Example questions and answers for the CELPIP speaking part

Suat ATAN (Ph.D.)
6 min readFeb 28, 2024
CELPIP

The CELPIP speaking test consists of eight tasks that assess various language skills and abilities. Here are the types of questions you can expect in the speaking section:

  1. Giving Advice: You will be required to provide advice on a given situation or problem.
  2. Talking about a Personal Experience: Share a personal experience or story with the examiner.
  3. Describing a Scene: Describe a scene or scenario in detail.
  4. Making Predictions: Predict future outcomes based on a given situation.
  5. Comparing and Persuading: Compare two options and persuade someone to choose one over the other.
  6. Dealing with a Difficult Situation: Handle a challenging scenario or problem effectively.
  7. Expressing Opinions: Share your opinion on a specific topic, supporting it with reasons and examples.
  8. Describing an Unusual Situation: Describe an unusual or unique situation to the examiner.

These tasks aim to evaluate your ability to communicate effectively, express ideas clearly, and engage in various types of speech acts.

However, we will focus on the last two tasks, which are wider than other tasks.

I created questions and answers based on test strategies with the help of LLM. I hope these answers help you improve yourself.

Please focus on keywords and connections between ideas.

Question: How do you feel about the use of technology in education?

Sample Answer:
“I believe that integrating technology into education is essential for preparing students for the modern world. With technological advancements, learning becomes more interactive and accessible. For example, educational apps and online resources cater to different learning styles and offer flexibility in pace and content. While some may argue that excessive screen time could hinder social interaction or lead to distractions, the benefits of technology in education, such as enhanced engagement and personalized learning, outweigh these concerns. Ultimately, embracing technology in education is crucial for equipping students with the skills they need to thrive in today’s digitally-driven society.”

Question: What is your opinion on the role of social media in society?

Sample Answer:
“From my perspective, social media plays a significant role in shaping modern society. It has revolutionized communication, allowing people to connect and share ideas across the globe instantly. Moreover, social media platforms serve as powerful tools for activism and raising awareness about important issues. For instance, movements like #MeToo and Black Lives Matter gained momentum through social media campaigns. While critics may argue that social media fosters addiction and exacerbates mental health issues, it also provides opportunities for self-expression and community-building. In conclusion, I believe that social media, when used thoughtfully, can be a force for positive change and connectivity in society.”

Question: How do you view the impact of globalization on local cultures?

Sample Answer:
“In my opinion, globalization has both positive and negative effects on local cultures. On one hand, it facilitates cultural exchange and fosters greater understanding between nations. For example, the spread of global cuisines or the popularity of international films contributes to cultural diversity and appreciation. However, globalization also poses a threat to indigenous traditions and languages, as they may be overshadowed by dominant global cultures. Critics argue that globalization leads to cultural homogenization, where local traditions are diluted or lost entirely. Nevertheless, I believe that preserving cultural heritage while embracing global interconnectedness is key to maintaining a rich tapestry of diverse identities in our increasingly globalized world.”

Question: What is your opinion on the effectiveness of remote work arrangements?

Sample Answer:
“From my perspective, remote work arrangements offer numerous benefits for both employees and employers. They provide flexibility, allowing individuals to better balance work and personal life commitments. Additionally, remote work can lead to increased productivity, as employees often have fewer distractions and can create a personalized work environment. For instance, a study by Stanford University found that remote workers experienced a 13% performance increase compared to their office-based counterparts. While some may argue that remote work can hinder collaboration and communication, advancements in technology have made virtual meetings and project management tools readily accessible. Overall, I believe that remote work arrangements are an effective solution for the evolving needs of the modern workforce.”

Question: How do you perceive the impact of artificial intelligence on job markets?

Sample Answer:
“In my opinion, artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping job markets in profound ways. While AI technologies have the potential to streamline processes and increase efficiency across various industries, they also pose challenges such as automation and job displacement. For example, routine tasks in manufacturing or customer service may be replaced by AI-driven solutions, leading to job losses for certain sectors of the workforce. However, AI also creates new opportunities for innovation and job creation in fields like data science, machine learning, and AI ethics. Critics argue that AI exacerbates income inequality and widens the skills gap, but investing in education and upskilling initiatives can mitigate these effects. Ultimately, I believe that embracing AI while addressing its socioeconomic implications is crucial for shaping a future where technology complements human labor rather than replacing it entirely.”

Question: What is your opinion on the importance of arts education in schools?

Sample Answer:
“I firmly believe that arts education is essential for fostering creativity and critical thinking skills among students. Engaging with various forms of art, whether it be visual arts, music, or theater, not only enriches students’ lives but also enhances their ability to express themselves and empathize with others. Research has shown that students who participate in arts education demonstrate higher academic achievement and improved social-emotional development. While some may argue that arts education is a luxury rather than a necessity, it is integral to providing a well-rounded education that prepares students for success in an increasingly complex and interconnected world. Therefore, I advocate for the integration of arts education into school curricula to ensure that all students have access to the transformative power of the arts.”

Question: How do you view the role of government in addressing climate change?

Sample Answer:
“In my opinion, governments play a crucial role in addressing climate change through policy interventions and international cooperation. Climate change poses a significant threat to our planet and requires collective action at the national and global levels. Governments can implement regulations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy sources, and invest in sustainable infrastructure. Additionally, they can facilitate international agreements like the Paris Agreement to coordinate efforts and set targets for emissions reduction. While critics may argue that addressing climate change comes with economic costs, the long-term benefits of mitigating climate change, such as reducing the risk of natural disasters and safeguarding ecosystems, far outweigh these concerns. Therefore, I believe that proactive government action is essential for mitigating the impacts of climate change and transitioning to a more sustainable future.”

Question: What is your opinion on the role of traditional media in the digital age?

Sample Answer:
“From my perspective, traditional media continues to play a valuable role in the digital age, despite the rise of online platforms and social media. Traditional media outlets, such as newspapers, television, and radio, serve as important sources of credible information and investigative journalism. They uphold professional standards of reporting and provide in-depth analysis on complex issues. While digital platforms offer convenience and immediacy, they also face challenges like misinformation and algorithmic biases. Traditional media, on the other hand, maintains editorial independence and accountability to uphold democratic values and inform public discourse. Therefore, I believe that a healthy media ecosystem requires a balance between traditional and digital media, each fulfilling its unique roles in providing reliable news and fostering informed citizenship.”

Question: How do you perceive the impact of globalization on the environment?

Sample Answer:
“In my opinion, globalization has both positive and negative implications for the environment. On one hand, increased international trade and economic interdependence have led to environmental degradation through activities like deforestation, pollution, and overexploitation of natural resources. Global supply chains often prioritize profit over sustainability, resulting in carbon emissions and habitat destruction. However, globalization also facilitates knowledge-sharing and cooperation on environmental issues through international agreements and initiatives. For example, the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals promote global collaboration to address climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental pollution. While critics may argue that globalization exacerbates environmental inequalities between developed and developing nations, concerted efforts to promote sustainable development and equitable resource management can mitigate these disparities. Overall, I believe that addressing the environmental impacts of globalization requires collective action and a commitment to balancing economic growth with environmental stewardship.”

Question: What is your opinion on the importance of ethical considerations in technological advancements?

Sample Answer:
“I firmly believe that ethical considerations are paramount in guiding technological advancements for the benefit of society. While innovation and technological progress hold great potential for improving human lives and addressing pressing challenges, they also raise ethical dilemmas and risks. It is crucial for technology developers and policymakers to prioritize ethical principles, such as

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Suat ATAN (Ph.D.)

Data Scientist @VectorSolv Quebec - Canada. Podcaster. Author