CELPIP Comparing and Persuading Template (S5)

What raters reward

A clear choice and persuasion aimed at the listener (Task Fulfillment), genuine comparison using contrast language (Content/Coherence, Vocabulary), and confident, friendly delivery (Listenability). You must address the option the other person prefers.

Your time plan

Choose (~60s) — Pick the option you can sell best to THIS person, and note one benefit that matters to them.

Prep (60s) — Plan two benefits for the listener and one line that handles their preferred (rival) option.

Speak (60s) — State your choice (~8s) → benefit 1 for them (~18s) → benefit 2 (~18s) → address the rival (~10s) → call to action (~6s).

How to structure it

Fill the [slots] with your own ideas — adapt the frames, don't recite them.

1. State your choice — Tell the person which option you picked.

2. Benefit 1 (for them) — Lead with what the listener gains.

3. Benefit 2 — A second persuasive benefit.

4. Address the rival option — Acknowledge the other choice, then outweigh it.

5. Call to action — Close with a confident nudge.

1 State your choice ~8s

Name it up front and signal you'll convince them.

Grammar Stating preference

Phrases to adapt

I really think we should go with [your option].
I've made up my mind — [option] is the way to go.

2 Benefit 1 (for them) ~18s

Frame it around their needs, not yours.

Grammar Comparatives (more … than, -er)

Phrases to adapt

The best part for you is [benefit], which beats [rival's weak point].
You'd love [feature] because [reason].

3 Benefit 2 ~18s

Use a comparison to make it concrete.

Grammar Contrast (whereas, while)

Phrases to adapt

On top of that, [benefit], whereas the other option [drawback].
It also means you won't have to [downside].

4 Address the rival option ~10s

Concede a small point about their preference, then rebut.

Grammar Concession

Phrases to adapt

I know you were leaning toward [their option], and it does [small merit].
But when you compare them, [your option] simply [wins how].

5 Call to action ~6s

Ask for the decision.

Grammar Question / imperative

Phrases to adapt

So what do you say — shall we go with [option]?
Trust me, you won't regret it.

A worked model answer

A high-scoring sample that follows this shape — use it as a model, not a script.

Dear Mom,

I’ve been thinking about Dad’s weekend plans. While your idea of the Morning Walking Group encourages fitness, it’s quite vulnerable to bad weather and lacks a social spark. I truly believe the Gardening Club is the superior path for him. Unlike a solitary stroll, this hobby offers a perfect blend of gentle movement and meaningful connection with others. It’s a wonderful way for him to unwind and lower his stress levels after a long week. Plus, having an organized group provides the mentorship he needs to stay motivated, all for a very minimal cost. Instead of just walking the same paths, he could be nurturing a vibrant garden alongside new friends. It’s a much more fulfilling way to keep his mind and body active. Let’s sign him up for the club.