Talking to yourself!
If this is your first 'formal' experience of commentary driving it is best to stick to basics to start with.
As with all good learning you will start with the 'simple' and then later move to more 'complex' ideas. In this instance the simple is just calling out the name of road signs, what could be easier than that!
For example, if you saw the sign pictured on the right you would say (out loud) "Series of bends!"'
Start with a 30/40 minute drive around your local area on roads that you know well. As you drive looking out for road signs and markings and say the name of each out loud as you spot it.
Example
"Roundabout sign, hazard warning lines in the centre of the road, left turn only sign and chevrons at the roundabout, give way lines, direction sign for Buxton, national speed limit sign, double white lines ahead."
This simple basic 'call out the signs' commentary might be done over a stretch of road half a mile long taking 40 seconds to drive.
You simply say what you see.
After the initial exercise practice this simple commentary exercise for ten minutes every time you go out in your car during the next week.
As you do this you may find that you spot local signs or markings that you haven't seen before... This shows that you are becoming more observant!
Each time you see a sign or marking consider its relevance and position. How helpful is it to you as a driver?
Ask yourself...
Ask yourself questions about:
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What?
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When?
-
Where?
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How?
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Why?
For example:
"Why is the sign there?"
"What action do I need to take and how will it affect others?"
"When do I have to start acting upon the sign?"
"Where is the hazard indicated by the sign?"
"How will I respond?"
That's all there is for this project, easy, but very valuable and important - especially if you are completing this course as part of a driving instructor training programme.
Finally... If you find that this exercise is easy, continue to practise anyway...
