CELPIP Speaking Task 1 — Giving Advice — tips, template & practice

• Content/Coherence (CLB scale): addresses the prompt with 2–3 clear pieces of advice.
• Vocabulary: appropriate informal register (friend-to-friend tone).
• Listenability: clear pronunciation, natural pace.
• Task Fulfillment: speak for the full 90 seconds.

CLB 9 (max relevant for PR) = effortless, varied vocabulary, natural rhythm.

3-piece advice structure (~90 seconds):

1. Acknowledge the problem (10s): "Hey [name], I totally understand why you're worried about [issue]. Let me share what I think." 2. Advice 1 + reason (25s): "First, I'd really recommend [specific action]. The reason is [why it helps]." 3. Advice 2 + reason (25s): "On top of that, I think you should consider [second action] because [reason]." 4. Advice 3 + closer (20s): "Finally, don't forget to [third action]. Trust me — I've been in a similar spot." 5. Encouragement (10s): "You've got this. Let me know how it goes!"

• Use the friend's name from the prompt — personalises the response.
• Use casual register: contractions ('I'd', 'you've'), conversational fillers ('honestly', 'to be fair').
• Give 3 distinct pieces of advice — not 1 idea repeated.
• Include one personal anecdote ('I've been there', 'A friend of mine…').
• Fill the full 90 seconds — silence at the end caps your score.
• Smile while speaking — improves intonation noticeably.

• Formal academic tone ('It is recommended that…') — wrong register for friend advice.
• Only 1–2 pieces of advice — caps Content at CLB 7.
• Ending 20+ seconds early — Task Fulfillment penalty.
• Generic advice ('Be careful', 'Think about it') without specifics.
• Speaking too fast trying to fit everything in — hurts Listenability.