Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v5 - Grade 4

Lesson Video

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Performance objectives

• Identify dangers pedestrians face on roads.
• Describe and show safe ways to cross the road.
• Explain the meaning of common road signs for pedestrians.
• Understand how to cross safely with a scholar patrol.
• Explain why it's important to be visible to drivers.

Lesson summary

This lesson focuses on Road Safety as Pedestrians. Road safety is critically important for all South Africans, but especially for young pedestrians like you. Many children walk to school, to the shop, or to visit friends, and understanding how to stay safe on the roads can prevent accidents and injuries. In South Africa, with its high traffic density in urban areas and busy roads in rural areas, being aware of pedestrian safety rules is essential for protecting yourselves. This lesson will help you become more responsible and knowledgeable pedestrians.

Lesson notes

What are the dangers facing pedestrians? Being a pedestrian in South Africa can be risky if you aren't careful.

Some common dangers include: Cars not stopping: Drivers sometimes don't see pedestrians, especially children, or they might be speeding and unable to stop in time.

Poor visibility: At night, early in the morning, or during rain or fog, it's harder for drivers to see pedestrians.

Distracted drivers: Drivers using their phones, eating, or talking to passengers may not be paying attention to the road.

Lack of safe crossing points: Not all roads have pedestrian crossings or traffic lights, making it difficult to cross safely.

Ignoring traffic rules: Some pedestrians don't follow traffic rules, such as crossing the road when the light is red or not using pedestrian crossings.

Drinking and driving: While it is the driver's responsiblity to not drink and drive, pedestrians also need to be extra cautious of impaired drivers who are likely to not follow rules.

How to cross the road safely: Here's a step-by-step guide to crossing the road safely: Find a safe place to cross: Always try to cross at a pedestrian crossing (zebra crossing) or where there are traffic lights. If there isn't a crossing, choose a place where you can see clearly in both directions, and drivers can see you. Stop, look, and listen: Stop at the edge of the pavement. Look left, then right, then left again to check for traffic. Listen carefully for any sounds of approaching vehicles.

Wait until it's safe: Don't cross if there are any cars coming, even if they seem far away. Wait until all the traffic has stopped, or there's a big enough gap for you to cross safely.

Keep looking and listening: As you cross, keep looking left and right to make sure no vehicles are approaching. Keep listening for any sounds of cars. Walk, don't run: Walk across the road, don't run. Running can be dangerous because you might trip or not be able to see approaching vehicles.

Road Signs: Knowing what road signs mean is very important.

Some common signs for pedestrians include: Pedestrian Crossing Sign: This sign shows a person walking across a zebra crossing. It means that there is a pedestrian crossing nearby, and drivers should be prepared to stop for pedestrians.

Traffic Lights: Traffic lights control the flow of traffic. When the light is green for cars, it is red for pedestrians (and vice versa). Always wait for the green man signal before crossing.

No Pedestrian Crossing: This sign shows a person crossed out with a red line. It means that pedestrians are not allowed to cross the road at that point.

Scholar Patrols: Many schools have scholar patrols, which are groups of older students and teachers who help younger children cross the road safely. Scholar patrols usually wear bright vests and use stop signs to stop traffic. Always follow the instructions of the scholar patrol.

Being Visible: It's essential to be visible to drivers, especially at night or in bad weather. Wear bright-coloured clothing or reflective strips. If you are walking at night, carry a flashlight or wear clothing with reflective material.