Speak 21
Phrase of the Day: I’D RATHER
Your goal: Use I’d rather to explain which action you prefer.
REVIEW
I’D RATHER means I would prefer to.
“I’d rather sit inside” means you prefer sitting inside.
Use the base form of the verb after I’d rather: sit, walk, wait, stay, or start.
CHOOSE TWO AND RESPOND
Read each question aloud. Choose two responses that make sense together. Use I’d rather in at least one. Say them together as your answer. Then try a different combination.
“Would you like to sit inside or outside?”
I’d rather sit inside.
It’s a little warm outside.
I’d rather sit outside.
The weather is nice.
I’d rather sit near the window.
There’s more light there.
“Should we walk or drive?”
I’d rather walk.
It isn’t far.
I’d rather drive.
We have a lot to carry.
I’d rather take the bus.
We won’t need to find parking.
“Do you want to start now or later?”
I’d rather start now.
I’m ready.
I’d rather wait a few minutes.
I need to finish something.
I’d rather start after lunch.
I’ll have more time then.
“Would you like to eat out?”
I’d rather eat at home.
I already have food ready.
I’d rather get something nearby.
I don’t want to cook.
I’d rather make something simple.
We have enough food here.
“Should we call or send an email?”
I’d rather call.
We can get an answer quickly.
I’d rather send an email.
I want to include the details.
I’d rather talk in person.
It might be easier to explain.
COMPLETE THE RESPONSE
Choose a word from the box. You may use a word more than once. More than one answer may work.
sit • walk • wait • eat • call • start
“Inside or outside?”
“I’d rather _____ inside.”“Should we take the car?”
“I’d rather _____. It’s close.”“Are you ready to order?”
“I’d rather _____ a few minutes.”“Should we go to a restaurant?”
“I’d rather _____ at home.”“Should I send a message?”
“I’d rather _____ and explain.”“Now or after lunch?”
“I’d rather _____ now.”
EXTEND THE CONVERSATION
Choose an ending. Say the whole response aloud.
“Should we walk or drive?”
“I’d rather walk. _____”
It’s a nice day.
We’re only a few blocks away.
Would that be okay with you?
“Should we start now?”
“I’d rather wait a few minutes. _____”
I’m finishing an email.
I need to get my notes.
I’ll be ready soon.
“Would you like to eat out?”
“I’d rather eat at home. _____”
I have something ready.
We can make something together.
How about tomorrow instead?
