How long do I have for CELPIP Speaking Task 5?

You get 60 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to speak. The longer preparation time (compared to Task 1) is because you need to read about two options, compare them, and decide which one to recommend before you start speaking.

Do I have to choose one option, or can I say both are good?

You must choose one option and persuade the listener that it is the better choice. Sitting on the fence or saying both are equally good does not fulfill the task requirement and will lower your task fulfillment score. Pick one and commit to it.

What if I pick the less obvious option?

There is no right or wrong choice. The evaluator does not care which option you pick, only how well you justify it. Choosing the less obvious option can actually work in your favor if you can provide strong, specific reasons, as it demonstrates more advanced reasoning.

How is Task 5 different from Task 1?

Task 1 asks you to give advice about a situation. Task 5 gives you two specific options and asks you to compare them and persuade someone that one is better. Task 5 requires more structured comparison and argumentation, while Task 1 is more open-ended advice.

How many reasons should I give for my choice?

Two to three reasons is the sweet spot for 60 seconds of speaking. One reason is not enough to be persuasive, and four or more reasons will feel rushed. Give two solid reasons with brief explanations, and you will fill the time naturally.

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Speaking Section

CELPIP Speaking Task 5: Comparing and Persuading

Task 5 tests your ability to evaluate two options and deliver a persuasive argument for your preferred choice. This is one of the more challenging speaking tasks because it requires structured comparison, clear reasoning, and a definitive recommendation.

Task Format and Timing

60 sec

Preparation Time

60 sec

Speaking Time

Compare

Task Type

You are presented with a situation where someone must choose between two options. Both options are described on screen with their key features. Your task is to compare them, choose one, and persuade the person that your choice is the better option.

The 60-second preparation time is longer than some other tasks because you need to read about both options, identify the key differences, decide which one to recommend, and plan your argument structure. Use this time wisely by jotting down two or three key reasons for your choice.

Recommended Response Structure

This structure ensures you cover all scoring criteria within 60 seconds.

Opening: State Your Choice (10 seconds)

Start by clearly stating which option you prefer. Do not build suspense. The evaluator should know your position within the first few seconds.

Reason 1 with Explanation (15-20 seconds)

State your strongest reason and support it. Compare this aspect directly with the other option to show why your choice is superior on this point.

Reason 2 with Explanation (15-20 seconds)

Give your second reason with supporting detail. If possible, briefly acknowledge a strength of the other option here before explaining why your choice still wins.

Closing: Restate and Recommend (10 seconds)

Summarize your position and give a clear final recommendation. End with confidence, not uncertainty.

5 Key Strategies for Task 5

Pick your option quickly and commit

Do not spend 30 seconds of your preparation time going back and forth. Choose whichever option you can argue for more convincingly, even if it is not your genuine preference. The evaluator scores your argumentation, not your personal taste.

Briefly acknowledge the other option

Spending 10 seconds acknowledging a strength of the option you did not choose shows balanced thinking and adds sophistication to your response. Then pivot clearly to why your chosen option is still better overall.

Use comparative language

Phrases like "while both options have merit," "compared to the first option," and "the main advantage of this choice is" demonstrate the comparison the task requires. Comparative structures also signal to the evaluator that you understand the task format.

Support each reason with a brief example or explanation

Do not just list reasons. After each reason, add one or two sentences explaining why it matters. "It is more affordable" is weaker than "It is more affordable, which means you can save that money for other priorities."

End with a clear recommendation

Your closing should restate your choice with confidence. A sentence like "For all these reasons, I strongly recommend option A" gives your response a definitive ending and reinforces task fulfillment.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Failing to choose a side and staying neutral
Spending too long describing both options without arguing for one
Giving reasons without any explanation or supporting detail
Running out of content before the 60 seconds are up
Using the exact same sentence structure for every reason

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Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about CELPIP Speaking Task 5.

Frequently Asked Questions

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