Understanding CELPIP Speaking Task 5

CELPIP Speaking Task 5 (Comparing and Persuading) is unique because it is split into two distinct parts. In Part 1, you are asked to choose one of two options (e.g., two different houses, two different cars) and you have 60 seconds to prepare. Part 1 is NOT recorded. You do not speak during Part 1.

In Part 2, your chosen option is placed next to a new, third option proposed by a family member or colleague. You now have 60 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to speak. Your goal is to persuade the other person that your original choice is better than their new choice.

This task evaluates your ability to use comparative adjectives, persuasive language, and your skill in turning raw visual data (like price tags or location details) into compelling arguments.

How Raters Score Task 5 Across the Four Dimensions

1. Task Fulfillment

The biggest trap in Task 5 is simply reading the bullet points from the screen. If you say, "My house costs $500,000 and has 3 bedrooms. Your house costs $600,000 and has 2 bedrooms," you have not fulfilled the persuasive element of the task. Raters are checking if you persuaded the listener. You must explain why $500,000 is better (e.g., "It fits our strict budget much better") or why 3 bedrooms are necessary (e.g., "We need the extra space for a home office").

2. Coherence and Meaning

A high-scoring response (CLB 9+) acknowledges the other person's option before dismantling it. This demonstrates advanced coherence. Instead of just listing the pros of your choice, a coherent argument compares the two options directly using transitions like "While I understand why you like," "However," "On the flip side," and "In contrast."

3. Vocabulary

Persuasive vocabulary is key here. Avoid repeating "is better" or "is cheaper." Use advanced comparative structures and verbs of persuasion. For example:

Instead of "My choice is cheaper," use "My option is significantly more cost-effective."
Instead of "Your choice is too far," use "The commute from your proposed location would be incredibly draining."
Use softening phrases to maintain politeness: "I see where you're coming from, but..." or "Hear me out on this."

4. Readability and Intelligibility

Grammatically, Task 5 demands mastery of comparative and superlative adjectives (e.g., larger, more convenient, furthest, the most practical). You must also demonstrate control over conditional sentences (e.g., "If we choose your option, we won't have enough money left over for renovations").

The Persuasion Framework (CLB 9+)

Use this structure to organize your 60-second persuasive monologue:

1. The Acknowledgment & Thesis (10-15 seconds)

Address the person, acknowledge their option politely, but firmly state your preference.

"Hey Sarah, I took a look at the suburban house you found, and while I agree the backyard is gorgeous, I really think we should stick with the downtown apartment I originally suggested."

2. Argument 1: The Direct Comparison (15-20 seconds)

Pick one feature (e.g., price or location) and compare the two options, explaining why yours is superior for your specific situation.

"The main reason is the commute. The apartment is centrally located, which means we'd cut our travel time to work in half compared to the house in the suburbs. We'd save hours every week that we could spend actually relaxing."

3. Argument 2: The Rebuttal (15-20 seconds)

Pick a feature of their option and point out a flaw, or highlight a feature your option has that theirs lacks.

"Furthermore, looking at the costs, my option is significantly more cost-effective. Even though your choice is larger, it's pushing the absolute maximum of our budget, and that doesn't even factor in the higher heating bills we'd face in the winter."

4. The Call to Action (5-10 seconds)

Conclude with a soft push for them to agree with you.

"So, considering the convenience and the savings, I really believe the apartment is the smarter investment. What do you think, can we go with my choice?"

60-Second Prep Strategy

You have a full minute to prepare for Part 2. Do not waste it memorizing sentences. Draw a quick T-chart on your notepad. On the left, list two strengths of your option. On the right, list two weaknesses of their option. Mentally link them.

For example:

My Option: Close to work -> Weakness in Theirs: Long commute
My Option: $1000 cheaper -> Weakness in Theirs: Over budget

Focus your prep time on generating the "Why" behind these facts. How does saving $1000 affect your life? (Answer: "We can use the savings for a vacation.") This "Why" is what secures the CLB 9+.

Conclusion

CELPIP Speaking Task 5 is not a reading test; it is a test of persuasive communication. By moving beyond simply listing bullet points, mastering comparative grammar, and structuring your arguments logically against the opposing option, you will demonstrate the advanced language skills required for top scores.

The Definitive Guide to CELPIP Speaking Task 5: Comparing & Persuading