CELPIP Speaking Task 2 Sample Answer: Accidentally Breaking a Neighbor’s Window and Resolving the Issue
By David
Tell me about a time when you accidentally broke a neighbor’s window and how you resolved the issue. What happened, and how did you feel?
Preparation
30 seconds
Speaking
60 seconds
Tense
Mostly past tense
The question
Tell me about a time when you accidentally broke a neighbor’s window and how you resolved the issue. What happened, and how did you feel?
Excellent answer (transcript): around CLB 11–12
Two summers ago, while practicing my golf swing in the backyard, I misjudged a shot, and the ball smashed through my neighbor’s kitchen window. The loud crash left me mortified, and I felt a wave of guilt for causing trouble. I immediately went over, apologized profusely, and assured them I’d handle everything. They were initially frustrated but appreciated my honesty. I contacted a repair service, paid for the replacement, and even brought them some homemade cookies as a gesture of goodwill. The incident taught me to be more mindful of my surroundings and strengthened my relationship with my neighbors, who later invited me over for coffee. It was a humbling experience that underscored the importance of taking responsibility.
118 words
Good answer (transcript): around CLB 7–8
A couple of years ago, I accidentally broke my neighbor’s window while playing basketball in my driveway. The ball slipped from my hands and crashed through their glass. I felt really embarrassed and worried about their reaction. I immediately went to their house, apologized sincerely, and explained it was an accident. They were understanding but upset. I offered to cover the repair costs and arranged for a professional to fix it quickly. Afterward, they thanked me for taking responsibility. I felt relieved and learned to be more careful when playing near their property. It was a lesson in accountability.
99 words
Basic answer (transcript): around CLB 4–5
One day, I was playing soccer in my backyard, and I kicked the ball too hard. It hit my neighbor’s window and broke it. I felt scared and guilty. I went to their house and told them what happened. I said sorry and offered to pay for it. They were kind and said it was okay, but I paid for the new window. After, I felt better because I fixed the problem.
72 words
The CLBs are estimates of the level each sample was written at, not official CELPIP scores. How we estimate CLB
More Task 2 sample answers
- Adopting a Pet That Changed Your Daily Routine (next)
- An Unexpected Discovery
- Being Asked to Give a Speech with Little Preparation
- Dealing with a Cancelled Flight While Traveling Abroad
- Discovering a Hidden Talent During a Community Event
- Fasting for Religious or Health Reasons for the First Time
- Finding an Old Friend in an Unexpected Place
- First Hiking Adventure
- Getting Lost While Hiking and Finding Your Way Back
- Giving a Handmade Gift
All 64 Task 2 sample answers · Task 2 template, tips and FAQs · All CELPIP sample answers
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