PrepAmigo
This CELPIP speaking practice guide gives you task-by-task templates, sample answers, and the scoring lens examiners use (Coherence, Vocabulary, Listenability, Task Fulfillment). If you need to move from CELPIP 7 to 8 or 8 to 9, small changes in delivery and structure make a big difference.
Fast wins
Use a fixed opening + reason + example + closing for most tasks. Keep answers between 50–80 seconds, leaving 5–10 seconds buffer.
Try a timed speaking mock →Know your target
CLB 9 (CELPIP 9) is the big CRS jump. Aim for consistent structure and clear pronunciation before chasing complex vocabulary.
See the CELPIP score chart →CELPIP speaking tasks (1–8) at a glance
- Task 1: Giving Advice (1 min prep, 90 sec speaking)
- Task 2: Talking about a Personal Experience
- Task 3: Describing a Scene (use “left/right/center/background”)
- Task 4: Making Predictions (focus on future, “will/going to”)
- Task 5: Comparing and Persuading (pick one option, give 2 reasons)
- Task 6: Dealing with a Difficult Situation
- Task 7: Expressing Opinions (state opinion, 2 supports, short close)
- Task 8: Describing an Unusual Situation
Reusable templates for common tasks
Task 1 / Task 5 (Advice or Persuade)
- Open: “I recommend choosing OPTION because…”
- Reason 1 + example.
- Reason 2 + example.
- Close: “So overall, OPTION fits better for …”
Task 3 (Describe a Scene)
- Start global → move left to right → then background.
- Use location words: “in the foreground”, “on the left”, “in the distance”.
- Include 2–3 details (colors, actions, objects).
Task 4 (Predictions)
- Open: “I think they will…”
- Prediction 1 + why; Prediction 2 + why.
- Use future markers: will / going to / probably / likely.
Task 7 (Opinion)
- Open: “In my opinion, …”
- 2 clear reasons; each with a short example.
- Close: “That’s why I believe …”
Sample answers (Task 1 & Task 4)
Task 1: Giving Advice (approx. CELPIP 9)
“I recommend choosing the public park. First, it creates green space for families and reduces city noise. For example, our nearby park hosts free events that bring neighbors together. Second, it’s cheaper to maintain than a shopping mall and promotes health. So overall, the park benefits more people.”
Task 4: Making Predictions (approx. CELPIP 8)
“I think the couple will book a small hotel for the weekend. They look relaxed and have light luggage, so they probably just want a short break. They might also visit museums nearby, because they’re holding a city map. That’s why I believe they’ll stay in the downtown area.”
Pro tip
Scoring: Coherence, Vocabulary, Listenability, Task Fulfillment
Coherence & Meaning
Use clear structure: opening → 2 reasons/examples → closing. Link ideas with “because”, “so”, “for example”.
Vocabulary
Use precise, everyday words plus 1–2 stronger synonyms (“busy” → “crowded”; “good” → “valuable”).
Listenability
Aim for steady speed, clear consonants, and simple sentences if you risk errors. Short beats are better than fillers (“um, like”).
Task Fulfillment
Answer the exact prompt. In compare/persuade tasks, choose ONE option and defend it; don’t stay neutral.
7-day practice plan
- Day 1: Record Task 1 & 2. Time yourself; aim 70–80 sec.
- Day 2: Task 3 (describe), Task 4 (predict). Focus on structure words.
- Day 3: Task 5 (compare/persuade) with template. Two reasons + examples.
- Day 4: Task 6 (difficult situation). Practice calm, polite language.
- Day 5: Task 7 (opinion). Two supports; strong opening/closing.
- Day 6: Task 8 (unusual situation). Practice narrative flow.
- Day 7: Full speaking set (1–8) with a timer; review recordings.
FAQs
How do I go from CELPIP 7 to 8 in speaking?
Use a fixed template, reduce fillers, and give two concrete examples per answer.
What’s the ideal answer length?
Most tasks perform best at 60–80 seconds, leaving a small buffer before time ends.
Do accents matter?
Clear pronunciation matters more than accent. Slow slightly and stress key words to improve Listenability.