Bricklayer - Exam Information
Table of Contents
Self-Assessment
This tool can be used to reflect on your own experience and knowledge in the trade compared with what is on the exam.
Exam Breakdown
Each Red Seal exam's questions are developed to assess the activities laid out in the Red Seal Occupational Standard. This trade's Red Seal exam has 125 questions Footnote *, which are distributed as follows:
Block A – Performs common occupational skills - 14 questions
Block B – Performs general masonry practices - 24 questions
Block C – Builds masonry systems - 27 questions
Block D – Builds natural stone systems - 13 questions
Block E – Builds chimneys and fireplaces - 13 questions
Block F – Installs refractories and corrosion resistant materials - 10 questions
Block G – Performs restoration - 14 questions
Block H – Performs additional masonry - 10 questions
Types of Exam Questions
All Red Seal exam questions are written in multiple-choice format. A multiple-choice question consists of question followed by four possible responses (A, B, C, D). Every question has exactly one correct answer and three incorrect options. They are not misleading or trick questions, but the incorrect options are not always obvious.
There are three types of questions that you will see on Red Seal Exams:
- Knowledge and Recall
- Procedural and Application
- Critical Thinking
Knowledge and Recall
This type of question tests your ability to recall and understand definitions, facts and principles.
For this trade, between 30 and 40% of questions that are this type.
Example of a Knowledge and Recall Question:
Which chisel is used to remove deteriorated mortar joints in restoration work?
- Cold.
- Pointing.
- Plugging.
- Brick set (bolster).
Answer: C
Procedural and Application
This type of question tests your ability to apply your knowledge of procedures to a situation.
For this trade, between 50 and 60% of questions are this type.
Example of a Procedural and Application Question:
Given a non-reinforced concrete block foundation, how is a bed joint spread for the first course?
- By spreading mortar under the webs.
- By spreading under the webs and face shells.
- By using face shell bedding.
- By spreading a full bed.
Answer: D
Critical Thinking
This type of question tests your ability to interpret data, solve problems and arrive at valid conclusions.
For this trade, less than 10% of questions are this type.
Example of a Critical Thinking Question:
What is the effect of using a mortar that is stronger than the material?
- The mortar joint will crack.
- The material will be damaged.
- The wall will have greater strength.
- The existing mortar will have greater strength.
Answer: B
Try more sample questions for this trade and check out the Exam Preparation Guide. It will give you practical insights on what goes into Red Seal exams, and how you can best prepare yourself to do well.
For more information about exam preparation materials contact your provincial/territorial apprenticeship office.