CELPIP Speaking template: Expressing Opinions

CELPIP Speaking Task 7 — Expressing Opinions: 30 seconds prep, 90 seconds to speak. You're given a statement or 'Do you think…?' question and must take a side and defend it.

3 min read Spoken response Works for any prompt

What raters reward

A clear stance held throughout (Task Fulfillment), two developed reasons with examples (Content/Coherence), opinion and topic vocabulary (Vocabulary), and fluent, well-paced delivery across a long 90 seconds (Listenability).

Your time plan

Prep (30s) — Choose the side you can support best and lock two distinct reasons, each with an example. Don't argue both sides.
Speak (90s) — State your opinion (~10s) → reason 1 + example (~35s) → reason 2 + example (~35s) → restate (~10s).

How to structure it

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

1. State your opinion — Take a clear position in the first sentence.
2. Reason 1 + example — Your strongest reason with a concrete example.
3. Reason 2 + example — A second, different reason and example.
4. Restate — Sum up your position confidently.
1 State your opinion ~10s

No fence-sitting — pick yes or no and commit.

Grammar Opinion phrase + that-clause

Phrases to adapt
  • This is a debated topic, but I firmly believe that [stance].
  • In my view, [stance], and I'll explain why.
2 Reason 1 + example ~35s

Develop it: claim → example → why it matters.

Grammar Reason + example (for instance, because)

Phrases to adapt
  • My main reason is [reason]. For instance, [example].
  • To begin with, [reason], which shows that [point].
3 Reason 2 + example ~35s

Choose a fresh angle so it isn't a repeat.

Grammar Addition + result

Phrases to adapt
  • Another important reason is [reason].
  • A good example of this is [example].
4 Restate ~10s

Tie back to your opinion; don't add new points.

Grammar Conclusion

Phrases to adapt
  • So, considering these points, I'm convinced that [stance].
  • All in all, [restated opinion].

A worked model answer

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

In my view, professional athletes should be allowed to use performance-enhancing technology, such as advanced prosthetics or specialized equipment, under regulated conditions. Modern technology has become an integral part of human life, and sports should evolve alongside it rather than remain stagnant. For instance, high-tech gear can help athletes recover from injuries faster and push the limits of human capability safely. Moreover, these innovations can make sports more inclusive, allowing people with physical challenges to compete at elite levels. However, I do believe there should be strict rules to ensure fairness, so no one gains an overwhelming advantage that undermines competition. Overall, embracing technology can make sports more exciting, dynamic, and equitable without completely abandoning the spirit of natural athleticism.

Useful vocabulary

Vocabulary is one of the four scored dimensions — weave a few in (don't force all of them).

Stating an opinion
in my viewI'm convinced thatpersonallyas far as I'm concernedI'd argue that
Supporting it
for one thinga clear example isin practicethis matters because
Emphasis
above allwhat's morethe key point isundeniably

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Arguing both sides instead of taking one.
  • Finishing early — 90 seconds needs two developed reasons.
  • Reasons without examples.
  • Drifting off the actual question.

Quick tips

  • Commit to one side immediately.
  • Signpost (First… Second… Finally…) so it's easy to follow.
  • Use the full 90 seconds with two example-backed reasons.
Put it into practice
Try Expressing Opinions with this template
Start practice
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