CELPIP speaking
Giving Advice
How to Master CELPIP Speaking Task 1: Giving Advice
This is your first speaking task. You will be given a scenario where a friend or family member has a problem (e.g., "Your friend wants to get in shape," "Your cousin is moving to your city"). Your goal is to give them 2-3 clear, helpful pieces of advice with reasons.
What You Will Do
- You will have 30 seconds to prepare your answer.
- You will have 90 seconds to record your speaking.
- You must provide 2-3 pieces of advice and explain why it's good advice.
The #1 Trap to Avoid
The biggest mistake is being too vague. Do not just say, "You should exercise." A CLB 9+ answer is specific: "You should try joining the community gym on Main Street, because they have great classes." The second mistake is running out of time. You must practice to fit your answer into 90 seconds.
Speaking Task 1 template · 30s prep · 90s to speak
The CLB 9+ template: Feel · Tip · Tip · Cheer
Show you understand the problem, give two specific tips, each with a reason, and end on encouragement.
- 1
Feel
10sSay the person's name and show you understand their problem.
- 2
Tip 1 + Why
35sOne specific tip, then the reason it works.
- 3
Tip 2 + Why
35sA second, different tip, with its own reason.
- 4
Cheer
10sSum up both tips in one line and encourage them.
Starters, a CLB 9+ example and a drill to memorise it.
Final Tips
- Use 'Signpost' Words: Use words like "First...", "Second...", "My last tip is...", "The reason is...", "Because..." This makes your answer incredibly easy for the grader to follow.
- Speak Naturally: You are talking to a friend. Be supportive, friendly, and confident.
Ready to Get Your Speaking Graded?
You can't just read this. You have to practice it. Our webapp uses advanced AI to grade your speaking in 5 seconds.
Find out your estimated score, see your filler words ("um," "ah"), and check your pace. This is the fastest way to build confidence for test day.
What CLB level is your score?
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Put this guide into practice
Reading the strategy is half the work. Try it on a real question while it is fresh.