CELPIP, Speaking Task 1: Giving Advice

Emotional Support Parrot in the Office: sample answer

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

Practice Giving Advice free Read the answer

Task: Giving Advice
Time: 30s to prepare, 90s to speak
Answer length: 187 words, ~83s
Written to: Level 10 target

The question

Situation

Your colleague plans to bring their emotional support parrot to the open-plan office. They worry about management and coworker reactions. How can your colleague best navigate this situation?

Task

What advice do you have?

Sample answer

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

Hey, I completely understand why you would want Polly, your emotional support parrot, in the office with you. It is a really kind thought, but bringing a pet into an open-plan environment can be quite complex, so I am happy to help you think through this. My primary advice is to formally speak with Human Resources and your direct manager as soon as possible, well before you actually bring Polly in. Firstly, they can clarify the official company policy on emotional support animals and guide you through the formal accommodation process, including any required medical documentation. Secondly, it is absolutely crucial to proactively address potential coworker concerns, such as noise levels, pet allergies, or even bird phobias. You should consider proposing practical solutions like setting up a quiet zone or establishing specific office hours for Polly; this shows real consideration for everyone else. Lastly, getting official approval ensures transparency and prevents any future conflicts with your team. Taking these proactive steps will significantly improve your chances of a positive outcome for both you and Polly. I am here if you want to chat more about this later!

187 words, about 83s spoken

Why it works

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

The right length. 187 words, about 83 seconds at a natural pace: inside the 90-second limit with room to finish calmly.
Clear links between ideas: “firstly”, “secondly”. They make the answer easy to follow, which raters reward under coherence.
9 sentences in 83 seconds: complete thoughts at a steady pace, without rushing to fit more in.

How CELPIP marks giving advice

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 1: Giving Advice guide Template Tips

Common questions

How long should a CELPIP Speaking Task 1: Giving Advice 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 187 words, about 83 seconds spoken.

How is CELPIP Speaking Task 1: Giving Advice 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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