material for a structure?
Question 8
HLPaper 1
Which real‑world example illustrates the ubiquity of structures in both nature and human environments
Question 9
HLPaper 1
A structure experiencing constant gravitational force is subject to what kind of load?
Question 10
HLPaper 2
FIA Formula 1 regulations require a carbon-fibre monocoque survival cell designed to protect the driver during high-energy crashes. Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One Team develops chassis that must be extremely stiff for handling, as light as possible for performance, and compliant with strict crash tests and structural rules.
1.[2]
Outline why torsional rigidity is important for load-bearing structural frames.
2.[4]
Explain how space frame and monocoque construction methods produce different performance characteristics in racing chassis.
3.[6]
Analyse how crash safety requirements influence the structural design of racing vehicle chassis.
4.[8]
Evaluate the design optimisation process used to balance weight, strength, stiffness, and safety in racing chassis design.