BLArch Bachelor of Landscape Architecture Bachelor of Landscape Architecture 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which grading technique is used to direct stormwater away from a building's foundation?
- Positive drainage slope (Correct answer)
- Inverted crown
- Swale centering
- Berm impoundment
Correct answer: Positive drainage slope
Positive drainage slope directs water away from structures by grading the ground surface to fall at least 2% away from the foundation.
Question 2: The concept of 'genius loci' in landscape architecture refers to:
- Optimal plant placement based on sun angles
- The spirit or distinctive character of a place (Correct answer)
- A Roman method of aqueduct engineering
- A GIS mapping algorithm for site analysis
Correct answer: The spirit or distinctive character of a place
Genius loci, Latin for 'spirit of place,' describes the unique atmosphere and identity that defines a specific location and informs sensitive design responses.
Question 3: Which soil texture has the highest water infiltration rate?
- Clay
- Silt
- Sandy loam (Correct answer)
- Silty clay loam
Correct answer: Sandy loam
Sandy loam has large pore spaces that allow water to infiltrate quickly, whereas clay soils have fine particles with low permeability.
Question 4: In the context of landscape construction, a 'batter board' is used to:
- Measure soil compaction resistance
- Establish reference lines and elevations during layout (Correct answer)
- Support erosion control fabric on slopes
- Calculate cut-and-fill volumes
Correct answer: Establish reference lines and elevations during layout
Batter boards are temporary wooden frames erected at corners of a construction layout to hold strings that define building lines and elevations.
Question 5: Which organization administers the Landscape Architect Registration Examination (LARE) in the United States?
- American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)
- Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB) (Correct answer)
- National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB)
- Landscape Architecture Accreditation Board (LAAB)
Correct answer: Council of Landscape Architectural Registration Boards (CLARB)
CLARB administers the LARE, which is the standardized exam required for landscape architecture licensure across most U.S. states.
Question 6: What does the term 'hydric soil' indicate in a site assessment?
- Soil with high sand content ideal for drainage
- Soil formed under saturated, anaerobic conditions indicating wetland presence (Correct answer)
- Soil treated with hydrated lime for stabilization
- Soil horizon with elevated pH from irrigation
Correct answer: Soil formed under saturated, anaerobic conditions indicating wetland presence
Hydric soils form under prolonged saturation and anaerobic conditions and are a key indicator used to delineate wetland boundaries.
Question 7: The 'hardscape-to-softscape' ratio in a landscape design primarily affects which of the following?
- Plant species selection and biodiversity
- Site stormwater runoff volume and heat island effect (Correct answer)
- Sight line calculations for safety
- Soil amendment budgets
Correct answer: Site stormwater runoff volume and heat island effect
Higher hardscape ratios increase impervious surface coverage, which raises stormwater runoff volumes and contributes to urban heat island effects.
