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Tip: Speaking Task 5: pick one option and stay with it. Comparing both is fine, switching sides isn't.
Tip: Speaking Task 5: pick one option and stay with it. Comparing both is fine, switching sides isn't.
Deliver a structured, 90-second persuasive argument defending your viewpoint.
Understanding the assessment criteria helps you deliver exactly what examiners are looking for.
Your ability to take a firm stance immediately. The examiner should know exactly which side of the argument you are on within the first 5 seconds.
Supporting your opinion with 2 to 3 logical, deeply explained reasons. A broad list of 10 reasons will score lower than 2 reasons with strong examples.
Using advanced discourse markers (e.g., 'First and foremost', 'Another crucial factor to consider is', 'Ultimately') to organize your 90-second speech.
Using topic-specific vocabulary rather than general words to prove you can discuss complex societal or everyday issues.
Ready-to-use expressions that help your answer sound natural, organized, and easy to follow.
See how a high-scoring response sounds with clear structure and practical supporting details.
Do you think that children under the age of 12 should be allowed to have their own smartphones? Explain your reasons.
"In my personal opinion, I strongly believe that children under the age of 12 should not be allowed to own their own smartphones. I think it introduces too many risks at such a young age."
"First and foremost, the primary reason I feel this way is because of the impact on their physical and mental development. Children at that age should be spending their free time playing outdoors, socializing face-to-face, and reading books. If they have a smartphone, they are highly likely to become addicted to screens and social media, which can lead to anxiety and a sedentary lifestyle."
"Another crucial factor to take into account is online safety. The internet is full of unfiltered content and potential cyberbullying. Children under 12 simply do not have the emotional maturity or the critical thinking skills required to navigate those dangers safely without constant adult supervision."
"Ultimately, while technology is undeniably important, I stand by my belief that a basic flip phone for emergencies is more than enough. Smartphones should wait until they are teenagers."
Learn from these frequent errors that lower scores on this task.
Refusing to pick a side. You must be decisive, even if you personally see both sides.
"I think it is good, but also bad. It depends on the child."
"I firmly believe that the negative consequences drastically outweigh the positive benefits."
Giving theoretical reasons without grounding them in reality.
"Phones are bad for their brains and make them sad."
"Constant exposure to social media algorithms can lead to severe anxiety and isolation."
Finishing your argument in 45 seconds and freezing. 90 seconds is a long time to speak unscripted.
If you run out of things to say at the 60-second mark, invent a quick personal anecdote: 'For example, my little nephew got a phone last year and...'
Using the words 'good', 'bad', 'I think', and 'because' over and over.
"I think it's bad because... and also I think it's bad because..."
"Furthermore, another significant drawback is... which clearly demonstrates why..."
Test your understanding of Speaking Task 7: Expressing Opinions with these quick questions.
Not at all. You could argue that the sky is green, as long as you use flawless grammar, excellent vocabulary, and strong transitions to defend it.
Yes, this is the perfect task to show off your advanced vocabulary. Words like 'detrimental', 'advantageous', 'inevitable', and 'paramount' are fantastic here.
That's fine! Just express that disagreement clearly. 'I strongly disagree with the premise of this question because...'
Yes. Always wrap up your 90-second speech with a 10-15 second summary. 'In conclusion, based on X and Y, it is clear that...'
Jump between all 8 CELPIP Speaking templates and review the structure for each task.
Give practical advice with clear reasons.
Tell a clear story with a natural ending.
Describe what you see in an organized way.
Explain what may happen next and why.
Compare two options and persuade clearly.
Handle pressure with a calm solution.
Support your opinion with strong reasons.
Describe an unexpected moment clearly.