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

Universal Templates

Stage	Template Phrase
1. The "Hush" Opener (Sets a serious tone)	• "Listen, I have something important to run by you, so do you have a minute?" • "Listen, there is a slight issue regarding [Topic] that we need to clear up."
2. The Validation (Shows empathy)	• "I know you think we should [Action]... and I totally get where you are coming from." • "I realize this is important to you... and I respect your point of view."
3. The Proposal (Softens the solution)	• "I think the most constructive way forward would be to [Action]." • "It might be a better idea if we [Action]." • "I believe the best compromise would be to [Action]."
4. The Persuasive Closing (Seals the deal)	• "I hope you can see my perspective on this." • "I hope we can move past this and find a solution that works for everyone."

CELPIP Speaking Task 6 Template (Dealing with a Difficult Situation)