CTS 101 and CTS 102 and CTS 103
This course covers the basic control skills necessary to safely operate tractor-trailer vehicles through a series of maneuvering exercises. Skill development and learning occurs through behind-the-wheel training to include shifting, backing, inspecting, and coupling/uncoupling.
Obtain current textbook information by viewing the campus bookstore online or visit a campus bookstore. Check your course schedule for the course number and section.
Driver’s daily log book
Students must be at least 18 years of age, possess a valid driver’s license for at least one year, possess a valid commercial driver’s license (CDL) learner’s permit, pass a Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examination, and pass a DOT pre-hire drug test. Students must participate in a random drug-testing program as mandated by federal law.
- Demonstrate procedures to complete vehicle inspections. (CCC 1; PGC 2)
- Demonstrate basic control principles necessary to operate a tractor-trailer vehicle in forward motion and reverse motion in an off-road controlled environment. (CCC 1; PGC 3)
- Demonstrate industry-accepted coupling and uncoupling procedures for tractor-trailer combination units. (CCC 1; PGC 4)
See Core Curriculum Competencies and Program Graduate Competencies at the end of the syllabus. CCPOs are linked to every competency they develop.
Upon completion of this course, the student will:
- Demonstrate procedures to complete vehicle inspections.
- Inspect and determine the condition of critical vehicle components, including the instrument and controls, engine and drive train, chassis and suspension, steering system, braking system, coupling system, emergency equipment, and cargo securement devices.
- Perform post-trip inspections by making accurate notes of actual and suspected component abnormalities or malfunctions, and complete a vehicle condition report.
- Demonstrate basic control principles necessary to operate a tractor-trailer vehicle in forward motion and reverse motion in an off-road controlled environment.
- Get into cab, adjust seat, adjust mirrors, and fasten seatbelt.
- Put vehicle in motion smoothly, and achieve increasingly smooth motion and acceleration; then bring the vehicle to a smooth stop.
- Judge paths; negotiate left and right curves and sharp turns and track vehicle while performing low-speed maneuvers.
- Back slowly, at idle speed, in a straight line.
- Maneuver into restricted areas to rear, sides, and front on both a straight line and jackknife position.
- Execute reverse steering of an articulated vehicle.
- Position vehicle correctly before beginning a backing/docking maneuver.
- Back in straight and curved lines, using idle speed.
- Back into restricted space.
- Parallel park vehicle.
- Perform serpentine backing.
- Demonstrate industry-accepted coupling and uncoupling procedures for tractor-trailer combination units.
- Couple and uncouple tractor-trailer combination unit in accordance to the state commercial driver’s manual’s specifications.
The grade will be determined using the Delaware Tech grading system:
| 90 | – | 100 | = | A |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 80 | – | 89 | = | B |
| 70 | – | 79 | = | C |
| 0 | – | 69 | = | F |
Students should refer to the Student Handbook for information on the Academic Standing Policy, the Academic Integrity Policy, Student Rights and Responsibilities, and other policies relevant to their academic progress.
Calculated using the following weighted average
|
Evaluation Measure |
Percentage of final grade |
|
Summative - 4 Tests (equally weighted) |
30% |
|
Formative - 4 Quizzes (equally weighted) |
20% |
|
Summative – Final Exam |
50% |
|
TOTAL |
100% |
- Apply clear and effective communication skills.
- Use critical thinking to solve problems.
- Collaborate to achieve a common goal.
- Demonstrate professional and ethical conduct.
- Use information literacy for effective vocational and/or academic research.
- Apply quantitative reasoning and/or scientific inquiry to solve practical problems.
AUTCERCTC/AUTDIPCTS
- Operate a tractor-trailer equipped with a multi-range, non-synchronized transmission on the public roadways.
- Identify mechanical defects in the performance of pre-trip, en-route, and post-trip vehicle inspections.
- Operate a tractor-trailer in reverse through a series of maneuvering exercises accordance to State of Delaware licensing standards.
- Perform safe coupling and uncoupling of typical tractor-trailer units.
- Explain safe cargo handling and documentation.
- Explain safe and legal procedures at an accident scene and proper reporting of accidents.
- Plan an interstate trip including map reading/route selection, calculating driving time and fuel consumption, estimating distances, personal expenses, and personal needs.
- Identify, explain and comply with the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Regulations Part 390 – 397, 380, 382 and 383.
- Explain the driver’s role in the trucking industry and the role of trucking in our nation’s economy and security.
- Create a professional job search and job retention plan.
The College is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for students with disabilities. Students are encouraged to schedule an appointment with the campus Disabilities Support Counselor to request an accommodation needed due to a disability. A listing of campus Disabilities Support Counselors and contact information can be found at the disabilities services web page or visit the campus Advising Center.