RIO HONDO COLLEGE - FIRE TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM

3600 Workman Mill Road, Whittier, CA 90601-1699 (562) 463-7722

Professor Dan Coffman, MSPA, dcoffman@riohondo.edu

Subject: FT 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection, Spring 2010 Semester (2\1 5\21, 2010), CRN #
30580
Dear Fire Technology On-line Student:
IMPORTANT!!! READ THESE INSTRUCTIONS 1st, THEN THE COURSE SYLLABUS CAREFULLY.
WELCOME ABOARD! This Letter and the Course Syllabus below, will provide information on the course,
assignments and other information pertinent to taking this Hybrid class. The Spring 2010 Semester runs
February 1 - May 21, 2010.
But first! If you have not done so already, please contact me at: Dcoffman@riohondo.edu with the following
information: The classes you are taking, your e-mail address (es), your student ID number, full name, home
address, daytime and home telephone numbers, and fire department you are affiliated with, if any.
I do not answer these e-mails. So if you need assistance, please send me a follow-up. Put in the subject line
FOLLOW-UP QUESTION so that I will know.
READ THIS BEFORE PROCEEDING
BE ADVISED! For students that are taking more than one of my classes, while the format and much of the
preliminary material in all of the syllabi for my classes are similar, and the Goals Paper\Education & Career
Plan and Application/Resume Assignment only need to be done once for all of my classes, everything else
from the books, quizzes, exams, and term projects, etc. are different. Look them over, you will see the
difference.
Second, if you have taken classes from me in the past, the Goals Paper\Education & Career Plan and
Application\Resume must be updated and submitted each semester.
Next, assignments received after the due dates will receive zero points on those assignments.
If you find yourself way behind or doing poorly in the class, you may want to drop to avoid getting an "F" in
the class. You MUST submit the drop. See "Dates to Remember" for important dates and "Update # 1" for
instructions on how to drop. Students that have not earned sufficient points to pass the class and have not
OFFICIALLY dropped, will receive an "F" in the course. The Professor does not give incompletes!
Last, if you get deployed on an extended incident, are in the military and are sent out of the country, or have
an unexpected major event that interferes with your ability to complete the class, let me know ASAP and I will
work with you.
HYBRID CLASSES: In a hybrid class, half of the instruction is in the classroom and half is online.
A web site has been established in Blackboard on the Rio Hondo College Virtual College web site at:
http://www.riohondo.edu/virtualcollege/index.htm Students must to have access to a computer with an
individual e-mail account and access to the World Wide Web. Additional information on how to access and
navigate this web site is below.
This class will meet on campus as shown in the Class Schedule below. In class sessions are mandatory. All
course materials, assignments and exams for this class are online. Students may access and navigate the
course on line by following the instructions that follow.

HOW THE CLASS IS CONDUCTED: The course requirements are laid out in the Course Syllabus below. The
Quizzes, Exams and Extra Credit Postings will be conducted on Blackboard and MUST be taken\posted by
the deadlines as laid out in the Class Schedule below. All else, including the Mandatory "In-Class Sessions",
will be conducted in person. The Term Assignments (Goals Paper, Application/Resumes, and Term Projects)
MUST be completed by the deadlines as laid out in the Class Schedule below.
To access this class on-line, go to the Rio Hondo College Virtual College at http://riohondo.blackboard.com/.
Click on "User Login", in "Username": type first two initials of your first name, the first two initials of your last
name, followed by the last 4 digits of your Student ID number (Sample: Maria Smith, 000771234; Username:
masm1234). In "Password" type your six-digit birthday with no separators (Sample: August 1, 1975;
Password: 080175). You can change your password once you are admitted into the course.
When you access Blackboard, under "My Courses" click on the course you are taking. Once admitted to the
course, you will be taken to your own control panel, you will find a menu on the left side of the page with
several options. Go to the Course Syllabus and then to Course Documents first and read COURSE
UPDATE # 1, then explore the remainder of the web site.
Announcements: Timely Information will be posted here for students. Students should check here at
least weekly for any changes or current information.
Course Syllabus: Contains the Course Syllabus with all Reading & Term Assignments, a Course
Schedule, & Other Information & Requirements for completing the class.
Course Documents: Contains the Course Updates, "Term Project Table" and Lecture Outlines, with
each corresponding Quiz and the Midterm and Final Exams.
Course Updates: I will respond to your communiqus at least weekly and will post "UPDATES" on
grades after each assignment due date.
Term Project Table - This is where you can download the Term Project Table in an MS Word format
for use in preparing the Term Project.
Lecture Outlines: Contains the "Lecture Outlines" on each topic covered in the reading assignment.
You should read the assignment in the text and review the lecture prior to taking each corresponding
Quiz.
Quizzes & Exams: This is where you will find the Quizzes, Midterm and Final Exams. You should only
take the quizzes after reading the textbook and corresponding lectures. You should only take the Midterm
and Final Exams after successfully taking the preceding quizzes.
Staff Information: Contains a Bio on Professor Dan Coffman
Discussion Board: Under the "Discussion Board" Icon on the left side of the home page for each class,
is the communication tool for the class. The "Discussion Board" is a great bulletin board forum is to post
and gain information and to expand your network. Just remember, this is a professional forum and you
should keep the tone as such. If you have questions, post them here. If you want to network, use this
opportunity often. If you have inquiries of a personal nature, contact me by e-mail at
Dcoffman@riohondo.edu Don't forget to identify yourself and the class you are in.
General Discussion - This is the site to hook up with other students in the class.
Term Project Partners - This is the site to hook up with other students who may want to partner on
the Term Project.
Extra Credit: This is the site where extra credit articles, and comments on them, are posted.

FT 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection, Spring 2010 Semester, CRN # 30580, Professor: Dan Coffman

External Links: Contains Fire Service and EMS Related Web Sites, as well as useful documents that will
enhance your learning experience.
My Grades: Is where you can determine the grades on your term assignments, quizzes and exams. Look
under the "Score" columns.
Two Technical Problems Possibly Needing Your Attention

Pop-up Blocker - Be Advised! If you click on a Quiz or Exam and it does not appear, shut the Pop-up
Blocker off and it should appear.

Fixing Problems with Internet Explorer 8 and Blackboard: The Java applet doesn't run correctly for
tests and the timer blocks the submit button. The following is a fix/work around if you are having this
problem. The work around is to set the compatibility view to display all.
1.
2.
3.
4.

Open Internet Explorer

Go to the Tools link on the toolbar
Click on compatibility view settings
Under Tools change to - Display all websites in compatibility view.

We have also found that Internet Explorer 8 is not fully compatible with Blackboard. If students are having
problems with Blackboard we are recommending that you use Firefox. Firefox can be downloaded for
free at: http://www.mozilla.com/en-US/firefox/ie.html?p=downloadday
The course requirements are laid out in the Class Schedule contained in the Course Syllabus below.
DATES TO REMEMBER
2\1
2\10
2\15
2\22
2\24
3\10
3\24
3\29-4\2
4\7
4\30
5\21

Classes Start (2\1 - 5\21)

Term Project Groups Selected
PRESIDENT'S DAY HOLIDAY
Education/Career Goals Paper Due Bring to class or have assignment placed in my mailbox in
the mailroom on campus. (Late assignments will not be counted)
Group Term Project Plan Due
Application\Resume Due Bring to class or have assignment placed in my mailbox in the mailroom
on campus. (Late assignments will not be counted)
MIDTERM EXAM (Must be taken by Midnight, March 24th)
SPRING BREAK (Campus will be CLOSED)
Term Projects Due Bring to class or have assignment placed in my mailbox in the mailroom on
campus. (Late assignments will not be counted)
LAST DAY TO DROP CLASS
FINAL EXAM (Must be taken by Midnight, May 21st)

Except for those periods when I may be away from the office for an extended period of time, I will respond to
your communiqus within a few days. I will not post an update on grades however, until after the assignment
due dates. See "Dates to Remember" for assignment due dates.
I look forward to assisting you in your fire service career goals. If you have any questions or need assistance,
please contact me at: Dcoffman@riohondo.edu or leave a message at: (562) 463-7722.
Thanks,
Dan Coffman, Professor

FT 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection, Spring 2010 Semester, CRN # 30580, Professor: Dan Coffman

FIRE TECHNOLOGY 105

BUILDING CONSTRUCTION FOR FIRE PROTECTION
Spring 2010 Semester - CRN # 30580
(2\1 5\21, 2010)
COURSE SYLLABUS
COURSE DESCRIPTION: FT 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection - This course is the study of
the components of building construction that relates to fire safety. The elements of construction and design of
structures are shown to be key factors when inspecting buildings, preplanning fire operations and operating
at fires. The development and evolution of building and fire codes will be studied in relationship to past fires
in residential, commercial and industrial occupancies. Lecture: 3 hours.
Students Learning Outcome and Assessment Plan
Department/Program: Fire Technology
Course Title/Number: FT 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection
Identified Student Learning Outcomes:
Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to:
Identify major types of building construction.
Identify the indicators of potential structural failure as they relate to firefighter safety.
Analyze the hazards and tactical considerations associated with the various types of building construction.
Explain the different loads and stresses that are placed on a building and their interrelationships.
Types of Assessment to be used:
SLO # 1: Identify major types of building construction.
Assessment Instrument(s): Written quizzes, matching tests, written lists for the purposes of identifying the
major types of building construction.
Assessment Example: Select a quiz or exam within the instructional period that focuses on terms and
concepts related to the major types of building construction.
Assessment Criteria: Success is achieved if 90% of students achieve the student learning outcome with a
score of 80% or higher during the assigned "assessment" activity. Learning outcome is not achieved if these
criteria are not met.
SLO # 2: Identify the indicators of potential structural failure as they relate to firefighter safety.
Assessment Instrument(s): Through a quantifiable examination process the student will demonstrate their
knowledge of stated SLO.
Assessment Example: Select a quiz or exam within the instructional period that focuses on terms and
concepts related to the indicators of potential structural failure as they relate to firefighter safety.
Assessment Criteria: Success is achieved if 90% of students achieve the student learning outcome with a
score of 80% or higher during the assigned "assessment" activity. Learning outcome is not achieved if these
criteria are not met.
SLO # 3: Analyze the hazards and tactical considerations associated with the various types of building
construction.
Assessment Instrument(s): Through a quantifiable examination process the student will demonstrate their
knowledge of stated SLO.
Assessment Example: Select a quiz or exam within the instructional period that focuses on terms and
concepts related to the hazards and tactical considerations associated with the various types of building
construction.
Assessment Criteria: Success is achieved if 90% of students achieve the student learning outcome with a
score of 80% or higher during the assigned "assessment" activity. Learning outcome is not achieved if these
criteria are not met.
FT 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection, Spring 2010 Semester, CRN # 30580, Professor: Dan Coffman

COURSE DATES, TIMES & LOCATIONS: This class is a hybrid class that runs from February 1 - May 21,
2010. Half of the instruction will be in the classroom and half online.
This class will meet on campus, Monday and Wednesday mornings 9:40 - 11:05 a.m. on the Rio Hondo
College campus in Room HS 8 as shown in the Class Schedule below. These classroom sessions are
mandatory!
All course materials, assignments and quizzes and exams for this class can be found on the Rio Hondo
College Virtual College web site at: http://www.riohondo.edu/virtualcollege/index.htm Information on how to
access and navigate this web site is above.
ATTENDANCE & TARDINESS: Classes start promptly at the scheduled hour. Students are expected to be on
time, stay for the entire class, and attend every classroom session of this class. If you arrive late, you will not
be admitted to the class and will be marked absent for that date. Students who leave early will not be given
credit as well.
A student may be dropped for absence from the first class session or for absence of greater than 10 hours (7
Sessions) per semester.
PROFESSOR: Chief Dan Coffman, MSPA; Rio Hondo College, Fire Technology Program.
CONTACTING THE PROFESSOR: You may send e-mail messages to: dcoffman@riohondo.edu and
telephone messages can be left at (562) 463-7722. Be advised, E-mail is preferred.
OFFICE HOURS: On-line or by arrangement with the professor.
REQUIRED TEXTS:

Building Construction Related to the Fire Service, 2nd Edition by IFSTA, ISBN # 0-87939-162-6, 1999
Fire Technology Reader Coffman 2009, 6th Edition (Good for all classes taught by Coffman)
Rio Hondo College Catalogue - http://www.rh.cc.ca.us/students/counseling/catalog/

RECOMMENDED TEXTS, ETC.: (Not Required)

California Fire Services Directory - California State Firefighter's Assn. or

CPF Fire Department Directory Free at: http://www.cpf.org/default/about_cpf/resources/index.cfm

ORDERING BOOKS: You may obtain your books at the Rio Hondo College Bookstore, 3600 Workman Mill
Road, Whittier, CA 90601-1616 or on the Rio Hondo College Web page http://www.riohondo.edu/index.htm.
Phone: (562) 699-8676, Fax: (562) 692-4007, Email: rhc@bkstr.com.
The Fire Technology Reader is used in all Fire Technology classes taught by Professor Coffman. Thus, if you
are taking more than one class with Professor Coffman, you will only need to purchase one Reader. Be
Advised! The Fire Technology Reader can ONLY be purchased at the College Bookstore.
2\1
2\10
2\15
2\22
2\24
3\10
3\24
3\29-4\2
4\7
4\30
5\21

DATES TO REMEMBER
Classes Start (2\1 - 5\21)
Term Project Groups Selected
PRESIDENT'S DAY HOLIDAY
Education/Career Goals Paper Due Bring to class or have assignment placed in my mailbox in the
mailroom on campus. (Late assignments will not be counted)
Group Term Project Plan Due
Application\Resume Due Bring to class or have assignment placed in my mailbox in the mailroom on
campus. (Late assignments will not be counted)
MIDTERM EXAM (Must be taken by Midnight, March 24th)
SPRING BREAK (Campus will be CLOSED)
Term Projects Due Bring to class or have assignment placed in my mailbox in the mailroom on campus.
(Late assignments will not be counted)
LAST DAY TO DROP CLASS
FINAL EXAM (Must be taken by Midnight, May 21st)

COURSE PLAN & TIMETABLE: Review this Course Syllabus and prepare a time plan and strategy for
gaining the information, completing all assignments on time and for success in this class. The assignments
boldfaced in the Dates to Remember are required deadlines, the quizzes and exams must only be
FT 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection, Spring 2010 Semester, CRN # 30580, Professor: Dan Coffman

completed by the last day of the class. This time management tool is for your own benefit and does not have
to be turned in.
ATTENDANCE\QUIZ POINTS: There are sixteen In-Class Sessions worth 3 points each for a total of 48
points and fourteen Quizzes worth 3 points each for a total of 42 points. Together, the Attendance and Quiz
points add up to 90 points, 10 points short of the 100 points allowed. The additional points will be added at
the conclusion of the class based on the percentage earned against 90 points, for example: if a student were
to miss one session and not complete two quizzes, they would earn 81\90 which is 90%, thus 9 points would
be added for a total 90 points. Now to how points are earned: Attendance is pretty straight forward, you
attend - you earn points. On the quizzes, they must be completed by midnight of the day prior to the in-class
session.
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
The Goals Paper, Education and Career Plan, as well as the Application\Resume Assignment are designed to
prepare you for a career in the Fire Service or, if already employed by a fire department, for your future.
These two assignments are due on the same date and must be sent by United States Mail to: Professor Dan
Coffman Rio Hondo College - Fire Technology Program, Post Office Box 1130 Huntington Beach, CA 926471130.
For the due date, refer to the "Dates to Remember". This assignment only requires one submittal if taking two
or more classes from Professor Coffman.
GOALS PAPER\EDUCATION & CAREER PLAN: Write a paper introducing yourself. Identify your overall goal
(s), the things you have done and personal assets that you currently have that will assist you in
accomplishing your goal (s). Lay out your education and career goals, and a timeline for accomplishing them.
This paper will be used by the professor to assist you in the class, and in providing direction for the student
education and career goals. This assignment MUST be patterned after the Sample Goals Paper, Career
and Education Plan on pages # 5-8 in the Fire Technology Reader.
You should refer to the Fire Technology Reader Pages 1-35, the college catalogue and consult a counselor to
develop an "Education Plan" that supports your quest for a fire service career, that leads to an Associate of
Science Degree in Fire Technology and that prepares you for transfer to a four year university.
APPLICATION\RESUME: You will need to apply for a fire service position by obtaining a recruitment flier and
information on a fire service position. Complete (type) the application provided by the employer, it must be a
comprehensive application (including jobs, education, etc.) and develop a 1-2 page resume. Your Resume
MUST be patterned exactly after the example Resume on page # 18 in the Fire Technology Reader.
Pre-service students should apply for an entry-level position, ie a firefighter position and in-service students
for a promotional position, ie a Captain, Battalion Chief position. If you need a lead on a job, several job
services are listed in the Reader. See: Fire Technology Reader Pages 1-35.
A good web site for fire service jobs, applications, etc. is FIREHIRE Inc. at: http://www.firehire.com
Grading: The Application and Resume are each worth 50% of the grade. If you do not include a job flier 10%
is deducted on the entire grade. Also, make sure the application and resume both reflect the same job,
education information, etc.. The value on the Resume and Application are as follows:
Resume
Presentation
Content
Grammar\Spelling
Follow Instructions
Recruitment Flyer Not Included - 10% on Total
No Return Envelope (SASE) -10% on Total
Application
Typed
Neatness\Spelling\Grammar
Signed
Content
Assignment Late See Above

Percent
15%
15%
10%
10%

15%
15%
10%
10%

ONLY ONE COPY REQUIRED The Goals Paper\Education & Career Plan; Application\ Resume
assignments only need to be done once if taking more than one class from me this semester.
However, if you have taken classes from me in the past, these assignments must be updated &
submitted each semester.

FT 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection, Spring 2010 Semester, CRN # 30580, Professor: Dan Coffman

DO NOT send mail requiring a signature, UPS or other parcel service. Your projects may be
returned!!!

DO NOT include anything larger than eight & one-half inches.

DO NOT INCLUDE CERTIFICATES: While you may include copies of certificates & other documents
when applying for a job, please do no include them with this assignment.

BIND THE DOCUMENTS by stapling or in a three hole folder. Goals Paper on top, then the
Education & Career Plan. In a separate document, bind the Resume, Application and Job Flier last.
Send as if it were for real, unfolded & mailed in a large envelope.

YOU MUST include with these assignments, a Self-Addressed-Stamped-Envelope, with the

appropriate postage, so that I can return the Goals Paper, Education and Career Plan, and the
Application\Resume Assignment with my personal comments.

LATE ASSIGNMENTS WILL NOT BE COUNTED. NO EXCEPTIONS!

TERM PROJECT: Students will be formed into groups to prepare a report on a fire where a firefighter or
firefighters were killed, injured or had a near miss due to a failure of the structure. Groups will be formed in
In-Class Session # 2, a report identifying group participants and plan to complete the group project must be
submitted In-Class Session # 4. Minutes must be kept of all meetings and a thank you letter (s) to the Fire
Service personnel who assisted in this project must be sent from the group. A copy of the original plan,
meeting minutes and letters must be included in the appendices of the term paper.
To complete this paper, students should first refer to the Safety related reading material in the Fire

Technology Reader pp. 76-117 and the Lecture: Post Incident Analysis of Emergency Incidents pp. 237242. Next, for a list of fires involving firefighter deaths, injuries and near misses, students should go to the

NIOSH Fire web site: http://www.cdc.gov/NIOSH/FIRE/, USFA Firefighter Fatalities web site:
http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/fireservice/fatalities/index.shtm, You are encouraged to do a search for additional
resources. Additional documents that may be useful include:

Trends in Firefighter Fatalities Due to Structural Collapse, 1979-2002

http://www.fire.nist.gov/bfrlpubs/fire03/PDF/f03024.pdf
Firefighter Fatality Retrospective Study April 2002/FA220
http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa-220.pdf
Preventing Injuries and Deaths of Fire Fighters due to Structural Collapse
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/99-146/
Preventing Injuries and Deaths of Fire Fighters Due to Truss System Failures
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/2005-132/
Preventing Deaths and Injuries of Fire Fighters Working Above Fire-Damaged Floors
http://www.cdc.gov/niosh/docs/wp-solutions/2009-114/default.html
Structural Collapse Under Fire Conditions
http://www.fireengineering.com/display_article/329559/25/none/none/Depar/Structural-CollapseUnder-Fire-Conditions
Firefighter Safety Considerations During Operations At Structures http://www.woodaware.info/
IAFC 10 Rules for Structural Firefighting http://www.iafc.org/associations/4685/files/rules.pdf

Provide details on the fire and its operations, a definition of the structure, its construction type, occupancy
class, use, etc., what structural element (s) were compromised causing the death, injury or near miss to
firefighters, the lessons learned and recommendations made. This report should be at least 10 pages,
written in an accepted term paper format. It should also include an Appendices with the report, photos,
tables, graphs, charts, drawings, etc. and a Bibliography of the sources used. Check spelling, punctuation,
grammar, and facts. No run on sentences or paragraphs, do not abbreviate, use a good printer. Start Early!
For the due date refer to the Course Schedule.
Project Grade: The Term Project will be graded in two categories, the Paper is worth 200 points and Peer
Review is worth 100 points for a total of 300 points for the entire project. The requirements for the paper are
fairly straight forward, the peer review process is explained as follows:
Students in each group will rate fellow team members on their participation and contribution to this project on
a scale from 0-100 points, 100 being full participation, 0 being no participation. Factors to be considered
FT 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection, Spring 2010 Semester, CRN # 30580, Professor: Dan Coffman

include attendance at group meetings, completion, and content of work assigned, timely completion of
assignments, participation in the written assignment, etc.. Each group member will be deducted 2 points for
each point down to 50 points and 4 points for each point below 50 points. For Example a member that
receives an average of 50 points from all team members will be deducted 100 points, if they average 40
points, the student will be deducted 140 points. Group members who did not participate at all will receive a 0
for the project. Participants graded by the group below 50 points by their peers will have an opportunity to
appeal to the professor.
GROUP PROJECTS ONLY REQUIRE ONE COMPLETE DOCUMENT SUBMITTED with all participants
names on it in alpha order.
BIND THE TERM PROJECT in a three hole binder.
DO NOT include anything larger than 81\2 " x 14"
LATE ASSIGNMENTS WILL NOT BE COUNTED. NO EXCEPTIONS!

QUIZZES & EXAMS: Fourteen Quizzes on each of the Sessions, a Midterm Exam on Sessions 1-7 and a
comprehensive Final Exam on the entire semester, Sessions 1-14, are available on Blackboard.
Quizzes at the end of each session will consist of Multiple Choice and True/False questions. Students will be
given 60 seconds to answer each quiz question. While these Quizzes are mandatory and will be part of your
grade, they are primarily designed to assist students in learning. Regardless of the number of questions in
the quiz, quizzes are worth 3 points each. Quizzes MUST be taken prior to the corresponding In-Class
Session. See ATTENDANCE\QUIZ POINTS above for grading and other details.
The quiz questions will then be placed in a pool for the Midterm and Final Exams. The Midterm Exam will
consist of 100 random multiple choice type questions from the pool covering Sessions # 17 and the Final
Exam will consist of 100 random multiple choice type questions from the pool covering the entire semester,
Sessions 1-14. Students will be given 60 seconds to answer each question on the Midterm and Final Exams,
and only provided with one opportunity to take each of these exams.
If you do not successfully take and submit the exam within the time allowed you will see one of two
characters in that exams grade box on the grade sheet. "Needs Grading" will show when you have
exceeded the time allowed to take the exam, and a "In-Progress" will show when you have been locked out
of the exam due to a mistake or a server error. In both cases, I will reset the exam and you will need to take it
over. I only allow three resets per semester and only one reset on exams.
The Midterm Exam must be taken by Midnight March 24th and the Final Exam must be taken by
Midnight May 21st.
EXTRA CREDIT: Read a major newspaper daily. A total of 50 extra credit points can be earned if ten articles
are submitted (5 points each). You must post an article that pertains to the fire service and comment on it's
importance, to the class "Discussion Board" in Blackboard each session (Fall/Spring weekly by Saturday,
every other day in the Spring Intersession, and in the Summer every 3 days). Note: If you are taking more
than one class with Professor Coffman, you must post your article and comment on each class web
site to get extra credit in that class.
When posting an article, include the newspaper, television, radio, magazine or website, and internet address,
date, title and author of the article and a paragraph on the articles importance. The article or comment cannot
be more than a week old and cannot be a duplicate of an article that has already been discussed. Extra credit
can only be earned if all assignments and exams listed below have been completed.
GRADING
ASSIGNMENT
% OF GRADE
POINTS
Attendance (16 class meetings worth 3 points each)
5%
50 points
Quizzes (14 Quizzes worth 3 points each)
5%
50 points
Education & Career Goals Paper
10%
100 points
FT 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection, Spring 2010 Semester, CRN # 30580, Professor: Dan Coffman

Applications & Resume

Midterm Exam (Sessions 1-7)
Term Project
Final Exam (Sessions 8-14)
. Extra Credit
GRADING SCALE
90 100%
A
80 89%
B
70 - 79 %
C
Below 70%
F

10%
100 points
20%
200 points
30%
300 points
20%
200 points
100%
1,000 points
5%
50 points
Post Extra Credit Articles on a regular basis, the additional points, more
often than not, improve the letter grade earned in the class! Post articles
that pertains to the fire service to the class "Discussion Board" in
Blackboard each session.

CHEATING: The Fire Service is respected for its honesty, and a fire service professional's integrity must be
above question. Anyone caught cheating or turning in someone else's work (as his/her own) will be dismissed
from the class with a failing grade. No exceptions! Please see the Academic Honesty Policy information
located in your Student Handbook.
COPY ALL ASSIGNMENTS: Make a copy of all assignments turned in. Assignments get lost on occasion and
will be considered late or incomplete unless the student can produce a copy within a week of the due date.
RETURNED MATERIALS: Students that want assignments returned, must provide the professor a SASE by
the last day of class. All course work will be destroyed immediately following the last day of class.
LIBRARY: Use the College Library. See the class schedule for days and times it is open during the
semester or On-line at: http://library.riohondo.edu/
COUNSELING: For degree, general education and other graduation requirements, go to: Rio Hondo College
Catalogue - http://www.riohondo.edu/students/counseling/catalog/index.htm Contact Counseling at:
http://www.riohondo.edu/students/counseling/index.htmfor academic planning. For quick questions, walk in. If
a counselor is available, they will assist you.
ASSESSMENT TEST: All new and returning students are required to take assessment tests in order to enroll
in the appropriate English, Reading, Math, and Basic Skills classes. Several English, Reading and Math
Assessment
All new students should also attend an "Orientation Session". Orientation dates will be announced at the
time of the assessment test.
See the Class Schedule and http://www.riohondo.edu/admissions/assessment/ for information, dates and to
make and appointment.

SPRING 2010 SEMESTER

CLASS SCHEDULE
Except where otherwise indicated, all reading assignments will be in
The Fire Technology Reader. This Course is Currently Under Revision
In-Class Session # 1a
FT 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection, Spring 2010 Semester, CRN # 30580, Professor: Dan Coffman

Date: 2\1
Lecture: Course Orientation & Introduction
Reading Assignment: Syllabus
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: None
In-Class Session # 1b

Date: 2\3
Lecture: Setting Goals & the Exam Process
Reading Assignment: Fire Technology Reader pp. 1-35
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: Quiz # 1, 20 Questions
In-Class Session # 2a

Date: 2\8
Lecture: Fire Service Past, Present & Future
Reading Assignment: Fire Technology Reader pp. 36-69
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: Quiz # 2a, 15 Questions

In-Class Session # 2b

Date: 2\10
Lecture: Firefighter Safety
Reading Assignment: Fire Technology Reader pp. 70-117
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: Quiz # 2b, 15 Questions

WORK ON-LINE: Read Assignments, Lectures & Take Corresponding Quizzes for Sessions 3-4
In-Class Session # 3

Date: 2\22
Lecture: Building Construction & the Fire Service.
Reading Assignment: Building Construction: Introduction & Chapter # 1
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: Quiz # 3, 20 Questions
In-Class Session # 4

Date: 2\24
Lecture: Building Construction Types & Occupancy Classes
Reading Assignment: Building Construction: Chapter # 3; Fire Technology Reader pp. 157-161
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: Quiz # 4a & 4b, 20 Questions each

WORK ON-LINE: Read Assignments, Lectures & Take Corresponding Quizzes for Sessions 5-6
In-Class Session # 5

Date: 3\8
Lecture: Design\Structural Principles
Reading Assignment: Building Construction: Chapters # 2 & 4
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: Quiz # 5a & 5b, 20 Questions each
In-Class Session # 6

Date: 3\10
Lecture: Building Materials
Reading Assignment: Building Construction: Chapter # 5
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: Quiz # 6, 20 Questions

FT 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection, Spring 2010 Semester, CRN # 30580, Professor: Dan Coffman

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WORK ON-LINE: Read Assignment, Lecture & Take Corresponding Quiz for Session 7. Review all assigned
materials from Sessions 1-7 prior to taking the Midterm Exam.
In-Class Session # 7

Date: 3\15
Lecture: Foundations, Structural Systems
Reading Assignment: Building Construction: Chapters # 6-7
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: Quiz # 7a 10 Questions & Quiz # 7b 20 Questions
MIDTERM EXAM (Sessions 1-7)
Midterm Exam must be taken by Midnight, March 24th
SPRING BREAK
3\29 - 4\2

WORK ON-LINE: Read Assignments, Lectures & Take Corresponding Quizzes for Sessions 8-9
In-Class Session # 8

Date: 4\5
Lecture: Floors & Ceilings, Walls
Reading Assignment: Building Construction: Chapters # 8-9
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: Quiz # 8a 10 Questions & Quiz # 8b 20 Questions
In-Class Session # 9

Date: 4\7
Lecture: Roofs, Doors & Windows
Reading Assignment: Building Construction: Chapters # 10-11
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: Quiz # 9a 20 Questions & Quiz # 9b 20 Questions

WORK ON-LINE: Read Assignments, Lectures & Take Corresponding Quizzes for Sessions 10-11
In-Class Session # 10

Date: 4\19
Lecture: Interior Finish & Contents
Reading Assignment: Building Construction: Chapter # 12
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: Quiz # 10, 20 Questions
In-Class Session # 11

Date: 4\21
Lecture: Building Services & Subsystems
Reading Assignment: Building Construction: Chapters # 13-14
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: Quiz # 11a & Quiz # 11b, 20 Questions each

WORK ON-LINE: Read Assignments, Lectures & Take Corresponding Quizzes for Sessions 12-13
In-Class Session # 12

Date: 5\3
Lecture: Building Fire Protection Systems
Reading Assignment: Building Construction: Chapter # 15; Fire Technology Reader pp 232-235
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: Quiz # 12a & Quiz # 12b, 20 Questions each

FT 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection, Spring 2010 Semester, CRN # 30580, Professor: Dan Coffman

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In-Class Session # 13

Date: 5\5
Lecture: Buildings Under Construction
Reading Assignment: Building Construction: Chapter # 16
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: Quiz # 13, 20 Questions

WORK ON-LINE: Read Assignment, Lecture & Take Corresponding Quiz for Session 14. Review all assigned
materials from Sessions 8-14 prior to taking the Final Exam.
In-Class Session # 14

Date: 5\17
Lecture: Pre-fire Planning & Post Incident Analysis
Reading Assignment: Fire Technology Reader pp. 138-141 & 237-242
Post Reading Quiz/Exam: Quiz # 14, 10 Questions
FINAL EXAM (Sessions 8-14)
Final Exam must be taken by Midnight, May 21st
THANKS ENJOYED HAVING YOU IN THE CLASS!

FT 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection, Spring 2010 Semester, CRN # 30580, Professor: Dan Coffman

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ABOUT THE PROFESSOR:

DAN COFFMAN
Chief Dan Coffman has worked in government for nearly four decades. He was drafted into
the United States Army in 1971 during the Viet Nam Conflict, where he served in the infantry
and medical corps for two years. Upon separation from the military, he worked a short stint
as a courier for the federal government before entering the Fire Service.
He started his Fire Service career as a Firefighter at Miramar Naval Air Station (Fightertown USA) in San
Diego on April 14, 1974. Spent 15 years as a Firefighter\Paramedic with the Los Angeles County Fire
Department, in various assignments, including 7 years in the Air Operations\Special Operations Division, and
served as the Chief of the Administrative Services Division and as the Public Information Officer for the Chino
Valley Fire Department.
Appointed in 1984, he served for two decades in the Deukmejian, Wilson and Davis Administrations as a
Member and Vice Chairman of California's State Board of Fire Services, and was the elected President of
both the Los Angeles County and California State Firefighter's Associations.
In 1995, Chief Coffman was appointed Director of the Fire Technology Program, Chief of the Fire Academy
and Faculty Member at Rio Hondo College in Los Angeles County. Promoted to the academic rank of
Professor in 1999, he currently teaches full-time. In addition, he is an Adjunct Professor at California State
University, Los Angeles where he teaches Fire Administration, Public Administration and Political Science, and
is on Faculty at several other colleges. He teaches classes on campus, on television and on the Internet.
In addition to his duties as an educator, Chief Coffman currently serves as President of the California Fire
Technology Directors Association, as a FEMA Region IX Representative on the "Fire & Emergency Services
Higher Education Conference", serves the Schwarzenegger administration as a member of the California
Statewide Training and Education Advisory Committee (STEAC), is on the Advisory Committees for the Fire
Protection Administration; and Master of Science in Public Administration Programs at CSULA, and is active
in numerous other organizations. He was recently selected to serve on the California Fire Museum, Board of
Directors slated for residence in Orange County's Great Park.
Chief Coffman is a published author and lecturer, was a State Licensed Paramedic for 25 years, is California
Certified as a Chief Officer, Fire Officer, Firefighter, Fire Prevention Officer, Public Education Officer and Fire
Instructor. He has an Associate of Science Degree in Fire Technology from San Diego Miramar College, a
Bachelor of Science Degree in Fire Protection Administration, and a Master of Science Degree in Public
Administration. Both advanced degrees were earned at California State University, Los Angeles.
As a fire service and labor leader, and community activist; he has been involved in government, civic and
political affairs at the federal, state, and local level throughout most of his adult life. He has gained
considerable experience in the affairs of fire service operations, management, government, the political
process, public and community relations and in dealing with the press and media. As President of "Daniel P.
Coffman Associates" and the "Fire Education Company Inc.", he is an educator and consultant to the public,
private and non-profit sectors on education and emergency services, speaks at seminars and other special
events and provides emergency planning, safety and emergency medical training for business, governments
and communities.
For information contact:
Dan Coffman: P.O. Box 1130 Huntington Beach, CA 92647
E-Mail: Dcoffman@riohondo.edu

FT 105 Building Construction for Fire Protection, Spring 2010 Semester, CRN # 30580, Professor: Dan Coffman

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