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CELPIP Speaking · Task 5

Comparing and Persuading Template Guide

Learn how to politely reject another option, compare two choices with accurate comparatives, read prices naturally, and persuade someone to agree with your decision.

Selection: 60 seconds

Speaking: 60 seconds

Target: compare + persuade

Goal

Persuade Someone to Agree with Your Choice

CELPIP Speaking Task 5 asks you to persuade a friend, family member, or colleague to change their mind and agree with your choice. You must compare two options using comparative adjectives, specific data, and a polite but confident tone.

Assessment Criteria

What the Examiner Looks For

Structure (Soft Rejection)

You cannot simply say "your choice is bad." Acknowledge their idea first, then disagree politely.

Grammar (Comparatives)

Use cheaper, faster, much cheaper, and more expensive correctly. Never say more cheaper.

Detail (Reading Numbers)

Read prices naturally. $100 is a hundred dollars. $699.99 is six ninety-nine ninety-nine or almost seven hundred dollars.

Step 1

The Opening: Greeting & Soft Rejection

Goal: be polite but firm. Show that you have read their suggestion, but make it clear that you are sticking to your own choice.

Greeting: Hi [Name].

Acknowledgment: I saw your suggestion to choose [their option].

The Pivot: I understand why you chose it; however,...

The Thesis: I believe [my option] is the better choice.

Example: Hi Sarah, I saw your suggestion to choose the vintage wooden bed. I understand why you liked it because it looks durable; however, I believe the car-shaped bed is a better choice for Liam.

Step 2

The Comparison: The 3-Point Strategy

Goal: compare the items point by point. Always follow this order: Price, Contextual Value, then Specific Detail.

RuleCorrect UsageCommon Error
Rule 1: -er Words (Short adjectives)This option is cheaper. / It is faster.This option is more cheaper. / It is more faster.
Rule 2: Emphasizing (Big difference)My option is much cheaper. / It is way faster.My option is more cheaper. / It is very faster.

Point 1

The Price: Always First

Your first argument should usually be about money. Use specific numbers and read them naturally.

If Your Option Is Cheaper

Template: First, my option is much cheaper. It costs [price], while your option costs [price], so we can save [amount].

Example: First, the car-shaped bed is much cheaper because it costs a hundred and eighty dollars, while the wooden bed costs three hundred dollars.

If Your Option Is More Expensive

Template: First, my option is slightly more expensive. However, it offers better value because [feature / durability / included service].

Example: First, this laptop is more expensive. However, it includes a longer warranty and a faster processor, so it is better value in the long run.

Point 2

Contextual Value: Features That Matter

The Context Rule is crucial for high scores: do not use random adjectives. Choose words that fit the person and the situation.

OptionAdjective StrategyWhy?
Option A (Car-shaped bed)This is more fun and exciting.Fits a toddler's personality and makes bedtime more enjoyable.
Option B (Vintage wooden bed)This might be too boring or too serious.Does not fit a young child's age, interests, or daily routine.

Convenience

This option is more convenient because it is easier to move, clean, or use daily.

Fun

This option is more exciting and playful, which fits a child or party situation.

Comfort

This option is more comfortable because it has better support, space, or design.

Point 3

The Detail: Specific Comparison

Compare a specific detail to seal the deal.

Template: Finally, even though your choice has [Detail A], I think [Detail B] is better because...

Example: Finally, even though your choice is made of solid wood, my option has side rails and a lower frame, which makes it safer and easier for a small child to use.

Extra: My option is lighter, which makes it easier to carry and rearrange in the room.

Step 3

The Conclusion

Goal: use a confident closing sentence that repeats your stance and asks for agreement.

Structure: Reiterate your choice + ask for confirmation.

Example: So, for the price, the design, and the safety features, I really think we should go with the car-shaped bed. What do you think?

Example with Instruction

Prompt, Options, and Sample Response

Instruction

You and your sister are buying a bed for your four-year-old nephew. Your sister suggested a vintage wooden bed for $300, but you prefer a car-shaped bed for $180. Persuade your sister to choose your option.

Your Choice

Car-shaped bed · $180 · playful design · low frame · side rails

Their Choice

Vintage wooden bed · $300 · solid wood · classic design

Hi Sarah, I saw your suggestion to choose the vintage wooden bed. I understand why you liked it because it looks strong and classic; however, I believe the car-shaped bed is the better choice for Liam.

First, it is much cheaper. The car bed costs a hundred and eighty dollars, while the wooden bed costs three hundred dollars, so we can save a hundred and twenty dollars for bedding or toys.

Second, the car bed is more fun and exciting for a four-year-old child. A vintage wooden bed may be beautiful, but it seems too serious for his age. The car design would make bedtime feel more enjoyable.

Finally, even though your choice is made of solid wood, the car bed has a lower frame and side rails, which makes it safer and easier for Liam to use by himself.

So, considering the price, the design, and the safety features, I really think we should choose the car-shaped bed. What do you think?