True or False: The ceiling of a one-story building is supported by floor joists.

The assertion is false because the ceiling of a one-story building is typically supported by ceiling joists, not floor joists. Ceiling joists are specifically designed to support the weight of the ceiling and any loads placed upon it, while floor joists are meant to support the flooring above them.

In a standard one-story structure, the floor joists are located beneath the subfloor, supporting the flooring above, and they run horizontally between the walls of the building. The ceiling joists, on the other hand, are installed parallel to the floor joists and attach directly to the top plates of the wall, providing the necessary support for the ceiling.

In addition, saying "it varies by design" or suggesting support in only small structures does not accurately reflect common construction practices; most one-story buildings follow this standard structural design regardless of their size. Thus, the ceiling relies on its own system of joists, separate from the floor structure.