Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v5 - Grade 4

Lesson Video

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Performance objectives

• Identify at least three common road signs and explain their meaning.
• Describe three ways to cross a road safely.
• Explain the importance of traffic signals and road markings.
• List two potential dangers for pedestrians and how to avoid them.
• Demonstrate how to walk safely alongside a road with no sidewalk.

Lesson summary

This week, we're diving into an important part of staying healthy and safe: Road Safety and Pedestrian Safety. As Grade 4 learners in South Africa, you are becoming more independent, walking to school, playing outside, or visiting friends in your neighbourhoods. Knowing how to be safe near roads and as pedestrians is crucial to avoid accidents and injuries. South Africa unfortunately has a high rate of road accidents, and understanding these rules will help keep you safe and protect you from harm. We will explore the rules of the road, how to identify hazards, and practice safe pedestrian behavior.

Lesson notes

What is a Pedestrian? A pedestrian is anyone who is walking, running, jogging, or hiking. It could be you walking to school, your parents pushing a pram, or someone walking their dog. As pedestrians, we have a responsibility to be aware of our surroundings and follow the rules to stay safe.

Road Signs: Road signs are like instructions on the road. They tell drivers and pedestrians what to do or what to be aware of. Here are some common road signs you should know: Stop Sign: A red octagon with the word "STOP" in white. It means you must come to a complete stop and check for traffic before proceeding. Imagine you are walking to your local spaza shop. If you see a Stop sign where you want to cross, you MUST stop, look left and right, and make sure it's clear before crossing.

Yield Sign: An upside-down triangle with a red border and white inside. It means you should give way to other vehicles or pedestrians. You do not necessarily need to stop, but you must be prepared to. Suppose you are walking with your friends on a pedestrian pathway that joins a road used by cyclists. If you see a yield sign, you need to be aware that the cyclists may be there first, and you need to give them way so you don't bump into each other.

Pedestrian Crossing: A blue sign with a white walking figure or white lines painted across the road (zebra crossing). It indicates a designated place for pedestrians to cross. Think about walking to the clinic to get your vaccinations. If you see this sign, you can be assured that the drivers should give you a way to cross the road.

Speed Limit Sign: A white circle with a red border and a number inside. It tells you the maximum speed cars are allowed to drive on that road. This helps you know that the cars are going at a manageable speed when you need to cross the road.

Warning Signs: These signs are usually yellow with black symbols. They warn drivers (and pedestrians) about potential hazards ahead, such as children playing, animals crossing, or a sharp bend in the road. For example, a sign showing children will let you know that there may be children crossing or playing, and you should be extra careful and aware of them.

Traffic Signals (Traffic Lights): Traffic lights control the flow of traffic at intersections.

Red Light: Means STO

P. Do not cross the road if the light is red.

Yellow Light: Means CAUTION. Prepare to stop if it is safe to do so. Do not try to rush across the road if the light is yellow.

Green Light: Means GO. Check that it is safe to cross before proceeding, even if the light is green, as cars may not be paying attention.

Pedestrian Walk Signal: This is a separate light that shows a walking person. A white walking person means it is safe to cross. A flashing orange or red hand means it is about to change, and you should not start crossing, or should finish crossing as quickly as possible.

Safe Road Crossing Procedures: The most important part of being a safe pedestrian is knowing how to cross the road safely. The best way to cross the road is by following this procedure: Find a safe place to cross: Use pedestrian crossings, traffic lights, or a place where you can see clearly in both directions. Avoid crossing between parked cars or on blind corners.

Stop at the edge of the pavement: Stand back from the curb and look for any approaching vehicles. Look left, look right, and look left again: Make sure there are no cars, taxis, buses, or bicycles coming.

Listen for traffic: Sometimes you can hear a car coming before you see it. If it is safe, walk straight across the road: Do not run, and keep looking and listening while you cross.

Continue to watch traffic: As you get to the other side of the road, continue to look left and right to make sure that you get to the other side safely.

Walking Alongside the Road: Sometimes, there isn't a sidewalk to walk on. In this case, walk facing the traffic so you can see oncoming vehicles. Stay as far to the side of the road as possible. Wear bright clothing or reflective materials, especially at night, so drivers can see you easily.

Dangers for Pedestrians: Distracted Drivers: Drivers who are talking on their phones, texting, or not paying attention can be dangerous to pedestrians. Always be aware and make eye contact with drivers before crossing.

Speeding Cars: Cars that are traveling too fast can be hard to see and stop quickly. Cross the road only when you have enough time to cross safely.

Poor Visibility: At night, in bad weather (like rain or fog), or in areas with poor lighting, it can be hard for drivers to see pedestrians. Wear bright clothing or carry a flashlight.

Jaywalking: Crossing the road anywhere other than at a designated pedestrian crossing or intersection is dangerous. Guided Practice (With Solutions)

Question 1: You are walking to the library and come to a road with a yellow sign showing children playing. What should you do?

Solution: You should be extra careful and pay close attention.