CELPIP Writing Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions

CELPIP Writing Task 2 Sample Answer: Reducing Carbon Footprint in Cities Survey

You care about the environment and want to see your city reduce its carbon footprint. City officials are looking for public input on the best strategies to cut emissions.

Time

26 minutes

Length

150–200 words

Structure

Choose Option A or B and support it

The question

You care about the environment and want to see your city reduce its carbon footprint. City officials are looking for public input on the best strategies to cut emissions.

What’s the best way for your city to reduce its carbon footprint? What do you think?

- Option A: Expand public transit and bike-sharing programs.

- Option B: Require all new buildings to meet strict green energy standards.

Please choose one option and explain your preference.

Write about 150-200 words.

Excellent answer: around CLB 11–12

Prioritizing public transit and bike-sharing programs (Option A) delivers immediate, widespread benefits by decreasing car usage and emissions. Although green building codes are crucial for future development, accessible, sustainable transit options address current carbon challenges citywide.

36 words

Good answer: around CLB 7–8

Expanding public transit and bike sharing makes it easier for people to leave their cars at home. While strict building standards are important, transit changes have a faster impact on everyone’s daily lives. I believe option A is more effective for reducing emissions now.

44 words

Basic answer: around CLB 4–5

I think making more buses and bike programs will help people drive less. This can lower pollution quickly. Green buildings are good, but public transit helps everyone every day. So, I choose option A.

34 words

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