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CELPIP, Speaking Task 4: Making Predictions

Airport Family Goodbye: sample answer

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

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Task
Making Predictions
Time
30s to prepare, 60s to speak
Answer length
141 words, ~63s
Written to
Level 10 target

The question

Picture for “Airport Family Goodbye (Prediction)”

Task

Look at the picture of the Airport Family Goodbye. Based on what you see, what do you think will happen next? Make predictions and explain your reasoning.

Sample answer

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

Given the emotional intensity of the scene, I anticipate that the family will share one last, prolonged embrace, perhaps accompanied by a few more tears and heartfelt promises to keep in touch. Inevitably, the two departing children will have to tear themselves away from their parents to begin the practical steps of their journey. They will proceed directly to the security screening area, presenting their boarding passes and passports, and then navigate through the busy terminal to locate their specific departure gate. Meanwhile, the parents, after watching their children disappear from view, will likely experience a profound sense of emptiness and melancholy as they make their way out of the airport. I predict they will frequently check their phones for updates from their children and probably call each other later that day to share their feelings and reminisce about the goodbye.

141 words, about 63s spoken

Why it works

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

  • The right length. 141 words, about 63 seconds at a natural pace: inside the 60-second limit with room to finish calmly.
  • Clear links between ideas: “meanwhile”. They make the answer easy to follow, which raters reward under coherence.
  • 5 sentences in 63 seconds: complete thoughts at a steady pace, without rushing to fit more in.

How CELPIP marks making predictions

  • 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 4: Making Predictions guide

Common questions

How long should a CELPIP Speaking Task 4: Making Predictions answer be?

You get 30 seconds to prepare and up to 60 seconds to speak. At a natural pace that's roughly 110 to 155 words. This sample is 141 words, about 63 seconds spoken.

How is CELPIP Speaking Task 4: Making Predictions 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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