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Three popular housing styles in Ireland today are shown below - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1(a) - 2011
Question 1(a)
Three popular housing styles in Ireland today are shown below. (i) Comment on the factors that may influence a person's choice of housing style. Refer to: - social... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:Three popular housing styles in Ireland today are shown below - Leaving Cert Home Economics - Question 1(a) - 2011
Step 1
Comment on the factors that may influence a person's choice of housing style.
Answer
Several factors can influence a person's choice of housing style:
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Social Factors: These include personal preferences based on family dynamics, lifestyle choices, and the age group of the individual. For example, families with children may prefer houses with gardens and access to schools, while young professionals may lean towards apartments in urban areas for convenience.
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Economic Factors: Financial considerations are crucial. This encompasses the cost of purchasing or renting, maintenance expenses, and the availability of mortgages. A person’s income and job security will greatly affect their housing choices.
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Environmental Factors: These relate to the surrounding area and its amenities. Proximity to public transport, safety, local services, and environmental qualities like green spaces or pollution levels play a significant role in selecting a housing style.
Step 2
Identify two specific housing requirements (needs) for an elderly person with limited mobility (movement).
Answer
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Accessibility Features: This includes having ramps instead of steps, wider doorways for wheelchair access, and ground-level access to essential areas like bathrooms and kitchens.
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Safety Installations: This involves installing grab bars in bathrooms, ensuring that switches and controls are within easy reach, and having non-slip flooring to prevent falls.
Step 3
Discuss two advantages and two disadvantages for a family living in rented accommodation.
Answer
Advantages:
- Flexibility: Renting allows families to move easily when their situation changes, such as job relocations or changes in family size.
- Lower Initial Capital: Renting typically requires less upfront investment compared to buying, allowing families to allocate their funds elsewhere.
Disadvantages:
- Lack of Control: Renters may have restrictions on modifications or improvements, which can limit personalization of their living space.
- Financial Uncertainty: Renting can be less stable as rental prices may increase, and if the landlord decides to sell the property, the family may need to move unexpectedly.
Step 4
Describe one type of home heating system under the following headings: type of heating system, fuel / energy source, method of heat transfer.
Answer
Type of Heating System: Central Heating System. Fuel / Energy Source: Natural gas or oil. Method of Heat Transfer: The system works through convection. Hot water or steam is circulated through pipes, heating radiators or underfloor heating systems, which transfer heat to the rooms, warming the air through convection currents.
Step 5
Name two types of controls used on heating systems and explain how each helps to ensure efficient use of energy.
Answer
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Thermostats: These devices regulate the temperature by turning the heating system on or off based on user settings. By maintaining a stable temperature, they prevent energy waste.
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Timers: Timers allow users to preset times for the heating system to operate, ensuring it runs only when needed and reducing unnecessary heating.
Step 6
Explain why artificial methods of ventilation may be required in the modern home.
Answer
Artificial ventilation is required in modern homes to manage indoor air quality, especially in tightly sealed environments. It helps reduce moisture build-up, prevent mold growth, and ensure a continuous supply of fresh air, essential for health and comfort.
Step 7
Name and describe one method of artificial ventilation.
Answer
One method of artificial ventilation is Mechanical Ventilation. This system uses powered fans to introduce fresh air and exhaust stale air from the building. The underlying principle involves actively replacing indoor air with outdoor air, which can be adjusted based on the desired indoor conditions.