CELPIP, Speaking Task 1: Giving Advice

Refusing New Software: 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: 186 words, ~83s
Written to: Level 10 target

The question

Situation

Your colleague dislikes the new project management software, finding it complicated and slow. They want to refuse using it without management repercussions. How can your colleague navigate this difficult work situation?

Task

Please give advice.

Sample answer

Oh Sarah, I completely understand your frustration with this new project management software. It is incredibly tough when new systems disrupt your daily workflow and create unnecessary anxiety. You are in a really tricky spot, and I definitely want to help you navigate this situation without facing any negative repercussions from management. My main advice is to approach this strategically rather than with an outright refusal, which could look like you are just being difficult. You should actively engage with the new software first to truly understand its functionalities. Please attend all the training sessions and dedicate some extra time to exploring its specific features. If it is still unsuitable after that, you will have concrete examples of why it is failing you. Then, schedule a meeting with your manager. Instead of refusing, frame your concerns constructively. Highlight specific tasks where it hinders your efficiency, perhaps suggesting a hybrid approach or a trial run. This shows proactivity and a collaborative spirit, which will be much better received. Showing you have given it an honest attempt strengthens your position significantly. Good luck, Sarah, you have got this!

186 words, about 83s spoken

Why it works

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

The right length. 186 words, about 83 seconds at a natural pace: inside the 90-second limit with room to finish calmly.
13 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 186 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.

Now try a giving advice question yourself

Speak your answer and get an instant estimated CELPIP level with what to fix. Free to start, nothing to install.

Practice Giving Advice More sample answers