CELPIP, Writing Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions
Transit Payment Survey: sample answer
A model answer to this exam-style CELPIP responding to survey questions question, written to a level 10 target. See the question, the full answer and exactly why it works, then try it yourself.
- Task
- Responding to Survey Questions
- Time
- 26 minutes
- Answer length
- 189 words
- Written to
- Level 10 target
The question
Situation
The transit authority is reviewing fare payment. It can remove cash payments from buses or continue accepting cash.
Task
Respond to the survey in about 150-200 words. In your response, choose ONE of the following options: Option A: Buses should no longer accept cash payments. Option B: Buses should continue accepting cash. Explain the reasons for your choice.
Sample answer
Linking words are highlighted: they show the structure a rater follows.
I am writing to express my strong preference for Option B, which is that buses should continue accepting cash payments. There are two primary reasons why I believe this is the most practical approach for our transit authority.
First, maintaining cash payments is essential for accessibility. Many passengers, including tourists, elderly citizens, or those without access to digital payment methods, rely on cash for their daily travel. Removing this option would create an unnecessary barrier for these individuals, making it difficult for them to navigate the city efficiently. Keeping cash ensures that public transportation remains inclusive for everyone in our community.
Second, cash provides a reliable backup system. Technology can be unpredictable, and digital payment systems occasionally experience outages or technical glitches. By continuing to accept cash, the transit authority ensures that passengers are never stranded due to a system failure. This approach offers long-term stability and peace of mind for both the riders and the transit staff.
While I understand the desire to modernize, I believe that prioritizing accessibility and reliability is more important. Therefore, I strongly urge the transit authority to keep cash as a payment option.
189 words
Why it works
What you can measure in this answer, and what CELPIP raters mark.
- The right length. 189 words: inside the required 150–200, in 4 paragraphs.
- Clear links between ideas: “therefore”, “while”. They make the answer easy to follow, which raters reward under coherence.
- 4 paragraphs, each with its own job, so the reader can follow the answer at a glance.
How CELPIP marks responding to survey questions
- Content & CoherenceLevel 1–12
Enough relevant ideas, organised clearly and supported with detail.
- VocabularyLevel 1–12
Words chosen precisely and appropriately for the topic.
- ReadabilityLevel 1–12
Paragraphing, linking words, grammar, spelling and punctuation.
- Task FulfillmentLevel 1–12
Answers every part, with the right tone and length.
Writing Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions guide Template Tips
Common questions
How many words should a CELPIP Writing Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions answer have?
The task asks for 150 to 200 words, written in 26 minutes. This sample is 189 words.
How is CELPIP Writing Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions scored?
CELPIP marks it on Content & Coherence, Vocabulary, Readability, 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.
More Responding to Survey Questions sample answers
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- School Trip SurveyA grade six class can take one field trip. The choices are a science centre visit or an outdoor nature camp.
- Local Theatre SurveyA local theatre wants to attract new audiences. It can show more family movies or more independent films.
- City Winter Safety SurveyThe city wants to improve winter safety. It can clear snow from sidewalks faster or provide more salt boxes on…
Now try a responding to survey questions question yourself
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