REAL-LIFE SKILLS ASSESSING A SCHOOL BUILDING Renovate or build a new one? The question goes beyond renovation or new construction of school buildings. It is about providing the best and the safest place for students to grow and learn. 8 Consider your school building. Follow the guidelines below and prepare a PowerPoint presentation of your school. Share and discuss it with your classmates and your teacher. Age of the school (historical building or built in the last 50 years). Location of the school (urban area, rural area, plain, hill, mountain). Parts of the building that should be preserved or sections that should be replaced. Possible renovation in order to implement the 21st-century teaching-learning modalities and modern technology (TIC, interactive white boards, etc.). Proper access for students with disabilities. Building suitably sized for the school population of today and of the future. Building well lit, spacious and comfortable. Library accessible to students and teachers. Cafeteria/school canteen. Gym/outdoor sports facilities/garden. Removal of hazardous material (e.g. asbestos). Possible seismic risks in the area where the school is located. Assessment according to the Italian anti-seismic legislation. Example: 1st slide Istituto Tecnico Costruzioni, Ambiente e Territorio "Filippo Brunelleschi" Year of construction: 1950 Location: Siena (urban area) Current conditions: quite good, main building can be preserved – the gym needs to be renovated.