What fieldwork can we do in the local area?

Amber: The street is very busy!

Ben: Do you think there is a lot of pollution because of all the cars?

Granny: Maybe. In some places cars aren't allowed on the high street to avoid pollution and prevent accidents. I think they should do that here, too.

In fact, we should find out if the high street should only be for people walking to the shops. That way they might stop so many cars from being here and causing nasty fumes.

Ben: How would you do that?

Granny: By using fieldwork! And I'm going to need your help.

Ben and Amber: Yay!

Amber: We can make a list of questions to ask people. Let's start with: "Should the high street be closed to cars?"

Ben: We can also count the people in the high street to see how busy it is.

Granny: Ooh, that's called a 'tally'.

But before you do anything you need to make sure that you're doing things safely. Stay with a grown-up, be careful crossing roads and only go where you know it's safe!

Amber: Hold on! Where will all the cars go if they can't go down the high street?

Granny: We should check maps to find out if there are enough car parks.

Amber: People can also use buses and cycle.

Granny: What about disabled parking?

Ben: Questionnaires, numbers, maps, photos… There's so much to think about! Too much information!

Amber: I've put all the things we found out together and made these graphs!

Ben: Wow!

Amber: Look, most people don't want cars on the high street.

Ben: Granny found that there is enough space for cars to park in other places.

Amber: And there are bus stops and cycle paths close by.

Ben: But some people may find it hard to get into town without their car.

Granny: So, what's the answer? Should the high street be closed to cars?

Ben and Amber: The answer is… Sometimes!

Granny: But when?

Amber: For that, we'll need to ask some more questions.