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CELPIP, Speaking Task 1: Giving Advice

Vegan Diet Without Cooking: 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
189 words, ~84s
Written to
Level 10 target

The question

Situation

Your friend wants to switch to a strict vegan diet for health. However, they struggle to start, admitting they can only cook basic toast.

Task

What advice would you give your friend?

Sample answer

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

Hey Sarah, I was sorry to hear you're feeling overwhelmed about switching to a strict vegan diet, especially since cooking isn't your strong suit. It's a really big change, but honestly, it's totally achievable even without any culinary expertise! My best advice is to focus initially on a simple 'no-cook' or 'minimal-cook' approach by leveraging convenient, pre-prepared options instead of worrying about complicated recipes. Firstly, embrace fresh, naturally vegan produce like fruits, raw vegetables, nuts, and seeds because they are completely hassle-free and perfect for effortless salads, quick smoothies, or simple daily snacks. Secondly, explore the huge array of pre-made vegan items available in most supermarkets now, like hummus, pre-cut veggies, plant-based yogurts, and ready-to-eat bean salads, which are incredibly convenient for putting together quick and nutritious meals without touching a stove. Lastly, using a basic microwave or a simple blender can easily expand your daily options for heating pre-prepared foods or whipping up fast smoothies. Don't feel pressured to become a master chef overnight. Start simple, take it one day at a time, and you'll find this transition much more manageable. I'm always here to help you out!

189 words, about 84s spoken

Why it works

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

  • The right length. 189 words, about 84 seconds at a natural pace: inside the 90-second limit with room to finish calmly.
  • Clear links between ideas: “firstly”, “secondly”, “because”, “since”. They make the answer easy to follow, which raters reward under coherence.
  • 9 sentences in 84 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 189 words, about 84 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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