Directions (Grade 11 NSC Matric English FAL): Revision Notes

Directions

What are directions?

A direction text is a type of shorter transactional writing that guides a person from one location to another. The main aim is to provide clear and accurate instructions so that someone can successfully reach their destination. Good directions are organised in the correct sequence, making each step easy to understand and follow. To help the reader navigate confidently, you should mention important reference points like landmarks or provide specific distances along the route.

When will you write directions in the exam?

In your Paper 3 exam, you might be asked to create directions for different situations. Understanding these scenarios will help you prepare effectively:

• For a visitor or tourist: You may need to guide someone who is unfamiliar with the area to a local attraction or important place.
• For a school or workplace event: Perhaps someone is attending a competition, meeting, or special function and needs to find the venue.
• To a specific building or area: You might direct a person to a particular room, office block, or designated space within a larger location.

How to structure your directions

Directions follow a clear, logical format that makes them easy to read and use. Your directions should always include four essential parts: a title or heading, a starting point, step-by-step directions, and an ending point. Each section has a specific purpose:

Title or heading

Begin with a descriptive title that tells the reader exactly what your directions cover. Make it specific and informative so people immediately understand the route you're explaining. For example, you could write "Directions from the Bus Station to Our School" or "How to Get from the Library to the Sports Centre."

Starting point

Open your directions by clearly stating where the journey begins. This ensures that your reader starts from the correct location and doesn't become confused. You might write something like "Start at the main bus station in town" or "Begin your journey at the entrance to the shopping centre."

Step-by-step directions

This is the main body of your text, where you guide the reader through each stage of the journey. Present your instructions using either numbered points or short paragraphs. Each step should include helpful details such as:

• Street names or road identifiers
• Distances to walk (for example, "about 300 metres")
• Turns to make (left, right, straight ahead)
• Recognizable landmarks that confirm the reader is on the right path

Ending point

Finish your directions by describing the final destination and what the reader will see upon arrival. This gives them confidence that they've reached the correct place. For instance: "You will see the school gate on your right" or "The library entrance will be directly in front of you."

Language and writing style

The language you choose for directions is quite specific and needs to be direct and easy to follow.

Using imperative verbs

Write your instructions using imperative verbs, which are command words that tell the reader what action to take. These verbs make your directions clear and authoritative. Common examples include:

• Turn
• Go
• Walk
• Continue
• Take
• Stop

For example: "Turn left at the traffic lights" or "Walk straight down Market Street."

Linking words for sequence

Use linking words to show the order of steps and help your reader move logically through the directions. These words create a smooth flow and prevent confusion. Key linking words include:

• First
• Then
• After that
• Finally

For example: "First, exit through the main gate. Then, turn right onto the main road."

Tone and manner

Keep your tone polite and helpful throughout. Remember that the person reading your directions might feel uncertain or anxious about finding their way, so a friendly, encouraging tone makes a big difference. Avoid being bossy or abrupt.

Including landmarks

Always mention specific landmarks or signs that the reader will pass along the route. These reference points help people confirm they're travelling in the right direction and build their confidence. Landmarks might include:

• Petrol stations
• Parks
• Post offices
• Churches
• Traffic lights
• Notable buildings

Sentence structure

Write in clear, short sentences that are easy to read quickly. Long, complicated sentences can confuse people who are trying to navigate whilst reading your directions. Keep your language simple and direct.

Useful expressions for directions

Here are some helpful phrases you can use in different parts 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"
• "Continue along the main road until..."
• "Walk down the street towards..."

Using landmarks to guide

• "You will pass a petrol station on your left"
• "The post office is opposite the park"
• "Look out for the church on the corner"
• "After you see the shopping centre..."

Ending your directions

• "You will see the library on your right"
• "The mall is at the end of the road"
• "Your destination will be on your left-hand side"
• "The entrance is just after the sports field"

Example of a complete direction text

Tips for exam success

When writing directions in your exam, keep these important strategies in mind:

• Use numbers or bullet points to separate each step clearly. This makes your directions easier to scan and follow.
• Give clear, accurate instructions without skipping any important steps. Missing out a turn or landmark could cause serious confusion.
• Include landmarks throughout your directions. These help readers confirm they're on the correct route and give them confidence.
• Use imperative verbs consistently (Turn, Go, Walk). This keeps your tone direct and instructional.
• Check spelling and punctuation carefully, especially for street names and place names. Errors here could confuse your reader or cost you marks.

Remember!