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CELPIP, Speaking Task 8: Describing an Unusual Situation

Charity Walk Participants Walking Backwards: sample answer

A model answer to this exam-style CELPIP describing an unusual situation 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
Describing an Unusual Situation
Time
30s to prepare, 60s to speak
Answer length
155 words, ~69s
Written to
Level 10 target

The question

Picture for “Charity Walk Participants Walking Backwards”

Task

You are at a local park, enjoying a beautiful day, when you stumble upon a charity walk. However, something is highly unusual. Call your friend to describe what you see, what you think happened, and what might happen next.

Sample answer

Oh my gosh, you absolutely have to hear this! I'm at the park, and there's a charity walk, but it's the most bizarre thing I've ever witnessed. Every single person, hundreds of them, all in these bright blue matching t-shirts, is walking backwards down the path! Their backs are to the finish line, and they're constantly glancing over their shoulders. The volunteers are even directing them, like 'keep going, you're doing great!' It's surreal, but everyone looks quite focused. I can only assume this is some incredibly creative, attention-grabbing stunt. Maybe it's a metaphor for 'reversing' a disease or 'looking back' at a problem the charity addresses. I bet it's designed to generate social media buzz and more donations. I'm half expecting them to suddenly turn around and sprint forward, or maybe they'll complete the entire course like this, which would be quite an achievement. I might just stick around to see how this unfolds!

155 words, about 69s spoken

Why it works

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

  • The right length. 155 words, about 69 seconds at a natural pace: inside the 60-second limit with room to finish calmly.
  • 10 sentences in 69 seconds: complete thoughts at a steady pace, without rushing to fit more in.

How CELPIP marks describing an unusual situation

  • 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 8: Describing an Unusual Situation guide

Common questions

How long should a CELPIP Speaking Task 8: Describing an Unusual Situation 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 155 words, about 69 seconds spoken.

How is CELPIP Speaking Task 8: Describing an Unusual Situation 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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