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CELPIP, Speaking Task 4: Making Predictions

School Cafeteria Lunch: 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
142 words, ~63s
Written to
Level 10 target

The question

Picture for “School Cafeteria Lunch (Prediction)”

Task

Look at the picture of the School Cafeteria Lunch. 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.

Observing the bustling activity in the cafeteria, I anticipate several immediate developments. Firstly, the line of students will inevitably shorten as the efficient cafeteria worker continues to serve each child their meal. Subsequently, those newly served students will seek out available seating at the long tables, joining their peers and contributing to the general hum of conversation. It's highly probable that the students who are already halfway through their meals will soon be finishing up. Following the completion of their lunch, I foresee a coordinated effort to clear their trays and dispose of any uneaten food or packaging at designated stations. Ultimately, as the lunch period draws to a close, the students will begin to depart for their afternoon classes or outdoor activities, leading to a gradual emptying and quieting of the cafeteria, preparing it for the next group or for cleanup.

142 words, about 63s spoken

Why it works

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

  • The right length. 142 words, about 63 seconds at a natural pace: inside the 60-second limit with room to finish calmly.
  • Clear links between ideas: “firstly”. They make the answer easy to follow, which raters reward under coherence.
  • 6 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 142 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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