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Modular Assessment Syllabus

PREAMBLE

The modular assessment is aimed at testing trainees on the basic and fundamental knowledge and skills of automotive service, maintenance and repair while putting emphasis on core requirements of a well-trained automotive mechanic required by world of work. The assessment is in line with the requirements stipulated in the automotive curriculum of the National Curriculum Development Centre.

Furthermore, the assessment stresses the major elements of a Health and Safety Management System which will help trainees to exhibit improved OHSE awareness and understand the best safety practices while at work. The assessment will concentrate on the completed module to verify whether the trainee has acquired all the necessary competences of the module and to test whether the training outcome has been achieved.

The competences to be assessed are clearly defined for each module covered within the time allocated. The modules assessed per package in this course are in the manner that will help the trainee exhibit particular skills to be used to execute various tasks of the respective time of study.

The modular assessment stipulates that each module should be fully assessed with all the necessary technology, mathematics, technical drawing science and calculations. This means that the sub-modules like mathematics, technical drawing science and calculations have been identified to fall under particular modules to help the trainee apply them to the given module at a particular study time.

As stipulated by the NCDC curriculum for National Certificate in Automotive Mechanics, if implemented, this assessment should produce Automotive Mechanics who are able do the following:

Exhibit improved OHSE awareness.
Fabricate components and machine parts.
Service and maintain engines in good working conditions.
Install, repair and maintain the electrical/electronic system in a vehicle.
Prepare reports, budgets, and operation plans.
Promote and ensure safety of workers and plant.
Initiate and manage small Business Enterprises.

Duration: 40 Hours

Module Overview: This module introduces students to the fundamental principles of automotive mechanics, including safety procedures, tool identification and usage, and basic vehicle systems. Students will learn about engine operation, vehicle maintenance schedules, and the importance of following manufacturer specifications.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the module, the learner should be able to:

Identify and properly use basic automotive tools and equipment
Perform basic vehicle maintenance according to manufacturer specifications
Understand and follow safety procedures in the automotive workshop

Competences

Identify different types of automotive tools and their specific applications
Demonstrate proper safety procedures when working in an automotive environment
Perform basic vehicle inspections and identify common issues
Understand the fundamental principles of internal combustion engines
Follow proper procedures for lifting and supporting vehicles

Identify major vehicle systems and their components
Perform basic maintenance tasks including oil changes and filter replacements
Use service manuals and technical documentation effectively
Understand the importance of proper torque specifications
Demonstrate proper disposal procedures for automotive fluids

Detailed Module Description

Sub-module	Content	Duration
1. Workshop Safety and Tools	Workshop safety procedures and personal protective equipment Identification and proper use of hand tools Power tool safety and operation Vehicle lifting and support procedures Fire safety and emergency procedures	10 Hours
2. Basic Engine Principles	Internal combustion engine operation Engine components and their functions Four-stroke cycle theory Engine classifications and configurations	8 Hours
3. Vehicle Maintenance Fundamentals	Preventive maintenance schedules Fluid checks and replacements Tire inspection and maintenance Basic electrical system checks	12 Hours
4. Technical Documentation	Reading and interpreting service manuals Vehicle identification numbers (VIN) Parts catalogs and ordering procedures Basic diagnostic procedures	10 Hours

Duration: 40 Hours

Module Overview: This module focuses on engine systems diagnosis, repair, and overhaul procedures. Students will learn about engine mechanical systems, cooling systems, lubrication systems, and fuel systems. Practical skills include engine disassembly, measurement, and reassembly following manufacturer specifications.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the module, the learner should be able to:

Diagnose common engine problems using appropriate diagnostic equipment
Perform engine disassembly, inspection, and reassembly procedures
Service and repair engine cooling and lubrication systems

Competences

Perform compression tests and interpret results
Disassemble engines following proper procedures
Measure engine components and compare to specifications
Diagnose cooling system problems
Service and repair radiator and cooling system components

Understand lubrication system operation and components
Perform oil pressure tests and diagnosis
Service fuel system components
Understand fuel injection system operation
Perform engine timing procedures

Detailed Module Description

Sub-module	Content	Duration
5. Engine Mechanical Systems	Engine disassembly procedures Component inspection and measurement Cylinder head service and valve adjustment Piston and connecting rod service Engine reassembly and break-in procedures	16 Hours
6. Cooling Systems	Cooling system operation and components Radiator service and repair Water pump replacement and testing Thermostat operation and testing Cooling system flushing and refilling	12 Hours
7. Lubrication Systems	Oil pump operation and testing Oil pressure diagnosis Oil cooler service Engine oil and filter service Oil consumption diagnosis	12 Hours

Duration: 32 Hours

Module Overview: This module covers automotive electrical and electronic systems, including starting systems, charging systems, lighting systems, and basic electronic controls. Students will learn to use electrical test equipment, read wiring diagrams, and diagnose common electrical problems.

Learning Outcome

By the end of this module, the learner should be able to:

Diagnose and repair basic automotive electrical systems
Use electrical test equipment to measure voltage, current, and resistance
Interpret wiring diagrams and electrical schematics

Competences

Understand basic electrical theory and Ohm's Law
Use multimeters and test lights properly
Diagnose starting system problems
Test and service batteries
Understand charging system operation

Test alternators and voltage regulators
Diagnose lighting system problems
Understand basic electronic components
Perform circuit tests and repairs
Use wiring diagrams for diagnosis

Detailed Module Description

Sub-module	Content	Duration
8. Electrical Fundamentals	Basic electrical theory Circuit types and configurations Electrical test equipment usage Wiring diagram interpretation Circuit protection devices	10 Hours
9. Starting and Charging Systems	Battery construction and testing Starting system operation and diagnosis Alternator operation and testing Voltage regulation principles Charging system diagnosis	12 Hours
10. Lighting and Accessory Systems	Lighting system operation Headlight aiming and adjustment Accessory circuit diagnosis Switch and relay operation Basic electronic component identification	10 Hours

Download Curriculum Files

NCAM Curriculum Uganda

📘 Automotive Mechanics Study Notes

Click each section below to expand and view the study notes.

Workshop safety is the most critical aspect of automotive repair. Proper safety procedures protect both the technician and the vehicle. Always wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) including safety glasses, steel-toed shoes, and gloves when necessary.

🔧 Essential Safety Rules

Always use jack stands when working under a vehicle - never rely solely on a hydraulic jack
Keep work areas clean and free of oil spills to prevent slips and falls
Use proper ventilation when working with chemicals or exhaust fumes
Disconnect battery ground cable before performing electrical work
Use tools only for their intended purposes

🚨 Emergency Procedures

Know the location of fire extinguishers and first aid kits
Understand emergency shutdown procedures for equipment
Have a clear evacuation plan and emergency contacts
Know proper procedures for chemical spills
Understand basic first aid for common workshop injuries

Proper tool usage is essential for both safety and quality work. Always inspect tools before use, and never use damaged or defective equipment. Keep cutting tools sharp and clean for optimal performance and safety.

The internal combustion engine converts chemical energy from fuel into mechanical energy through controlled explosions within cylinders. Most automotive engines operate on the four-stroke principle: intake, compression, power, and exhaust.

🔥 Four-Stroke Cycle

Intake Stroke: Piston moves down, intake valve opens, air-fuel mixture enters cylinder
Compression Stroke: Both valves closed, piston moves up compressing mixture
Power Stroke: Spark plug ignites mixture, expanding gases force piston down
Exhaust Stroke: Exhaust valve opens, piston moves up pushing out burned gases