How to Succeed in CELPIP Speaking Task 5 – Comparing and Persuading

CELPIP Speaking Task 5 is where many candidates lose control of their answer.
They either:

• Compare too much and forget to persuade
• Persuade emotionally but forget to compare
• Speak without a clear structure

The secret to Task 5 is understanding that this is not a debate.
It’s a structured comparison with persuasion, done calmly and logically.

This guide will show you exactly how to do that.

What Is CELPIP Speaking Task 5?

In CELPIP Speaking Task 5 – Comparing and Persuading, you must:

• Compare two options
• Choose one option
• Persuade someone (a friend, parent, or colleague) that your choice is better

⏱ Preparation time: 60 seconds
⏱ Speaking time: 60 seconds

You are usually given:

• Two options
• Pros and cons for each

What CELPIP Examiners Are Looking For

CELPIP examiners evaluate:

1. Task Completion

• Did you clearly choose one option?
• Did you persuade the listener?

2. Comparison Skills

• Did you compare both options?
• Did you explain differences clearly?

3. Organization

• Logical structure
• Smooth transitions

4. Tone & Fluency

• Polite and convincing tone
• Natural flow

👉 Clear choice + clear reasons = higher score

The Best Structure for CELPIP Speaking Task 5 (60 Seconds)

Always follow this safe structure:

✅ 1. Clear Choice

State your choice immediately.

✅ 2. Reason #1 (Compare)

Explain why your option is better than the other.

✅ 3. Reason #2 (Compare)

Add another comparison point.

✅ 4. Address the Other Option (Briefly)

Acknowledge the other option but explain why it’s weaker.

✅ 5. Strong Closing

Reinforce your choice.

Useful Phrases for Comparing and Persuading

Making Your Choice

• I strongly believe that…
• I would prefer option A because…
• In my opinion, the better choice is…

Comparing Options

• Compared to…
• Unlike the other option…
• While option A offers…, option B…

Persuading Politely

• This makes more sense because…
• This would be more beneficial in the long run…
• For these reasons, I think this is the better option.

Common Mistakes in CELPIP Speaking Task 5

🚫 Not clearly choosing one option
🚫 Talking equally about both options
🚫 Listing pros without comparison
🚫 Sounding aggressive or emotional
🚫 Running out of time before concluding

❗ CELPIP wants logical persuasion, not argument.

Sample Question (Typical Task 5)

“You have extra free time. You can either study more or spend time on social media. Persuade your parents that your choice is better.”

Sample Answer (Band 7–8 Level)

I believe that using my free time for extra study would be the better option. Compared to social media, studying can help me reduce stress before future exams and feel more prepared.
While social media can be entertaining, it often wastes time and can be distracting. On the other hand, studying helps me stay productive and focused on my long-term goals.
Although social media allows people to relax, I think the benefits of studying are more valuable right now. For these reasons, I strongly believe that extra study time is the smarter choice.

Why This Answer Works

✔ Clear choice stated early
✔ Logical comparison
✔ Polite persuasion
✔ Balanced tone
✔ Strong conclusion

How to Practice CELPIP Speaking Task 5 Effectively

Smart Practice Method:

1. Always decide your choice first
2. Pick 2 strong reasons only
3. Compare directly
4. Practice finishing confidently

Final Tip for Higher Scores

Do not try to sound “smart.”
Sound clear, calm, and confident.

CELPIP rewards organized persuasion, not emotional arguments.

Practice CELPIP Speaking Task 5 with Real Feedback

Reading strategies helps, but feedback is what improves persuasion skills.

👉 Practice comparing and persuading with real CELPIP timing and get instant feedback on structure, clarity, and tone.