CELPIP speaking
Comparing and Persuading
How to Master CELPIP Speaking Task 5: Comparing & Persuading
This task is a persuasion test. You'll be shown two options (e.g., two apartments to rent, two vacation spots, two gifts to buy) and a prompt that asks you to persuade a friend or family member to agree with your choice.
What You Will Do
- You will have 60 seconds to prepare your argument.
- You will only have 60 seconds to record your persuasive speech.
The #1 Trap to Avoid
The biggest mistake is only talking about your choice. This is not "Task 2: Personal Experience." This is a comparison. To persuade someone, you must also talk about the other option and explain why it is worse. The grader is listening for comparative language (e.g., "faster than," "not as good as," "the best part is...").
Speaking Task 5 template · 60s prep · 60s to speak
The CLB 9+ template: Pick · Beat · Close
Say your choice, show on two points why it beats the other option, then reassure them and ask them to agree.
- 1
Pick
10sGreet them and name your choice right away.
- 2
Beat 1
20sThe first point where your option beats theirs. Compare them directly.
- 3
Beat 2
20sA second, different point, compared directly again.
- 4
Close
10sAnswer their worry and ask them to agree.
Starters, a CLB 9+ example and a drill to memorise it.
Final Tips
- Use Comparative Words: "More...", "Less...", "...-er" (e.g., cleaner, faster), "the best," "the worst," "better than," "not as good as."
- Be Persuasive! Use a strong, confident, and friendly tone. You're trying to convince a friend.
Ready to Get Your Speaking Graded?
Can you make a strong, persuasive argument in just 60 seconds? This task is all about structure and using strong comparative language.
Our webapp uses advanced AI to grade your speaking. Find out your estimated score, see your filler words, and check if your persuasive tone is coming through.
Put this guide into practice
Reading the strategy is half the work. Try it on a real question while it is fresh.