CELPIP speaking
Unusual Situation
How to Master CELPIP Speaking Task 8: The Unusual Situation
This is the final, fun, and creative task. You will be shown a strange, surreal, or "unusual" picture (e.g., a cat playing chess, a car made of fruit). Your prompt is to call a friend and describe what you are seeing, as they cannot see it.
What You Will Do
- You will have 30 seconds to prepare your description.
- You will only have 60 seconds to record your speaking.
The #1 Trap to Avoid
The biggest mistake is being disorganized. Test-takers see the strange image and just start laughing or listing random things ("There's a... and a... and a..."). The grader is testing your descriptive vocabulary and, most importantly, your ability to organize your description so the listener can "see" the picture in their mind.
Speaking Task 8 template · 30s prep · 60s to speak
The CLB 9+ template: Shape · Size · Colour · Use
Describe the unusual object so the listener can picture it without seeing it, then say what it's for and what you think.
- 1
Shape
15sSay why you're calling, what the object is, and its overall shape.
- 2
Size
12sHow big it is, compared to something the listener knows.
- 3
Colour
13sColours, materials and the details that make it unusual.
- 4
Use
20sWhat it's for and whether you should get it. Ask what they think.
Starters, a CLB 9+ example and a drill to memorise it.
Final Tips
- Use Prepositions: "On top of," "next to," "in front of," "it's covered in..."
- Use Rich Adjectives: Don't just say "big." Say "huge," "massive," or "tiny." Don't say "weird." Say "bizarre," "surreal," or "hilarious."
- Have Fun! This is the one task where you're supposed to sound surprised and amused. Let your tone match the picture.
Ready to Get Your Speaking Graded?
Can you describe a bizarre scene in just 60 seconds? This task is all about your vocabulary and your ability to create a clear mental image for the listener.
Our webapp uses advanced AI to grade your speaking. Find out your estimated score, see your filler words, and check if your description is clear and vivid.
Put this guide into practice
Reading the strategy is half the work. Try it on a real question while it is fresh.