CELPIP Speaking Task 5 Template (Comparing and Persuading)

Goal

Persuade a friend, family member, or colleague to change their mind and agree with your choice. You must compare two options (the one you chose and the one they suggested) using comparative adjectives and specific data (prices and numbers).

What the Examiner Looks For (Assessment Criteria)

• Structure (Soft Rejection): You cannot just say "Your choice is bad." You must be polite: Acknowledge their idea first, then disagree.
• Grammar (Comparatives): They are listening for the correct use of "More" vs. "-er". You must use "Much cheaper" or "More expensive". Never say "More cheaper."
• Detail (Reading Numbers): This is a critical test. You must read prices naturally. Do not say "point" or "dollars" in the middle.
  • $100 → Say "A hundred dollars".
  • $699.99 → Say "Six ninety-nine ninety-nine" or "Almost seven hundred dollars".

Step 1: The Opening (Greeting & Soft Rejection)

Goal: Be polite but firm. You need to show that you have read their suggestion, but you are sticking to your own choice.

Structure

1. Greeting: Hi [Name].
2. Acknowledgment: "I saw your suggestion to choose..."
3. The Pivot (Transition): "I understand why you chose it, however..."
4. The Thesis: "...I believe [Option B] is the better choice."

Example: "Hi Sarah. I saw your suggestion to choose the downtown hotel. I understand why you chose it because it is central; however, I believe the seaside resort is the better choice for our vacation."

Step 2: The Comparison (The 3-Point Strategy)

Goal: Compare the items point-by-point. You must always follow this order: Price → Contextual Value → Detail.

⚠️ Grammar Alert: Comparative Errors

Even native speakers make mistakes here. Use this table to avoid common pitfalls.

The "Context Rule" (Crucial for High Scores)

You cannot use random adjectives. You must choose words that fit the Person and the Situation.

• Example: Buying a bed for a 5-year-old child.

• Always ask yourself: "Who is this for?"

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Point 1: The Price (ALWAYS First)

Your first argument must always be about money. Use specific numbers.

If your option is cheaper:

• "First, regarding the price, my option only costs a hundred dollars."
• "This is much cheaper than your option, which costs three hundred dollars. We can save money for other things."

If your option is more expensive:

• "First, looking at the cost, my option is more expensive at six ninety-nine."
• "However, I think it is worth it because it will last longer and is better quality."

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Point 2: Contextual Value (Features that matter)

Based on the context (the "Who" and "Why"), explain why your feature adds more value.

• For Convenience: "Also, since we are in a rush, my option is much more convenient because it is closer."
• For Fun (Kids/Parties): "Also, looking at the entertainment, my choice is more exciting for the kids. A car-shaped bed is more engaging than a plain one."
• For Comfort: "My option offers a larger seat, which makes the journey more comfortable for grandma."

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Point 3: The Detail (Specific Comparison)

Compare a specific detail to seal the deal.

• "Finally, even though your choice has [Detail A], I think [Detail B] is better because..."
• "My option is lighter, which makes it easier to carry."

Step 3: The Conclusion

Goal: A confident closing sentence asking for agreement.

• Structure: Reiterate your stance and ask for confirmation.
• Example: "For these reasons, I think we should go with my suggestion. Let me know if you agree."

CELPIP Speaking Part 5: Model Answer (Score 9+)

Task: You and your friend are buying a gift. Your friend wants a Tablet ($300). You want a Smartwatch ($100). Persuade your friend.

Start of Response:

Hi John. I saw your suggestion to buy the Tablet. I understand why you chose it because it has a large screen; however, I believe the Smartwatch is the better choice for his birthday. Greeting & Soft Rejection

First, regarding the price, the Smartwatch only costs a hundred dollars. Point 1: Price (Cheaper) This is much cheaper than your option, which costs three hundred dollars. I think it is better to save that extra money for the party. Comparison

Also, the Smartwatch offers fitness tracking, which is more useful for him since he loves running. Point 2: Activity Your choice is mainly for watching movies, but I think a health device is more practical. Comparison

Finally, even though the Tablet is popular, the Smartwatch is more durable. Point 3: Detail It is water-resistant, so it will last longer than the tablet. Reasoning

For these reasons, I think we should go with my suggestion. Let me know if you agree. Conclusion

Universal Templates

Step 1: The Pivot Phrases (Soft Rejection)

• "I understand your point, but looking at the bigger picture, I think..."
• "I see where you are coming from, however, considering our budget, I believe..."
• "That is a good idea, but to be honest, my option is..."

Step 2: The "Price" Formulas

• The "Savings" Argument: "My option is much cheaper. It only costs [Number], while yours is [Number]."
• The "Quality" Argument: "Although my option is more expensive, it is worth the price because..."

Step 3: The Universal Adjective Bank (For All Scenarios)

Memorize 2-3 phrases from each category so you are ready for any topic.