CELPIP Speaking Task 2: Talking about a Personal Experience

CELPIP Speaking Task 2 Sample Answer: Negotiating a Better Price at a Local Market

Describe an experience you had negotiating for a better price at a local market. Explain what you did, how the seller reacted, and how you felt about the result.

Preparation

30 seconds

Speaking

60 seconds

Tense

Mostly past tense

The question

Describe an experience you had negotiating for a better price at a local market. Explain what you did, how the seller reacted, and how you felt about the result.

Excellent answer (transcript): around CLB 11–12

During a trip to the market, I spotted a handcrafted vase I really liked, but the price was more than I expected. I decided to negotiate by pointing out some small flaws and mentioning that I had seen similar items for less. The vendor and I discussed for a few minutes before he agreed to reduce the price. I felt accomplished for standing up for myself and realized that polite negotiation can lead to positive results for both sides.

79 words

Good answer (transcript): around CLB 7–8

Last month, I visited a local market and saw a beautiful scarf. I wanted it, but the price was too high for me. I politely asked the seller if he could offer a discount. He thought for a moment and then lowered the price a bit. I was pleased with myself for trying, and I left the market feeling good about my purchase.

63 words

Basic answer (transcript): around CLB 4–5

I went to a market to buy some fruit. The price was high, so I asked the seller if I could pay less. He smiled and agreed to a lower price. I was happy and proud that I saved money.

40 words

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