TIP #10 CELPIP Speaking Task 5 (Comparing and Persuading): structure response, use persuasion techniques, Focus on grammar essentials, deal with potential objections

.

CELPIP Speaking Task 5: Comparing and Persuading
Pre-Speaking Tips
1. Structure Your Response
✔ Social intro: "I understand you’re considering the JC Stream, but I’d recommend the Region East Phone because..."
✔ State preference early: "For your needs, the Region East is the smarter choice."
2. Persuasion Techniques
✔ Highlight strengths:

• "The extra functions and memory will handle our growing business demands."
  ✔ Downplay weaknesses:
• "The slightly shorter battery won’t matter since you’re often near a charger."
  ✔ Add subjective value:
• "It also has a more professional design, which reflects our brand image."

3. Grammar Essentials
✔ Comparatives: "The Region East has more functions and faster performance."
✔ Contrast clauses: "While the JC Stream is cheaper, the Region East offers far better productivity."
✔ Conditionals: "If you choose the Region East, you won’t face slowdowns during busy periods."
4. Deal with Objections
✔ "Although it’s $190 more, the long-term efficiency gains are worth it."
 
Preparation: 60 seconds | Recording: 60 seconds


Task Prompt
"Your boss is considering buying a new smartphone for work. She is looking at the JC Stream model, but you believe the Region East Phone would be a better choice. Compare the two options and persuade her to choose the Region East Phone. You will see their features on the screen."

Features Displayed:

.Model Answer (60 Seconds)
"Hi [Boss’s Name], I understand you’re considering the JC Stream, but I strongly recommend the Region East Phone for our business needs. While the JC Stream is cheaper, the Region East offers 32 functions—that’s 6 more than the JC Stream—which means you can multitask seamlessly as our workload grows. It also has 4GB of memory, so it won’t slow down during important video calls or data analysis.
Yes, the battery is 1 hour shorter, but you’re usually in the office with chargers nearby. The warranty is 1 year less, but the phone’s higher quality means you’re less likely to need repairs. Plus, its sleek design looks more professional with clients.
If you choose the Region East, you’ll save time and avoid frustration. The extra cost is a small investment for long-term productivity. I really think it’s the right choice!"

Post-Speaking Assessment & Reflection
Self-Checklist
✔ Did I state my preference clearly in the intro?
✔ Did I use 3+ comparatives and 2+ contrast clauses?
✔ Did I explain consequences of each choice?
✔ Did I address objections (price, battery, warranty)?
✔ Did I end persuasively?
Reflection Questions

1. Did I balance facts (memory, functions) with persuasion (design, productivity)?
2. Did I avoid listing features without explaining their impact?
3. How could I make my conditionals stronger? (e.g., "If you pick the JC Stream, you might regret it during peak hours.")

Practice Tip: Role-play with a partner—ask them to argue for the JC Stream while you counter with Region East’s benefits.

Need Adjustments?

• For more aggression, add: "The JC Stream simply can’t keep up with our needs."
• For more diplomacy, soften: "I see why the JC Stream appeals, but the Region East’s perks outweigh the cost."