NZGA B Category Instructor Training Syllabus

Aerodynamics

The atmosphere

• Describe the ICAO standard atmosphere up to the tropopause.

• State the relationship between temperature, pressure and density, and their overall effects with increasing altitude.

• Derive the formula for dynamic pressure.

• Define and discriminate between IAS, CAS/RAS, EAS, TAS, and ground speed.

Aerodynamic force

• Recognise the symbols used in the study of the principles of flight.

• Provide definitions and abbreviations where applicable for the following terms:
  • Free stream flow
  • Total reaction
  • Lift
  • Drag
  • Chord line
  • Wing Area
  • Camber line
  • Angle of attack
  • Chord length
  • Thickness/chord ratio
  • Centre of pressure
  • Stream line
  • Aspect ratio
  • Wing loading
  • Load factor

• State the equation of continuity.

• State Bernoulli's theorem for an ideal fluid.

• List four theories used to explain aerodynamic force and describe the pressure distribution theory.

Lift

• Reproduce a series of diagrams of the pressure distribution about a typical glider aerofoil at angles of attack -4, 0, +4, +8, +14 degrees indicating the pressures relative to static.

• Estimate graphically the proportions of the total reaction vector of a typical aerofoil at +14 degrees AoA.

• Derive the lift and drag vectors from the total reaction vector.

• Assess graphically the movement of the centre of pressure with increasing AoA.

• Define aerodynamic centre and state it's relevance.

• Define lift and derive the lift formula from the equation for dynamic pressure.

• List five factors affecting the coefficient of lift and describe their significance.

• Reproduce and label a typical coefficient of lift versus defined AoA curve.

• List the 3 general classes of aerofoils and identify the qualities that best suit the needs of the sailplane aerofoil.

• Describe the meaning, significance and application of Reynolds number.

Drag

• Describe the boundry layer and state two properties of both the turbulent and laminar type of flow.

• Define and show on a typical aerofoil:

  • Transition point
  • Separation point
  • Stagnation point
  • Adverse pressure gradient

• Identify the components of total drag.

• List the factors affecting zero lift drag.

• Identify the factors affecting the coefficients of drag - induced and zero lift.

• Derive the total drag curve from the lift dependant and zero lift drag curves plotted against EAS.

• Describe methods used in sailplane design and manufacture to reduce drag.

• Describe the types of high drag devices used in sailplanes design and discuss their purpose, function and effectivness.

Lift/Drag Interaction

• Reproduce a diagram of the total drag curve plotted against EAS and identify speeds for:

  • Max lift/drag ratio.
  • Min sink.
  • Max EAS/drag ratio.

• Reproduce a diagram of the total drag curve plotted on the axis drag/EAS showing the effects and stating the significance of:

  • Changing all up weight.
  • Using high drag devices.

• Reproduce and explain the significance of the lift/drag ratio curve plotted against AoA.

• State the significance of plotting coefficient of lift against coefficient of drag.

Straight and level flight

• Identify the 3 axis of an aircraft.

• Reproduce and label a diagram showing the forces acting on an aircraft in straight and level, unaccelerated flight.

• Predict the effect on the balance of forces varying:

  • All up weight.
  • Configurations.
  • Altitude.
  • Power.

• Explain the significance of maintaining balanced flight.

Gliding

• Reproduce and label a diagram showing the forces acting on a glider in an unaccelerated glide.

• Explain the requirements for achieving maximum gliding distance from the known performance of a typical glider given the following variables:

  • Weight.
  • Wind.
  • IAS.
  • Configuration.
  • Sink.

Turning

• Reproduce and label a diagram showing the forces in a turn.

• Explain the effects on turning performance of the following:

  • Load factor.
  • IAS.
  • Flap.
  • TAS.

• Explain the control inputs required during a balanced turn.

Stalling

• Define critical angle.

• Define basic stall speed.

• Describe and explain the prestall aerodynamic symptoms of a typical glider.

• Explain the behaviour of the boundry layer with increasing AoA.

• Describe and explain the aerodynamic symptoms that occur during a basic stall.

• Explain leading edge seperation.

• Explain the stalling characteristics of different wing shapes:

  • Rectangular
  • Tapered
  • Swept forward

• Explain how tip stalling can be alleviated.

• Explain the effect of the following on the basic stall speed and characteristics.

  • Weight.
  • Manoeuvre.
  • Configuration.
  • Condition of wing surface.
  • Altitude.

• Describe the movement of the centre of pressure throughout the stall of a typical glider aerofoil.

Lift Augmentation

• Define and state the purpose of lift augmentation.

• List methods of lift augmentation used in gliders.

• Explain the aerodynamic principles of flap systems as used on gliders.

• Describe the various flap systems used on gliders.

• With the aid of a diagram, compare coefficient of lift versus AoA for an aerofoil section with and without flap.

• Explain with the aid of a diagram the pitching moments caused by trailing edge flaps.

• Explain how lift and drag vary with different types of flap systems and flap positions.

• Explain the effects vortex generators have on the boundry layer.

• Explain the principle and method of "blowing" a wing for lift augmentation.

• Explain the purpose and principle of operation of winglets.

Stability

• Define static stability.

• Define dynamic stability.

• Explain the requirements for longitudinal stability and describe the effect of variations in:

  • IAS
  • Load factor.
  • Flap

• Explain the requirements for directional stability and describe the contributions of:

  • Fin design.
  • Wing design.

• Explain the requirements for lateral stability and describe the contributions of:

  • Wing dihedral.
  • Wing sweep.
  • Wing position.

• Explain the effects of varying relative strengths of lateral and directional stability.

• Discuss the ground roll stability of the various nose/tail wheel /skid combinations used on gliders.

• Discuss the influence of towhook position on launch stability.

Flight Controls

• Explain control movement.

• Define rate control and displacement control.

• Explain how ailerons are affected by:

  • EAS.
  • Aerolastic distortion.
  • Altitude.

• Explain adverse yaw and how it can be alleviated.

• Explain how the following affect elevator control:

  • C of G position.
  • EAS.
  • Ground effect.

• Explain the requirements for flying controls with regard to:

  • Feel.
  • Harmony.
  • Movement.

• Explain the purpose of trim systems and describe the methods of trimming and control balancing used in gliders.

• Explain trim drag and it's significance on performance.

• Explain how the V tail control system operates and discuss it's handling in comparison with conventional control systems.

• Describe and explain how an all moving tailplane system works.

• Compare the advantages and disadvantages of the T tail, mid tail, and low tail design configuration.

• Explain flutter and the requirements for mass balancing.

• Discuss conditions that can allow flutter to occur in gliders.

• Discuss the requirement for and methods used to "seal" controls.

Manoeuvre

• Explain what a Vg diagram is and describe the construction of the following Vg diagrams:

  • Typical glider manoeuvre envelope.
  • Typical glider gust envelope.

• Identify the following lines on the Vg diagrams:

  • Aerodynamic limits.
  • Structural limits.

• State the meaning and importance of the following speeds:

  • VNE.
  • VD.
  • VA.

• Discuss the relationship between manoevre and stall speed.

• Explain the purpose of the weak link in launching systems.

• Discuss the flight loads applied during winch/autotow launching.

• Discriminate between normal manoeuvres, aerobatic manoeuvres and unusual attitudes.

Spinning

• Explain with the aid of a diagram how autorotation occurs.

• Explain the effect of aircraft attitude on spin radius, rate of rotation and rate of descent.

• Explain how the spin is entered and discuss the sensations experienced during a spin.

• Explain the effect of the flying controls on spin recovery and describe the standard spin recovery used for gliders.

• Explain the difference between a spin and a spiral dive.

• Explain the moments of inertia A, B, C, and their influence on the spinning charateristics of a glider.

• Explain the significance of the B/A ratio on the spinning characteristics of a glider.

• Explain why many modern gliders are not cleared for spinning.

Performance

• Discuss how the following factors affect the takeoff performance of a glider:

  • Surface condition: short/long grass, seal, soft/firm surface.
  • Wind: head, cross, tail, steady, gusting.
  • Weight.
  • Wet wings.
  • Takeoff technique.
  • Tow plane performance characteristics/limitations.

• Discuss the following flight performance of gliders:

  • Configuration and use of minimum sink speed.
  • Configuration and use of maximum L/D speed.
  • Speed to fly considerations in lift and sink.
  • Considerations for carrying water ballast and it's effect on performance.

• Discuss how the following factors affect the landing performance of a glider:

  • Surface condition.
  • Wind.
  • Weight.
  • Wet wings.
  • Configuration.
  • Landing technique.

Aimanship and operations

Regulations and Publications

• Demonstrate a working knowledge of the following publications and be able to apprise those rules and regulations relevant to gliding operations:

  • Civil Aviation Regulations 1953.
  • Civil Aviation Rules.
  • CASO 17.
  • NZGA Manual of Approved Procedures.
  • NZ Aeronautical Information Publication - Planning Manual.
  • NZ Aeronautical Information Publication - Visual Flight Guide.
  • NOTAMs.
  • Civil Aviation Information Circulars.

• Demonstrate a working knowledge of appropriate local club rules.

• Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of rules of the air for right of way.

• Demonstrate knowledge and application of rules relating to use of airspace and the Visual Flight Rules and Instrument Flight Rules for gliding operations.

• Discuss the application of exemptions and approvals within the Civil Aviation Regulations / Rules.

Flight Safety

• Discuss the role of the Instructor in the promotion of safety awareness.

• Define a flight safety event and approprite reporting procedures.

• Describe the method of completion of the NZGA and CAA incident / accident reporting forms.

• Discuss the procedures and action required in the event of an incedent / accident occuring and the responsibilities of:

  • The Pilot in Command.
  • Instructors.
  • CFI's.

Non Normal Occurrances:

• Discuss the action to be taken and considerations required in the event of the following non normal occurrences on takeoff or in flight:

  • Wing drop on takeoff.
  • Launch failure during takeoff.
  • Launch failure at low level after takeoff.
  • Canopy opening during takeoff or in flight.
  • Unable to release from the launch / tow.
  • A midair collision.
  • Flight control disconnect.
  • Flight control jamming.
  • Structural or aerodynamic overstress.
  • Canopy jettison.
  • Canopy icing, fogging, cracking or loss.
  • Bale out, parachute descent and landing.
  • Recovery from unusual attitudes.
  • Inadvertent spin.
  • Inadvertant spiral dive.
  • Inadvertent IMC - cloud penetration.
  • Emergency / max rate descent.
  • Flying with wet wings.
  • Inadvertent tailchute deployment.

• Discuss the actions to be taken and the considerations required for the following non normal situation on landing:

  • With wet wings.
  • Without airbrakes.
  • In strong winds.
  • With the undercarriage retracted.
  • With the airbrakes stuck partially or fully open.
  • With water ballast on board.
  • Downwind.
  • In reduced visibility due to low sun, haze, water on the canopy, fogging or icing.
  • In water.
  • In rough terrain, long grass, tall crops, trees and obstructions.
  • With launch cable or tow rope attached.
  • While still on tow.
  • Through wires.
  • Over tall obstacles / obstructions.
  • After dark.

• Discuss the situations and technique required to perform a successful deliberate groundloop on landing for nose / tail skid / wheel glider configurations.

• Discuss the dangers of loose objects in the cockpit / fuselage area of a glider.

• Discuss the actions to be taken and the considerations required in the event of the following non normal occurences at altitudes above 10,000ft pressure altitude:

  • Oxygen system failure.
  • Syspected hypoxia.
  • Hyperventilation.
  • Loss of the canopy.
  • High altitude bale out.

• Discuss the actions required in the event of a radio failure and / or transponder failure when operating in controlled airspace.

• Describe how a transponder can be used to get help in an emergency situation.

Safety equipment

• Describe the operation of a parachute including:

  • Preflight inspection.
  • Strapping it on and unstrapping.
  • The physical action and considerations required for bale out.

• Discuss the merit of carrying a survival kit and the contents thereof.

• Describe the methods of enhancing the location and / or recognition of a glider that has landed out.

• Discuss the basic principles of survival in NZ environmental conditions.

• Describe the purpose and use of ELBA's.

• Describe the different types of ELBA's available.

• Describe the operation of and checks required with ELBA's.

Glider Limitations

• State the following airframe limitations and their significance:

  • VNE
  • VA
  • VFE
  • VT
  • VW

• State the gliders load factor limitations.

• State the gliders manoeuvre limitations.

• State the gliders weight and balance limitations and discuss their significance.

• Discuss cautions relating to the opening of canopies.

Aerobatics and display flying

• Discuss the rules relating to aerobatics in gliders.

• Discuss the following limitations:

  • Airframe.
  • Flight controls.
  • Physiological.
  • Weather.

• Discuss preflight preparation for aerobatic flight.

• Discuss the regulations relating to display flying in gliders.

• Discuss considerations applicable to display flying including the following:

  • Sequence selection and practice.
  • Display venue.
  • Display day.

Aviation medicine and human factors

Aviation medicine

• Define the term "Aviation Medicine" in relation to gliding operations.

• Define and discuss the concept of "Human Factors" in relation to gliding operations.

• State the requirements for medical declarations by glider pilots.

Human Information Processing

• Discuss the characteristics of the human information processing system and it's inherent limitations.

• Discuss the factors effecting information processing.

• Discuss the concept of 'judgement' in relation to gliding operations.

• Discuss decision making in relation to gliding operations.

• Discuss the effect of personality on judgement, decision making and behaviour.

Altitude Physiology

• Describe the process of human respiration.

• Discuss the oxygen requirements of humans.

• Describe the types and causes of hypoxia.

• Describe the symptoms of hypoxia.

• Describe the causes and symptoms of hyperventilation.

• Discuss the effects of cigarette / tabacco smoking on physiological performance at altitude.

• Discuss the functional requirements, principle of operation and limitations of oxygen systems available in gliders.

• Describe the effects of reduced pressure on:

  • Sinuses.
  • Ears.
  • Lungs.
  • Gut.

• Describe the symptoms associated with:

  • Sinus barotrauma.
  • Ear barotrauma.

• Discuss the importance of preflight and inflight briefing in preventing the problems listed in the previous question and explain:

  • The correct method of clearing the ears and when it is required.
  • The action to be taken if the ears can not be cleared.

• Discuss the causes and symptoms of decompression sickness.

Vision

• Discuss how the eye functions, how we see and the limitations of the human visual system and their significance to flying gliders.

• Describe the most efficient methods for maintaining an effective lookout.

• Discuss the considerations required when flying with normal glasses or contact lenses.

• Discuss how vision is effected by:

  • Glare.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Dust, haze, canopy condition, hats and masks.
  • Low ambient light conditions.
  • G forces.

• Discuss the following visual phenomenon:

  • Empty field visual blindness.
  • Breakoff.

• Describe the types of visual illusions that can occur in flight and discuss ways of reducing them.

Disorientation

• Discuss the importance of vision for orientation.

• Describe the vestibular apparatus and their role in orientation

• Describe the types of disorientation in gliding.

• Discuss how spatial disorientation occurs in flying and the methods of reducing the dangers of becoming disoriented in flight.

• Discuss the causes of motion sickness in flight.

• Discuss the symptoms, treatment and methods of reducing motion sicknes.

Accelerations

• Explain the effects of positive acceleration on the blood circulation of a seated pilot and discuss the following:

  • The symptoms of G threshold.
  • The factors the affect G threshold.
  • The methods of raising G tolerance and ultimate threshold.

• Explain the effects of reduced or negative G and describe the situations where it may be encountered.

• Discuss the symptoms and behaviour of someone who is sensative to reduced G.

Stress and Fatigue

• Discuss the meaning of stress and describe common types of stress in relation to glider pilots and gliding operations.

• Discuss the types of environmental stress that glider pilots are exposed to and explain the cause, symptoms and treatment of the following:

  • Heat - dehydration and exhaustion.
  • Cold.
  • Noise.
  • Vibration.
  • Sleep disturbances.
  • Diet and nutrition - hunger stress and reactive hyperglycaemia.

• Discuss the following types of acute reactive stress that glider pilots are exposed to:

  • Aircraft emergencies.
  • Physical danger.
  • Demands of task and competition flying.

• Discuss the effects of organisational and personal stress and how it relates to the glider pilot's fitness to fly.

• Discuss the general causes of fatigue and describe the effects when gliding.

• Discuss methods for minimising or alleviating fatigue in gliding operations.

Fitness to fly

• Describe the conditions of health that may render a pilot unfit to fly and discuss the pilot's obligations to advise of such conditions.

• Discuss the importance of exercise and cardiovascular fitness to glider pilots.

• Discuss the precautions associated with flying with the following minor illnesses:

  • Cough.
  • Sore throat.
  • 'Cold' and sinusitis.
  • The 'flu'.
  • Mild bronchitus.
  • Asthma.
  • Hay fever.
  • Diarrhoea.
  • Strains and sprains.
  • Menstrual problems.

• Discuss the dangers of self medication and using 'over the counter' medications when flying.

• Discuss the effects of alcohol in relation to operating a glider and state the legal limits relating to time between drinking alcohol and flying.

• Discuss the possible exposure to toxic hazards in gliding operations and the considerations following any such exposure.

• Discuss considerations for ageing pilots.

• Discuss considerations and limitations for flying with physical disabilities.

• Discuss the importance of assessing passengers fitness to fly.

• Discuss the need for and rules applicable to flying after scuba diving.

Instruments and Avionics

Pitot/static systems

• Discuss the requirements for and functions of pitot/static systems in gliders.

• Describe the various systems used in gliders.

• Disuss the function of water traps in pitot/static systems.

The airspeed indicator

• Draw and label a diagram showing the construction and principle of operation of an airspeed indicator.

• Explian the relationship between IAS, CAS, RAS, EAS, and TAS.

• Discuss and explain the erros of an airspeed indicator.

The altimeter

• Discuss the requirements for variometers and the properties thereof.

• Describe with the aid of a diagram the construction and principle of operation of a simple variometer.

• Discuss the principle of operation of an electric vario.

• Explain the need for 'compensation' and describe the methods used.

• Discuss the provision and use o audios on variometers.

• Discuss the principle of operation and use of the MacCready speed to fly ring.

• Discuss the principle of operation od modern glide computers and integrated navigation computers with emphasis on their capabilities and limitations.

The compass

• Describe the properties and principle of operation of the direct indicating magnetic compass(DIMC).

• State and explain the errors and limitations of the DIMC, and describe how they are alleviated or reduced in flight.

• Define deviation and variation and discuss their application.

• Discuss the considerations for location of compasses in/on instrument panels.

• Discuss the principle of operation and features of the Bohli compass system.

Turn indicators

• Describe the properties of gyroscopes and explain the following terms:
  • Degrees of freedom.
  • Rigidity.
  • Precession.
  • Wander.

• Describe, with the aid of a diagram, the construction and principle of operation of a turn indicator.

• State and explain the limitations and errors of the turn indicator.

Slip indicators

• Discuss the location and function of the simple slip string.

• Desribe the construction and principle of operation of the slip indicator.

Artifical horizons

• Discuss the principle of operation of the artifical horizon and it's advantages and disadvantages over turn indicators for instrument flying.

• Discuss the limitations and errors of artificial horizons.

Accelerometers

• Describe the construction and principle of operation of a basic accelerometer.

Barographs

• Discuss the purpose and principle of operation of a barograph.

• Discuss the practicle use of barographs including the following:
  • Preflight preparation and sealing.
  • Location in the glider.
  • Post flight handling.
  • Calibration procedures.

Radios

• Explain the purpose and function of the controls of a typical glider VHF radio.

• Discuss the range characteristics and limitations of VHF radios.

• Discuss considerations for the location of radio components, aerials and power supplies in gliders.

• Discuss the frequencies available for gliding operations and where to find those frequencies required for Air Traffic Control communications.

• Describe the principle of operation of VOR in relation to those radios which have the capability to indicate VOR radial information.

Transponders

• Describe the purpose and principle of operation of transponders.

• Explain the purpose and function of the controls of a typical glider transponder fitted with Mode C.

Global Positioning Systems

• Describe the purpose and principle of operation of GPS.

• Describe the features available and use of GPS in gliders.

Electrical systems

• Discuss the function, location and operation of circuit breakers and master switches in glider electrical circuits.

• Discuss the power supply requirements of gliders and the types of batteries and charging systems available.

• Discuss any safety precautions required when operating electrical equipment in gliders.

Navigation

Form of the Earth

• Describe the form of the earth with reference to the following:
  • It's geometrical description.
  • Rotational characteristics.
  • Geographic poles.

• Define and discuss the significance of the following lines on the earth:
  • Great circles.
  • Small circles.
  • The equator.
  • Meridians.
  • Parallels.
  • Rhumb lines.

Position on the Earth

• Describe the systems of latitude and longitude for position on the earth.

• Demonstrate on a map how to determine and describe positions.

Direction on the Earth

• Explain how direction on the surface of the earth is determined with reference to the following terms:
  • North and South.
  • East and West.
  • Cardinal and quadrantal points.
  • The compass rose.
  • True direction and bearing.
  • Magnetic north.
  • Variation.

• Show how distance measurements can be converted for gliding purposes.

• Define the following units of speed:

  • Mph.
  • Km/h.
  • Knot.

Maps and Aeronautical charts

• Describe the two common forms of projections used for maps and charts.

• Discuss the properties of the Lambert's Conformal Conic projection 1:500,000 series charts - the NZMS 242A.

• Show how the scale of the map is depicted and how it is applied to determine distances on the map.

• Show how terrain relief is depicted on the map.

• Show how other features are depicted on maps and where to find information on the symbology used on the maps.

• Discuss the significance and method of checking the currency of any chart used for airspace depiction.

• Discuss which maps and charts are commonly used in gliding and where they can be obtained.

Practical pilot navigation

• Discuss the meaning and application of the following navigational terms:

  • Heading.
  • Track.
  • Drift.
  • Wind velocity.
  • Ground speed.
  • Bearing.
  • Relative bearing.

• Discuss and demonstrate the triangle of velocities method of obtaining courses to steer and ground speed.

• Describe the practical application of preflight navigation planning for cross country gliding including the following:

  • Selecting the map for flight and others that may be required for reference and other information not depicted on the primary map.
  • Selecting features for turn points and determining lat/long.
  • Measuring distances of legs between turnpoints.
  • Marking lines and information on maps:
    • What to put.
    • Where to put it.
    • How to mark it.
  • How to fold the map for easy use in the cockpit.

• Discuss inflight navigational techniques including the following:

  • Orienting the map and how to map read.
  • Identifying features for orientation.
  • Judging distances at different heights.
  • Determining overheads from features abeam.
  • Profile/plan changes in perspective at altitude.
  • Deviation around undesirable terrain/weather.
  • Keeping ahead of the aircraft and logging position.
  • Monitoring wind and the result of drift.
  • Position reporting requirements.

• Discuss the actions and considerations in the event of becoming uncertain of position.

• Discuss methods of mental dead reckoning and associated skills for use in flight.

Meteorology

The atmosphere

• Describe the characteristics of the atmosphere with regard to extent, compsition and height.

• Discuss the following about atmospheric pressure.
  • How it is measured.
  • Variation with height.
  • Variation with time and place.
  • Pressure systems - terminologies.
  • Pressure gradient.

• Discuss the following about atmospheric temperature.

  • How it is measured.
  • Variation with height.
  • Lapse rate.
  • Isothermals.
  • Inversions.
  • Stability and instability.

• Discuss the formation and charateristics of the following frontal systems.

  • Warm fronts.
  • Cold fronts.
  • Occluded fronts.
  • Stationary fronts.
  • Sea breeze fronts.

• Discuss the following about wind.

  • How wind flow is generated.
  • How wind velocity is measured.
  • Wind variation with height - wind gradient and wind shear.
  • Backing / veering.
  • Land and sea breezes.
  • Anabatic and katabatic winds.
  • Fohn wind.
  • Gusts, squalls and funnelling.

• Discuss the following about clouds.

  • How clouds form.
  • Types and charateristics of cloud types.

Soaring weather

• Describe the sources of rising air in the atmosphere available to gliders.

• Discuss the following in relation to convection.
  • The mechanics of convection.
  • Sources of thermals; their formation, rising, strength, height and cloud formation.
  • Types and characteristic development stages of cloud associated with thermals.
  • Where to fly in relation to thermal sources and associated clouds.
  • Wind effect on thermals and cloud streeting.
  • Recognition and significance of over development.
  • The dangers associated with cumulo-nimbus clouds.
  • The significance and effects of inversions on thermal conditions.
  • Lapse rates and the prediction of conditions.
  • The effect of latent heat on lapse rate at cloud base.
  • Fires as a source; the lift characteristic and precautions.

• Discuss the following in relation to clouds:
  • Humidity, teperature and dew point.
  • Formation of cloud
    • Thermals.
    • Orographic.
    • Turbulence.
  • Blue thermals.
  • Types of fog and the conditions required for their formation.

• Discuss how terrain influences soaring conditions.

• Discuss the following in relation to ridge soaring:
  • The significance of wind strength and direction in relation to a ridge.
  • Where to fly for lift.
  • How to determine surface wind velocity.
  • Formation and influence of thermals on ridges.
  • Low level turbulence and wind effects on ridges.
  • Formation and significance of cloud on ridges.
  • Considerations for crossing ridges and conditions in the lee.

• Discuss the following in relation to wave soaring:
  • The atmospheric conditions required for formation of waves.
  • Pressure wave.
  • Cap cloud.
  • Lee waves and how to soar them.
  • Fohn gaps and cautions about their shifting or closure.
  • Cloud types and charateristics associated with wave.
  • Turbulence - where to expect it, precautions and how to soar rotor.
  • Shear wave formulation.
  • The interaction of convection and wave.

• Discuss the following in relation to convergence lift:
  • The atmospheric conditions that generate convergence lift.
  • The indications of convergence - cloud and wind.
  • How to soar convergence.

• Discuss the following in relation to fronts:
  • Prefrontal weather conditions.
    • Warm front.
    • Cold front.
    • Sea breeze front.
  • Conditions associated with arrival and passage of fronts.
  • Soaring fronts - where the lift is and precautions / considerations.

• Discuss the factors that effect visibility in flight.

• Discuss the requirements for monitoring surface weather conditions at gliding sites and the precautions required in the following conditions:
  • Formation of low cloud or fog.
  • Wind changes.
  • Increases in wind strength, gusts and squalls.
  • High and low level turbulence.
  • Thermal twisters and dust devils.
  • Rain, hail and snow.
  • Low sun and haze / pollution.
  • Thunderstorm activity.

Weather forecasting

• Discuss the sources of weather forecast information useful at gliding.

• Demonstrate how to interpret weather maps and forecasts, including understanding of terminologies and abbreviations used.

Principles of glider construction

Structure

• Discuss how loads are transmitted in a structure with reference to the following:
  • Tension.
  • Compression.
  • Shear.

• Describe the types of loads that are imposed on a glider wing on the ground and in flight and the design, construction and materials used to meet these loads with reference to the following:
  • The main wing spar.
  • Leading edge D section or torsion box.
  • Secondary spars.
  • Ribs.
  • Stringers.
  • Trailing edges.

• Describe how the wing loads are transmitted to the fuselage.

• Discuss the function of the main wing rigging pins and the secondary rigging pins.

• Describe the construction method used in fuselages with reference to the following:
  • Truss or open frame.
  • Skin and longerons.
  • Monocoque structures.
  • Semi-monocoque structures.

• Describe the loads that can be imposed on the fuselage on the ground and in flight.

• Describe the loads that can be imposed on the tail surfaces and controls on the ground and in flight.

• Discuss the types of control systems and rigging of controls.

• Discuss the importance of ensuring appropriate materials are used for seat cushions.

• Discuss the importance of the daily inspection and duplicate inspection and the procedures involved in accomplishing both with reference to the folowing:
  • Location and checking of documentation required.
  • Sequence of inspection.
  • Where to look for damage; what it looks like and what to do about it when found.

• Discuss the normal maintenance and inspection cycles for gliders.

• Discuss what other circumstances would warrant the inspection of the glider by an engineer.

Instructional technique

Instuctor characteristics and qualities

• Discuss the attributes of an effective instructor with regard to the following:
  • Example.
  • Self discipline.
  • Integrity.
  • Empathy.
  • Knowledge and ability.
  • Personality.
  • Communication skills.

• Discuss the need for and methods of maintaining discipline in gliding operations.

• Discuss the supervision of pilots at varying levels of experience.

• Discuss the role of instructor panels, their meetings and their relationship to the administration of the gliding club.

• Discuss and show understanding of the operational limitations of the instructor rating held.

• Discuss the role and responsibilities of the CFI and their Deputy.

Student characteristics and qualities

• Discuss the recognition of differences in aptitude, personality and emotions amongst students.

• Discuss common traits and faults of students and suggest ways of correcting them.

The learning process

• Discuss characteristics of human information processing.

• Discuss the following patterns in learning:
  • Rote.
  • Trial and error.
  • Guidance.
  • Analysis.

• Discuss the limitations of the human learning process.

• Discuss examples of negative motivation.

• Discuss the importance of standardisation and ways of maintaining it.

Principles of glider instruction

• Discuss the following in relation to instructing in gliding:
  • Responsibility.
  • Communication.
  • Orientation.
  • Skill.
  • Safety.

• Discuss and demonstrate the use of the following training aids:
  • Blackboard.
  • Whiteboard.
  • Magnetic aids.
  • Models, charts, diagrams and photographs.
  • Overhead projectors.
  • Slide projectors.
  • Reference books, manuals and hand-outs.

• Discuss and demonstrate the following methods of ground instruction in gliding:
  • Lectures/tutorials.
  • Pre flight briefings.
  • Post flight debriefings.

• Discuss and demostrate the following methods of airborne instruction in gliders:
  • Introduction or aim of the exercise/manoevre.
  • Showing.
  • Demostrating.
  • Teaching.
  • Students practise.
  • Fault analysing.
  • Remedial.
  • Summary or conclusion.
  • Review.

• Discuss and demonstrate the cueing techniques of what, when, and how in an airborne situation.

• Discuss and demonstrate methods of fault analysis.

• Discuss the need for and method of developing self analysis by a student.

• Discuss the technique of intervention with regard to timing and effectiveness.

• Discuss and demonstrate non-verbal intervention techniques.

• Discuss and demonstrate verbal intervention techniques.
• Discuss and demonstrate the procedure for handing over and taking over control.

• Discuss when and why an instructor should take over control.