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CELPIP, Speaking Task 6: Dealing with a Difficult Situation

Neighbor's Ball Troubles: sample answer

A model answer to this exam-style CELPIP dealing with a difficult situation question, written to a level 10 target. See the question, the full answer and exactly why it works, then try it yourself.

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Task
Dealing with a Difficult Situation
Time
60s to prepare, 60s to speak
Answer length
155 words, ~69s
Written to
Level 10 target

The question

Situation

Your neighbor's children repeatedly kick their ball into your windows, causing minor but increasing damage and significant concern for safety. This ongoing issue is creating tension, and you need to address it effectively without damaging your otherwise good relationship with your neighbors.

Task

Choose the best option to deal with this situation. Explain your choice and why you did not choose the other options.

  • Option 1: Approach your neighbors directly and politely explain the problem. Suggest a solution like moving their play area slightly or agreeing on specific times for ball games.
  • Option 2: Contact your building manager or homeowners association to file a formal complaint. If the damage is significant, consider calling the police.
  • Option 3: Ignore the issue and hope it stops, or install protective screens on your windows without discussing it with your neighbors.

Sample answer

Linking words are highlighted: they show the structure a rater follows.

I believe Option 1 is undoubtedly the most appropriate and constructive approach to resolve this delicate situation. Firstly, engaging in a direct yet polite conversation fosters open communication and demonstrates respect for our neighbors, which is crucial for preserving our long-term relationship. Secondly, it allows for collaborative problem-solving, where we can jointly explore practical solutions, such as designating a safer play zone or establishing specific playtimes, rather than imposing a dictate. Conversely, Option 2, involving building management or authorities, should be considered a last resort. Such an escalatory step would likely generate resentment and irreparably damage our neighborly rapport, turning a minor issue into a major conflict. Similarly, Option 3, either ignoring the problem or passively installing barriers, is ineffective. It fails to address the root cause, potentially leading to further damage or a build-up of unaddressed frustration. Therefore, a proactive, respectful dialogue is essential to achieve a mutually beneficial outcome and maintain community harmony.

155 words, about 69s spoken

Why it works

What you can measure in this answer, and what CELPIP raters mark.

  • The right length. 155 words, about 69 seconds at a natural pace: inside the 60-second limit with room to finish calmly.
  • Clear links between ideas: “therefore”, “firstly”, “secondly”, “similarly”. They make the answer easy to follow, which raters reward under coherence.
  • 8 sentences in 69 seconds: complete thoughts at a steady pace, without rushing to fit more in.

How CELPIP marks dealing with a difficult situation

  • Content & CoherenceLevel 1–12

    Enough relevant ideas, organised clearly and supported with detail.

  • VocabularyLevel 1–12

    Words chosen precisely and appropriately for the topic.

  • ListenabilityLevel 1–12

    Rhythm, pronunciation, intonation and few distracting pauses or self-corrections.

  • Task FulfillmentLevel 1–12

    Answers every part, with the right tone and length.

Speaking Task 6: Dealing with a Difficult Situation guide

Common questions

How long should a CELPIP Speaking Task 6: Dealing with a Difficult Situation answer be?

You get 60 seconds to prepare and up to 60 seconds to speak. At a natural pace that's roughly 110 to 155 words. This sample is 155 words, about 69 seconds spoken.

How is CELPIP Speaking Task 6: Dealing with a Difficult Situation scored?

CELPIP marks it on Content & Coherence, Vocabulary, Listenability, Task Fulfillment, each on a Level 1 to 12 scale. Your result for the task comes from these together.

Is this a real CELPIP question?

No. It's an original, exam-style question written to match the official format. Nobody can legally publish real test questions.

Should I memorise this answer?

No. Use it to see the structure, length and linking words that work, then answer in your own words. Memorised answers rarely fit a new question and raters notice.

Where can I practice this question and get a score?

Open it on PrepScroll: record or type your own answer and get an instant estimated score on each CELPIP criterion, with what to fix. It's free to start.

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