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CELPIP, Speaking Task 5: Comparing and Persuading

Selecting a Joint Dating Coach: sample answer

A model answer to this exam-style CELPIP comparing and persuading question, written to a level 10 target. See the question, the full answer and exactly why it works, then try it yourself.

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Task
Comparing and Persuading
Time
60s to prepare, 60s to speak
Answer length
123 words, ~55s
Written to
Level 10 target

The question

Situation

Your friend is planning to choose a joint dating coach with you to improve your dating skills. You both want to find someone who can help you achieve your relationship goals. Look at the two options below and persuade them to choose one over the other. Dating Dynamics Pro: Focuses on communication skills and confidence building, 4 sessions (1 hour each), Total $600 ($300 per person), Flexible evening/weekend appointments available, Includes post-session email support. LoveLink Coaching: Focuses on profile optimization and first date strategies, 3 sessions (1.5 hours each), Total $500 ($250 per person), Weekday daytime only appointments, Offers a personalized dating action plan.

Task

Your friend is planning to choose a joint dating coach with you to improve your dating skills. You both want to find someone who can help you achieve your relationship goals. Look at the two options below and persuade them to choose one over the other.

Sample answer

Linking words are highlighted: they show the structure a rater follows.

Hey Alex, after reviewing the dating coach options, I'm convinced Dating Dynamics Pro is the best choice for us. I understand LoveLink Coaching seems attractive due to its slightly lower price and focus on profiles. However, for just $50 more per person, Dating Dynamics Pro provides four comprehensive one-hour sessions focused on communication – a key area we need. LoveLink offers fewer total hours and doesn't hit our main goal as directly. Crucially, Dating Dynamics Pro has flexible evening and weekend appointments, which perfectly fits our schedules, unlike LoveLink's restrictive weekday availability. Their post-session email support also adds invaluable continuous guidance. Given its superior value, targeted skill development, and essential scheduling flexibility, Dating Dynamics Pro is clearly the optimal choice. What do you think?

123 words, about 55s spoken

Why it works

What you can measure in this answer, and what CELPIP raters mark.

  • The right length. 123 words, about 55 seconds at a natural pace: inside the 60-second limit with room to finish calmly.
  • Clear links between ideas: “however”. They make the answer easy to follow, which raters reward under coherence.
  • 8 sentences in 55 seconds: complete thoughts at a steady pace, without rushing to fit more in.

How CELPIP marks comparing and persuading

  • Content & CoherenceLevel 1–12

    Enough relevant ideas, organised clearly and supported with detail.

  • VocabularyLevel 1–12

    Words chosen precisely and appropriately for the topic.

  • ListenabilityLevel 1–12

    Rhythm, pronunciation, intonation and few distracting pauses or self-corrections.

  • Task FulfillmentLevel 1–12

    Answers every part, with the right tone and length.

Speaking Task 5: Comparing and Persuading guide

Common questions

How long should a CELPIP Speaking Task 5: Comparing and Persuading answer be?

You get 60 seconds to prepare and up to 60 seconds to speak. At a natural pace that's roughly 110 to 155 words. This sample is 123 words, about 55 seconds spoken.

How is CELPIP Speaking Task 5: Comparing and Persuading scored?

CELPIP marks it on Content & Coherence, Vocabulary, Listenability, Task Fulfillment, each on a Level 1 to 12 scale. Your result for the task comes from these together.

Is this a real CELPIP question?

No. It's an original, exam-style question written to match the official format. Nobody can legally publish real test questions.

Should I memorise this answer?

No. Use it to see the structure, length and linking words that work, then answer in your own words. Memorised answers rarely fit a new question and raters notice.

Where can I practice this question and get a score?

Open it on PrepScroll: record or type your own answer and get an instant estimated score on each CELPIP criterion, with what to fix. It's free to start.

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