CELPIP Speaking: Comparing and Persuading 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which transition phrase is BEST for introducing a contrasting point between two options in Task 5?
- In addition to this,
- For example,
- On the other hand, (Correct answer)
- As a result,
Correct answer: On the other hand,
'On the other hand' is a contrastive connector that clearly signals you are shifting from one option's features to the other's.
Question 2: What does the 'Coherence and Cohesion' dimension in CELPIP speaking primarily evaluate?
- The variety of grammatical structures used
- The logical organization and use of linking devices (Correct answer)
- The accuracy of pronunciation and intonation
- The appropriateness of vocabulary for the context
Correct answer: The logical organization and use of linking devices
Coherence and Cohesion assesses how well ideas are organized and connected using transitions, pronouns, and discourse markers.
Question 3: A test-taker says: 'Option A is better. It has more space. Option B is smaller.' What is the MAIN weakness of this response?
- It uses incorrect grammar throughout
- It lacks persuasive reasoning and detail (Correct answer)
- It addresses too many points at once
- It uses overly formal vocabulary
Correct answer: It lacks persuasive reasoning and detail
Effective Task 5 responses require specific reasons, not just observations — the speaker must explain WHY a feature makes one option better.
Question 4: Which approach BEST demonstrates persuasive language in a Task 5 response?
- Listing features of both options without offering a preference
- Stating your recommendation only at the very end
- Explaining the concrete benefits of your chosen option for the listener's specific needs (Correct answer)
- Using very formal academic vocabulary throughout
Correct answer: Explaining the concrete benefits of your chosen option for the listener's specific needs
Persuasion is most effective when tailored to the listener's needs — linking features to real benefits makes your argument compelling.
Question 5: In a Task 5 scenario where you are helping a friend choose between two apartments, which sentence is MOST persuasive?
- Both apartments have two bedrooms, so it's hard to say.
- Apartment A has a balcony, while Apartment B does not.
- Since you work from home, Apartment A's quiet, dedicated office space would significantly boost your productivity. (Correct answer)
- I personally prefer Apartment A, but you should decide for yourself.
Correct answer: Since you work from home, Apartment A's quiet, dedicated office space would significantly boost your productivity.
Tailoring the recommendation to the listener's specific situation ('you work from home') makes the argument genuinely persuasive and directly relevant.
Question 6: What is a common scoring pitfall in CELPIP Speaking Task 5 regarding time management?
- Spending equal time on comparing and persuading
- Spending too long comparing and not leaving time to make a clear recommendation (Correct answer)
- Making the recommendation too early before any comparison
- Using all 60 seconds to describe only one option
Correct answer: Spending too long comparing and not leaving time to make a clear recommendation
Many test-takers run out of time before delivering a clear recommendation, which lowers their Task Fulfillment score significantly.
Question 7: Which vocabulary choice would BEST demonstrate a strong 'Vocabulary Range' score in a Task 5 response?
- Option A is good and nice. Option B is also good.
- Option A is beneficial; it offers superior amenities and a more conducive environment for your needs. (Correct answer)
- I think Option A has things that are better than Option B in many different ways.
- Both options are okay, but one is a bit more better.
Correct answer: Option A is beneficial; it offers superior amenities and a more conducive environment for your needs.
Using precise, varied vocabulary like 'beneficial,' 'superior amenities,' and 'conducive environment' demonstrates a strong command of English lexis.
CELPIP Speaking: Comparing and Persuading 2
Which transition phrase is BEST for introducing a contrasting point between two options in Task 5?