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ESL Directions Game: Interactive Map Navigation and Wayfinding Activity

Learn how to give and follow directions in English with our interactive map game. Navigate through famous world cities by following specific audio and text prompts. From basic turns to complex maneuvers like U-turns and specific street exits, this activity helps ESL learners master the spatial language needed for real-world travel.


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How to Play: Navigate the World

Our online directions activity features four rounds of increasing difficulty, set in iconic global cities:

  • Step 1: Listen to the Instruction – The game will give you a specific movement command via text or audio.
  • Step 2: Move Your Character – Use the controls to navigate the map according to the instructions.
  • Step 3: Reach the Destination – Successfully navigate landmarks and obstacles across four unique maps: New York, London, Paris, and Los Angeles.

Navigational Phrases by Round

The following phrases are practiced throughout the game. Each round introduces more complex spatial concepts and landmarks:

Round 1: New York (Basics)
  • Go straight
  • Turn left
  • Make a right
Round 2: London (Crossings)
  • Over the river
  • Over the crossroads
  • Under the river
  • Over the bridge
  • Under the bridge
Round 3: Paris (Ordinal Turns)
  • First left
  • 1st right
  • 2nd left
  • Second right
  • 3rd right
  • Third left
Round 4: Los Angeles (Advanced)
  • Left before the stadium
  • Left after the stadium
  • Past the hospital
  • Make a U-turn

Why Teachers Choose This Directions Resource

Teachers recommend this ESL directions activity because it simulates real-world navigation across famous city layouts. By using ordinal numbers (1st, 2nd, 3rd) and specific markers like "before" or "after" the stadium, students practice high-level spatial prepositions. It is a vital resource for Cambridge A2 Key (KET) and B1 Preliminary (PET) students who need to demonstrate clear communication skills during travel-themed speaking and listening tasks.


Classroom Tips

After completing the Los Angeles round, ask students to describe their favorite city using the phrases "go past" or "make a U-turn." For more practice with city locations, check out our Prepositions Game, or practice your travel vocabulary with the Weather Game.

Which city map is your favorite to navigate? Let us know in the comments below!



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