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CELPIP, Speaking Task 7: Expressing Opinions

Compulsory Local Election Voting: sample answer

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

Task
Expressing Opinions
Time
30s to prepare, 90s to speak
Answer length
171 words, ~76s
Written to
Level 10 target

The question

Task

Do you agree or disagree with the statement that citizens should be legally required to vote in local elections? Explain your position with specific reasons and examples.

Sample answer

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

I firmly disagree with making local election voting compulsory. While higher turnout is certainly a worthy goal, forcing citizens to vote directly undermines individual freedom and does not necessarily lead to better democratic outcomes for our communities. Firstly, mandatory voting often results in uninformed choices because if people are uninterested or uneducated about the candidates running, their vote might be cast arbitrarily rather than from thoughtful consideration. This just inflates voter numbers without truly enhancing democratic quality. Secondly, it heavily infringes on personal liberty. Citizens living in a free society should always have the fundamental right to choose whether or not to participate politically. Coercing participation can breed resentment, ultimately eroding the genuine civic responsibility that stems from voluntary engagement. While I completely understand the argument for increased turnout, the quality of participation from informed, willing voters is arguably much more crucial than mere quantity. Ultimately, fostering better civic education and encouraging voluntary engagement offers a far more authentic and sustainable path to a vibrant local democracy than any legal obligation.

171 words, about 76s spoken

Why it works

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

  • The right length. 171 words, about 76 seconds at a natural pace: inside the 90-second limit with room to finish calmly.
  • Clear links between ideas: “firstly”, “secondly”, “while”, “because”. They make the answer easy to follow, which raters reward under coherence.
  • 9 sentences in 76 seconds: complete thoughts at a steady pace, without rushing to fit more in.

How CELPIP marks expressing opinions

  • 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 7: Expressing Opinions guide

Common questions

How long should a CELPIP Speaking Task 7: Expressing Opinions answer be?

You get 30 seconds to prepare and up to 90 seconds to speak. At a natural pace that's roughly 165 to 233 words. This sample is 171 words, about 76 seconds spoken.

How is CELPIP Speaking Task 7: Expressing Opinions 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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