CELPIP Speaking Task 2: Talking about a Personal Experience

CELPIP Speaking Task 2 Sample Answer: Missing Train Connection

By David

Tell me about a time you missed a train connection. How did you handle the situation?

Preparation

30 seconds

Speaking

60 seconds

Tense

Mostly past tense

The question

Tell me about a time you missed a train connection. How did you handle the situation?

Excellent answer (transcript): around CLB 11–12

I was traveling on a business trip when I missed my connecting train. It was a stressful situation because I had an important meeting. I quickly contacted the office and rescheduled the meeting. I also found another route to reach my destination, but I used the extra time to reflect on the importance of planning ahead. It was an eye-opening experience, and I learned to be more flexible in dealing with travel disruptions.

73 words

Good answer (transcript): around CLB 7–8

I once missed a connecting train during a trip to another city. I was upset because it meant I’d be late. I went to the ticket counter and found out about the next available train. The situation was frustrating, but I used the extra time to relax and enjoy the city before continuing my journey.

55 words

Basic answer (transcript): around CLB 4–5

I missed my train because I was late. I felt bad, but I waited for the next one. It wasn’t too bad.

22 words

The CLBs are estimates of the level each sample was written at, not official CELPIP scores. How we estimate CLB