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CELPIP Listening

Part 6: Listening to Viewpoints

By Iris

A report or talk presenting different opinions on an issue, such as a new policy or a social trend.

Questions
6
Format
1 recording, questions after it
Question style
Multiple choice, 4 options

What happens in Part 6

  • You hear a talk of about three minutes that presents a main argument and an opposing view.
  • This is usually the most difficult part, with more advanced vocabulary.

Tips for a higher score

  • Separate the speaker's own view from the views they report.
  • Note the reasons given for each side; questions often ask why someone holds a view.

Common mistakes

  • Choosing an argument the speaker mentions only to reject it.

Step-by-step strategy for Part 6

  1. Prepare a two-sided layout. Split your page into two columns: the main argument on the left and the opposing view on the right. Leave a line at the bottom for the speaker's own conclusion.
  2. Identify the issue and the main argument. The introduction usually names the issue and the view that the talk will focus on. Note who holds it, such as researchers, a city or a group of parents.
    • There's growing debate about ...
    • Supporters argue that ...
    • A recent study suggests ...
    • Many experts now believe ...
  3. Switch columns at every contrast signal. Contrast words tell you the speaker is moving to the other side. Move your pen to the other column as soon as you hear one.
    • However, ...
    • On the other hand, ...
    • Critics point out ...
    • Not everyone agrees.
    • That said, ...
  4. Record reasons and evidence for each side. Under each view, note the reasons and any example or figure given. Questions often ask why a group holds its position.
    • This is because ...
    • As a result, ...
    • For example, ...
    • Evidence shows ...
  5. Separate reported views from the speaker's own view. Many speakers report both sides and then give a cautious opinion of their own near the end. Note it separately, and watch for arguments mentioned only to be dismissed.
    • In my view, ...
    • It seems to me that ...
    • Ultimately, ...
    • The real question is ...

Part 6 vocabulary and signal words

Presenting a view

proponents argue · supporters claim · advocates believe · the case for · it is widely held that · according to recent research · a growing number of

Contrast and concession

however · on the other hand · critics argue · nevertheless · that said · while it's true that · despite this · in contrast

Hedging and caution

it may be that · arguably · to some extent · it's too early to say · the evidence is mixed · tends to · in some cases · it's not clear whether

Cause and effect

leads to · results in · contributes to · as a consequence · is linked to · stems from · drives · undermines

Concluding or evaluating

ultimately · on balance · the real issue is · it remains to be seen · a more balanced approach · in the long run · weigh the costs and benefits

Advanced topic words

policy · initiative · sustainable · incentive · trade-off · implementation · productivity · regulation · well-being

Part 6 sample tests (25 free practice tests)

Each test has the full text, every question and the answer key. Choose your answers and check them on the page.

All 25 Part 6 sample tests · Full-length Listening practice tests (all parts, 38 questions)

Practice ideas for Part 6

  1. A talk on whether cities should make public transit free. Expect questions on the main argument, a critic's concern about funding and the speaker's own conclusion.
  2. A report on schools banning phones during class. Expect questions on the reasons supporters give, an opposing view from parents and what the evidence suggests.
  3. A presentation on four-day work weeks. Expect questions on productivity claims, a concern raised by small businesses and an argument the speaker dismisses.
  4. A talk on whether restaurants should be required to show calorie counts. Expect questions on the intended benefit, an unintended effect and who opposes the rule.
  5. A report on remote work and downtown businesses. Expect questions on cause and effect, the two sides' reasons and the speaker's suggested middle ground.

Listening Part 6 questions, answered

How many questions are in CELPIP Listening Part 6?

Part 6 has 6 questions. You hear one talk of about three minutes that presents a main argument and an opposing view, then answer six multiple-choice questions.

Why is CELPIP Listening Part 6 so hard?

It is usually the most difficult part because it uses more advanced vocabulary and moves between several viewpoints. Two-column notes and attention to contrast words make it much more manageable.

How should I take notes for Part 6?

Use two columns, one for the main argument and one for the opposing view, and note the reasons under each. Add a separate line for the speaker's own opinion if they give one.

What is the biggest trap in Part 6?

The biggest trap is choosing an argument the speaker mentions only to reject it. Listen for phrases like "some people say" followed by "but", and note which side the speaker actually supports.

How do I score CLB 9 in CELPIP Listening?

You need to answer most questions correctly across the whole section, including the harder later parts. Build Part 6 skill by listening to opinion segments and current affairs talks, noting both sides and the reasons, and reviewing every practice mistake.

How long is the whole CELPIP Listening test?

The Listening section takes about 47 to 55 minutes. It has six scored parts with 38 questions in total, and every recording plays once.

More CELPIP Listening

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