CELPIP, Speaking Task 7: Expressing Opinions
Prioritizing Freedom or Equality: 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
- 184 words, ~82s
- Written to
- Level 10 target
The question
Task
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? A society should always prioritize individual freedom above all else, even if it leads to greater inequalities. Explain your position with specific reasons and examples.
Sample answer
Linking words are highlighted: they show the structure a rater follows.
I firmly advocate for prioritizing collective equality over unbridled individual freedom, especially when the latter leads to significant societal disparities. I disagree with the statement that individual freedom should always come first, as this approach often creates vast socioeconomic inequalities that undermine social cohesion. For instance, in a society where unregulated wealth accumulation is the primary focus, a small group may thrive while many others are denied basic opportunities, which eventually fosters instability and deep resentment within the general populace. Furthermore, prioritizing equality ensures that fundamental rights and essential services, such as quality education and accessible healthcare, are available to all citizens regardless of their background. This baseline support actually empowers individuals to truly pursue their personal aspirations, which in turn enhances overall societal well-being and national productivity. While I certainly acknowledge the intrinsic value of personal liberty, an exclusive focus on individual freedom risks marginalizing the most disadvantaged members of our community. Ultimately, I believe that a society that champions equality lays the necessary groundwork for universal opportunity, fostering a much more stable, prosperous, and genuinely free environment for everyone to live in.
184 words, about 82s spoken
Why it works
What you can measure in this answer, and what CELPIP raters mark.
- The right length. 184 words, about 82 seconds at a natural pace: inside the 90-second limit with room to finish calmly.
- Clear links between ideas: “furthermore”, “for instance”, “while”, “overall”. They make the answer easy to follow, which raters reward under coherence.
- 7 sentences in 82 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.
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 184 words, about 82 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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