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CELPIP, Speaking Task 7: Expressing Opinions

Taxing Fast Fashion: 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
197 words, ~88s
Written to
Level 10 target

The question

Task

Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Governments should implement heavy taxes on fast fashion companies to combat environmental waste and promote sustainable consumption. Explain your position with specific reasons and examples.

Sample answer

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

I strongly agree that governments should implement heavy taxes on fast fashion companies. This action is absolutely vital to combat severe environmental damage and promote sustainable consumption in our society. Firstly, the ecological footprint of the fast fashion industry is simply immense. Rapid production cycles create vast amounts of textile waste, which severely clogs landfills and pollutes local water sources with harmful synthetic chemicals. For example, the constant shedding of microplastics from cheap synthetic garments seriously harms marine life and disrupts delicate ocean ecosystems. Imposing heavy taxation forces these corporations to properly internalize these hidden environmental costs, directly driving cleaner and greener manufacturing processes. Secondly, such taxes would dramatically shift everyday consumer behaviour for the better. When cheap clothing naturally becomes pricier, shoppers are heavily incentivized to invest in durable, higher quality items sourced from ethical brands. This reduces overall clothing consumption, fostering a healthier buy less choose well mentality and promoting garment longevity. While some critics might argue about clothing affordability for lower-income households, the long-term benefits for securing a healthier planet and a more ethical industry are completely paramount. Ultimately, taxing fast fashion enforces crucial corporate accountability and cultivates genuine environmental stewardship for future generations.

197 words, about 88s spoken

Why it works

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

  • The right length. 197 words, about 88 seconds at a natural pace: inside the 90-second limit with room to finish calmly.
  • Clear links between ideas: “for example”, “firstly”, “secondly”, “while”, “overall”. They make the answer easy to follow, which raters reward under coherence.
  • 11 sentences in 88 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 197 words, about 88 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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