What is Section B of the L.A.R.E?
Section B of the LARE exam covers topics like site inventory, site analysis and program development. Section B is a multiple-choice, computer-based test that is administered by CLARB.
How Long is Section B of the LARE?
You have 2 hours to finish Section B on test day.
When Can I Take Section B of the LARE?
Section B of the LARE (and the other two multiple-choice tests) is offered twice a year in September and March. Check out the article about registering for the LARE for more information on how to register for the Landscape Architecture Registration Exam (L.A.R.E.).
Suggested Study Materials for LARE Section B
CLARB recommends using the resources listed below to prepare for Section B of the LARE. You may have some of these books from your college days. If not, all of the books can be purchased new or used from Amazon.com.
Basic Elements of Landscape Architectural Design by Norman Booth
This standard landscape architecture text book introduces landscape architectural elements and design principles. Basic Elements of Landscape Architectural Design is a helpful resource for individuals beginning their careers or preparing for the LARE. This book presents key thoughts and design theories that are the foundation of landscape architecture in simple language and drawings. Use this book as a sourcebook for the vocabulary, characteristics, and design guidelines for landform manipulation, plants, structures, paving, buildings, and water in landscape design. I recommend using this book as a general refresher for the basics of landscape architecture vocabulary and design concepts. The sections on site analysis and program development may be useful for studying for and passing Section B of the LARE. You can buy a used copy from Amazon for about forty dollars.
Site Analysis: A Contextual Approach to Sustainable Land Planning and Site Design by James LaGro
Site Analysis covers the topic mentioned appropriately in its title in great detail. Understanding the site-planning process is crucial to your ability to pass Section B of the LARE. The book uses several project case studies from top design firms and numerous illustrations to describe and explain the current state of the art in sustainable land planning and site design. This work includes several topics that are on Section B of the LARE test including site selection and programming; mapping of physical, biological, and cultural attributes; site suitability analysis; conceptual design; design development; feasibility studies; and site plan review. Site Analysis: A Contextual Approach to Sustainable Land Planning and Site Design will help you better understand the linkages between existing site and contextual conditions and prepare for the LARE exam.
Site Engineering for Landscape Architects by S.Strom's, K.Nathan's, J.Woland's
You probably used this book in a studio class in you undergraduate or graduate landscape architecture college program. Site Engineering for Landscape Architects is a classic book that clearly (if somewhat dryly) covers site engineering and grading. I recommend reviewing the sections on grading and stormwater management to help prepare to pass the LARE. Study the chapters on site inventory and analysis to prepare for Section B of the LARE. You can even download an Amazon Kindle version of this handy reference book.
Site Planning and Design Handbook (2nd Edition) by Tom Russ
Site Planning and Design Handbook, Second Edition is full of up-to-date information on the newest standards and protocols (including LEED information for landscape architects). This book has expanded discussions on sustainable site design topics such as water conservation, energy efficiency, green building materials, site infrastructure, and brownfield restoration. This work is a complete resource for addressing the problems and opportunities of site planning and design. I recommend studying these topics to prepare for the LARE: integrating sustainability into site design; collecting site data and site analysis; meeting community standards; planning for open space, pedestrians, and parking (parking is very important on the LARE); using grading to prevent erosion, low impact storm water management techniques, and how to apply landscape ecology to the sign design process. In my opinion, this is the most current reference work suggested by CLARB for preparation for Section B of the LARE. You can even download this book on an Amazon Kindle!
Related Articles:
- LARE Registration Checklist
- Prepare for Section A of the LARE exam
- How to Register for the LARE exam
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