Speak 03
Phrase of the Day: A LITTLE
Your goal: Use a little to describe a small amount or degree. Practice answering in complete sentences with a smooth, natural flow.
REVIEW
A LITTLE can mean slightly or a small amount.
“I’m a little tired” means you are tired, but not very tired.
Use a little before words such as busy, nervous, tired, warm, and confused.
CHOOSE TWO AND RESPOND
Read each question aloud. Choose two responses that make sense together. Use a little in at least one. Say them together as your answer. Then try a different combination.
“How are you feeling?”
I’m a little tired.
I didn’t sleep much.
I’m a little better.
The rest helped.
I’m a little hungry.
I haven’t eaten yet.
“Are you ready for your presentation?”
I practiced this morning.
I’m a little nervous.
I’m a little excited.
I’m looking forward to it.
I’m a little worried.
I hope I remember everything.
“Is the room comfortable?”
It’s a little warm.
We could turn on the fan.
It’s a little cold.
I’ll get my sweater.
It’s a little noisy.
We could close the door.
“Do you understand the assignment?”
I’m a little confused.
Please explain the last part.
It’s a little difficult.
I need to read it again.
I need a little help.
I’m not sure where to begin.
“How’s your morning going?”
It’s a little busy.
I have several things to finish.
It’s a little quiet.
Most people haven’t arrived.
I’m running a little late.
I’ll be there soon.
COMPLETE THE RESPONSE
Choose a word from the box. You may use a word more than once. More than one answer may work.
tired • nervous • warm • confused • hungry • busy
“Would you like something to eat?”
“Yes. I’m a little _____.”“Do you need a break?”
“Yes. I’m a little _____.”“Can you talk now?”
“I’m a little _____. Can I call you later?”“Do you understand?”
“I’m a little _____. Please explain it again.”“How do you feel about speaking?”
“A little _____, but I want to try.”“Should I turn on the fan?”
“Yes, please. I’m a little _____.”
EXTEND THE CONVERSATION
Choose an ending. Say the whole response aloud.
“How are you feeling?”
“I’m a little tired. _____”
I think I’ll rest.
I had a busy morning.
How about you?
“Do you understand the instructions?”
“I’m a little confused. _____”
Please show me an example.
I need to read them again.
I understand the first part.
“Are you ready to speak?”
“I’m a little nervous. _____”
I’d like to practice first.
I’ll give it a try.
Let me look at my notes.
