What Task 5 asks you to do
Task 5 shows two options, each with a picture and a few details. For example, two apartments, two vacation packages or two used cars. It works in two steps:
- Choose (60 seconds). Pick the option you prefer.
- Compare and persuade (60 seconds to prepare, 60 seconds to speak). The screen then shows a third option that someone else prefers. You must persuade that person that your choice is better.
The key point many students miss: you are not describing your option. You are comparing it with the other person's option and persuading them.
How to use the 60 seconds to choose
Don't spend the full minute deciding. Pick in 10 to 15 seconds, then use the rest to note two strong advantages of your choice. Those notes become your answer after you see the other option.
A structure for 60 seconds
- Acknowledge their choice (about 10 seconds). "I can see why you like the downtown apartment. It's close to everything."
- Advantage 1, compared (about 20 seconds). Use comparison words: "but the suburban one is $400 cheaper per month, so we could save for a car."
- Advantage 2, compared (about 20 seconds).
- A short persuasive close (about 10 seconds). "So I really think the suburban apartment makes more sense for us."
Sample answer
Situation: you and your partner are choosing an apartment. You chose a two-bedroom in the suburbs. Your partner prefers a one-bedroom downtown.
I understand why you like the downtown apartment. It's close to restaurants and you could walk to work. But I really think the suburban one is the better choice for us.
First, it's 400 dollars cheaper every month. Over a year that's almost five thousand dollars, which we could put toward a down payment. Second, it has two bedrooms instead of one. Since I work from home three days a week, I need a quiet room for calls, and when your parents visit they'd have their own space.
I know the commute is longer, but the train station is a five-minute walk, so you could read on the way instead of driving. When you think about the savings and the extra room, I'm sure the suburban apartment makes more sense.
Comparison phrases to learn
- "…is cheaper / larger / more convenient than…"
- "While yours has…, mine has…"
- "I know… but…"
- "In the long run…"
- "When you think about…, it makes more sense to…"
More speaking help: Task 1 guide · all 8 tasks · free timed drill.
Make your Task 5 answer persuasive
A coach times you on real Task 5 prompts and shows you what to change.
Questions
How long is CELPIP Speaking Task 5?
You get 60 seconds to choose an option, then 60 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to speak.
Should I describe my option in Task 5?
Compare it with the other person's option instead. Raters look for comparison and persuasion, not description.