CELPIP Speaking Task 7 Template: Expressing Opinions Effectively

Introduction

In CELPIP Speaking Task 7, you are required to express your opinion on a given statement, which could be about a social issue, policy, or personal lifestyle choice. To score well, your response should be structured, persuasive, and clearly supported with reasons and examples.

Below is an enhanced six-step template, along with expanded example statements and additional vocabulary to help you speak confidently and logically.

1. Greeting & Introduction

Start with a friendly greeting and acknowledge the topic before stating your intention to share your opinion.

Example Opening Lines:

• "Hello! Today, I'd like to share my thoughts on whether remote work should become the standard."
• "Hi there. I want to discuss the idea of banning single-use plastic worldwide."
• "Good morning! Let me explain why I support reducing the workweek to four days."
• "Hey! I'd love to talk about whether students should have year-round schooling."
• "Hi! I'll be discussing whether social media does more harm than good."
• "Greetings! I'd like to weigh in on the issue of mandatory community service for students."
• "Good day! Let's explore whether public transportation should be free for everyone."
• "Hello! I'm excited to talk about whether fast food companies should be taxed more heavily."

2. State Your Position

Clearly express whether you agree, disagree, or partially agree with the statement.

Example Statements:

• "I strongly support this idea because of its numerous benefits."
• "I completely disagree with this approach for several reasons."
• "While I see some advantages, I believe there are also significant downsides."
• "I mostly agree, but I do think certain conditions should apply."
• "I am inclined to support this, though I understand the concerns of the opposing side."
• "I personally disagree, but I acknowledge that some aspects of the idea are worth considering."
• "In my opinion, this policy would be beneficial in the long run."
• "Although this concept is appealing, I have reservations about its feasibility."

3. Provide Strong Reasons

Offer one or two compelling reasons to support your stance, with examples or explanations.

Example Supporting Arguments:

• "First of all, remote work increases productivity while giving employees a better work-life balance."
• "One major reason is that banning plastic would significantly reduce ocean pollution and protect wildlife."
• "Another key factor is that a four-day workweek has been shown to boost mental health and efficiency."
• "Additionally, year-round schooling could help students retain knowledge better, reducing learning loss."
• "Moreover, free public transportation would reduce traffic congestion and lower carbon emissions."
• "By taxing fast food companies more, governments could fund healthcare initiatives to fight obesity."
• "This measure would encourage people to be more environmentally conscious."
• "Incorporating community service into education fosters a sense of responsibility and teamwork."
• "If social media use is restricted for teenagers, it could lead to improved mental well-being."
• "This change could result in a healthier, more productive society overall."

4. Address a Counterargument

Acknowledge an opposing viewpoint and explain why it's less convincing or how it can be mitigated.

Example Counterarguments & Responses:

• "Some argue that remote work reduces team collaboration, but with modern technology, virtual meetings solve this issue."
• "Of course, some businesses might struggle with a four-day workweek, but flexible hours could be an alternative solution."
• "Yes, banning plastic bags might inconvenience shoppers, but reusable bags are a simple and sustainable alternative."
• "I understand that social media helps people stay connected, but the negative effects on mental health outweigh the benefits."
• "Granted, public transportation would be expensive to make free, but the long-term savings on infrastructure and pollution control make it worth it."
• "I acknowledge that taxing fast food could lead to price hikes, but it would encourage healthier eating habits overall."
• "Some may believe that mandatory community service takes time away from studying, but it actually builds important life skills."
• "Although critics argue that teenagers should have unrestricted internet access, setting boundaries can protect their well-being."
• "I admit there could be resistance at first, but once people see the positive effects, they may change their perspective."
• "People might claim this policy is too strict, but gradual implementation would make the transition smoother."

5. Summarize or Conclude

Restate your stance concisely and reinforce your key points.

Example Closing Statements:

• "To sum up, remote work is a practical and beneficial solution that should be embraced."
• "All in all, banning single-use plastics is a crucial step toward environmental conservation."
• "Ultimately, a shorter workweek benefits both employees and employers."
• "On the whole, free public transportation would greatly improve urban mobility and sustainability."
• "In short, restricting social media use for teenagers would lead to healthier online habits."
• "Therefore, I stand by my belief that taxing fast food companies would promote better public health."
• "Because of these factors, I am fully in favor of implementing mandatory community service for students."
• "Considering the advantages, this approach should be adopted worldwide."
• "For these reasons, I remain convinced that this change would positively impact society."
• "Thus, while not perfect, this solution offers the best balance of practicality and benefit."

6. Wrap Up Politely

End your response on a positive and professional note.

Example Wrap-Up Phrases:

• "Thank you for considering my perspective—I appreciate the opportunity to share my thoughts."
• "I hope my points have provided useful insights into this topic."
• "Thanks for listening, and I'd love to hear any thoughts you may have on this as well."
• "I appreciate the chance to express my view, and I look forward to any discussion on this matter."
• "That's all I have to say on this topic—thank you for your time!"
• "I'm grateful for this platform to voice my opinion, and I welcome different viewpoints on the issue."
• "Thank you again for listening, and I hope my perspective has added to the conversation."
• "I'm always open to discussing this further if needed—thank you for your attention."
• "I appreciate your time, and I hope this explanation has been helpful."
• "Thanks again! I trust this discussion has provided valuable points for consideration."

Powerful Vocabulary for Expressing Opinions

Adjectives for Agreeing or Disagreeing

• Favorable to – supporting or agreeing with
• Opposed to – against or disagreeing with
• Neutral – not taking sides
• Adamant – very firm or unshakable in stance
• Hesitant – unsure or cautious about supporting a claim
• Enthusiastic – strongly positive and eager
• Reluctant – unwilling or doubtful

Useful Transition Words

• Furthermore – adding more points
• Nonetheless – despite what was just said
• Consequently – as a result
• Additionally – adding extra details
• Contrarily – in the opposite way
• Respectively – in the order mentioned

Persuasive Argument Verbs

• Advocate – strongly support
• Claim – state that something is true
• Maintain – continue to argue a point
• Question – express doubt
• Reinforce – strengthen a point
• Indicate – show or point out

Hedging for Partial Agreement

• To some extent – partly but not entirely
• Arguably – can be claimed with reason
• In a sense – in some way
• Potentially – possibly but not certainly

Final Thoughts

By following this six-step template, using powerful vocabulary, and structuring your response logically, you can deliver a confident and persuasive answer for CELPIP Speaking Task 7.

Key Takeaways:

• ✔ Start with a clear position (agree, disagree, or partial agreement).
• ✔ Provide strong supporting reasons and real-world examples.
• ✔ Address opposing viewpoints while reinforcing your stance.
• ✔ Use persuasive language and structured arguments.
• ✔ Keep your tone polite, confident, and well-organized.

With practice and strategy, you can tackle this task with clarity and conviction!