Directions (Grade 12 NSC Matric English FAL): Revision Notes
Directions
What are directions?
Directions are practical instructions that guide someone from one location to another in a clear and logical sequence. These texts serve as step-by-step guides that help readers navigate unfamiliar routes successfully. When writing directions, your main goal is to ensure the person following them can reach their destination without confusion or getting lost.
The key to effective directions lies in their clarity and accuracy. Every instruction must be presented in the proper sequence, and you should include recognisable landmarks or approximate distances to help readers confirm they're on the correct path.
Remember that your reader is likely unfamiliar with the area and may be feeling anxious about finding their destination. Your directions should act as a reliable guide that builds their confidence with each step.
Common exam scenarios
In your NSC English FAL examination, you might encounter various situations where direction-writing skills are tested. These scenarios often involve real-world contexts that require practical navigation assistance.
You could be asked to provide directions for:
- Visitors or tourists who are unfamiliar with the local area
- People attending events such as school functions, workplace meetings, or competitive activities
- Individuals seeking specific locations like particular buildings, offices, or community facilities
Understanding these contexts helps you tailor your directions to meet the specific needs of different audiences.
Essential structure and components
Heading or title
Begin with a descriptive title that clearly indicates the starting point and destination. For example: "Route from the Bus Station to Our School" or "How to reach the Community Centre from the Shopping Mall."
Starting point
Establish exactly where the journey begins by identifying a well-known location or landmark. This gives readers a clear reference point to begin following your instructions. For instance: "Begin your journey at the main bus station located in the town centre."
Step-by-step instructions
Organise your directions using numbered points or brief paragraphs that follow a logical sequence. Each step should include specific details such as:
- Direction changes (turn left, turn right, go straight)
- Distance estimates when helpful (approximately 200 metres, about five minutes' walk)
- Notable landmarks to confirm correct positioning (you'll pass a petrol station, look for the red building)
Ending point
Conclude by describing the final destination and what readers will see upon arrival. This confirmation helps them recognise they've successfully reached their goal. Example: "The school entrance will be visible on your right, marked by a large welcome sign."
Critical Structure Rule: Never skip the ending confirmation! Readers need to know they've arrived at the correct destination. Always describe what they will see at the final location.
Writing style and language features
Command verbs
Use imperative (command) verbs throughout your directions to create clear, direct instructions. Essential verbs include: Turn, Go, Walk, Continue, Take, and Stop. These action words tell readers exactly what to do at each stage of the journey.
Sentence structure
Write using short, straightforward sentences that are easy to follow. Avoid complex grammatical structures that might confuse readers who are trying to navigate while reading your directions.
Sequencing language
Connect your instructions using linking words that show the order of actions: First, Then, After that, Next, Finally. These transitions help readers understand the progression of steps and maintain their position in the sequence.
Tone and approach
Maintain a polite and helpful tone throughout your directions. Remember that someone following your instructions may feel uncertain or stressed about finding their destination, so supportive language creates confidence.
Landmarks and reference points
Include specific landmarks or recognisable signs that serve as navigation aids. Examples might include: "You will pass a petrol station on your left" or "The post office stands opposite the small park." These details help readers confirm they're following the correct route.
Helpful phrases and expressions
Essential Direction Vocabulary
Starting phrases:
- "Start at the..." or "Begin your journey from..."
- "Leave the building through the main entrance"
- "Exit via the front gate"
Direction-giving phrases:
- "Turn left/right at the traffic lights"
- "Go straight ahead for approximately 500 metres"
- "Walk down the main road until you reach..."
Landmark references:
- "You will pass a [specific building] on your left/right"
- "The [landmark] is situated opposite the [reference point]"
- "Look for the [distinctive feature] on the corner"
Ending phrases:
- "You will see [destination] on your right/left"
- "The [building/location] is located at the end of the road"
- "Your destination will be clearly marked with [sign/feature]"
Sample direction analysis
Worked Example: Effective Direction Writing
DIRECTIONS FROM THE TAXI RANK TO LERATO SECONDARY SCHOOL
- Start at the main taxi rank in town.
- Walk straight down Market Street until you reach the first traffic light.
- Turn right into Church Street.
- Continue for about 300 metres — you'll pass a petrol station and a small park.
- Turn left at the corner next to the library.
- The school is on your right-hand side, just after the sports field.
You'll see a large sign that says "Welcome to Lerato Secondary School."
Why this example works:
- Clear starting point: Specific taxi rank location
- Numbered sequence: Easy-to-follow step progression
- Specific landmarks: Petrol station, park, library, sports field
- Distance reference: 300 metres for context
- Confirmatory ending: Welcome sign provides final verification
Practical exam strategies
Organisation techniques
- Use numbered points or bullet points for each instruction step
- Ensure your directions follow a logical geographical sequence
- Never skip steps, even if they seem obvious to you
Common Mistake to Avoid: Don't assume your reader knows "obvious" steps. What seems clear to someone familiar with the area may be confusing to a first-time visitor.
Content requirements
- Include recognisable landmarks to help readers verify their position
- Use imperative verbs consistently throughout your text
- Maintain accuracy in all instructions to avoid misdirection
Technical considerations
- Stay within the specified word limit (typically 50-80 words for directions)
- Check spelling carefully, particularly for street names and location references
- Verify punctuation accuracy, especially in lists and sequential instructions
Quality assurance
- Read through your directions from the reader's perspective
- Ensure each step logically connects to the next
- Confirm that someone unfamiliar with the area could successfully follow your route
Key Points to Remember:
- Structure matters: Always include a clear starting point, numbered steps, and a definitive ending with confirmation details
- Use command language: Imperative verbs like Turn, Go, Walk, and Continue create direct, actionable instructions
- Include helpful landmarks: Reference points like shops, traffic lights, or distinctive buildings help readers stay on track
- Keep it simple: Write short, clear sentences with linking words (First, Then, Finally) to show sequence
- Stay within word limits: Directions should typically be 50-80 words, so focus on essential information only