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CELPIP Writing Course · Lesson 5 of 9

Task 2: Answering the Survey Question

By CELPass Editorial Team · 2 min read · Updated

Task 2 asks for your opinion on a local question with two options. You choose one and explain why. It rewards a clear position and well-supported reasons.

Choose one option clearly

The survey gives Option A and Option B, for example whether a community centre should spend its budget on a new pool or on after-school programs. Choose one and state it in the first sentence. Choose the option you can give better reasons for, not necessarily the one you prefer.

Four paragraphs

  1. Position: your choice and a short preview of your reasons.
  2. Reason 1: explained, with an example or likely result.
  3. Reason 2: explained the same way. Where natural, compare with the other option.
  4. Conclusion: restate your choice in different words.

Original CELPass example of a reason paragraph: "Most importantly, after-school programs would serve far more people. A pool helps those who can swim or have time for lessons, whereas a homework club and sports program would give working parents a safe place for their children every weekday until six."

Common problems

  • Supporting both options and never choosing.
  • Three or four reasons with one sentence each, instead of two developed ones.
  • Writing a formal essay with no link to the community in the prompt.
  • No conclusion because time ran out.

Key points

  • State your choice in the first sentence.
  • Two developed reasons beat four thin ones.
  • Compare with the other option where it helps.

Exercise

Survey: should your city use a vacant lot for (A) a community garden or (B) a parking lot? Write the opening sentence and two reason topic sentences for one option.

  1. Opening
  2. Reason 1
  3. Reason 2
Show answers
  1. "I believe the vacant lot should become a community garden, because it would benefit residents' health and bring neighbours together."
  2. "First, a garden would give families in apartments a place to grow fresh, affordable food."
  3. "In addition, unlike a parking lot, a garden would create a space where neighbours actually meet and talk."

Practise with free questions

Free questions in the CELPIP format, with answers and no account needed. Try a few now, while the lesson is fresh.

All lessons in this course

  1. How CELPIP Writing Is Scored
  2. Planning in 3 Minutes
  3. Task 1: How to Structure the Email
  4. Formal, Semi-Formal and Informal Tone
  5. Task 2: Answering the Survey Question
  6. Paragraphs and Linking Words
  7. Precise Vocabulary Without Risk
  8. Grammar Errors That Cost the Most
  9. Timing and the Final Check

CELPass is an independent practice platform and is not affiliated with Paragon Testing Enterprises. CELPIP is a trademark of Paragon Testing Enterprises. Check the official CELPIP website and IRCC for current test rules and requirements.