x̄ - > KCSE Woodwork Paper 2 - Section 2 (Sample 2024)

KCSE Woodwork Paper 2 — Section 2 (Sample, 2024 style)

Questions and model answers for revision • Designed for practice and classroom use

Total marks: 50

Time: 2½ hours

Instructions

Answer all questions. Use drawing instruments where necessary. Toggle each answer block to reveal model answers and marking notes. For printing, all answers will be shown automatically.

Question 1 — Design Brief & Working Drawings (20 marks)

Design and draw a wooden bedside cabinet with one drawer and a cupboard below. Include freehand sketches and a dimensioned working drawing.

Tasks

1. (a) Draw three freehand pictorial sketches of possible designs. Label main features. (6 marks)
2. (b) Select one design and produce a dimensioned working drawing in front elevation, plan, and end view. (8 marks)
3. (c) Name two suitable materials for construction and justify each choice. (2 marks)
4. (d) Indicate two appropriate methods of joining the frame or panels. (2 marks)
5. (e) Outline the sequence of operations to construct the cabinet. (2 marks)

Model Answers & Marking Notes

1. (a) Accept three distinct, clearly labelled freehand pictorials showing variations (e.g. single drawer above cupboard; drawer to one side; recessed base vs. legs). Award 2 marks per good sketch (total 6).
2. (b) Working drawing must include: front elevation, plan, end view. Correct proportions, clear dimensioning (e.g. overall height 600–700mm, width 400–600mm, depth 300–400mm acceptable). Mark allocation: front (2), plan (2), end (2), dimensions (1), neatness/line quality (1).
3. (c) Example materials: Mahogany / Mvule — strong, attractive; Plywood / Blockboard — stable, resists warping. (1 mark each + justification)
4. (d) Possible joints: Housing joint, Mortise & Tenon, Dovetail (for drawer), Dowel joint. Award 1 mark each.
5. (e) Sequence example: Marking out → Cutting components → Make joints → Test-fit → Glue & clamp / mechanical fixings → Sanding → Apply finish. Award 2 marks for a logical, ordered list.

Question 2 — Construction & Assembly (15 marks)

A corner of a coffee table top joined to a leg using a frame construction method.

1. (a) Name the type of joint used at the corner. (1 mark)
2. (b) Sketch in 3D (pictorial) the joint exploded view, showing how parts fit. (5 marks)
3. (c) State three precautions to observe when marking out and cutting this joint. (3 marks)
4. (d) Suggest two alternative joints that can serve the same purpose. (2 marks)
5. (e) List four tools required to make this joint. (4 marks)

Model Answers & Marking Notes

1. (a) Accept: Mortise & Tenon or Housing joint depending on candidate's description. (1 mark)
2. (b) Exploded pictorial must show frame rail, leg, tenon, mortise or housing detail, correct alignment. Clear labels = full marks (5).
3. (c) Precautions: Accurate marking with try square/marking gauge; cut on waste side; keep chisels sharp; check grain direction; clamp work securely. (3 marks total)
4. (d) Alternatives: Dowel joint, Corner bridle, Biscuit joint, Butt joint with screws. (2 marks)
5. (e) Tools: Marking gauge, Tenon saw, Chisels, Mallet, Try square, Clamps — any 4 (4 marks)

Question 3 — Materials & Finishing (15 marks)

Defects, surface preparation, manufactured boards and finishes.

1. (a) Name three types of defects found in timber and explain how each affects the quality of finished work. (6 marks)
2. (b) Describe the process of preparing a wooden surface for painting. (4 marks)
3. (c) State three advantages of using manufactured boards over solid timber in furniture making. (3 marks)
4. (d) Name two suitable finishes for the cabinet in Question 1 and state one reason for each choice. (2 marks)

Model Answers & Marking Notes

1. (a) Examples of defects and effects (2 marks each):
   • Warping — causes uneven surfaces and joints that don't fit; affects aesthetics and function.
   • Knots — weaken the timber; may fall out and leave holes; affect finishing.
   • Shakes / Splits — reduce strength; visible cracks that may open up further.
2. (b) Surface preparation for painting (4 marks): Plane/sand smooth → Fill cracks/holes with wood filler → Sand again for smooth finish → Apply primer/undercoat → Lightly sand between coats → Apply two finishing coats of paint evenly.
3. (c) Advantages of manufactured boards (any 3 × 1 mark): More stable (less warping), available in large sheets, cost-effective/uses waste timber, uniform surface for veneers/laminates.
4. (d) Suitable finishes (2 marks):
   • Varnish — protects and highlights the grain.
   • Paint — decorative and protective; good for coloured finishes.

Printable Notes: When printing, answers are shown automatically. Use A3 or large paper for drawing practice. Check scale and line weights.

Created for revision — not an official KNEC paper. Use for practice only.

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