Programs · CELPIP General

CELPIP preparation notes

Coached by a CELPIP-Advanced (Level 2) trainer. Every section of the computer-delivered test — Listening, Reading, Writing Task 1 & 2 and Speaking — with the strategies, structures and templates students actually use on test day.

Module 1

Listening

The CELPIP Listening Test takes 47–55 minutes. All speakers use Canadian English accents. Every audio clip plays once only and cannot be paused. Adjust your headset volume before the test begins.

Test structure

PartQuestionsTime
Practice (unscored)—~1 min
1 · Problem Solving8~8 min
2 · Daily Life Conversation5~5 min
3 · Listening for Information6~6 min
4 · News Item5~5 min
5 · Discussion8~9 min
6 · Listening for Viewpoints6~8 min

How it is scored

  • 38 scored questions — 1 point each.
  • No penalty for wrong answers — never leave a blank.
  • One part may be unscored. You will not be told which.
  • Score equating keeps results fair across test versions.

Three kinds of questions you will face

  1. General meaning — combine ideas across a longer stretch of audio.
  2. Specific information — catch one detail (a date, name, place, fact).
  3. Inference — draw a conclusion the speakers do not state directly.

Strategies by part

  • Part 1 · Problem Solving — preview the speakers and setting; track the problem and the solutions offered; infer feelings.
  • Part 2 · Daily Life — expect informal but polite speech; correct answers usually paraphrase what was said.
  • Part 3 · Information — sort steps, reasons, dates and definitions as you listen; use context to work out unfamiliar words.
  • Part 4 · News Item — take notes with the 5 Ws: Who, What, Where, When, Why. All questions appear together as drop-downs.
  • Part 5 · Discussion — track who says what; note agreement, disagreement and opinions separately.
  • Part 6 · Viewpoints — follow the argument; handle abstract, big-picture ideas; stay focused through complex sentences.

Smart test-day habits

  • Answer every question — no penalty for wrong answers.
  • Preview the question and choices before each clip plays.
  • Take quick notes — keywords, names, numbers.
  • Eliminate options you can disprove, then choose from what remains.
  • Listen for paraphrase — right answers rarely use the exact words you heard.
Module 2

Reading

The CELPIP Reading Test takes 55–60 minutes, with 38 scored questions across four parts. The passage appears on the left of the screen and the questions on the right — both scroll independently.

Test structure

PartQuestionsTime
Practice (unscored)—~1 min
1 · Reading Correspondence11~11 min
2 · Reading to Apply a Diagram8~9 min
3 · Reading for Information9~10 min
4 · Reading for Viewpoints10~13 min

Part 1 · Reading Correspondence

You read an everyday email (social or work) and a short reply with blanks to fill in. The tone is conversational and friendly without extreme informality. Identify the writer, the recipient, the purpose of the email and any requests being made. Infer the tone — is the writer pleased, concerned, asking a favour?

Part 2 · Reading to Apply a Diagram

You read a visual (a poster, schedule, map, advertisement) together with an email referring to it. Cross-reference the two sources. Watch for dates, prices, conditions and exceptions — the answer often hinges on a small detail in the diagram.

Part 3 · Reading for Information

A longer factual passage of four paragraphs. Match statements to the correct paragraph. Skim to map what each paragraph is about, then scan for the specific detail being tested.

Part 4 · Reading for Viewpoints

An opinion article followed by a reader's comment. You answer comprehension questions about the article and complete the comment with appropriate words. Separate facts from opinions and track who holds which viewpoint.

General reading strategies

  • Use drop-down menus deliberately — re-read your selection before moving on.
  • Skim first for structure, then scan for the specific detail.
  • Predict the kind of word required (noun, time, opinion) before scanning.
  • Watch the timer at top-right — manage time across all four parts.
  • Never leave a question blank — there is no penalty for wrong answers.
Module 3a

Writing — Task 1 (Email)

You write an email of 150–200 words in around 27 minutes. You will be asked to explain a situation and present three pieces of information. Match the tone (formal, semi-formal or informal) to the relationship described in the prompt.

Three registers

  • Formal — to a manager, company or institution you do not know personally.
  • Semi-formal — to someone you know professionally (a colleague, a landlord, a contact at your child's school).
  • Informal — to a friend or family member.

Structure

  1. Greeting matching the register.
  2. Opening sentence stating the purpose of the email.
  3. One short paragraph for each of the three required points.
  4. Polite closing line.
  5. Sign-off matching the greeting.

Common Task 1 letter types

  • Apology — for missing an event, a deadline, or a delivery.
  • Complaint — about a product, a service, or a neighbour.
  • Request — for time off, for information, for a refund.
  • Invitation — to an event, accepted or politely declined.
  • Recommendation — for a place, a service, a course of action.
  • Update — sharing news or progress with a friend.

Scoring focus

  • Content / coherence — all three points covered with clear reasons.
  • Vocabulary — appropriate to the register; no slang in a formal email.
  • Readability — clear paragraphing, accurate spelling and punctuation.
  • Task fulfilment — word count met; tone consistent throughout.
Module 3b

Writing — Task 2 (Survey Response)

You write a 150–200 word response to a survey question in around 26 minutes. You are given two options and asked to choose one and justify your choice. The CELPIP rubric rewards a clear position and reasons that are fully developed.

Reliable structure

  1. Opening line — clearly state which option you have chosen.
  2. Reason 1 — topic sentence, explanation, example.
  3. Reason 2 — topic sentence, explanation, example.
  4. Conclusion — restate your choice in different words.

Choose the easier option

You are not graded on which option you pick. Choose the one you can argue most clearly — the side you have stronger vocabulary and examples for, not necessarily the one you personally prefer.

Develop every reason fully

  • State the reason in a clear topic sentence.
  • Explain why the reason matters.
  • Support it with a specific example — real or hypothetical.
  • Two fully developed reasons beat four undeveloped ones.

What raters look for

  • Content & coherence — clear position, reasons that build on each other.
  • Vocabulary — variety, precision, natural collocations.
  • Readability — paragraphing, grammar, mechanics.
  • Task fulfilment — within word count, on topic, opinion clear.

Common mistakes to avoid

  • Discussing both options equally — pick a side and defend it.
  • Repeating the prompt instead of paraphrasing.
  • Listing reasons without explaining them.
  • Writing under 150 or over 200 words.
Module 4

Speaking

The CELPIP Speaking Test is computer-delivered and takes around 15–20 minutes. You speak into a microphone — there is no examiner in the room. Every task has preparation time and response time clearly displayed on screen.

The eight tasks

  1. Giving Advice — 30 sec prep · 90 sec speaking. Advise a friend on a situation.
  2. Talking about a Personal Experience — 30 sec · 60 sec. Tell a story from your life.
  3. Describing a Scene — 30 sec · 60 sec. Describe a picture in detail for someone who cannot see it.
  4. Making Predictions — 30 sec · 60 sec. Predict what will happen next in a picture.
  5. Comparing & Persuading — 60 sec · 60 sec. Choose between two options and persuade someone of your choice.
  6. Dealing with a Difficult Situation — 60 sec · 60 sec. Choose between two awkward options and explain politely.
  7. Expressing Opinions — 30 sec · 90 sec. Give and defend an opinion on a topic.
  8. Describing an Unusual Situation — 30 sec · 60 sec. Describe a strange image to a friend.

What raters score

  • Content / coherence — task fully addressed, ideas organised, easy to follow.
  • Vocabulary — precise word choice, natural collocations, range.
  • Listenability — pronunciation, intonation, pace and fluency that keep the listener engaged.
  • Task fulfilment — every part of the task addressed within the time.

Templates & frameworks

  • Giving Advice — acknowledge the problem · suggest the advice · explain why · reassure.
  • Personal experience — when & where · what happened · how you felt · what you learned.
  • Describing a scene — overview (setting, time of day) · foreground · background · people & what they are doing.
  • Comparing & persuading — state your choice · two clear reasons with examples · acknowledge the other option briefly · restate your choice.
  • Opinion — state opinion · reason 1 with example · reason 2 with example · concluding line.

Habits that target Level 9+

  • Use the preparation time to plan structure, not full sentences.
  • Speak for the entire response time — silence costs marks.
  • Vary sentence length: mix short and complex sentences.
  • Use natural fillers ("Well…", "Actually…") rather than long pauses.
  • Practise on a computer with a headset — recreate test conditions.
Full slide notes

Slide-by-slide from the CELPIP decks

Listening ITP

  1. INTERNATIONAL TEST PREP

    CELPIP Listening

    Test Overview & Strategy Guide

    IDP & CELPIP Certified Trainer

  2. BEFORE YOU BEGIN

    Listening Test Features

    Volume control

    Canadian accents

    All headsets allow volume control — adjust it before the test begins.

    All speakers use Canadian English accents.

    Speakers vary by part

    One male, one female

    Parts 1, 2, 3 and 5 are conversations; Parts 4 and 6 have a single speaker.

    In two-speaker conversations, one voice is female and one is male.

    Audio plays once

    No pausing

    Every audio clip is played one time only — there is no replay.

    Clips begin automatically and cannot be paused.

  3. HOW THE TEST IS STRUCTURED

    Listening Test Overview

    Part# of QuestionsTiming (approx.)
    Practice Question (unscored)11 minute
    1 · Listening to Problem Solving88 minutes
    2 · Listening to a Daily Life Conversation55 minutes
    3 · Listening for Information66 minutes
    4 · Listening to a News Item55 minutes
    5 · Listening to a Discussion89 minutes
    6 · Listening for Viewpoints68 minutes

    The Listening Test takes about 47–55 minutes to complete.

  4. UNDERSTANDING YOUR RESULT

    Raw Scores & CELPIP Levels

    38 scored questions

    CELPIP LevelListening Score / 38
    10–1235–38
    933–35
    830–33
    727–31
    622–28
    517–23
    411–18
    37–12
    M–20–7

    There are 38 scored questions on the Listening Test.

    1 point each

    Every correct answer is worth one point.

    No penalty for wrong answers

    Points are not deducted for incorrect answers — always answer every question.

    One part may be unscored

    There may be one unscored part, and you will not know which one.

    Computer-scored & equated

    Your level is calculated from points and question difficulty; score equating keeps results fair.

  5. WHAT THE QUESTIONS ASK

    Three Kinds of Listening Questions

    General Meaning

    A “big picture” question. You combine ideas from a longer stretch of audio — several sentences, a whole section, or the entire clip.

    Specific Information

    A “close-up” question. You catch one detail — a date, name, place, or fact — mentioned at a single point in the audio.

    Inference

    A “read between the lines” question. You use what you hear to draw a conclusion the speakers do not state directly.

  6. ON SCREEN DURING THE TEST

    How the Questions Are Presented

    Parts 1 – 3

    Parts 4 – 6

    One question appears on screen at a time

    You hear the question, then read the answer choices

    About 30 seconds to answer each question

    Choose one answer from the options provided

    You can change your answer while time remains

    All questions appear on screen at once

    You read the questions and answer choices

    A set time limit to answer them in any order

    Open a drop-down list and choose one option

    You can change answers while time remains

  7. PART 1

    Listening to Problem Solving

    Key Skills & Strategies

    AT A GLANCE

    8 questions

    8 min approx.

    Preview & predict

    Who are the speakers, where are they, and how formal will it be?

    A conversation between two people

    One person has a problem; the other responds

    8 questions, about 8 minutes

    Find main ideas & details

    How do the speakers know each other? What is the problem? What solutions are offered?

    Infer feelings & attitudes

    How does the person with the problem feel about it?

    Eliminate wrong answers

    Rule out options you can disprove — a skill you'll use across the whole test.

  8. PART 2

    Listening to a Daily Life Conversation

    Key Skills & Strategies

    AT A GLANCE

    5 questions

    5 min approx.

    Predict context & tone

    Expect conversational, fairly informal but polite speech between people who know each other.

    Two speakers (one man, one woman)

    One clip, about 1.5–2 minutes

    5 questions, about 5 minutes

    Track main ideas & details

    What is the topic? What details support it?

    Infer attitudes

    Notice how each speaker feels and how they react to one another.

    Recognize paraphrase

    Correct answers often restate what was said in different words.

  9. PART 3

    Listening for Information

    Key Skills & Strategies

    AT A GLANCE

    6 questions

    6 min approx.

    Identify main ideas & details

    What is being explained, and what are the key supporting facts?

    One person explains something to another

    Often a how-to, process, or set of facts

    6 questions, about 6 minutes

    Sort different kinds of information

    Separate steps, reasons, dates, and definitions as you listen.

    Synthesize

    Connect cause and effect; notice what is implied as well as stated.

    Use context for meaning

    Work out unfamiliar words from the surrounding information.

  10. PART 4

    Listening to a News Item

    Key Skills & Strategies

    AT A GLANCE

    5 questions

    5 min approx.

    Take notes with the 5 Ws

    Capture Who / What / Where / When / Why as you listen — see the framework below.

    A single speaker (a short news report)

    All questions shown together (drop-downs)

    5 questions, about 5 minutes

    Catch the main story

    What is the report about, and what is the most important point?

    Note-taking framework

    Follow the sequence

    Order events and details correctly.

    WHOWHATWHEREWHENWHY

  11. PART 5

    Listening to a Discussion

    Key Skills & Strategies

    AT A GLANCE

    8 questions

    9 min approx.

    Track who says what

    Keep each speaker's points separate as the discussion moves.

    Several speakers in a discussion

    One longer clip

    8 questions, about 9 minutes

    Note agreement & disagreement

    Who agrees, who disagrees, and why?

    Identify opinions

    Separate facts from each speaker's point of view.

    Read social cues

    Notice tone and body-language cues that signal feelings and attitudes.

  12. PART 6

    Listening for Viewpoints

    Key Skills & Strategies

    AT A GLANCE

    6 questions

    8 min approx.

    Follow the argument

    What is the speaker's position, and how is it supported?

    One speaker presenting a viewpoint

    More formal, lower-frequency vocabulary

    6 questions, about 8 minutes

    Handle abstract, big-picture ideas

    Expect concepts, possibilities, and analysis rather than simple facts.

    Make inferences

    Draw conclusions about implications the speaker doesn't state outright.

    Manage difficult language

    This is often the hardest part — stay focused through complex sentences.

  13. PUTTING IT TOGETHER

    Smart Test-Day Strategies

    Answer every question

    Preview before you listen

    There's no penalty for wrong answers, so never leave a blank — make your best guess.

    Skim the question and choices first so you know what to listen for.

    Take quick notes

    Eliminate to decide

    Jot keywords, names, and numbers — you hear each clip only once.

    Cross out options you can disprove, then choose from what's left.

    Watch your time

    Listen for paraphrase

    Each clip plays once and can't be paused; keep pace and don't dwell too long.

    Right answers usually restate ideas in new words, not the exact phrases you heard.

  14. Practice with purpose.

    Preview, predict, take notes, and answer every question.

Reading Professional

  1. CELPIP Reading Test

    Comprehensive Preparation Guide

    Paragon Language Services

    Four Parts • 38 Scored Questions • 55–60 Minutes

  2. Reading Test Overview

    Part

    # of Questions (approx.)

    Timing (approx.)

    Practice Question (unscored)

    1 minute

    Part 1: Reading Correspondence

    11 minutes

    Part 2: Reading to Apply a Diagram

    9 minutes

    Part 3: Reading for Information

    10 minutes

    Part 4: Reading for Viewpoints

    13 minutes

    The Reading Test takes approximately 55–60 minutes to complete.

  3. Screen Features

    LEFT SIDE OF SCREEN

    RIGHT SIDE OF SCREEN

    Reading passage / main text

    Scroll down to read the full text

    All parts require careful reading of the passage before answering

    Instructions and questions

    Scroll down to see all questions

    Drop-down menus to select answers

    Timer displayed at top right

    Tip: Use the NEXT button to proceed. Review all questions before moving forward.

  4. Practice Question

    Before the scored sections, test-takers complete one unscored practice question to familiarise themselves with the test interface.

    Questions

    Time Allowed

    Affects Score?

    1 min

    No

    Unscored

    Approximate

    For familiarisation only

    The practice question format mirrors the scored sections — use it to adjust your screen, practise using drop-down menus, and read instructions carefully.

  5. Part 1: Reading Correspondence

    Part 1: Reading Correspondence

    Timing

    11 minutes to answer 11 questions (6 + 5)

    Type of Text

    Main Text: an email from a community member to another about an everyday social or work situation

    Second Text: a short response to the main text, with blanks to fill in

    Examples

    • Baseball team members discussing an upcoming competition

    • A customer asking a bakery for a special cake

    • A community member asking an animal shelter about volunteer opportunities

    Tone / Formality

    • Conversational, social, friendly, familiar

    • No extreme informality (slang, expressions of love, etc.)

  6. Part 1: Key Skills and Strategies

    Identifying the Main Structural Elements of an Email

    Who is the writer?

    Who is the recipient?

    What is the main purpose of the email?

    Does the writer make any requests?

    Inferring the Tone of an Email

    What emotions are expressed through the writer's ideas and word choice?

    Making Logical Connections Between the Email and the Response

    How does the response address requests, details, and questions from the main email?

  7. Part 2: Reading to Apply a Diagram

    Part 2: Reading to Apply a Diagram

    Timing

    9 minutes to answer 8 questions (5 + 3)

    Type of Text

    Main Text: a diagram with point form text and visuals

    Second Text: a short email from one community member to another about the diagram content, with blanks to fill in

    Examples

    • A transit, course, or event schedule

    • A brochure or flyer for an event or attraction

    • A guide to a typical community activity, like garbage disposal or applying for an ID card

    Tone / Formality

    • Informative, helpful, not personal

    • Concise: key ideas plus images/illustrations

  8. Part 3: Reading for Information

    Part 3: Reading for Information

    Option E

    Timing

    ~10 min, ~9 questions

    = Information not in the text

    Type of Text

    An informational passage divided into paragraphs (A, B, C, D…)

    Always answer every question — never leave a blank.

    Question Type

    Identify which paragraph contains the stated information; choose E if information is not present

    Questions

    Self-contained statements about the text

  9. Part 3: Key Skills and Strategies

    Identifying the Structure of an Informational Text

    What is the topic of the text?

    What is the main idea of each paragraph?

    Determining the Meaning of Unfamiliar Words from Context

    What part of speech is it?

    Does it have positive or negative connotations?

    Identifying and Predicting Paraphrase

    How else might a certain word or phrase be stated?

    What are some synonyms or related words at a similar register?

    Distinguishing Between Paraphrase and Contradiction

    Does a sentence or phrase in the text mirror the content of the question statement, or does it express a different idea?

  10. Part 4: Reading for Viewpoints

    Part 4: Reading for Viewpoints

    Timing

    13 minutes to answer 10 questions (5 + 5)

    Type of Text

    Main Text: an article including two or more opinions about a community issue

    Second Text: a short reader comment with blanks to fill in

    Examples

    • An article, blog post, or editorial about the potential positive and negative impacts of a parenting style

    • The benefits and drawbacks of an economic strategy

    • How a new technological development might help or harm society

    Tone / Formality

    • Formal, complex: similar to a news article

    • Conceptual: discussion of ideas, concepts, and possibilities

    • A combination of facts and opinions; persuasive

  11. Part 4: Key Skills and Strategies

    Identifying Opinions

    Whose opinions are mentioned, what do they believe, and why?

    Distinguishing between facts and opinions

    Recognising constructions that signal indirect speech

    Making Inferences

    What would the people mentioned in the article agree or disagree about?

    What impacts would the issue under discussion have on different people?

    Understanding Conceptual Language

    Part 4 contains abstract ideas and hypotheticals — be prepared for both the grammatical constructions and the vocabulary.

  12. Raw Scores and CELPIP Levels

    CELPIP Level

    Reading Score /38

    • 38 scored questions on the Reading Test.

    10–12

    33–38

    31–33

    • Each correct answer receives 1 point.

    28–31

    24–28

    • Points are NOT deducted for incorrect answers — always answer every question!

    19–25

    15–20

    • There may be one unscored part; the test taker will not know which one.

    10–16

    8–11

    • The test is computer-scored. The CELPIP Level is based on the number of points and the difficulty level of the questions.

    M–2

    0–7

  13. You're Ready to Succeed

    Part 1 — Reading Correspondence (11 questions, 11 min)

    Part 2 — Reading to Apply a Diagram (8 questions, 9 min)

    Part 3 — Reading for Information (9 questions, 10 min)

    Part 4 — Reading for Viewpoints (10 questions, 13 min)

    Practice consistently, manage your time, and always answer every question.

Speaking Pro Target9

  1. CELPIP Speaking Pro

    Target 9+ Study Pack

    Tasks 1–8 · Strategies · Sample Responses · Level Analysis

    © 2020 Paragon Testing Enterprises · International Test Prep (ITP) — IDP and CELPIP Certified Trainer

  2. Contents

    Preparing for the Test

    Speaking Test Overview

    Study strategies & daily practice tips

    Tasks, prep time, speaking time

    Performance Standards

    Tasks 1–4

    4 scoring dimensions + Level 9 profile

    Advice · Personal Experience · Scene · Predictions

    Tasks 5–8

    Sample Response Analysis

    Comparing · Difficult Situation · Opinions · Unusual

    Level 8, 9 & 12 responses with feedback

    CELPIP Speaking Pro: Target 9+ Study Pack · © 2020 Paragon Testing Enterprises

  3. Preparing for the CELPIP Speaking Test

    Review sample responses and consider how they could be improved in each dimension (Content/Coherence, Vocabulary, Listenability, Task Fulfillment).

    ①

    Record your own response to each practice question. Use the Performance Standards chart to evaluate yourself.

    ②

    Transcribe a recorded response and spend 20–30 minutes editing it — correct grammar, add transitions, improve vocabulary.

    ③

    For Tasks 5, 6 & 7 (choice tasks), record a response for EACH option to build flexibility.

    ④

    Practice with extra prep time first, then gradually reduce to the actual 30–60 second limit.

    ⑤

    CELPIP Speaking Pro: Target 9+ Study Pack · © 2020 Paragon Testing Enterprises

  4. Speaking Test Overview

    TaskPrep TimeSpeaking Time
    Practice Task30s60s
    Task 1: Giving Advice30s90s
    Task 2: Personal Experience30s60s
    Task 3: Describing a Scene30s60s
    Task 4: Making Predictions30s60s
    Task 5: Comparing & Persuading60s (×2)60s (Part 2)
    Task 6: Difficult Situation60s60s
    Task 7: Expressing Opinions30s90s
    Task 8: Unusual Situation30s60s

    ⏱ Total test time: ~15–20 min · Speaking is the last section · Speak at a normal volume

  5. Speaking Performance Standards

    Content /

    Coherence

    Vocabulary

    Listenability

    Task

    Fulfillment

    How well are your ideas organized and developed?

    What is the range of your vocabulary and can you use it naturally?

    How easy is it to listen to and understand your response?

    How well did you follow the instructions? Appropriate tone?

    Key Factors:

    Key Factors:

    Key Factors:

    Key Factors:

    Number & quality of ideas

    Organization

    Examples & supporting details

    Word choice

    Suitable use

    Range & precision

    Rhythm, pronunciation

    Intonation

    Grammar & sentence structure

    Relevance

    Completeness

    Tone & length

    CELPIP Speaking Pro: Target 9+ Study Pack · © 2020 Paragon Testing Enterprises

  6. Level 9 Descriptors & Performance Profile

    Content/

    Coherence

    Vocabulary

    Listenability

    Task

    Fulfillment

    Present information and support ideas with moderately complex reasons

    Use common or context-specific vocabulary, figures of speech and idioms

    Speak with some control of complex grammatical structures; mostly fluent rhythm, pronunciation & intonation

    Adjust speaking style/tone to a range of audiences; convey ideas clearly

    Level 9 Performance Profile

    Level 9: Things to Work On

    Can communicate complex details, feelings, and attitudes in familiar and less familiar contexts. Has control of some complex grammar, and an adequate professional repertoire of precise, context-specific vocabulary. Mistakes in grammar, word choice, and pronunciation rarely impede understanding.

    ▸ Variety of complex grammatical structures

    ▸ Context-specific vocabulary

    ▸ Reduce grammar & pronunciation errors

    ▸ Tone & style appropriate to situation

    CELPIP Speaking Pro: Target 9+ Study Pack · © 2020 Paragon Testing Enterprises

  7. Speaking Tasks 1–4: Overview & Key Strategies

    Task 1

    Task 2

    Task 3

    Task 4

    Giving Advice

    Personal Experience

    Describing a Scene

    Making Predictions

    Prep 30s · Speak 90s

    Prep 30s · Speak 60s

    Prep 30s · Speak 60s

    Prep 30s · Speak 60s

    Key Strategies

    Key Strategies

    Key Strategies

    Key Strategies

    1. Speak directly to the person

    1. Quickly decide what story to tell

    1. Start with a general statement

    1. Be imaginative but realistic

    2. Provide at least 3 suggestions

    2. If no real story, make one up

    2. Focus on specific details (not everything)

    2. Base predictions on what people are doing

    3. Give a practical example or reason for each

    3. Use past tenses consistently

    3. Build a vivid picture

    3. Ask: what actions/feelings might come next?

    4. Use transitions: "If I were you…", "Another thing…"

    4. Include descriptive details

    4. Use descriptive words and phrases

    4. Use surrounding people & objects for ideas

    5. Use a helpful and thoughtful tone

    5. Get your listener to feel how you felt

    5. Describe appearance, actions & feelings

    5. Use appropriate future structures

    CELPIP Speaking Pro: Target 9+ Study Pack · © 2020 Paragon Testing Enterprises

  8. Speaking Tasks 5–8: Overview & Key Strategies

    Task 5

    Task 6

    Task 7

    Task 8

    Comparing & Persuading

    Difficult Situation

    Expressing Opinions

    Unusual Situation

    Prep 60s (×2) · Speak 60s (Part 2)

    Prep 60s · Speak 60s

    Prep 30s · Speak 90s

    Prep 30s · Speak 60s

    Key Strategies

    Key Strategies

    Key Strategies

    Key Strategies

    1. Part 1: Read, compare, choose your option

    1. Speak directly to the person

    1. Read carefully — stay on topic

    1. Set up the role-play ("Hi, Jill…")

    2. Part 2: Read info about the other option

    2. Be considerate but firm

    2. Quickly decide yes or no

    2. Describe the unique aspects of the picture

    3. Think of specific reasons your choice is better

    3. Speak respectfully

    3. Give ~3 reasons to support your position

    3. Focus on things you can describe well

    4. Expand on info provided in the picture

    4. Clearly outline the problem

    4. Support each reason with specific details

    4. Use common words if specific vocab is missing

    5. Be friendly but persuasive in tone

    5. Explain your decision with effective reasons

    5. Present ideas logically; use transitions

    5. End by finishing the phone call

    CELPIP Speaking Pro: Target 9+ Study Pack · © 2020 Paragon Testing Enterprises

  9. Task 1: Giving Advice — Sample Response Analysis

    Response A (Question: Give advice to Mark on how to talk to a female co-worker he is shy about approaching)

    CELPIP Level 8

    Content / Coherence

    Vocabulary

    Listenability

    Task Fulfillment

    ✔ Some main ideas (project invite, coffee, lunch, drink)

    ✔ Basic transitions

    ✗ Details only for first idea

    ✗ More development needed

    ✔ Suitable phrases: "initiate", "smooth", "creeped out"

    ✗ Awkward usage: "kind of a little bit wrong way"

    ✗ "ask for a drink" imprecise

    ✔ Steady rhythm, good intonation

    ✗ Many um/uh interjections reduce flow

    ✔ Good simple sentence control

    ✔ Relevant and appropriate tone

    ✔ Speaks full 90 seconds

    ✔ Friendly closing

    ✔ Directly addresses Mark

    CELPIP Speaking Pro: Target 9+ Study Pack · © 2020 Paragon Testing Enterprises

  10. Task 1: Giving Advice — Response B

    Response B (Question: Advise John on how to afford tuition at his first-choice university)

    CELPIP Level 9

    Content / Coherence

    Vocabulary

    Listenability

    Task Fulfillment

    ✗ Only one main idea (part-time job)

    ✔ Many details: on-campus jobs, immigration rules, references

    ✗ Introduction too long; more clarity needed

    ✔ Precise phrases: "once you land there", "forward your resume"

    ✗ Imprecise: "really good university", "pretty expensive", "great help"

    ✔ Clear speech; no long pauses

    ✔ Minor grammar errors only

    ✔ Some complex sentence structures (subordinating conjunctions)

    ✔ Most content is relevant

    ✔ Friendly, helpful tone

    ✔ Addresses friend directly

    ✔ Speaks for full time

    CELPIP Speaking Pro: Target 9+ Study Pack · © 2020 Paragon Testing Enterprises

  11. Task 4: Making Predictions — Level 12 Model Response

    "

    So in terms of what is likely to happen next, there is a woman wearing a purple sweater and white pants and her cart is empty. So, I would imagine that she will probably fill her cart as she goes through the store. The couple who's currently paying will exit the store. I don't believe that the red-headed child trying to persuade his mother to buy potato chips will be successful. She actually looks quite stern, whereas the two kids in the middle do seem like they are more likely to buy sweets...

    CELPIP Level 12

    Content / Coherence

    Vocabulary

    Listenability

    Task Fulfillment

    ✔ Relevant details identify specific people

    ✔ Logically organized

    ✔ Ideas developed with details

    ✔ Strong opening and closing

    ✔ Wide range of precise expressions

    "in terms of", "I would imagine", "currently", "persuade", "quite stern", "fall out of the display"

    ✔ Quick pace, excellent pronunciation

    ✔ Very few pauses/self-corrections

    ✔ Very wide range of complex grammar

    ✔ Different future constructions

    ✔ Thorough and precise coverage

    ✔ Appropriate, engaging tone

    ✔ Almost everything in picture addressed

    CELPIP Speaking Pro: Target 9+ Study Pack · © 2020 Paragon Testing Enterprises

  12. More CELPIP Webinars

    WebinarFocusLength
    CELPIP: Get the FactsGeneral overview of features and format90 min
    Reading ProFormat, strategies, sample questions (Parts 1–4)2 hrs
    Listening ProFormat, strategies, sample questions (Parts 1–6)2 hrs
    Writing Pro: Target 9+Achieving Level 9+ on the Writing Test2 hrs
    Writing Pro: Target 5Achieving Level 5+ on the Writing Test2 hrs
    Speaking Pro: Target 5Achieving Level 5+ on the Speaking Test2 hrs
    Speaking Pro: Target 9+Achieving Level 9+ on the Speaking Test2 × 2 hrs

    Connect with CELPIP

    ▶ YouTube

    youtube.com/c/celpipofficial

    📷 Instagram

    instagram.com/celpiptestofficial

    f Facebook

    facebook.com/CELPIPTest

    🐦 Twitter

    twitter.com/CELPIPTest

    Everyone is welcome — all language levels!

    Free Study Pack for all Pro session attendees.

    © 2020 Paragon Testing Enterprises · ITP — IDP and CELPIP Certified Trainer

Speaking Test

  1. PASS CELPIP®

    SPEAKING TEST

    8 Tasks to Achieve Your Goals

    ✦ Patterns & Key Answers

    ✦ Real Examples

    ✦ Little Secrets for Big Improvement

    By Tina Fair

  2. THE 8 SPEAKING TASKS

    Giving Advice

    Comparing & Persuading

    Advise a friend on decisions

    Choose and defend an option

    Personal Experience

    Difficult Situation

    Tell a story from your past

    Deal with a real-life conflict

    Describing a Scene

    Expressing Opinions

    Describe a picture in detail

    Share your view on social topics

    Making Predictions

    Unusual Situation

    Predict what happens next

    Describe something unexpected

  3. TASK 1: GIVING ADVICE

    Key Information

    Sample Response

    • Speak time: 90 seconds

    • Prep time: 30 seconds

    • Tone: Friendly & helpful

    "Hi, Bob! I know you want to learn Spanish because you often go on vacation to Mexico.

    I recommend starting with vocabulary apps on your phone — there are so many fun ones.

    You can also listen a lot: stories, the news, TV shows. Reading is great too — pick something you enjoy at about 90% comprehension.

    Finally, practice speaking with friends or online.

    I hope I was able to help. Good luck!"

    Useful Patterns

    "Hi, Bob! I know you are looking for…"

    "I recommend you to start with…"

    "You can also try to…"

    "I suggest going / doing…"

    "I hope I was able to help. Good luck!"

  4. TASK 2: TALKING ABOUT A PERSONAL EXPERIENCE

    Speak for exactly 1 minute using past tense. You may imagine a story!

    Events & Trips

    Relationships

    Work & Study

    ★

    ★

    ★

    Party, adventure, first trip

    First love, friendship, family

    First job, pressure, mistake

    "Five years ago my … and I…"

    "Five years ago my … and I…"

    "Five years ago my … and I…"

    Decisions

    Personal Growth

    Favorites

    ★

    ★

    ★

    Difficult choice, right decision

    Changed your life, success story

    Celebrity, movie, favorite place

    "Five years ago my … and I…"

    "Five years ago my … and I…"

    "Five years ago my … and I…"

  5. TASKS 3 & 4: DESCRIBING A SCENE | MAKING PREDICTIONS

    Describing a Scene

    Making Predictions

    Key Phrases:

    Key Phrases:

    "This is a scene of…"

    "I think there is going to be…"

    "In the foreground, there is…"

    "I guess what will probably happen…"

    "In the background…"

    "She/He might…"

    "On the left / right…"

    "It seems to be…"

    "It looks like…"

    "Suddenly, it will be a high wind…"

    "There are lots of things going on."

    "They are going to be super excited."

  6. TASK 5: COMPARING & PERSUADING

    Categories to Master

    Choose the option you can talk about best

    ▸ Furniture & Home

    Note key differences using comparative adjectives

    ▸ Restaurants & Hotels

    ▸ Houses & Schools

    Give 3+ reasons why your choice is better

    ▸ Vehicles & Gadgets

    Use polite, friendly language — no pushing!

    ▸ Hiking / Travel

    ▸ Workplaces & Services

    "Hi! I understand your choice, but in my opinion, the other one would be much better. Here are some reasons why…"

  7. TASKS 6 & 7: DIFFICULT SITUATION | EXPRESSING OPINIONS

    Difficult Situation

    Expressing Opinions

    You choose WHO to speak to — pick the person you can explain best to.

    Frequent Topics:

    ◆ Job & Workplace

    • Always use a polite, tactful tone

    ◆ Education System

    • Give clear reasons for your decision

    ◆ Family & Relationships

    • Offer an alternative solution

    ◆ Health & Wellness

    • Start: "Hi! I've been thinking about…"

    ◆ Finance & Money

    • Close: "I hope for your understanding."

    ◆ Environment & Society

    "Personally, I think…" / "In my opinion…" / "I strongly believe that…"

  8. TASK 8: UNUSUAL SITUATION + SECRETS OF SUCCESS

    Unusual Situation

    SECRETS OF SUCCESS

    Describe an unusual object, painting, or scene to someone who cannot see it. Use rich vocabulary, adjectives, idioms, and phrasal verbs.

    Start with an overview, then describe specific details. Always end with a wrap-up sentence.

    Method #1 — Listen

    Podcasts, radio, TV, stories daily

    Method #2 — Read

    Novels, articles — things you enjoy

    Focus on Meaning

    Interest beats grammar drills always

    Starter Phrases:

    Practice Every Day

    "Hi! I'm calling because I found…"

    Use the patterns and key answers

    "I would like to describe it as best I can."

    Stay Confident

    "I've never seen anything like this in my life."

    Stop stressing — enjoy the process!

  9. YOU'VE GOT THIS!

    Good luck on your CELPIP Speaking Test

    ✓

    Practice every task daily with the patterns

    ✓

    Combine stories to cover multiple questions

    ✓

    Focus on fluency — not perfection

    ✓

    Listen & read English for pleasure every day

    Based on: Pass CELPIP® Speaking Test — Tina Fair (2018)

Task1 Model Letters

  1. CELPIP · WRITING PREPARATION

    Writing Task 1

    Model Letters & Vocabulary

    Seven complete sample letters with prompts, full model answers, and key phrase glossaries.

    200+

    MODEL LETTERS

    LETTER STYLES

    KEY PHRASES

  2. WHAT'S INSIDE

    The Seven Model Letters

    Each letter follows a real CELPIP prompt and is paired with a glossary of the useful phrases it uses.

    Letter to an Editor

    Letter to a Cinema Manager

    Formal · Opinion / Feedback

    Formal · Lost Property

    Letter of Inquiry

    Letter to a Colleague

    Formal · Letter of Inquiry

    Semi-Formal · Request

    Letter to a Landlord

    Letter to a Friend

    Semi-Formal · Complaint

    Informal · Personal

    Roommate Letter

    Formal · Complaint to Authority

    CELPIP · Writing Task 1 · Model Letters

  3. MODEL LETTER 1 · FORMAL · OPINION / FEEDBACK

    Letter to an Editor

    MODEL ANSWER

    THE PROMPT

    Dear Editor,

    I recently purchased a copy of Gardening Monthly from my local newsstand and I'm writing to give you some background and feedback. I'm not a professional gardener but I have a keen interest in the field. I retired from my job as a production assistant 2 years ago and gardening has become my daily pursuit.

    I really appreciate your in-depth step-by-step tutorials for everyday gardening techniques. The visuals on them, and throughout the magazine, are stunning and inspirational for home gardeners. There are just a couple of areas I would recommend fixes for: first, the magazine is too short. It only comes out once a month and a 20 page magazine is not long enough. Also, your writers make a lot of grammatical mistakes. Just looking at the first article from the last edition, I can spot 8 mistakes.

    To round out your magazine I would recommend hiring a new editor or better supervising them to ensure they are thorough. As for the length of the magazine, have you considered a bi-monthly format? I hope that demand would justify this. I would surely read it!

    Thanks for hearing me out,

    Dave

    Write a letter to the editor to give your opinion about a magazine that you purchased.

    YOUR LETTER SHOULD INCLUDE

    Why you bought it

    What you liked and disliked about it

    Suggestions for improvement

    CELPIP · Writing Task 1 · Model Letters

  4. MODEL LETTER 1 · LETTER TO AN EDITOR

    Key Vocabulary & Phrases

    Useful expressions from the letter, with plain-English meanings — build these into your own writing.

    local newsstand — neighborhood shop

    everyday gardening techniques — useful gardening tips

    better supervising — look over more closely

    background — reason for writing

    visuals — images

    ensure — make sure

    feedback — criticism

    throughout — everywhere

    thorough — diligent

    professional gardener — seriously care about your garden

    stunning — beautiful

    considered — thought to be

    keen interest — really into

    inspirational — motivating

    bi-monthly format — twice a month

    field — area/hobby

    home gardeners — hobbyists

    demand — desire for

    production assistant — someone who helps on movies or other productions

    fixes — improvements

    justify — reason for

    daily pursuit — everyday hobby

    edition — magazine issue

    surely — definitely

    appreciate — am thankful for

    spot — find/see

    hearing me out — taking time to listen

    in-depth — detailed

    round out — make complete

    step-by-step tutorials — guide

    hiring — get an employee

    CELPIP · Writing Task 1 · Model Letters

  5. MODEL LETTER 2 · FORMAL · LETTER OF INQUIRY

    Letter of Inquiry

    MODEL ANSWER

    THE PROMPT

    Dear Vista Apartment management,

    I am writing in response to a posting that I saw in the help wanted section of a newsletter. I would like to apply for the position of property manager at your new Vista Apartments location on North Sunland Drive.

    I am suitable for this role because I have past experience and excellent references in the field of residential management. Attached is my resume and letter of reference but I would also like to provide further context. The last 8 years I have worked managing various properties for Sunwah Incorporated, which runs a number of complexes around the city. I am therefore familiar with daily operations including collecting rent, liaising with repairmen, general maintenance, and complying with local rules and regulations.

    If given the opportunity, I hope to bring a high level of professionalism to the role. I am well known within my current position for having a positive attitude, communicating clearly with both tenants and upper management, and being reliable. I would strive to apply these same qualities to a role as your property manager.

    I look forward to your reply and am available for an interview at your convenience.

    Best regards,

    Dave

    You saw an advertisement in the paper for a property management position at an apartment complex. Write a letter to express your interest.

    YOUR LETTER SHOULD INCLUDE

    Why you are writing

    Your suitability for the role

    How you would approach the position

    CELPIP · Writing Task 1 · Model Letters

  6. MODEL LETTER 2 · LETTER OF INQUIRY

    Key Vocabulary & Phrases

    Useful expressions from the letter, with plain-English meanings — build these into your own writing.

    in response to — answering

    attached — included

    high level of professionalism — very professional

    posting — put up in

    resume — list of past jobs and education

    well known — famous for

    help wanted section — place in a paper to put up job vacancies

    letter of reference — recommendation letter

    current — right now

    newsletter — email sent to lots of people

    provide further context — give more information on the situation

    positive attitude — good outlook

    apply — ask for

    last — previous

    clearly — directly

    position — job

    various — myriad

    tenants — people living there

    property manager — person running the place

    runs a number of complexes — in charge of properties

    upper management — executives

    location — place

    familiar — know about

    reliable — can be counted on

    suitable — fit well

    daily operations — how it is run everyday

    strive to apply — try hard to put into practice

    role — position

    collecting rent — getting monthly money

    qualities — characteristics

    past experience — previous work

    liaising with repairmen — communicating with maintenance

    I look forward to your reply — await your reply

    excellent references — recommendations

    general maintenance — repairs

    available for an interview at your convenience — can interview whenever you want

    in the field of — in the sector of

    complying with local rules and regulations — obeying laws

    best regards — sincerely

    residential management — in charge of where people live

    if given the opportunity — if I get the chance

    CELPIP · Writing Task 1 · Model Letters

  7. MODEL LETTER 3 · SEMI-FORMAL · COMPLAINT

    Letter to a Landlord

    MODEL ANSWER

    THE PROMPT

    Dear Mr. Sanders,

    My name is Dave and I'm your tenant at the Sunny Villa apartment complex. I've been living here for the last two years in apartment 52 in Block C, one of the apartments overlooking the main street.

    I'm writing because I have some complaints about recent noise levels. It has always been a noisy area but is getting worse because of renovation construction in the apartment above me and new neighbors next to me. The construction has been going on for a couple of months and they are inconsiderate about early mornings when I'm usually still sleeping. The neighbors that just moved in next to me a month ago are also in the habit of hosting loud parties every Saturday night.

    I'd like you to talk to the building management to see how long the remodeling will be going on for and if they can stick to more regular and decent working hours. As for the adjacent neighbors, I've already spoken with them to no avail so I'd recommend you also mention this to the management for them to deal with it.

    Thanks for helping out,

    Dave

    Write a letter to your landlord complaining about noise in the block of flats which he owns.

    YOUR LETTER SHOULD INCLUDE

    Where you live

    The problem

    What he should do

    CELPIP · Writing Task 1 · Model Letters

  8. MODEL LETTER 3 · LETTER TO A LANDLORD

    Key Vocabulary & Phrases

    Useful expressions from the letter, with plain-English meanings — build these into your own writing.

    tenant — person who lives there

    apartment above me — apartment over

    going on for — continuing for

    apartment complex — group of apartment buildings

    new neighbors — people living next door

    stick to more regular and decent working hours — keep up with normal hours

    overlooking — above the

    couple of months — 2 months

    adjacent — next to

    main street — busy thoroughfare

    inconsiderate — not caring about others

    to no avail — hasn't worked

    complaints — gripes

    just moved in — new tenants

    mention — say

    noise levels — too noisy

    in the habit — usually

    deal with it — take care of

    noisy area — area with lots of noise

    hosting loud parties — having loud parties

    thanks for helping out — sincerely

    getting worse — not getting better

    building management — those who run the apartments

    renovation construction — fixing up an apartment

    remodeling — renovating

    CELPIP · Writing Task 1 · Model Letters

  9. MODEL LETTER 4 · FORMAL · COMPLAINT TO AUTHORITY

    Roommate Letter

    MODEL ANSWER

    THE PROMPT

    To whom it may concern,

    My name is Nhi and I am a 3rd-year medical students currently attending your university and residing in the Williams dormitory along the south border of campus. I just transferred here after completing my first 2 years at Sonoma College.

    I am writing because there is an issue with my assigned roommate related to being inconsiderate. The problem is that my roommate keeps very unusual sleeping hours. She often arrives home late and is very noisy entering the room. Oftentimes she will begin to watch a movie or play music late at night and wake me up. I have tried to talk to her but she has not changed her habits so far.

    I am writing because I would like someone in a position of authority to issue her a warning and, if that fails, I need a new room or roommate. I hope that this can be resolved simply by having someone speak with her because we get along well otherwise.

    Please inform me at your earliest convenience of the steps that will be taken.

    Sincerely,

    Nhi

    You live with a roommate at university but you have trouble studying because of a problem related to your roommate. Write a letter to an administrator at your university.

    YOUR LETTER SHOULD INCLUDE

    Who you are

    The problem

    What you suggest they do

    CELPIP · Writing Task 1 · Model Letters

  10. MODEL LETTER 4 · ROOMMATE LETTER

    Key Vocabulary & Phrases

    Useful expressions from the letter, with plain-English meanings — build these into your own writing.

    3rd-year — junior

    inconsiderate — not being polite to others

    authority — person with power

    currently attending — now going to school at

    keeps very unusual sleeping hours — sleeps at weird times

    warning — formal admonishing

    residing in — living in

    arrives — comes back

    if that fails — if that doesn't work

    dormitory along — rooms for students to stay in next to

    noisy entering — loud coming in

    resolved simply — taken care of easily

    border — side

    oftentimes — usually

    get along well — friendly with each other

    transferred — moving from one school to another

    begin — start

    otherwise — in all other situations

    completing — finishing

    late at night — after 10pm

    inform — tell

    issue — problem

    wake me up — make me get up

    earliest convenience — as soon as you can

    assigned roommate — person given to me to live with

    so far — to this point

    steps that will be taken — actions to be done

    related to — concerning

    position — job

    sincerely — from

    CELPIP · Writing Task 1 · Model Letters

  11. MODEL LETTER 5 · FORMAL · LOST PROPERTY

    Letter to a Cinema Manager

    MODEL ANSWER

    THE PROMPT

    Dear Theatre Management,

    I am writing because I forgot my jacket during a recent showing at your cinema. The jacket is made from handmade hemp so it is rough and very distinctive. It is dyed blue and there is embroidery on the sleeves of brightly colored flowers.

    I was in cinema 6 for the afternoon session of King Kong. I ordered my tickets online beforehand and I just double-checked to confirm that my friend and I were seated in row K, seats 12 and 13, near the center of the cinema.

    I would advise you to check under the chairs in the cinema and in your lost and found section. If you are able to locate my jacket, please give me a phone call at 781-334-5054 and I will drive over to pick it up. If it is more convenient, you can also mail it to the return address on this envelope.

    Thank you for your assistance.

    Regards,

    Jeremy

    Write a letter to the manager of a cinema (movie theatre) about a jacket you have left behind after a film.

    YOUR LETTER SHOULD INCLUDE

    Describe the jacket

    Describe where you were seated

    Explain what you want to be done

    CELPIP · Writing Task 1 · Model Letters

  12. MODEL LETTER 5 · LETTER TO A CINEMA MANAGER

    Key Vocabulary & Phrases

    Useful expressions from the letter, with plain-English meanings — build these into your own writing.

    management — the people in charge

    brightly colored flowers — strong colors for the plants/flowers

    lost and found section — area where you put missing items

    I am writing because — my intention is

    afternoon session — showing after noon

    locate — find

    forgot — don't remember

    ordered — purchased

    give me a phone call — ring me up

    jacket — coat

    online beforehand — on the internet before the show

    drive over — come get

    recent showing — shown not that long ago

    double-checked — looked again

    pick it up — come get it

    handmade hemp — made from the hemp plant

    confirm — make sure

    convenient — if it is easy

    rough — not smooth

    row — line of seats

    mail it — send by delivery

    distinctive — unique

    near — next to

    return address — where I live

    dyed blue — the color is blue

    center — in the middle

    envelope — what letters are sent in

    embroidery — hand-stitched images

    advise — give advice

    thank you for your assistance — much obliged

    sleeves — where your arms go in a shirt/jacket

    check under the chairs — look under the seats

    CELPIP · Writing Task 1 · Model Letters

  13. MODEL LETTER 6 · SEMI-FORMAL · REQUEST

    Letter to a Colleague

    MODEL ANSWER

    THE PROMPT

    Hi Donald,

    I'm writing because we didn't get a chance to talk after work on Friday and I need a favour. The conference I've been planning is coming up next week (on the topic of 'The Use of Technology in Modern Education' in case you forgot). It will take place at the Gem Plaza on the 23rd beginning at 10:30 in the morning.

    One of our scheduled panelists on the benefits of incorporating social media had to cancel due to Covid-19 restrictions and my mind immediately turned to you. You're an expert about these apps in your personal life but I've also noticed how you try to integrate social media platforms into your lessons. You would be part of the panel but no preparation is necessary.

    If you accept, then we will arrange for a taxi to pick you up for the conference at 9:30 am. We will provide a speaker's fee for the day and there is a ceremony after the event during which we will have dinner and you are of course invited.

    Please let me know if you would like to take part in this conference.

    Regards,

    Dave

    You want to arrange a conference for your company, and you need to ask one of your colleagues to give a presentation in this conference.

    YOUR LETTER SHOULD INCLUDE

    Details about the conference

    Why you want your colleague to give presentation

    What arrangement will you do for this conference

    CELPIP · Writing Task 1 · Model Letters

  14. MODEL LETTER 6 · LETTER TO A COLLEAGUE

    Key Vocabulary & Phrases

    Useful expressions from the letter, with plain-English meanings — build these into your own writing.

    get a chance to talk — have an opportunity to chat with

    my mind immediately turned to you — I thought of you right away

    necessary — needed

    favour — help

    expert — professional

    arrange — set up

    coming up — upcoming

    apps — applications

    pick you up — give you a ride

    'Modern Education' in case you forgot — related to new ideas in education in the event you don't remember

    personal life — private life

    provide a speaker's fee — pay you money to join in

    take place — happening

    integrate — combine

    ceremony — event

    in the morning — am

    platforms — Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc.

    invited — asked to come

    scheduled panelists — people who will speak / speakers

    be part of — join in

    please let me know if you would like to — tell me if you can

    incorporating — combining

    panel — group of speakers

    regards — sincerely

    cancel due to Covid-19 restrictions — not happen because of travel limits

    preparation — getting ready for

    CELPIP · Writing Task 1 · Model Letters

  15. MODEL LETTER 7 · INFORMAL · PERSONAL

    Letter to a Friend

    212w

    MODEL ANSWER

    THE PROMPT

    Hi Sally,

    I had such a pleasant time staying over at your place the other week and I wanted to write to say thanks and ask a quick question. The party you threw was so chilled out and I can't wait to meet up for the next one. Please let me know if you plan on doing this type of thing again and let me know if I can help out in any way at all!

    The only issue with the weekend was my fault (as usual). I had a bit too much to drink (also as usual) and I somehow misplaced my watch. It's a brand new watch, with a brown leather band and a faux gold clock on it. The face of it is really distinctive because the hands are silver and it's minimalistic, without any markings for the hours.

    If you can locate it, I'd really appreciate if you could send it to me by mail (to the address enclosed). If that's inconvenient for you, you could also pass it on to Mike the next time you see him because he often stops by my place at the weekend. Both those options are fine by me!

    Thanks again for the party and here's hoping you can rustle up my watch!

    Regards,

    Dave

    You stayed over at a friend's house last weekend and think that you left your watch there. (Real Test)

    YOUR LETTER SHOULD INCLUDE

    Thank your friend

    Describe your watch

    Tell them what you want them to do

    CELPIP · Writing Task 1 · Model Letters

  16. MODEL LETTER 7 · LETTER TO A FRIEND

    Key Vocabulary & Phrases

    Useful expressions from the letter, with plain-English meanings — build these into your own writing.

    such a pleasant time — a very good experience

    any way at all — in any aspect

    minimalistic — simple

    staying over — sleeping over

    only issue — one problem

    markings — designations

    place — home

    as usual — typical

    locate — find

    quick question — fast question

    bit too much to drink — drank too much alcohol

    appreciate — thankful for

    threw a party — had a party

    somehow misplaced — lost by mistake

    enclosed — included

    chilled out — relaxed

    brand new — just got it

    inconvenient — not easy to do

    can't wait — excited for

    leather band — strap made from tanned animal skin

    pass it on — give to

    meet up — see each other again

    faux — fake

    stops by — comes to see

    plan on — do in the future

    face — front of the watch

    fine by me — it's ok

    type of thing again — this sort of thing

    distinctive — unique and separate

    here's hoping — I hope

    help out — help

    hands — the moving symbols on a watch

    rustle up — find

    CELPIP · Writing Task 1 · Model Letters

  17. MAKE THE MOST OF THESE

    How to Study the Letters

    Read the prompt first

    Copy the structure

    Note the three points each letter must address before reading the answer.

    Salutation, purpose, body paragraphs, polite close — reuse this skeleton.

    Bank the phrases

    Match the register

    Learn the glossary expressions and slot them into your own letters.

    Notice how tone shifts across formal, semi-formal, and informal letters.

    Cover every point

    Then write your own

    A complete answer addresses all three required points clearly.

    Re-do each prompt from scratch and compare against the model.

    Practise, compare, refine — and the format becomes second nature.

Writing Task2

  1. CELPIP · WRITING PREPARATION

    Writing Task 2

    Responding to Survey Questions

    Choose an option, defend it convincingly, and structure your response with the proven PES method.

    150–200

    P-E-S

    WORDS TO WRITE

    PARAGRAPHS

    ARGUMENT METHOD

  2. THE FORMAT

    What Task 2 Asks of You

    You're given a scenario with two options. Pick one, then persuade the reader with clear reasons — no greeting, no sitting on the fence.

    Take a clear side

    Give real reasons

    Choose Option A or B and commit to it from the first sentence.

    Support your choice with two well-developed arguments.

    Concede the other side

    No greeting needed

    Acknowledge a benefit of the option you didn't pick.

    Unlike Task 1, you jump straight into stating your view.

    CELPIP · Writing Task 2

  3. YOUR BLUEPRINT

    The Four-Paragraph Structure

    A winning response follows a clear arc: state, argue, argue, conclude. Each paragraph has one job.

    PARAGRAPH

    PARAGRAPH

    PARAGRAPH

    PARAGRAPH

    Introduction

    Argument One

    Argument Two

    Conclusion

    State your chosen option and briefly acknowledge the other. Preview your two reasons.

    Develop your first reason fully using the PES method.

    Develop your second reason fully using the PES method.

    Summarise your view in 1–2 sentences and add a polite closing line.

    CELPIP · Writing Task 2

  4. WORKED EXAMPLE

    Sample Question & Planning

    THE PROMPT

    Your line manager wants feedback on the yearly winter staff trip. Choose the option you prefer and explain why (150–200 words).

    CHOSEN

    PLAN: WEIGH THE BENEFITS

    A

    B

    Restaurant Outing

    'Pot Luck' Dinner

    Option A

    Option B ✓

    Take all employees to a local restaurant, with a small charge to each.

    Hold a dinner at the office where everyone brings a dish they bought or made.

    Convenient — no setup

    A change of scene

    More variety of food

    Team building

    Shares cultures

    CELPIP · Writing Task 2

  5. PARAGRAPH 1

    Open by Stating Your Choice

    Name your option and concede a benefit of the other — this shows balance. Then preview your two reasons.

    What to do

    EXAMPLE

    While I do see the benefit of having the meal at a local restaurant this year, I believe the 'pot luck' option is a better choice because there will be more variety, and it will help to build a sense of community.

    State which option you chose.

    Recognise that the other option also has advantages.

    Preview the two reasons you will develop next.

    SENTENCE FRAME

    "While I do see the benefit of ___, I believe the ___ option is better because…"

    ■ concession ■ your choice ■ two reasons

    CELPIP · Writing Task 2

  6. THE CORE TECHNIQUE

    Develop Arguments with PES

    Each body paragraph follows the same three-step rhythm. Master it once and reuse it for every argument.

    P

    Present

    E

    Extend

    S

    Support

    State the argument clearly in the very first sentence of the paragraph.

    Expand it — explain in more detail or give a consequence of the action.

    Back it up with evidence: a real-life or hypothetical example.

    Repeat PES once in Paragraph 2 and again in Paragraph 3 — one argument each.

    CELPIP · Writing Task 2

  7. PARAGRAPH 2 · PES IN ACTION

    Argument One — Variety

    Watch the PES method build a complete paragraph around one argument: something for everyone.

    PRESENT

    P

    As a multicultural team with people from all age groups, bringing our own dishes would be an excellent way to ensure that there is something for everyone.

    EXTEND

    E

    In this way, people would get the chance to try new things and could always fall back on their own dish if they aren't feeling adventurous.

    SUPPORT

    S

    I would love to try some home-cooked Canadian dishes, and some of the staff would be intrigued to taste the food from my region.

    CELPIP · Writing Task 2

  8. PARAGRAPH 3 · PES IN ACTION

    Argument Two — Team Building

    Watch the PES method build a complete paragraph around one argument: everyone contributes.

    PRESENT

    P

    In addition, the idea that everyone contributes something is great for team building.

    EXTEND

    E

    In other words, the act of sharing what we have created and discussing the different dishes and cuisines helps to build relationships and trust.

    SUPPORT

    S

    Everyone has a responsibility to bring something to the table, and this strengthens the community spirit as we all rely on each other.

    CELPIP · Writing Task 2

  9. PARAGRAPH 4

    Close with a Clear Conclusion

    Restate your position in one or two sentences, then add a courteous closing line. Keep it short and confident.

    Two quick jobs

    EXAMPLE

    whilst eating at a restaurant has its own charms, the 'pot luck' dinner would strengthen the sense of community and give us all the chance to share our cultures and try something new.

    Summarise your views and arguments in 1–2 sentences.

    Add a polite line expressing your hopes about the decision (optional but recommended).

    Open with a summary marker: "In summary," / "To conclude," / "Overall,".

    Thank you for giving us the chance to get involved in the decision-making process, and I look forward to seeing you at the dinner.

    Or

    I appreciate for giving me a privilege to partake in this survey report

    CELPIP · Writing Task 2

  10. PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER

    The Complete Model Answer

    ~185 W

    While I do see the benefit of having the meal at a local restaurant this year, I believe the 'pot luck' option is a better choice because there will be more variety, and it will help to build a sense of community.

    As a multicultural team with people from all age groups, bringing our own dishes would be an excellent way to ensure that there is something for everyone. In this way, people would get the chance to try new things and could always fall back on their own dish if they don't feel adventurous. I would love to try some home-cooked Canadian dishes, and some of the staff would be intrigued to taste the food from my region.

    In addition, the idea that everyone contributes something is great for team building. In other words, the act of sharing what we have created and discussing the different dishes and cuisines helps to build relationships and trust. Everyone has a responsibility to bring something to the table, and this strengthens the community spirit as we all rely on each other.

    Whilst eating at a restaurant has its own charms, the 'pot luck' dinner would strengthen the sense of community and give us all the chance to share our cultures and try something new. Thank you for giving us the chance to get involved in the decision-making process, and I look forward to seeing you at the dinner.

    CELPIP · Writing Task 2

  11. LINKING TOOLKIT

    Discourse Markers Bank

    Open each paragraph and link your ideas with these connectors — always followed by a comma. Variety here lifts your score.

    Adding ideas

    Cause & result

    Contrast

    Sequencing

    in addition

    moreover

    furthermore

    indeed

    incidentally

    therefore

    as a result

    thus

    hence

    consequently

    however

    nonetheless

    on the contrary

    instead

    otherwise

    first of all

    secondly

    finally

    for example

    in summary

    CELPIP · Writing Task 2

  12. PRACTISE THE METHOD

    Task 2 — Survey Prompts to Try

    Apply the PES structure to these real survey scenarios. Each asks you to choose one option and defend it.

    Online vs Print News

    Work From Home

    Field Trip Transport

    Stop the print edition, or keep both print and online?

    Is offering a work-from-home choice fair, or not?

    Public transit for school trips, or school buses only?

    Saturday Park Market

    School Lunches

    Office Upgrade

    A fruit & vegetable market, or second-hand furniture?

    Keep the current lunches, or switch to salads & veg?

    Five extra parking spaces, or thirty new bike stands?

    CELPIP · Writing Task 2

  13. PAIRED PRACTICE

    Task 1 — Email Prompts to Try

    These email scenarios accompany the Task 2 surveys. Each lists three points your email must cover.

    Potluck Allergies

    Room Rental

    Noisy Park

    Thank the organiser, explain ingredient lists, suggest changes.

    Say when you need it, your requirements, costs & process.

    Give your location, the problem's impact, a solution.

    Advising a Graduate

    Accident Report

    Loan Repayment

    Praise grades, argue for college, caution against skipping it.

    When & where, the conditions & scene, who was at fault.

    Amount & schedule, why you borrowed, why this month is hard.

    CELPIP · Writing Task 2

  14. KEY TAKEAWAYS

    Score High on Task 2

    Commit to one option

    Concede gracefully

    Pick a side from sentence one — never sit on the fence.

    Acknowledge a benefit of the option you rejected.

    Use PES every time

    Link with markers

    Present, Extend, Support — once per body paragraph.

    Open paragraphs with discourse markers and a comma.

    Conclude clearly

    Mind the word count

    Restate your view and add a polite closing line.

    Aim for 150–200 words; plan before you write.

    Now go practise — you've got this!