CELPIP Speaking Task 8: Describing an Unusual Situation

CELPIP Speaking Task 8 Sample Answer: Broken Elevator at the Mall

By David

You’re at the mall and the elevator breaks down while you’re inside. Describe what happened and what you did.

Preparation

30 seconds

Speaking

60 seconds

Picture

An unusual object or situation

The question

You’re at the mall and the elevator breaks down while you’re inside. Describe what happened and what you did.

Excellent answer (transcript): around CLB 11–12

Hi, I’m at the mall right now, and I had a strange experience with the elevator. I got in, and just as it was about to move, it suddenly stopped. The lights are still on, but the doors are closed, and we’re not moving at all. It’s a little unsettling because I’ve never been in a situation like this before. I’ve pressed the emergency button, and now I’m waiting for help to arrive. Have you ever been stuck in an elevator before?

82 words

Good answer (transcript): around CLB 7–8

Hey, I’m at the mall, and something unexpected just happened. I got into the elevator, and then suddenly it stopped moving. I think it’s broken. It’s kind of funny because I’ve never had this happen before. Now, I’m waiting for someone to come fix it. Have you ever been stuck in an elevator?

53 words

Basic answer (transcript): around CLB 4–5

I’m in mall, and the elevator stop. It’s broken. I’m inside and now waiting. People try to fix it. It’s strange because I never have this before. What should I do now?

32 words

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