Introduction
CELPIP Speaking Task 5 challenges you to choose between two options—whether it's products, services, or plans—and convince someone why your choice is better.
To excel, you need a structured response, strong comparisons, and persuasive language. Below is a six-step framework with sample phrases and vocabulary to help you sound natural and convincing.
1. Greeting & Setting the Context
Start with a friendly greeting and briefly introduce the two options being discussed.
What to Do:
- ✔ Acknowledge the person's interest in both options.
- ✔ Frame the discussion as a friendly conversation rather than an argument.
Example Openings:
- "Hey [Name], I know you're considering both of these phones, and I'd love to share why I prefer the TechMax."
- "Hi! We're deciding between these two hotels for our trip, and I think the beachside one is the better choice."
- "Good morning! I know you're torn between the premium and basic gym memberships—let me explain why I'd go with the basic one."
- "Hey, thanks for checking out these laptops with me. I know you're leaning towards the UltraBook, but I think the SwiftNote is a better deal."
- "Hi there! We're picking between two travel plans, and I want to show you why the flexible itinerary makes more sense."
2. Introduce the Two Options
Give a quick overview of both options to set up the comparison.
What to Do:
- ✔ Mention key features of each option.
- ✔ Keep it neutral before stating your choice.
Example Introductions:
- "We have the SpeedPhone with a bigger screen and the LitePhone with a longer battery life."
- "There's the all-inclusive vacation package with planned activities, and the flexible travel plan where we book things ourselves."
- "One option is the SmartWatch Pro with advanced tracking, while the other is the FitBand, which is simpler and more affordable."
- "The first hotel is downtown near attractions, while the second is a quiet resort by the beach."
- "We're choosing between a fuel-efficient hybrid car and a more powerful SUV with extra space."
3. State Your Preferred Choice
Clearly declare which option you support so the listener knows your stance.
What to Do:
- ✔ Make a strong, confident statement.
- ✔ Keep it direct and simple.
Example Statements:
- "I'd go with the TechMax because it offers better overall performance."
- "I believe the beachside hotel is the smarter choice for relaxation."
- "I'm convinced that the basic gym membership is the way to go—it saves money and still has everything we need."
- "For me, the fuel-efficient hybrid is the best pick—it's practical and saves money in the long run."
- "I strongly recommend the FitBand because it does everything we need at half the price."
4. Compare & Justify Your Choice with Strong Reasons
Now, explain why your choice is better by offering two or three clear, compelling reasons.
What to Do:
- ✔ Use comparative language to highlight differences.
- ✔ Support your points with logic, cost savings, features, or long-term benefits.
Example Supporting Reasons:
- "First, the TechMax is $150 cheaper than the SpeedPhone while offering almost the same features."
- "The beachside hotel gives us direct ocean access, unlike the city hotel, which is noisy and crowded."
- "The hybrid car saves hundreds of dollars in gas per year, whereas the SUV consumes way more fuel."
- "Compared to the all-inclusive trip, the flexible itinerary lets us choose activities we actually enjoy."
- "The FitBand is more affordable, and reviews show it lasts longer than the SmartWatch Pro."
Additional Comparison Phrases:
- ✔ "It's more durable, meaning we won't have to replace it anytime soon."
- ✔ "It's lighter, which makes it much easier to carry around all day."
- ✔ "It's more cost-effective, helping us stay within our budget."
- ✔ "It's more energy-efficient, so we'll save money on utility bills in the long run."
- ✔ "It has better customer reviews, so we know it's a reliable choice."
5. Acknowledge & Refute the Other Person's Preference
Show that you understand their viewpoint but explain why your choice is still superior.
What to Do:
- ✔ Acknowledge what they like about the other option.
- ✔ Gently refute it with a counterpoint.
Example Rebuttals:
- "I know you like the SpeedPhone's big screen, but it drains the battery much faster."
- "I see why you're considering the all-inclusive package, but it locks us into a strict schedule."
- "I understand that you prefer the SUV for space, but honestly, we don't need that much room."
- "Sure, the premium gym has a sauna, but is it worth paying double every month?"
- "I get that the SmartWatch Pro looks stylish, but it doesn't have better features than the FitBand."
Additional Softening Phrases:
- ✔ "I totally understand why you'd consider that, but in our case, this option makes more sense."
- ✔ "That's a good point, but when you look at the long-term value, my choice still stands out."
- ✔ "I see the appeal, yet I believe this alternative is the smarter investment."
- ✔ "That's true, but given our needs, I think we'll get more use out of this option."
6. Wrap Up with a Strong Conclusion
End with a polite, confident summary of why your choice is best.
What to Do:
- ✔ Reaffirm your preference.
- ✔ Thank them for listening.
Example Conclusions:
- "All in all, the TechMax offers a better balance of price and features, making it the best choice."
- "Given all these factors, the beachside hotel is the clear winner for a relaxing trip."
- "Overall, the hybrid car is the more practical and cost-effective option."
- "For these reasons, the flexible itinerary is our best bet—it gives us control and saves money."
- "Ultimately, the FitBand is the smarter buy—it's reliable, affordable, and does everything we need."
Powerful Vocabulary for a Persuasive Response
Comparing & Contrasting
- ✔ superior – better than the other option
- ✔ more practical – easier to use in real life
- ✔ longer-lasting – more durable over time
- ✔ costlier / pricier – more expensive
- ✔ lightweight – easier to carry
- ✔ versatile – useful in multiple situations
Persuasive Verbs
- ✔ emphasize – highlight key advantages
- ✔ recommend – strongly suggest
- ✔ justify – explain why something is better
- ✔ demonstrate – prove with examples
- ✔ underscore – stress an important point
Useful Transition Phrases
- ✔ On the other hand… (introducing a contrasting point)
- ✔ Compared to the other option… (showing why your choice is better)
- ✔ While that's true, I still believe… (softening a disagreement)
- ✔ In the long run, this option will… (highlighting future benefits)
- ✔ Ultimately, this is the best choice because… (finalizing your argument)
Final Thoughts: Mastering Task 5 with Ease
By following this six-step formula, you'll craft a persuasive and well-structured response that highlights why your choice is superior.
Key Takeaways:
- ✅ Greet the listener and set the context.
- ✅ Introduce both options before stating your preference.
- ✅ Provide two or three strong comparative reasons.
- ✅ Acknowledge the other person's view but refute it politely.
- ✅ Use confident, persuasive language.
- ✅ Wrap up with a firm conclusion and polite closing.
💡 With practice, you'll be able to convince anyone—whether it's for the CELPIP exam or real life!
✨ Good luck—you've got this! ✨