The IELTS practice tests include many examples of describing directions, all using native English expressions. By studying these examples, you can effectively master how to express directions in both speaking and writing.
An Example from IELTS 6 Test 3 Section 2
Below is a map question from IELTS 6 Test 3, Listening Section 2 (original audio file):
The corresponding listening script for this map is as follows:
“Now, please look at the map I’ve given you of the house and gardens. We’re here at the Information Centre. Follow the path marked with the arrow and the first area you come to is the orchard on your left.
As you go further down the path, there’s the kitchen garden on the right and as you go round the first sharp corner you will find, to your left, an area where different types of pear tree have been planted as well as some lovely flowers, and this is known as Pear Alley designed by George himself.
Next to this is the greenhouse where some exotic plants and fruits are grown. Follow the path round the second corner and on your right you will see the entrance to the Mulberry Garden with its 500-year-old tree. Past the Mulberry Garden, follow the path until you reach the front of the house. I suggest you spend a good hour wandering around this lovely building. A guide takes visitor groups round every two hours.
If you would like to purchase any of George’s books or other souvenirs, then leave the house by the side entrance, where you will find our shop, which is situated between the house and the garage which contains the magnificent old Rolls-Royce car which used to belong to George. I expect by this time you may also be in need of a rest and some refreshment. Most visitors are, so why don’t you visit the tea room on the far side of the garage?
If you have time, there is a lovely walk down towards the River Dudwell. For me, this is the best part of the estate. This isn’t on the map but it is all clearly signposted. You cross the field which spreads along the banks of the river. In spring, this area is well worth a visit. Spend a minute or two watching the water pass by underneath as you cross the footbridge, and then continue along the River Walk through the woodland. On a hot summer’s day the trees along this path provide welcome shade. Eventually you come to the water mill which used to provide the electricity for the house – only about four hours every evening – in George’s time. And, finally, for those of you who would like to see stunning views of the surrounding countryside and who are a little bit more energetic, when you return from the mill take the first turning on your left and climb up to the viewpoint. You won’t regret it.
Key Collocations for Directions
| Collocation | Example |
|---|---|
| Follow the path | "Follow the path marked with the arrow." |
| On your left / right | "The orchard is on your left." |
| Further down the path | "As you go further down the path..." |
| Go round the corner | "As you go round the first sharp corner..." |
| To your left / right | "To your left, an area with pear trees." |
| Next to | "Next to this is the greenhouse." |
| Past the [landmark] | "Past the Mulberry Garden, follow the path..." |
| Continue along | "Continue along the River Walk through the woodland." |
| Take the first turning | "Take the first turning on your left..." |
| Climb up to | "Climb up to the viewpoint." |
