Children in this age range make more independent journeys. These journeys are often longer and more frequent than they have previously made. Peer pressure becomes increasingly influential. Children adopt the ways in which they have observed adults use the road. They do not always have the skills and experience to cope.

This age range is the peak for pedestrian and cyclist casualties.

Curriculum objectives for Key Stage 3

Children need to:

• Identify risk in situations and how to take actions to reduce that risk
• Know what is safe and unsafe in terms of road user behaviour
• Recognise unsafe strategies and influences in other people
• Be able to resist pressure from other people to use the roads in an unsafe way
• Know how to plan and time journeys using simple maps and timetables
• Be aware of the common causes of injuries to young people
• Understand that road crashes have far reaching consequences which affect victims, their families and the communities
• Know what to do and how to get help if an accident does happen
• Have a simple understanding of political processes in their communities and know how they influence change

Key Stage 3 Teaching Ideas

English

Communication: signs, symbols, rules, sequencing, interpreting information, exploring styles and conventions used.

Media, publicity and advertising.

Reflect on an accident scenario or situation where someone is being pressurised into taking dangerous actions. Use drama or role play. Poetry could be used to convey the feelings of those involved.

Mathematics

Collect, classify and interpret data on how the road network operates. Explore the impact of passenger transport systems on traffic flow. Examine the potential impact of 'greener transport systems'.

Investigate local accident statistics and compare with other areas. Suggest possible reasons for any differences found. Examine fluctuations during different times of the day.

Science

Explore the role of science in helping to keep people safe. Examine how materials are used e.g. energy absorbing materials used on exteriors of vehicles minimise the effect of impacts on pedestrians.

Investigations into distance/speed/time, motion, forces,stability, energy resources and fuel economy.

Technology

Design and make measures which can help pedestrians move around easily and safely in the local community.

 

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