Speaking Practice Test-9

You are about to take the Speaking section of the CELPIP Test. There are 8 tasks in this section. Each task will assess your ability to speak clearly and appropriately in different everyday situations.

General Instructions:

• Time Limit: Each task has a specific time limit. Pay attention to the time given for each task.
• Respond Clearly: Speak clearly and at a natural pace. You will not be penalized for taking a brief pause to gather your thoughts.
• Stay on Topic: Answer the questions directly and focus on the task.
• Use Complete Sentences: Avoid one-word answers. Make sure you provide full, detailed responses.
• Relax and Be Yourself: Speak naturally and confidently. Your goal is to communicate clearly.

Part 1: Giving Advice

Topic: A family member is considering going back to school. What advice would you offer them?

• Encourage them to set clear goals and consider what they hope to achieve by returning to school.
• Suggest researching programs and institutions to find one that fits their schedule and career aspirations.
• Recommend balancing responsibilities by creating a routine and seeking support from family and friends.

Part 2: Talking About a Personal Experience

Topic: Tell us about a time when you helped a family member solve a problem.

• Share the context of the problem and how the family member approached you for help.
• Explain the steps you took to assist them, including any challenges faced.
• Highlight the outcome and how the experience strengthened your relationship.

Part 3: Describe a Scene

Topic: A construction site with workers.

• Describe the busy activity at the site, such as workers operating machinery, carrying tools, and wearing safety gear.
• Highlight the sounds of construction, like hammering, drilling, and the beeping of vehicles.
• Mention the partially built structures, scaffolding, and any safety signs present.

Part 4: Make a Prediction After Looking at a Picture

 

Topic: A couple walking in the rain without an umbrella.

• Describe the scene, including the couple’s wet clothes, hurried steps, and possibly their laughter or frustration.
• Predict that they might find shelter soon, like a nearby café, or they might continue walking and enjoy the rain.

Part 5: Comparing and Persuading

Topic: Selecting a career path: working in a corporation vs. starting a business.

• Compare the stability and benefits of working in a corporation with the independence and creativity of starting a business.
• Persuade the listener to choose one path based on their risk tolerance, skills, and long-term goals.

Part 6: Dealing with a Difficult Situation

Topic: Fixing a technical issue during an online presentation.

• Explain how you would identify the issue, such as checking internet connection, restarting the device, or switching to a backup plan.
• Emphasize staying calm and informing the audience about the delay to maintain professionalism.

Part 7: Express Opinion

Topic: Should cities have more public parks or more housing developments?

• State your opinion and provide arguments to support it.
• Discuss the impact of parks on community well-being and housing on addressing population growth.

Part 8: Describing an Unusual Situation

Topic: Describe a time when your phone unexpectedly stopped working in an important moment.

• Share the circumstances, your initial reaction, and how you managed without your phone.
• Highlight any lessons learned, such as preparing for contingencies or staying calm under pressure.

Sample Responses

Part 1: Giving Advice

“Going back to school is a big decision, and I’d recommend starting with a clear goal in mind. Think about what you want to achieve, whether it’s a new career, personal growth, or advanced skills. Research programs that fit your schedule and align with your goals. Online options might be worth exploring if you need flexibility. It’s also important to balance responsibilities. I’d suggest creating a routine that includes study time, work, and family commitments. Don’t hesitate to ask for support from loved ones, whether it’s help with household chores or encouragement. Finally, stay positive and remember that hard work now will lead to rewards later.”

Part 2: Talking About a Personal Experience

“A time when I helped a family member was when my younger sibling was struggling with math homework. They were frustrated and close to giving up. I sat down with them, identified the areas they found confusing, and explained the concepts step by step. We also practiced problems together. Initially, they were hesitant, but as they understood more, their confidence grew. The next day, they performed well in their class assignment and were thrilled to tell me about it. This experience taught me the importance of patience and how breaking down challenges into smaller steps can make them manageable.”

Part 3: Describe a Scene

“The construction site is buzzing with activity. Workers in bright orange vests and hard hats are moving briskly, carrying tools and operating machinery. The sound of hammering, drilling, and the occasional shout fills the air. In the distance, a crane is lifting heavy materials to the top of a partially built structure. Scaffolding surrounds the building, and safety signs are prominently displayed. Dust rises as trucks move in and out, delivering supplies. Despite the chaos, there’s a sense of purpose and coordination as everyone works together to complete the project.”

Part 4: Make a Prediction After Looking at a Picture

“In the picture, I see a couple walking in the rain without an umbrella. They’re holding hands, their clothes slightly soaked, and their faces show a mix of amusement and discomfort. I predict they might find shelter soon, perhaps under a tree or at a nearby café. Alternatively, they might embrace the moment and keep walking, enjoying the spontaneity of being caught in the rain. Either way, it looks like an experience they’ll laugh about later.”

Part 5: Comparing and Persuading

“Choosing between working in a corporation and starting a business depends on your goals. Corporations offer stability, a steady income, and opportunities for growth within a structured environment. However, starting a business allows you to pursue your passion, set your own schedule, and potentially earn more if successful. I’d recommend starting a business if you’re willing to take risks and have an entrepreneurial mindset. On the other hand, if you value security and a predictable path, a corporate job might be a better fit. Ultimately, it’s about what aligns with your personality and long-term goals.”

Part 6: Dealing with a Difficult Situation

“If I faced a technical issue during an online presentation, I’d first stay calm and assess the problem. I’d check my internet connection and ensure all devices are functioning properly. If the issue persists, I’d inform the audience about the delay and try a backup plan, like switching to a mobile hotspot or using another device. It’s important to communicate clearly and reassure the participants that the issue is being resolved. If needed, I’d offer to reschedule or share materials via email. Handling such situations calmly ensures professionalism and keeps the audience’s trust.”

Part 7: Express Opinion

“I believe cities should have more public parks. Parks provide residents with a place to relax, exercise, and connect with nature, which is essential for mental and physical health. They also bring communities together through events and shared spaces. While housing developments are important to accommodate growing populations, they should be balanced with green spaces. Parks enhance the quality of urban life and make cities more livable. Prioritizing them shows a commitment to the well-being of residents and the environment.”

Part 8: Describing an Unusual Situation

“Once, my phone stopped working just before an important online interview. I panicked for a moment but quickly borrowed a laptop from my neighbor. Setting up the connection took longer than expected, but I managed to join the interview. Despite the technical hiccup, I explained the situation calmly to the interviewers, who appreciated my quick thinking. This experience taught me to always have a backup plan and not to rely solely on one device for crucial tasks.”