Directions (Grade 10 NSC Matric English FAL): Revision Notes

Directions

What are directions?

Writing directions means explaining the route between two locations in a way that is simple to understand. When you write directions, you are guiding someone step by step from their starting position to their destination. Your instructions must be arranged in the proper sequence and should be straightforward enough for anyone to follow without getting lost.

The key to writing good directions is including recognisable landmarks (such as shops, traffic lights, or buildings) and distances (like "500 metres" or "two blocks") so the person knows they are going the right way.

When will you write directions?

In your NSC English FAL exam, you might be asked to provide directions for various situations:

• Helping a visitor or tourist: Someone new to your area needs to find a specific place
• School or work context: Guiding someone to a school event, workplace, or competition venue
• Finding a specific location: Directing a person to a particular building or area they need to reach

Structure and format

To write clear directions, you need to organise your information into four main parts. Each part has a specific job to help guide your reader.

Heading or title

Begin with a title that clearly states what your directions are for. This immediately tells the reader where the directions will take them.

Example: "Directions from the bus station to our school"

Starting point

Tell the person exactly where they should begin their journey. This gives them a clear reference point to start following your instructions.

Example: "Start at the main bus station in town"

Step-by-step directions

This is the main body of your directions. Present your instructions in numbered points or short paragraphs so they are easy to follow. Each step should include:

• The action to take (turn, walk, continue)
• Important landmarks along the way
• Distances where helpful
• Turns and changes in direction

Ending point

Finish by describing the final destination and what the person will see when they arrive. This helps them confirm they have reached the correct place.

Example: "You will see the school gate on your right"

Style and tone

The way you write directions is just as important as the information you include. Follow these guidelines to ensure your directions are effective.

Use command verbs

Imperative verbs (command words) tell the reader what action to do. These verbs make your directions direct and easy to understand.

Examples: Turn, Go, Walk, Continue, Take, Stop, Pass, Enter, Exit

Start each instruction with one of these action words to make it clear what the person should do.

Write in short sentences

Keep your sentences brief and simple. This makes each instruction easier to read and remember. Avoid long, complicated sentences that might confuse the reader.

Good example: "Turn right at the traffic lights."
Avoid: "After you have walked for a while and you see some traffic lights ahead of you, you should think about turning right at that point."

Use linking words

Linking words help organise your directions in sequence so the reader knows the order of steps.

Examples: First, Then, After that, Next, Finally

These words create a smooth flow between instructions and make it clear which step comes next.

Keep a polite and helpful tone

Your directions should sound friendly and supportive. Remember, you are helping someone who may feel lost or uncertain. A polite tone makes your directions more welcoming.

Include specific landmarks

Landmarks are recognisable features along the route that help the person confirm they are going the correct way. Mention buildings, shops, signs, or other noticeable features.

Examples: "You will pass a petrol station on your left" or "The post office is opposite the park"

Useful phrases for writing directions

Here are some helpful phrases you can use for each part of your directions.

Starting your directions

• "Start at the..."
• "Leave the building through the main gate"
• "Begin your journey from..."

Giving directions along the route

• "Turn left/right at the traffic lights"
• "Go straight for about 500 metres"
• "Walk down [street name] until you reach..."
• "Continue along the road"

Using landmarks

• "You will pass a petrol station on your left"
• "The post office is opposite the park"
• "Look for the large shopping centre"
• "Walk past the library"

Ending your directions

• "You will see the library on your right"
• "The mall is at the end of the road"
• "The destination will be directly in front of you"
• "You have arrived when you see..."

Example: Directions

Here is a complete example showing all the elements working together:

Exam tips

When writing directions in your exam, remember these important points to earn full marks:

Remember!