CELPIP, Speaking Task 1: Giving Advice
Neighbor's Loud House Color: 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
- 178 words, ~79s
- Written to
- Level 10 target
The question
Situation
Your friend is worried about a neighbor's plan to paint their house an unusual color. They fear it will affect the neighborhood's look and property values.
Task
What advice would you give?
Sample answer
Linking words are highlighted: they show the structure a rater follows.
Oh no, I'm so sorry to hear about your new neighbor's plan to paint their house such an incredibly bright and unusual color. I completely understand your concern about the neighborhood's aesthetic and property values. It's a tricky situation, and you're right to seek advice. My primary advice would be to initiate a friendly, non-confrontational conversation with them as soon as possible, ideally before any painting begins. Firstly, approaching them politely shows you're a reasonable neighbor. You could welcome them, then gently mention how a very contrasting shade might unintentionally clash with the street's existing palette. Secondly, subtly inquire if they've checked any homeowner association guidelines or local bylaws regarding exterior colors, as these often exist to maintain harmony. You could even propose a compromise, perhaps suggesting a slightly toned-down version of their chosen color or offering to share examples of vibrant, yet complementary, options. This demonstrates you're offering solutions, not just objections. Ultimately, aim for a mutually agreeable solution that respects their choice while safeguarding the collective appeal of your street. Let me know how it goes!
178 words, about 79s spoken
Why it works
What you can measure in this answer, and what CELPIP raters mark.
- The right length. 178 words, about 79 seconds at a natural pace: inside the 90-second limit with room to finish calmly.
- Clear links between ideas: “firstly”, “secondly”, “while”. They make the answer easy to follow, which raters reward under coherence.
- 11 sentences in 79 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 178 words, about 79 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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