CELPIP Speaking Task 7: Expressing Opinions (Band 7-10)
Learn the art of expressing your opinions clearly and persuasively. Learn to state your position, provide strong arguments with examples, and acknowledge other perspectives to score Band 7-10.
What They Test
Understanding the assessment criteria helps you deliver exactly what examiners are looking for.
Clear Opinion Statement
Your ability to clearly state your position on the topic, making your opinion evident from the beginning.
Supporting Arguments
Providing logical, well-developed arguments with specific examples, evidence, or personal experiences to support your opinion.
Balanced Perspective
Acknowledging other viewpoints or potential counterarguments, showing sophisticated thinking and balanced reasoning.
Language Range
Using varied vocabulary to express opinions, degrees of certainty, and linking words to connect ideas effectively.
Template Phrases
Ready-to-use expressions for expressing opinions clearly and persuasively.
Stating Your Opinion
- "In my opinion..."
- "I believe that..."
- "From my perspective..."
- "I strongly feel that..."
Providing Supporting Arguments
- "The main reason is that..."
- "For instance..."
- "To illustrate this point..."
- "This is evident because..."
Acknowledging Other Views
- "While some people argue that..."
- "I understand that others might think..."
- "Although there are valid points on both sides..."
- "Admittedly, some may disagree, but..."
Reinforcing Your Opinion
- "Therefore, I maintain that..."
- "For these reasons, I firmly believe..."
- "In conclusion, I'm convinced that..."
Sample Answer (30s prep + 60s)
See how a Band 7-10 opinion response sounds with clear position, strong arguments, and balanced reasoning.
Scenario:
Do you think students should be required to wear school uniforms? Express your opinion and provide reasons.
Stating Opinion:
"In my opinion, I believe that school uniforms should be required. While I understand that some people value individual expression through clothing, I think the benefits of uniforms outweigh the drawbacks."
Supporting Argument 1:
"The main reason is that uniforms create a sense of equality among students. For instance, when everyone wears the same clothing, there's less pressure to wear expensive brands or keep up with fashion trends. This is evident because students from different economic backgrounds can feel more included, reducing bullying related to clothing choices."
Supporting Argument 2:
"Additionally, uniforms can improve focus on academics rather than appearance. To illustrate this point, students spend less time deciding what to wear each morning, which means more time for studying or arriving at school on time. This practical benefit helps create a more academic environment."
Acknowledging Other View & Conclusion:
"Admittedly, some may disagree, arguing that uniforms limit self-expression. However, I believe students can express themselves through other means like art, music, or academic achievements. For these reasons, I'm convinced that requiring school uniforms is beneficial for creating an inclusive, focused learning environment."
Why This Response Scores High:
- Clearly states opinion from the beginning
- Provides two well-developed supporting arguments with specific examples
- Acknowledges opposing viewpoints, showing balanced thinking
- Uses appropriate opinion language and linking words
- Ends with a strong, reinforced conclusion
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learn from these frequent errors that lower scores on CELPIP Speaking Task 7.
Mistake 1: Not Stating Your Opinion Clearly
Being vague or avoiding a clear position makes it difficult for examiners to assess your opinion.
Weak:
"Well, uniforms are okay. Some people like them, some don't."
Strong:
"In my opinion, I believe that school uniforms should be required. While I understand that some people value individual expression, I think the benefits of uniforms outweigh the drawbacks."
Mistake 2: Providing Opinions Without Supporting Arguments
Simply stating what you think isn't enough—you need to explain why with specific reasons and examples.
Weak:
"I think uniforms are good. They're just better."
Strong:
"I believe uniforms are beneficial because they create equality among students. For instance, when everyone wears the same clothing, there's less pressure to wear expensive brands, which reduces bullying and helps students from different economic backgrounds feel included."
Mistake 3: Ignoring Other Perspectives Completely
High-scoring responses acknowledge that there are different viewpoints, showing balanced and sophisticated thinking.
Tip: Use phrases like "While some people argue that...", "I understand that others might think...", or "Admittedly, some may disagree, but..." to show you've considered multiple perspectives.
Mistake 4: Using Only Emotional Appeals
Relying solely on feelings without logical reasoning or evidence weakens your argument.
Weak:
"I just don't like uniforms. They feel wrong to me."
Strong:
"I believe uniforms limit self-expression, which is important for student development. However, I acknowledge that uniforms can reduce peer pressure. Nevertheless, I maintain that allowing students to express themselves through clothing helps build confidence and individuality, which are valuable life skills."
Mini Quiz
Test your understanding of CELPIP Speaking Task 7.
1. What is the primary purpose of CELPIP Speaking Task 7?
2. Which approach is most effective for Task 7?
3. What makes a strong opinion response?
Ready to Practice Task 7?
Put your opinion expression skills into action with our interactive CELPIP Speaking exercises.