Lesson Notes By Weeks and Term v5 - Grade 4

Lesson Video

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Performance objectives

• Identify safety rules for pedestrians.
• Describe safe cycling practices.
• Explain how to be a safe passenger.
• Recognize and avoid potential road hazards.

Lesson summary

This lesson will teach you how to stay safe on and around roads. We will explore the rules of the road for pedestrians, cyclists, and passengers. Learning these rules is extremely important because it will help you protect yourself from accidents and injuries. In South Africa, many people are injured or killed in road accidents every year. By knowing how to be safe, you can help reduce this number. We also want to learn how to be responsible passengers, which means behaving properly in vehicles and not distracting the driver.

Lesson notes

Pedestrian Safety: Definition: A pedestrian is a person walking along a road or in a built-up area.

Rules: Always use sidewalks/pavements: When available, always walk on the sidewalk. This separates you from traffic and reduces the risk of being hit by a vehicle.

Cross the road at designated crossings: Use pedestrian crossings (zebra crossings), traffic lights with pedestrian signals, or pedestrian bridges/underpasses. These are the safest places to cross because drivers are more likely to be aware of pedestrians. Look left, right, and left again before crossing: Even at designated crossings, always look both ways to make sure no cars are coming. Never assume drivers will stop for you.

Make eye contact with drivers: If possible, make eye contact with the driver to ensure they see you before you start crossing. Walk facing oncoming traffic (if no sidewalk): If there is no sidewalk, walk on the side of the road facing oncoming traffic. This allows you to see vehicles approaching and react accordingly.

Be visible: Wear bright clothing, especially at night or in low-light conditions. Consider carrying a flashlight or wearing reflective gear.

Why it matters: South Africa has a high rate of pedestrian fatalities. Many pedestrians are injured or killed each year due to not following these rules.

Example: Thando is walking home from school. There is a sidewalk, but he wants to take a shortcut across the busy road. What should he do? He should NOT take the shortcut. He should walk to the nearest pedestrian crossing or traffic light, look left, right, and left again, and then cross safely.

Cyclist Safety (Where Applicable): Definition: A cyclist is someone riding a bicycle. (

Note: Cycling infrastructure may be limited in some areas of South Africa).

Rules: Wear a helmet: A helmet protects your head in case of a fall or collision. It is essential for cyclists of all ages.

Use hand signals: Use hand signals to indicate your intentions to turn left, turn right, or stop. This helps drivers understand what you are going to do. Extend your left arm straight out for a left turn, bend your right arm up for a right turn, and point your arm downwards for a stop. Ride on the left side of the road, in the same direction as traffic: This makes you more visible to drivers.

Be aware of your surroundings: Pay attention to traffic, pedestrians, and other cyclists. Make sure your bicycle is in good working condition: Check the brakes, tires, and chain regularly. Use lights and reflectors, especially at night: Make sure your bicycle has a white light at the front and a red reflector at the back.

Why it matters: Cycling can be a healthy and fun way to get around, but it is also important to be safe. Following these rules can reduce the risk of accidents.

Example: Sipho wants to ride his bicycle to his friend's house. He checks his brakes, puts on his helmet, and prepares to ride. As he approaches an intersection, he wants to turn left. What should he do? He should look over his left shoulder to make sure it's safe, extend his left arm straight out to signal his intention, and then make the turn when it's clear.

Passenger Safety: Definition: A passenger is someone travelling in a vehicle (car, bus, taxi) who is not the driver.

Rules: Wear a seatbelt: Always wear a seatbelt, no matter how short the journey. Seatbelts save lives by preventing you from being thrown from the vehicle in a crash.

Enter and exit the vehicle safely: Get in and out of the vehicle on the side closest to the sidewalk or curb.

Do not distract the driver: Avoid making loud noises, arguing, or doing anything that could take the driver's attention away from the road. Keep your arms and head inside the vehicle: Never stick your arms or head out the window.

Follow the driver's instructions: Listen to the driver and follow their instructions for your safety. Wait for the vehicle to come to a complete stop before getting out.

Why it matters: Passengers have a responsibility to be safe and responsible. Wearing a seatbelt and avoiding distractions can significantly reduce the risk of injury in an accident.

Example: Aisha is riding in a taxi with her mother. She wants to play loud music on her phone, but her mother tells her to turn it down. Why is this important? It is important because loud music can distract the driver and make it harder for them to concentrate on the road.

Recognizing and Avoiding Road Hazards: Examples of Road Hazards: Potholes Animals in the road (especially in rural areas) Other pedestrians Parked cars that block visibility Construction zones Heavy rain or fog How to Avoid Road Hazards: Pay attention to your surroundings. Be aware of potential hazards. Slow down in areas where hazards are likely. Be prepared to stop or change direction suddenly. If driving with parents, point out potential hazards to help them stay alert.

Example: While walking home, Sipho sees a large pothole in the sidewalk. What should he do?