CELPIP, Writing Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions
University Orientation 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
- 181 words
- Written to
- Level 10 target
The question
Situation
Your university is planning orientation for new students. It can hold one large campus event or several small faculty events.
Task
Respond to the survey in about 150-200 words. In your response, choose ONE of the following options: Option A: The university should hold one large campus event. Option B: The university should hold small faculty events. 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 support for Option B, which suggests that the university should hold small faculty events for new student orientation. I believe this approach is far more beneficial than hosting one massive campus-wide gathering.
The primary reason for my choice is that smaller events allow for more meaningful interactions. When students meet within their specific faculties, they are surrounded by peers who share their academic interests. This fosters a sense of community and makes it much easier for newcomers to build lasting friendships. Furthermore, these smaller settings are less overwhelming, which helps students feel more comfortable and confident as they navigate their first few days on campus.
Additionally, small faculty events are easier to manage and justify within our university budget. They provide a focused environment where students can receive specific information relevant to their programs, rather than generic advice. While a large event might seem exciting, it often lacks the personal touch that new students truly need. For these reasons, I believe small faculty events are the most practical and effective choice for our orientation program.
181 words
Why it works
What you can measure in this answer, and what CELPIP raters mark.
- The right length. 181 words: inside the required 150–200, in 3 paragraphs.
- Clear links between ideas: “furthermore”, “while”. They make the answer easy to follow, which raters reward under coherence.
- 3 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 181 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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- Transit Payment SurveyThe transit authority is reviewing fare payment. It can remove cash payments from buses or continue accepting cash.
- 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…
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