What Is Part 6?
Part 6 presents a difficult or awkward situation (a conflict with a neighbor, a problem at work, a complaint to a business). You must respond in a way that shows you can handle the situation diplomatically while expressing your concerns clearly. You get 60 seconds prep and 60 seconds to speak.
The evaluator wants to hear: polite but firm language. Not aggressive, not passive — diplomatic.
The Diplomatic Response Template
Step 1 — Acknowledge the situation (10 seconds): "I understand that this is a challenging situation, and I appreciate you taking the time to discuss it with me."
Step 2 — State your concern clearly (20 seconds): "However, I feel it's important to address [the issue] because [reason]. This has been causing [specific impact] and I believe we need to find a solution."
Step 3 — Propose a resolution (20 seconds): "What I would suggest is [solution]. This would benefit both parties because [reason]. Alternatively, we could [backup solution]."
Step 4 — Close positively (10 seconds): "I'm confident that we can resolve this matter amicably, and I'm open to discussing any other ideas you might have."
This template is firm but respectful — exactly the tone CLB 7 requires.
Diplomatic Phrases to Memorize
These phrases turn aggressive statements into diplomatic ones:
| Aggressive | Diplomatic | |---|---| | "You need to fix this" | "I would kindly request that this be addressed" | | "This isn't fair" | "I feel this situation may not be entirely equitable" | | "You're wrong" | "I respectfully disagree with that assessment" | | "Stop doing this" | "I would appreciate it if we could find an alternative approach" | | "This is your fault" | "I believe there may have been a misunderstanding" |
Memorize the diplomatic versions. They transform any difficult situation response from CLB 6 to CLB 7 instantly.
Always Offer a Solution
The highest-scoring Part 6 responses don't just complain — they propose solutions:
- "One possible solution would be to..." - "Perhaps we could compromise by..." - "I'd like to suggest that we try..." - "Would it be possible to..."
Offering solutions demonstrates pragmatic competence — the ability to use language constructively. This is a key scoring criterion.