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...").
The CLB 9+ "4-Part Persuasion" (Use in your 60s prep!)
Use your 60 seconds to plan. You must choose one option and find 2-3 reasons why it's better.
- Part 1: Greeting & Choice (approx. 10 seconds): Address the person. "Hey [Friend's Name], I've looked at both options for our vacation, and I'm 100% sure we should choose the beach house."
- Part 2: Reason 1 (Compare/Contrast) (approx. 20 seconds): Give your main reason. "I know the cabin seems nice, but the beach house is much more relaxing. We can just sit by the ocean, whereas the cabin looks like a lot of work with hiking and bears."
- Part 3: Reason 2 (Compare/Contrast) (approx. 20 seconds): Give your second reason. "Plus, the beach house is more convenient. It's only a 20-minute drive, while the cabin is 3 hours away. I'd rather spend our time relaxing, not sitting in the car."
- Part 4: Conclusion (approx. 10 seconds): Re-state your choice confidently. "So, trust me, the beach house is the better, easier, and more relaxing option. Let's book that one."
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.