Goal
Resolve a conflict or deliver bad news to a friend, family member, or colleague. You must choose ONE option (usually the more difficult one) and explain your decision while maintaining a polite and respectful tone.
What the Examiner Looks For (Assessment Criteria)
- Tone (Politeness Strategy): In English, the rule is
More Words = More Polite. You cannot be direct.
- Too Direct:
You can't stay.
- Polite:
I think it would be better if we made other arrangements.
- Structure (The "Sandwich" Method): You must follow a specific order:
Validate Feelings → Deliver Bad News → Offer Solution.
- Grammar (Modals of Softness): You must use "soft" modals.
- Use:
Would, Could, Might.
- Avoid:
You must, You have to.
Step 1: The Greeting & The "Hush" (Set the Scene)
Goal: Signal immediately that this is a serious or delicate conversation. Do not start with a casual "Hey, what's up?"
Structure
- Greeting: Hi [Name]. Hope you’re doing well.
- The Signal: "Listen, I have something a bit delicate to discuss with you..."
- The Request: "...so if I could have a moment of your time, I’d really appreciate it."
Example:
"Hi Sam. Hope you’re doing well. Listen, I have something a bit delicate to discuss with you, so if I could have a moment of your time, I’d really appreciate it."
Step 2: The Conflict (Polite Disagreement)
Goal: State the problem without being aggressive. Acknowledge their side before giving your opinion.
Grammar Alert: The "Validate → However" Pattern
You must show empathy first to lower their defenses.
- Pattern: "I know you want [X] and I completely understand [Why]... However, I feel that [Y]."
Example:
"I know you were really looking forward to staying with us for two months, and I completely understand that it would save you money. However, I spoke to my roommate, and unfortunately, we cannot have long-term guests."
Step 3: The "Soft" Solution
Goal: Propose a solution using the "Longer is Politer" rule. Use this table to avoid sounding bossy.
| Strategy | ❌ Too Direct (Rude) | ✅ Polite & Soft (Score 9+) |
|---|
| The "Hypothetical" (Use Would) | "You should stay at a hotel." / "Go to an Airbnb." | "I think the best approach would be for you to stay at a hotel." / "It might be a better idea if we found an Airbnb." |
| The "Inclusive" (Use We) | "You need to solve this." | "We can figure this out together." / "Let's look for a solution." |
| The "Benefit" (Explain Why) | "My roommate said no." | "This way, we can avoid tension with my roommate." |
Step 4: The Closing (Seeking Agreement)
Goal: Persuade them to accept your solution.
⚠️ Warning: Do NOT ask "What do you think?"
Asking "What do you think?" gives them a chance to argue or say "No." You want to close the door gently but firmly.
- The Persuasive Closing: "I hope you can agree with me on this solution, even though I know it is a difficult situation to face."
CELPIP Speaking Part 6: Model Answer (Score 9+)
Scenario: Your cousin wants to stay for 2 months. You have to tell him your roommate said "No."
Start of Response:
Hi Sam. Hope you’re doing well. Listen, I have something a bit delicate to discuss with you regarding your visit, so if I could have a moment of your time, I’d really appreciate it. Greeting & The "Hush"
I know you were really excited to stay at my place for two months, and I completely understand that it would help you save money while you look for a job. However, I had a serious talk with my roommate, and unfortunately, our lease agreement does not allow guests to stay for longer than three days. The Conflict (Validate -> However)
I think the best approach would be for us to find you an affordable hostel or Airbnb nearby. The "Soft" Solution I would be happy to help you pay for the first week. This way, you will have a comfortable place to stay without risking eviction for me and my roommate. Reasoning & Compromise
I hope you can agree with me on this solution, even though I know it is disappointing news. I can't wait to see you soon. The Closing