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CELPIP Speaking Task 6: Dealing with a Difficult Situation

CELPIP Speaking Task 6 Sample Answer: Forgetting a Friend's Book

By David

You borrowed a book from your friend a few weeks ago and promised to return it today during your meetup, but you accidentally left it at home. Your friend has been looking forward to getting it back because they need it…

Preparation
60 seconds
Speaking
60 seconds
Choice
Speak to person A or person B

The question

You borrowed a book from your friend a few weeks ago and promised to return it today during your meetup, but you accidentally left it at home. Your friend has been looking forward to getting it back because they need it for a project. Now, you need to address the situation to maintain your friendship.

Choice:

Talk to your friend and explain why you forgot the book and apologize, suggesting a way to return it soon.

OR

Talk to your friend and explain why you think it's not a big deal and propose keeping it a bit longer.

Excellent answer (transcript): around CLB 11–12

I need to start by sincerely apologizing for not bringing your book back today as I promised—I absentmindedly left it on my desk at home amid the chaos of my morning routine. I realize this must be frustrating, especially since you're relying on it for your upcoming project, and I truly regret any disruption this causes. To make it right, I suggest I swing by your house early tomorrow to hand it over personally, or if that doesn't work, I could mail it overnight. Your patience means a lot to me, and I've learned from this to double-check my commitments in the future to avoid letting you down again.

109 words

Good answer (transcript): around CLB 7–8

Hi, I wanted to apologize right away—I completely forgot to bring your book back today. I was so busy with work this morning that it slipped my mind when I was packing my bag. I understand you need it for your project, and I'm sorry for the inconvenience. How about I deliver it to your place first thing tomorrow? That way, you won't be delayed much. I appreciate your understanding, and I'll be more careful next time.

77 words

Basic answer (transcript): around CLB 4–5

Hey, I'm really sorry, but I forgot to bring your book back today. I left it at home by mistake because I was rushing out the door this morning. I know you need it for your project, so I'll make sure to drop it off tomorrow. Please forgive me; it won't happen again. I feel bad about this.

58 words

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

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