CELPIP Speaking Task 7 Template (Expressing Opinions)

Master CELPIP Speaking Task 7 with a clear template for stating your opinion, giving reasons, and persuading listeners. Get examples, structures, and key phrases.

Goal

Answer a question about a social or political issue. You must choose ONE side (Yes or No) immediately and support it with logical reasons.

What the Examiner Looks For (Assessment Criteria)

  • Tone (Firm & Direct): Unlike Task 6 (where you must be soft and polite), Task 7 requires you to be assertive.
    • Task 6: "I think it might be a good idea..." (Soft/Wordy)
    • Task 7: "I firmly believe that..." (Strong/Direct). Do NOT use "fluff" words here.
  • Structure (Logical Flow): They want to see a clear path: Opinion → Reason 1 (+ Support) → Reason 2 (+ Support) → Reason 3 (+ Support) → Conclusion.
  • Grammar (Complex Sentences): You must use subordinating conjunctions like "Since" (Cause & Effect) and "Even though" (Concession).
  • Vocabulary (Paraphrasing): Do not repeat the prompt exactly. Use the methods below (Synonyms, Passive Voice, Re-ordering) to show range.

Step 1: The Direct Opening (Paraphrase)

Goal: Start immediately with a strong "Yes" or "No" and paraphrase the topic.

Grammar Booster: 3 Ways to Paraphrase

Do not just copy the question words. Use one of these three techniques to boost your vocabulary score immediately.

MethodExplanationExample
1. Use SynonymsSwap words with similar meanings.Grade → Evaluate / Teachers → Educators
2. Active → PassiveChange the focus to the object.Students should grade teachers. → Teachers should be graded by their students.
3. Change OrderMove the idea to the front.Allowing students to grade is good. → Allowing student feedback is a positive step.

Structure

  1. The Stance: "Yes, I firmly believe that..."
  2. The Paraphrase: Apply Method 2 (Passive) or Method 1 (Synonyms) here.
    • Question: "Should students be allowed to grade their teachers?"
    • Paraphrase: "...permitting students to evaluate their educators is a productive idea."

Example: "Yes, I firmly believe that permitting students to evaluate their educators is a productive idea."

Step 2: The 3 Reasons (The Body)

Goal: Provide three distinct arguments. Crucial Rule: Every reason must be followed by a "Support Sentence" that explains why or gives an example.

Reason 1: The "Since" Logic (Cause & Effect)

Use this for your strongest point.

  • The Argument: "First and foremost, since [Cause], [Effect]."
  • The Support: "Therefore, [Conclusion/Why this matters]."
  • Example: "First and foremost, since students are the ones directly receiving the instruction, they have the best perspective on a teacher's clarity. Therefore, their feedback is essential for improving the quality of education."

Reason 2: The "Moreover" Transition (Adding Depth)

Use this to add a second layer to your argument.

  • The Argument: "Moreover, [Point 2]."
  • The Support: "This is important because [Explanation]."
  • Example: "Moreover, this system empowers students to take ownership of their learning journey. When they know their voice matters, they are likely to be more attentive and engaged in the classroom."

Reason 3: The "Even Though" Logic (Addressing Concerns)

Use this to address a potential negative but turn it into a positive.

  • The Argument: "Finally, even though some might argue that [Counter-point], I still think that [Your Point]."
  • The Support: "In reality, [Refutation/Fact]."
  • Example: "Finally, even though some critics argue that students might be biased or immature, I still think that the aggregate data from these evaluations creates necessary accountability. If a teacher consistently receives poor grades for clarity, it highlights a professional development need that must be addressed."

Step 3: The Conclusion

Goal: Wrap it up confidently.

  • Phrase: "Consequently, for these reasons..."
  • Example: "Consequently, for these reasons, I am convinced that this is the right path forward."

CELPIP Speaking Part 7: Model Answer (Score 9+)

Question: Do you agree or disagree that students in school should be allowed to grade their teachers?

Start of Response:

Yes, I firmly believe that implementing a system where students evaluate their educators is a step in the right direction. Direct Opening + Paraphrase

First and foremost, since the primary goal of school is effective learning, teachers need to know if their methods are working. Reason 1 (Since) Therefore, feedback from the students themselves is the most accurate metric to measure teaching success. Reason 1 Support

Moreover, this process encourages a two-way street of respect and communication. Reason 2 (Transition) When teachers are open to constructive criticism, it models humility and continuous improvement for the students. Reason 2 Support

Finally, even though some might worry that students will grade based on popularity rather than skill, I still think that identifying patterns in teacher performance is crucial. Reason 3 (Even Though) If a teacher consistently receives poor grades for clarity, it highlights a professional development need that must be addressed. Reason 3 Support

Consequently, for these reasons, I am convinced that this is the right path forward. Conclusion

Universal Templates

Memorize these structures to ensure a high score.

StageTemplate Phrase
1. The Direct Opening (Paraphrase)• "Yes, I firmly believe that [Paraphrased Topic] is a positive development." • "No, I completely disagree that [Paraphrased Topic] is a viable solution."
2. Reason 1 (Cause & Effect)• Arg: "First and foremost, since [Fact/Cause], it leads to [Result]." • Sup: "Therefore, [Your Point] is necessary."
3. Reason 2 (Transition)• Arg: "Moreover, we must consider that** [Point 2]." • Sup: "This is significant because [Explanation]."
4. Reason 3 (Concession)• Arg: "Finally, even though some might argue [Counter-point], I still think that [Your Point] is more valid." • Sup: "In fact, [Your Reasoning]."
5. The Conclusion (Wrap Up)• "Consequently, for these reasons, I am convinced that this is the right path forward."