What Task 6 asks you to do
Task 6 describes an awkward situation with two possible choices, often involving two people. You choose one option and speak to the person the prompt tells you to. You get 60 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to speak. Tone matters as much as content here.
Example prompt: Your manager has asked you to work this Saturday, but you promised to help your best friend move apartments that day. Choose one: talk to your manager and explain why you can't work, or talk to your friend and explain why you can't help.
A structure for 60 seconds
- Greet the person and state the situation (about 10 seconds).
- Your decision, said politely (about 10 seconds).
- Your reason, with detail (about 20 seconds).
- A solution or compromise (about 15 seconds). This is what lifts an answer to a higher level.
- A warm closing (about 5 seconds).
Choose fast, in about 15 seconds, then plan the reason and the compromise. Speak directly to the person ("you"), in the right tone: polite for a manager, warm for a friend.
Sample answer
Hi Mark, do you have a minute? I wanted to talk to you about this Saturday's shift.
I really appreciate you thinking of me, but unfortunately I won't be able to work this Saturday.
A few weeks ago I promised my best friend I'd help her move. She's moving across the city, she can't afford movers, and I'm the only one with a truck, so if I cancel, she'll have no way to move her furniture.
That said, I don't want to leave the team short. I could work the Sunday shift instead, or stay three extra hours on Friday evening to finish the inventory. I've also asked Daniel, and he said he might be free on Saturday.
Thanks for understanding, and just let me know which option works best for you.
Why this answer scores well
- It speaks to the manager directly and stays polite and professional throughout.
- The reason is specific and convincing (a promise, no movers, the only truck).
- It offers two concrete solutions, which shows problem-solving, not just refusal.
- Softening phrases ("I really appreciate", "unfortunately", "That said") suit the situation.
Useful phrases
- "I'm really sorry, but…"
- "I hope you understand that…"
- "Would it help if I…?"
- "What if we…?"
- "I don't want to let you down, so…"
Common mistakes
- Talking about the person ("I would tell my manager…") instead of to them.
- Spending the 60 seconds of preparation deciding.
- Refusing without offering any solution.
- Using a casual tone with a manager or a stiff tone with a friend.
Practise Task 6 with real timing in the free speaking drill, then see all 8 speaking tasks.
Want your Task 6 answer scored?
Record your answer in a session and get feedback on all four scoring areas.
Questions
How long is CELPIP Speaking Task 6?
You get 60 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to speak.
Does it matter which option I choose in Task 6?
No. Choose the option you can explain most easily. Raters score how well you handle it, not which side you pick.