Master CELPIP Speaking Task 5: The CLB 7+ Comparison & Persuasion Guide
In CELPIP Speaking Task 5: Comparing and Persuading, you are asked to choose between two options (such as buying two different houses, renting two types of cars, or choosing between two events) and then persuade a family member, colleague, or friend to agree with your decision. You have 60 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to record your response.
Task 5 is often considered one of the hardest parts of the speaking exam. The prep time is longer, but the recording is only 60 seconds, meaning you must be incredibly direct and concise. The key mistake candidates make is listing features of their choice without ever comparing them to the alternative. To score a **CLB 7 or higher**, you must use **comparative structures** and persuasive language that directly addresses the trade-offs of both options.
Task 5 Golden Rule: Empathy first
Since you are speaking to a friend or family member, start by acknowledging their preference. Say something like, "I know you were leaning towards Option A, but hear me out on why Option B is a better fit." This makes your register sound highly natural and realistic.
1. The Comparison & Persuasion Blueprint
A CLB 7+ response should flow smoothly from a warm opening that acknowledges their choice to two powerful comparative points, ending with a friendly closing:
"Hey [Name]! I know you were really interested in [Alternative Option], but I've been looking over the details, and I strongly feel that [My Option] is a much better choice for us."
"First of all, even though [Alternative Option] is slightly [cheaper/larger], our option actually offers [advantage]. In the long run, this will save us a lot of [money/time] because..."
"On top of that, [My Option] is far more convenient since it [feature/location]. In contrast, if we choose the alternative, we'd have to deal with [drawback], which is definitely not ideal."
"Honestly, it just makes so much more sense. Let me know what you think, and let's go ahead and book it!"
2. Comparative Grammar & Persuasive Synonyms
To score a CLB 7+, you must use advanced comparatives ("far more convenient," "not nearly as expensive as," "significantly better"). Avoid basic words like "good" or "bad":
Since this is an informal conversation, do not say "Therefore, I urge you to select Option A." This sounds overly dramatic and academic. Keep it friendly: **"Trust me, this is definitely our best bet."**
| Basic Boring Phrase | CLB 7+ Comparative Phrase |
|---|---|
| "It is better than the other one." | "It is significantly more advantageous than the alternative." |
| "It is cheaper." | "It is far more cost-effective in the long run." |
| "The other one has bad things." | "The alternative has several major drawbacks that we should avoid." |
3. Step-by-Step Sample Response
Let's look at how to deliver a flawless 60-second response to a typical comparative prompt:
"Hey Dave! I know you were really interested in booking that downtown hotel for our upcoming family reunion, but I've been looking over the details, and I strongly feel that renting the mountain cabin is a much better choice for us.
First of all, even though the hotel is closer to shopping malls, the cabin actually offers beautiful hiking trails and an outdoor campfire area. In the long run, this will save us a lot of money on restaurant dining because the cabin has a fully equipped kitchen where we can cook family meals together.
On top of that, the cabin is far more relaxing since it is surrounded by nature. In contrast, if we choose the downtown hotel, we'd have to deal with heavy traffic and noise, which is definitely not ideal for a peaceful family reunion.
Honestly, it just makes so much more sense. Let me know what you think, and let's go ahead and book it!"
Build Your Success Framework
A strong comparison requires structured arguments and solid comparative grammar. Tweak our blueprint, load up your practice dashboard, record your response, and let our smart AI evaluate your persuasion skills today.
Table of Contents
Ready to Ace Your CELPIP?
Practice Writing and Speaking under exam conditions with our realistic, timers-enabled mock interfaces. Get instant, thorough AI scoring and diagnostic advice!
Start Practice FreeRelated Articles
