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CELPIP Speaking Task 5: Comparing and Persuading

CELPIP Speaking Task 5 Sample Answer: Digital Textbooks vs. Printed Textbooks

By David

You are starting a new semester at university. You must choose between using digital textbooks or printed textbooks.

Choosing time
60 seconds
Preparation
60 seconds
Speaking
60 seconds

The question

You are starting a new semester at university. You must choose between using digital textbooks or printed textbooks.

**Option 1:

-Digital Textbooks

-Accessible on multiple devices

-Searchable content

-Lighter to carry

-Need battery power

**Option 2:

-Printed Textbooks

-No batteries needed

-Easier on the eyes

-Can make handwritten notes

-Heavy to carry

***Alternative Choice (Your Classmate’s Preference):

Printed textbooks are easier to study from for long hours and allow for physical note-taking.

Excellent answer (transcript): around CLB 11–12

Although printed textbooks offer the benefit of easy reading and physical note-taking, digital textbooks are much more convenient for modern students. You can access them on multiple devices, search for information instantly, and avoid carrying heavy books. While battery life is a concern, the overall portability, flexibility, and ability to highlight or bookmark content make digital textbooks the superior option for effective studying.

63 words

Good answer (transcript): around CLB 7–8

Printed textbooks are good for the eyes and for writing notes, but I like digital textbooks more. They are very light and easy to bring to class. I can search for topics quickly and use my laptop to study. That’s why I choose digital textbooks.

45 words

Basic answer (transcript): around CLB 4–5

I choose digital textbooks. They are easy to carry. I can read on my phone or tablet. Printed books are heavy, and I do not want to carry many books. Digital is better for me

35 words

The CLBs are estimates of the level each sample was written at, not official CELPIP scores. How we estimate CLB

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