LESSON PLAN Number 14 / 20
1. Topic:
Decision making
2. Learning Environment:
Low medium and high density traffic
3. Training prerequisites:
Current learner license
L plate correctly displayed
Eligible supervising driver present
Registered and roadworthy vehicle
Experience in medium density traffic
4. Introduction of trainer
A- OH&S
Point out any OH&S concerns with the training environment.
§ Poor decisions at intersections are a leading cause of crashes, especially
for provisional drivers. Gaining as much experience as possible with this
skill can reduce the risk of future crashes.
A safe gap is one in which you do not cause other drivers to slow down or
move to avoid you. When you are crossing traffic you should clear its path
with plenty of time to spare (at least three seconds).
Before you start, refresh your knowledge of give way and merging rules.
5. Outcomes
During this lesson we will be covering what is required to
Make safe decisions when joining or crossing traffic, lane changing or
proceeding at traffic lights.
The reason for this is so as you a driver will be able to control a
vehicle in a safe, comfortable and effective manner, within the law
and the guidelines laid down by the RMS NSW.
At the end of this lesson you will be able to correctly make:
Left turn decisions
Right turn decisions
Turn across path decisions
Lane change decisions
Check for traffic when moving off from traffic lights.
6. Main body
RUH 90-92,121
GDT 20-21
a. Left turn decisions
For left turns, you go only when there is a safe gap in the traffic and
you are not affecting the crash avoidance space of other drivers.
b. Right turn decisions
A safe gap ensures that other vehicles do not need to change their
speed or position. When turning across traffic make sure your vehicle
is clear of the intersection by at least three seconds before the
approaching vehicles arrive.
c. Turn across path decisions.
When joining a traffic stream, select a gap that allows you to reach the
traffic speed before the approaching vehicles are within three seconds
of your car.
d. Lane Changing
e. Check for traffic when moving from traffic lights.
When approaching traffic lights that are green, check your mirrors and
be prepared to stop.
7. Conclusion
Discuss what has been covered in the lesson.
Clear up any doubtful points; ask the student if they have any questions
about what has been taught during the lesson.
8. Test of Objectives
Have the student enter the vehicle and make all necessary adjustments.
Quiz the student on decision making.
Provide feedback on their performance
Feedback Questions
Q) 1- When do you have to make a safe decision?
Q) 2- What should you do before turning to the left side of the road?
Q) 3- What should you do before leaving the kerb or a parked position?
Q) 4- When changing lanes what should you do?
Q) 5- How many seconds of safety gap do you need when you join traffic?
9. Summary
During this lesson you have learnt how to make:
Left turn decisions
Right turn decisions
Turn across path decisions
Lane change decisions
Check for traffic when moving off from traffic lights.
10. Next lesson plan
Your next lesson in this training program will be “responding to hazards”
11. Resources
Suitable vehicle
Diagram/photo of decision making
RTA guide to driving test pages 20-21
White board and pen
RTA log book Page # 30, 31
Road user handbook Pages 90- 92,121