CELPIP, Speaking Task 1: Giving Advice
Friend's Cheating Partner Dilemma: 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.
- Task
- Giving Advice
- Time
- 30s to prepare, 90s to speak
- Answer length
- 201 words, ~89s
- Written to
- Level 10 target
The question
Situation
Your friend has proof a mutual friend's partner is cheating. She struggles to tell them without risking her own friendship or being blamed.
Task
What advice would you give your friend?
Sample answer
Linking words are highlighted: they show the structure a rater follows.
Oh, Sarah, I can only imagine how incredibly difficult and emotionally draining this situation must be for you. It's such a heavy burden to carry, knowing something so devastating about someone your best friend cares deeply for, and then deciding how to share that news without jeopardizing your own friendship. It truly puts you in an impossible position. Given the sensitivity, my strongest recommendation would be to have a private, face-to-face conversation with your best friend, focusing entirely on their feelings and well-being, and being prepared to offer unwavering support. Firstly, choose the right time and place, somewhere quiet where they feel safe. Start by expressing your deep love and concern for them, perhaps saying, I've learned something that's really hard to share, and my only reason for telling you is because I care about you deeply. Then, present the undeniable proof calmly and factually, allowing them to process it. Avoid accusations or judgments. Secondly, be prepared for a strong emotional reaction. They might feel angry or lash out, as you're the messenger. Reassure them that you're there no matter what, and that your friendship means the world to you. I'm here for you too, if you need to talk more.
201 words, about 89s spoken
Why it works
What you can measure in this answer, and what CELPIP raters mark.
- The right length. 201 words, about 89 seconds at a natural pace: inside the 90-second limit with room to finish calmly.
- Clear links between ideas: “firstly”, “secondly”, “because”. They make the answer easy to follow, which raters reward under coherence.
- 12 sentences in 89 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.
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 201 words, about 89 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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