CELPIP Speaking Task 5: Comparing and Persuading
Task 5 has two parts. In Part 1 you choose one of two options, and you do not speak. In Part 2 someone proposes a new option, and you have 60 seconds to persuade them that your choice is better.
Practice Comparing and Persuading NowThe official format of Speaking Task 5: Comparing and Persuading
CELPIP's official strategies for Task 5
From CELPIP's Speaking Pro: Target 9+ Study Pack (2026).
- Part 1: Read and understand the situation.
- Part 1: Compare the information provided for the two options.
- Part 1: Quickly choose which one you prefer to talk about.
- Part 2: Read the information about the new option.
- Part 2: Think of details and reasons to explain why your choice is better.
- Part 2: Use specific language to explain your choice, and expand on the information included with the picture.
A 4-step structure for Task 5 Part 2
Recommend your choice, compare it to the new option, answer the other person's concern, and ask them to decide.
CELPIP Speaking Task 5 sample answer (60 seconds)
Your family wants to adopt a pet from the local shelter. Part 1: choose one of two pets. Part 2: your spouse suggests something else. Persuade them your choice is better.
Honestly, I really think we should adopt Buddy, the two-year-old dog from the shelter. I've read his whole profile on the shelter's website twice, and I think he's exactly what our family needs right now.
Compared to the guinea pigs, Buddy will actually be part of the family. The kids can walk him, play with him in the yard, and teach him tricks. Guinea pigs mostly stay in their cage, and honestly, I think the kids would lose interest in a few weeks. And the shelter says he's already good with kids, so we're not starting from zero.
I know you'd prefer the guinea pigs because they're cheaper and quieter, but the difference is smaller than it looks. They're ninety dollars, plus a hundred and twenty for the cage, and Buddy is two hundred and fifty, and he's already house-trained. And yes, he needs two walks a day, but honestly, so do we.
So let's go with Buddy. Let's visit the shelter on Saturday and meet him together, and if the kids promise to help with the morning walk, I'll take the evening one. Do we have a deal?
It compares the choice with the other person's option, uses the details given (the prices, the walks), answers their concern directly, and ends with a plan. This answer was spoken within the 60-second limit.
A free CELPIP Speaking Task 5: Comparing and Persuading practice question
Choosing Maple or Oak
Your child is starting elementary school, and you need to choose between two schools in your neighborhood. Using the information below, choose the option that you prefer. In the next section, you will need to persuade your spouse that your choice is the better choice.
Maple Elementary School
- 15 minutes walking distance
- 25 students per class
- French immersion program available
- Monthly field trips included
Oak Valley Elementary School
- 5 minutes driving distance
- 18 students per class
- Strong arts and music programs
- After-school care until 6 PM
Show the sample answer (CLB 9-10)
I'm convinced that Oak Valley Elementary is undoubtedly the superior choice for our child's educational journey. Consider this: with only 18 students per class compared to Maple's 25, our child will benefit from significantly more personalized attention and mentorship. This intimate learning environment is particularly valuable during these formative years. Furthermore, their exceptional arts and music programs will nurture our child's creative talents, providing a well-rounded education that extends beyond academics. Most importantly, the after-school care until 6 PM eliminates our biggest concern about work-life balance. While the 5-minute drive requires minimal effort, the substantial advantages in educational quality and family convenience make this decision crystal clear.
More CELPIP Speaking Task 5 practice situations
Set a timer, use the preparation time to plan, and answer each one out loud.
- Your family is choosing a vacation: a beach resort or a camping trip in a national park. In Part 2, your brother suggests a city tour instead.
- Your team is choosing a team-building event: a cooking class or an escape room. In Part 2, your manager suggests a bowling night.
- You are choosing a used car: a small hatchback or a minivan. In Part 2, your spouse suggests a pickup truck.
- Your community center can spend its budget on new gym equipment or a children's play area. In Part 2, a neighbor suggests a community garden.
- Your friends are choosing a weekend activity: a hockey game or a concert. In Part 2, one friend suggests a hiking trip.
- Your family is choosing an apartment: one downtown near work or one in the suburbs with a yard. In Part 2, your partner suggests a place near the school.
Common mistakes on Task 5: Comparing and Persuading
- Comparing your choice only with the other Part 1 option. In Part 2, compare it with the NEW option the other person proposes.
- Ignoring the information on the screen. Use the specific details, such as prices, distances and features, and expand on them.
- Repeating "it is better" without reasons. Give concrete reasons tied to the other person's needs.
- Forgetting the other person. Speak to them, and answer their likely concern.
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Start PracticingTask 5: Comparing and Persuading FAQ
How does CELPIP Speaking Task 5 work?+
In Part 1 you have 60 seconds to choose one of two options, and you do not speak. In Part 2 someone suggests a new option, and you have 60 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to persuade them that your choice is better.
Do I speak in Part 1 of Task 5?+
No. Part 1 is only for choosing. You speak in Part 2.
What should I compare in Part 2?+
Your choice against the new option the other person proposes, using the details given for both.
Can I change my choice in Part 2?+
Keep the option you chose in Part 1, and persuade the other person that it is better than theirs.
What CELPIP Speaking score do I need for Express Entry?+
Express Entry's Federal Skilled Worker program needs at least CLB 7 in speaking and in each other skill, and the most first-language points start at CLB 10. Canadian citizenship needs CLB 4 in speaking and listening.