CELPIP Speaking Task 6: Difficult Situation Practice
Navigate a dilemma with two people who want different things. Choose whom to speak to, explain your decision tactfully, and offer a solution. Practise 100 scenarios with timers, AI scoring, and sample answers.
100 Questions
Full task-type set
AI Scoring
CELPIP-aligned
Sample Answers
Basic · Good · Excellent
Timed Practice
60s prep · 60s speak
100 questions
Special Note: This practice interface is very similar to the actual CELPIP exam interface, helping you prepare with a realistic test experience.
Tip: Click the full screen icon in the top bar for a better, distraction free exam experience.
Your manager, Aisha, has asked you to cover a Saturday shift in Toronto. Your sibling, Mateo, expects you to attend a family wedding at the same time. You cannot agree to both plans.
Choose ONE:
EITHER Talk to Aisha, your manager. Explain why you must refuse the shift and attend the wedding.
OR Talk to Mateo, your sibling. Explain why you must miss the wedding and cover the shift.
When you're ready, start the 60-second preparation, then speak during the recording time. Your response is recorded for AI evaluation.
*NOTE: This sample test is not recording your response.
Sample Answer
Mateo, I need to be honest with you about Saturday, and I hate having to say this. I'm not going to be able to attend the family wedding, and I'm genuinely sorry. My manager, Aisha, has asked me to cover a Saturday shift because a coworker fell ill, and with the team already short-staffed, there's simply no one else who can step in. You know how much our family means to me, so please believe me that missing this isn't a small thing. The reality is I'm still new in this job, and how I handle this moment will shape whether they see me as dependable — I can't afford to let them down this early. Here's what I'd like to do to make it right: let me join the reception on a video call so I can see everyone and say a few words, and let's set aside next weekend for a proper family get-together, just us. I really hope you'll understand why I have to make this call.
Why Practice Dealing with a Difficult Situation Questions?
Task 6 puts you in a tricky spot: two options, each with consequences for someone. You choose one path and explain it to the affected person, balancing honesty with diplomacy. The strongest responses state the decision clearly, give solid reasons, acknowledge the other person's feelings, and propose a compromise.
Tone is everything here, you must sound respectful and empathetic even while delivering unwelcome news. Practising varied dilemmas builds the polite, solution-focused language that raters reward.
When you are ready for the full experience, take a complete speaking mock test under exam timing.
What is CELPIP Speaking Task 6?
Task 6, “Dealing with a Difficult Situation,” describes a conflict with two possible courses of action. You prepare for 60 seconds and speak for 60, choosing one option and explaining it to the person it affects, ideally with an apology or compromise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CELPIP Dealing with a Difficult Situation speaking practice.
Which of the two options should I pick?
Either is fine, pick the one you can justify most smoothly. What matters is a clear decision, convincing reasons, empathy for the other person, and a practical way to soften the impact.
How do I sound tactful under time pressure?
Lead with an acknowledgement (“I'm really sorry, but…”), give your reason, recognise how the decision affects them, and end with an offer, a rescheduled plan or a compromise.
Can I practice CELPIP speaking for free?
Yes — the first question on this page is completely free, including the full exam interface, AI scoring, and all three sample answers. The remaining questions are part of the Pro plan.
How is CELPIP Speaking scored?
Raters assess four dimensions — content and coherence, vocabulary, listenability, and task fulfillment — each mapped to a CELPIP level out of 12. The AI Sample Analysis on each question mirrors those four metrics.
What CELPIP level do I need for Canadian immigration?
Many Express Entry candidates target CELPIP level 9 or higher in each skill for maximum CRS points, while CLB 7 is a common minimum for several programs. Timed practice like this helps you close the gap before test day.