This document provides guidance on asking for and giving directions. It lists common phrases used when asking for directions such as "Excuse me, could you tell me the way to..." and when giving directions it recommends using imperative verbs like "go straight on" and "turn left." It also includes useful phrases like "you can't miss it" and estimates of distance and time. The final tips section advises speaking slowly when giving directions over the phone, using hand gestures in person, and saying "please" when asking for directions.

1. Giving and Asking for Directions
DIRECTIONS
Asking for directions
- Excuse me, could you tell
me the way to …… please?
- Excuse me, I'm looking for
the town hall.
- What's the best way to
the secondary school?
- Where is the nearest bus
stop?
Giving directions
We use the imperative
(Infinitive without `to`)
- Go straight on, take the
first turning on the right,
turn right, turn left, walk
down the street. Don’t turn
left.
- It's about a mile /
kilometre / two blocks
from…"
Useful phrases
- You can't miss it.
- The church is within
walking distance.
- It takes about 10 minutes
by bus.
- It's a 10-minute walk.
Final Tips
- If you're giving directions
over the phone, remember to
speak slowly.
- If you're speaking face-toface with someone, use your
hands to show left, right, or
straight on.
- Use "please" when you ask
someone to give you
directions.
metres, Then, turn
Read the dialogue and translate the words in
bold.
Mike: Excuse me, I´m looking for Portobello Road. Is it
near here?
Man: Yes, it´s just
round the road.
Mike: What´s the
best way to go?
Man: Go straight
here for about 200
left on to Elgin

2. Crescent.
Mike: Straight on, then left?
Man: Yes, that´s right. Then, take the first turning on the right. Walk down
the street and turn left.
Mike: Great, How far is it?
Man: Oh, it isn´t far. It´ll take about ten minutes to walk there.
Mike: OK. Thanks very much.
Man: No problem.
Go to “Google maps” and create your own dialogue