Words (Core Vocabulary)
- intersection / crosswalk / sidewalk / curb
- traffic light / stop sign
- block / corner / avenue / street / boulevard / lane
- entrance / exit / lobby / hallway / elevator / escalator / stairs
- platform / track / gate / terminal / bay
- bus stop / station / route / line / transfer / fare / pass
- northbound / southbound / eastbound / westbound
- landmark (n.) – an easy-to-see place (library, bank, park).
Phrases (Polite questions → clear instructions)
Asking
- Excuse me, could you tell me how to get to [place] ?
- Is this the right way to [place] ?
- Where’s the nearest [bank/coffee shop/bus stop] ?
- How far is [place] from here? Is it walkable?
Giving
- Go straight for two blocks, then turn left at the lights.
- It’s on your right, across from the library.
- Take the #10 bus, get off at Main Street, then transfer to the Expo Line.
- Head eastbound on Broadway; the station is just past the hospital.
- Follow the signs to Exit B; the elevator is on the left.
Checking understanding
- Did you catch that?
- Do you want me to repeat that?
- Would you like me to pin it on a map?
Contextual Examples (Natural, everyday)
- **Excuse me—**is there a bank nearby?
Yes—go straight one block. It’s on your left, next to the pharmacy. - How do I get to the community centre?
Take the #9 bus, get off at Oak Street, then walk 5 minutes west. - Inside a building: From the lobby, take the elevator to Level 3; turn right and it’s Room 312.
Collocations & Phrases (bold the key words)
Movement
- go straight
- turn left/right
- take the first/second left
- keep to the right/left
- head north/east
- go past the park
- cross at the crosswalk
Transit
- get on/off the bus
- transfer to the [line/route]
- catch the train
- pay the fare
- show your pass
Location
- across from the library
- next to the bank
- between the museum and the school
- around the corner
- just past the lights
Canadian Cultural Context (How to sound natural & polite)
- People usually give distances in minutes (a 10-minute walk).
- Safety: Use crosswalks and wait for the light; drivers expect that.
- In many cities, transit staff and locals are happy to help—start with “Excuse me” and a smile.
- Winter note: sidewalks can be slippery—ask about safer routes if needed.
Extra Mini-Patterns (plug-and-play)
- Ask + clarify: “Excuse me, could you tell me how to get to the science museum? Is it walkable?”
- Give + landmark: “Go straight and turn right at the traffic light—it’s across from the library.”
- Confirm: “Did you catch that, or should I repeat it?”