DELOS ANGELES, CLARIZ P.

CE 315 – CE31S3

1) What Are the Core Concepts and Theories You’ve Mastered?

During the midterm part of Structural Theory, I learned more about how structures behave
when they carry different types of loads. One of the most important topics we studied was shear
and bending in beams. I learned how loads can cause a beam to bend or shear, and how to figure
out where these forces are the strongest. We used shear force and bending moment diagrams to
show how a beam reacts to different types of loads. These diagrams help engineers know where a
beam might crack or fail, so they can design it to be stronger in those spots.

Another important idea we learned was about internal forces. When you cut a beam, you
can see the forces inside that keep it standing. This helps you understand how the whole structure
works together. I also studied the relationship between load, shear, and moment. This helped me
see how one change affects the others. These concepts are important in real life, like when
designing bridges or floor systems in buildings. Understanding them makes it easier to keep
structures safe and strong.

2) What New Skills or Techniques Have You Developed?

The midterm lessons in Structural Theory helped me develop several new skills that are
important for civil engineers. One major skill I learned is how to draw shear force and bending
moment diagrams. These diagrams show how forces inside a beam change along its length. I
learned how to look at a beam, figure out the loads, and then draw the diagrams step by step. I also
learned how to break down more complex beams into simple parts. By doing this, I was able to
solve for support reactions, calculate internal forces, and find maximum bending moments. These
skills are very helpful in design, because they let engineers predict how a structure will behave
under load.
 Another skill I gained is using sign conventions properly. It was confusing at first to
remember when a shear or moment is positive or negative, but after lots of practice, it became
easier. Now, I can follow the rules correctly and avoid simple mistakes. These techniques make it
easier to check if a structure will hold up safely. I feel more confident solving structural problems
now, and I know these skills will be useful in future engineering projects and more advanced
design work.

3) What Challenges Did You Encounter, and How Did You Overcome Them?

One challenge I faced during the midterm part of Structural Theory was learning how to
draw accurate shear force and bending moment diagrams. At first, I didn’t understand how to start
or how to deal with multiple loads at once. Sometimes my diagrams looked wrong, or I made
mistakes with the signs. To get better, I practiced more examples, followed step-by-step guides,
and watched tutorial videos. I also asked my teacher and classmates for help when I got stuck.
Another challenge was solving problems with distributed loads. It was tricky to convert the load
into a single force and find where it acts. But after practicing, I learned how to use formulas for
triangular and rectangular loads and how to include them in my calculations.

Keeping my work organized was also a struggle. When problems got long, I sometimes
forgot steps or made calculation errors. I fixed this by writing cleaner, labeling my diagrams
clearly, and double-checking my math. These challenges helped me become more careful and
better at solving problems. I learned that hard topics can get easier if you don’t give up, ask for
help, and keep trying. These lessons will help me in more advanced subjects and real engineering
work.

4) How Will Your Learning Benefit Your Future Career as a Civil Engineer?

The midterm lessons in Structural Theory will help me a lot in my future as a civil engineer.
I now understand how to check if a beam or structure is strong enough to carry different types of
loads. This is very important when designing buildings, bridges, and other structures that must stay
safe under pressure. By learning how to create shear force and bending moment diagrams, I can
find out where the biggest internal forces happen. This helps in choosing the right materials and
shapes for structural members. It can prevent future problems, like cracks or collapses.

I also learned how to solve problems in a more organized and step-by-step way. This skill
is helpful not just in school, but also in real engineering projects where accuracy matters a lot. If I
work on a team in the future, I’ll be able to explain my ideas clearly and check others’ work, too.
These lessons gave me confidence. I know that I can handle challenging problems by practicing
and asking for help. I’m excited to keep learning and applying what I’ve learned to help design
strong and safe structures that improve people’s lives.