CELPIP, Writing
CELPIP Writing Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions
You choose one of two options in a survey and explain why.
Format and scoring
| Skill | Writing |
|---|---|
| Time | 26 minutes |
| Word count | 150 to 200 words |
| How it's scored | Scored on content and coherence, vocabulary, readability and task fulfillment. |
| Weight (estimate) | About 50% of your writing score |
How to answer Writing Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions
- 1Choose one option clearly in the first sentence.
- 2Give two reasons with examples.
- 3Acknowledge the other option briefly.
Writing Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions template
- 1In my opinion, the option you choose is the better choice for who it affects.
- 2The main reason is that reason 1. For example, specific example.
- 3Furthermore, reason 2, which means benefit.
- 4Although the other option has its advantage, I believe your option final benefit.
Common mistakes
- Choosing both options or not choosing clearly.
Sample question
Longer library hours or a covered rink?
Your city has received extra funding for one community project and is asking residents to vote in an online survey. Choose the option you prefer. Option A: Extended library hours: All branches open until 10 p.m. on weekdays (currently 8 p.m.), Every branch open on Sundays, all year, More study rooms that can be booked online, Four additional staff hired. Option B: Covered outdoor skating rink: A roof over the rink in Central Park allows skating from November to March, even in rain, Free public skating and free skate rentals, Used for the farmers' market and community events in summer, One-time construction cost; ready in 18 months.
Choose the option that you prefer. Explain the reasons for your choice. Write about 150–200 words.
Show a model answer (Level 12)
I would choose Option B, the covered outdoor rink, because it would benefit a wider range of residents and serve the city in every season. To begin with, a covered rink would give families an affordable way to stay active during our long winters. In recent years, mild spells and heavy rain have often forced the city to close its outdoor rinks for days at a time. A roof would solve this problem, and because public skating and rentals would be free, even newcomers who cannot afford equipment could try one of Canada's favourite winter pastimes. Moreover, the rink would not sit empty in summer. Hosting the farmers' market and community events under the same roof would turn it into a year-round gathering place, and since it is a one-time cost, the city would not need to budget for it every year. Admittedly, longer library hours would help students, and I value that. However, many students can already study at home or on campus, whereas there is no alternative to free, reliable outdoor skating in our area. For these reasons, I believe the rink is the better investment.