Feeling tongue-tied when you must describe how you’d handle a tricky problem? You’re not alone. Speaking Task 6 asks you to explain how you would deal with a difficult situation in 60 seconds. These CELPIP Speaking Tips will give you a clear plan, boost your confidence, and help you earn the score you need on the Canadian English test.
Why Task 6 Matters
Task 6 measures three things:
- Problem-solving logic – Can you outline sensible steps?
- Language control – Do you use varied vocabulary and accurate grammar?
- Coherent delivery – Can the examiner follow your answer easily?
A strong response shows empathy, structure, and decisive action—skills valued in Canadian workplaces and daily life.
Essential CELPIP Speaking Tips for Task 6
1. Use a Simple Three-Part Framework
Situation → Solution → Benefit
- Situation (10 sec): Paraphrase the prompt. Show you understand the problem.
- Solution (40 sec): Describe 2–3 concrete actions in logical order.
- Benefit (10 sec): State the positive outcome if your plan succeeds.
This framework keeps you organized and within the 60-second limit.
2. Chunk Your Ideas with Linking Phrases
H3 contains keyword:
CELPIP Speaking Tips Linking Phrases
Use short connectors to guide the listener:
- First of all…
- To resolve this…
- Another step I’d take is…
- As a result…
These transitions raise your Cohesion score and make your response sound natural.
3. Practice Active, Empathetic Language
Replace vague verbs with decisive ones:
| Vague | Active & Empathetic |
|---|---|
| I would try to talk | I’d approach her calmly |
| Maybe we can fix it | We can resolve it by… |
| People feel bad | Teammates feel valued |
Active verbs keep sentences short and your Flesch score high.
4. Calibrate Your Tone
Sound constructive, not confrontational. Short sentences help:
“I’d listen to his concerns. Then I’d suggest a joint timeline. Together we can meet the deadline.”
Recording yourself daily and comparing with a timed CELPIP Practice Test will sharpen pacing and tone realism.
Step-by-Step Strategy to Craft a High-Scoring Answer
- Read the prompt twice (25 sec prep time). Underline the key conflict and stakeholders.
- Brainstorm three actions. Rank them from most to least impactful.
- Open with empathy. Acknowledge feelings or consequences.
- Detail your actions. Use the three-part framework.
- Close with a benefit statement. Show long-term harmony or efficiency.
- Speak clearly at 130–150 wpm. This pace sounds confident yet natural.
After drilling these steps, simulate full tests with CELPIP Mock Exams to build stamina and consistency.
Manage Nerves Like a Pro
Breathing Technique
Inhale for four counts, exhale for four. Do this twice during prep time. It steadies your voice and slows speech rate.
Visualization
Picture a friendly colleague, not an examiner. You’ll instinctively shift to a warmer tone, which exam raters reward.
Evidence-Based Reminder
Studies show that labeling anxiety as excitement improves performance (Harvard Business Review, 2014). Reframe your jitters as energy to persuade.
For deeper language resources, the Language Portal of Canada offers free vocabulary and style guides.
Key Takeaways
- Framework first. Situation → Solution → Benefit keeps you on track.
- Active verbs win. They raise clarity and engagement.
- Linking phrases glue ideas. Use first, then, finally.
- Practice under pressure. Timed mock exams build muscle memory.
- Stay calm and positive. Controlled breathing and visualization improve delivery.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should my Task 6 response be?
Aim for 60 seconds. Practise finishing within 58–60 seconds to avoid cut-offs.
Can I pause if I lose my train of thought?
Brief pauses (under two seconds) are fine. Fill longer gaps with a linking phrase like “Another step I’d consider is…”
What if I mispronounce a word?
Correct it quickly and move on. Self-corrections show awareness and won’t hurt your score if rare.
Do examiners prefer formal or casual language?
Use polite, workplace-appropriate language. Contractions (I’d, we’ll) are acceptable as they sound natural.
Conclusion
Difficult scenarios don’t have to derail your Speaking score. With a clear structure, purposeful language, and calm delivery, you can turn Task 6 into an opportunity to shine. Start practising today, and let these CELPIP Speaking Tips guide you toward a higher band.