CELPIP Writing Samples with Answers: Task 1 & Task 2 Examples
Looking for CELPIP writing samples with model answers? This page includes sample emails, letters, and survey responses for both writing tasks, with examples at CLB 7, 9, and 12 levels. Practice writing with CELPIP Simulator's AI scoring for instant feedback on grammar, vocabulary, coherence, and task fulfillment. Start with 2 free AI-scored exams, no credit card required.
2 free exams with AI writing feedback. No credit card required.
CELPIP Writing Test Format
The CELPIP Writing test has two tasks. Here is what each task requires and how your response is scored.
Task 1: Writing an Email
27 minutes / 150-200 words
You receive a scenario and must write a formal or informal email responding to it. The prompt tells you who to write to and gives you three specific points to address.
Common email types:
- Complaint
- Request
- Advice or suggestion
- Invitation
- Apology
Task 2: Responding to a Survey
26 minutes / 150-200 words
You read a survey question and choose one of two options. You must explain your choice with clear reasons and supporting examples.
What you need to do:
- Choose one of the two options clearly
- Explain your reasons with specific examples
- Acknowledge the other side briefly
- Use a clear introduction and conclusion
Scoring Criteria (Both Tasks)
Content/Coherence
Logical organization and flow of ideas
Vocabulary
Range and accuracy of word choice
Readability
Sentence variety and paragraph structure
Task Fulfillment
All prompt points fully addressed
CELPIP Writing Task 1: Email Samples with Model Answers
Four complete email writing samples at different CLB levels. Study the model answers to understand what each score level looks like.
Sample 1: Complaint Email
Prompt:
You recently purchased a laptop from an electronics store. After one week, the screen started flickering. Write an email to the store manager. In your email: describe the problem, explain how it has affected you, and state what you would like the store to do.
Model Answer:
Dear Store Manager, I am writing to bring to your attention a serious issue with a laptop I purchased from your store on October 10th. The model is an Apex Pro 15, and I have my receipt for reference. After just one week of use, the screen began flickering intermittently. The problem has worsened over the past few days, making it nearly impossible to work or read anything on the display. As I rely on this laptop for my work, this defect has caused significant inconvenience and has disrupted my productivity. I would like to request either a full replacement with a functioning unit or a complete refund. I believe this is a manufacturing defect, and I should not have to bear the cost of a faulty product. I look forward to your prompt response and a resolution within the next five business days. Please feel free to contact me at this email address to arrange a convenient time. Thank you for your attention to this matter. Sincerely, Alex Chen
Why this scores CLB 9:
Clear organization, formal tone appropriate to context, varied vocabulary ("intermittently", "inconvenience", "disrupted"), complex sentences, all task points addressed.
Sample 2: Request Email
Prompt:
You are a member of a community centre. You want to suggest adding a new yoga class to the evening schedule. Write an email to the centre director. In your email: explain why you think a yoga class is needed, suggest a time and day, and mention how it would benefit members.
Model Answer:
Dear Director, I am writing to suggest adding a yoga class to the evening schedule at our community centre. I think this would be a great addition for many members. Many of us work during the day and would enjoy a relaxing activity in the evening. Yoga is very popular and can help people reduce stress and stay healthy. I think a class on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 7:00 PM would work well because the gym is usually not busy at that time. A yoga class would benefit members by giving them a way to exercise that is gentle and suitable for all ages. It could also bring in new members who are looking for this type of class. I hope you will consider this suggestion. Please let me know if you would like to discuss it further. Best regards, Maria Santos
Why this scores CLB 7:
Clear and organized, addresses all points, uses appropriate vocabulary but less varied than CLB 9, simpler sentence structures, effective but straightforward.
Sample 3: Advice/Suggestion Email
Prompt:
Your friend is thinking about moving to a new city for a job opportunity. Write an email to your friend. In your email: give your opinion about the move, suggest things to consider before deciding, and offer to help.
Model Answer:
Hey Jordan, I was thrilled to hear about the job offer in Vancouver -- what an incredible opportunity! Having gone through a similar relocation myself a few years ago, I thought I would share a few considerations that might help you weigh your options. First and foremost, I would strongly encourage you to research the cost of living relative to your new salary. Vancouver is notoriously expensive, particularly when it comes to housing, so you will want to ensure the compensation package justifies the move. It might also be worth negotiating relocation assistance if the employer has not already offered it. Beyond the financial aspects, consider the social dimension. Uprooting yourself from your current network can be more challenging than people anticipate. That said, Vancouver has a remarkably welcoming community, and your outgoing personality would undoubtedly make the transition smoother. I would be more than happy to help you apartment-hunt online, and I could even fly out for a weekend to help you get settled once you make the move. Just say the word. Whatever you decide, I am confident it will be the right choice. You have always had strong instincts. Warmly, Sam
Why this scores CLB 12:
Sophisticated vocabulary ("notoriously", "uprooting", "undoubtedly"), nuanced reasoning, natural tone shifts, complex sentence variety, personal warmth while maintaining clarity.
Sample 4: Apology Email
Prompt:
You borrowed a book from your coworker and accidentally damaged it. Write an email to your coworker. In your email: explain what happened, apologize sincerely, and offer a solution.
Model Answer:
Hi Priya, I owe you an apology regarding the novel you kindly lent me last month. Unfortunately, I left it on the kitchen counter, and a cup of coffee spilled directly onto it. Several pages are stained and a few are stuck together, making it difficult to read. I feel terrible about this, especially since I know it was one of your favourite books. You trusted me with it, and I should have been more careful about where I left it. I would like to make this right. I have already ordered a brand-new copy of the same edition online, and it should arrive by Friday. If you would prefer a different book or a gift card to a bookstore instead, please let me know and I will arrange that instead. Again, I sincerely apologize for the carelessness. I truly appreciate you sharing your books with me, and I will be much more careful in the future. Best, Alex
Why this scores CLB 9:
Natural, sincere tone, specific details, strong vocabulary ("kindly lent", "sincerely apologize"), clear organization, proactive solution offered.
CELPIP Writing Task 2: Survey Response Samples with Model Answers
Three complete survey response samples showing how to structure your argument, support your choice, and score at different CLB levels.
Sample 1: Survey Response: Work From Home vs. Office
Prompt:
A local newspaper is conducting a survey: 'Do you think working from home is better than working in an office?' Choose one option and explain why you prefer it. Support your response with reasons and examples.
Model Answer:
I firmly believe that working from home offers significant advantages over traditional office work, and I would like to explain why this arrangement has proven to be more effective for many professionals. The most compelling benefit is the elimination of commuting time. Personally, when I worked in an office, I spent nearly two hours each day travelling to and from work. Now that I work from home, I use that time for exercise, family, or getting an early start on my tasks. This has noticeably improved both my productivity and my overall well-being. Working from home also provides a quieter, more focused environment. In an office, constant interruptions from colleagues, meetings, and background noise made it difficult to concentrate on complex tasks. At home, I can create a workspace that suits my needs and work without distraction during my most productive hours. Furthermore, remote work allows for a healthier work-life balance. Being able to prepare fresh meals, take short breaks in my own space, and attend to personal responsibilities without using vacation days has reduced my stress considerably. While I acknowledge that office environments foster collaboration and social interaction, modern technology such as video calls and messaging platforms has made remote teamwork just as effective. For these reasons, I strongly support working from home as the better option.
Why this scores CLB 9:
Strong thesis, well-developed supporting paragraphs with personal examples, acknowledges the counterargument, varied vocabulary and sentence structures, clear conclusion.
Sample 2: Survey Response: Parks vs. Libraries
Prompt:
Your city council is asking residents: 'Should the city invest more money in public parks or public libraries?' Choose one and explain your preference.
Model Answer:
I think the city should invest more money in public parks. Parks are important for everyone in the community, and I have several reasons for my choice. First, parks give people a place to exercise and spend time outdoors. Many people do not have large backyards, so parks are the only place they can go for a walk, play sports, or let their children play safely. Investing in parks means more people can stay active and healthy. Second, parks bring the community together. In my neighbourhood, our local park hosts events like summer festivals and weekend markets. These events help neighbours meet each other and build a stronger community. Finally, parks are good for the environment. More trees and green spaces help clean the air and reduce heat in the city, especially during summer. This benefits everyone who lives here. While libraries are also valuable, many library services are now available online. Parks, however, cannot be replaced by technology. For these reasons, I believe investing in public parks is the better choice for our city.
Why this scores CLB 7:
Clear position stated upfront, three distinct supporting reasons, simple but effective transitions (First, Second, Finally), addresses the alternative briefly, appropriate vocabulary for CLB 7.
Sample 3: Survey Response: On-Campus vs. Off-Campus Living
Prompt:
A local college survey asks: 'Is it better for students to live on campus or off campus during their studies?' Choose one option and support your answer.
Model Answer:
While both living arrangements have their merits, I am thoroughly convinced that living on campus offers university students a far more enriching and practical experience, particularly during their first few years of study. The most significant advantage is the seamless integration of academic and social life. Students who live on campus have immediate access to libraries, study groups, and faculty office hours, which facilitates deeper academic engagement. Research consistently demonstrates that on-campus residents tend to achieve higher grades and are more likely to complete their degrees -- a correlation that is difficult to dismiss. Equally important is the role that campus living plays in personal development. Navigating shared living spaces requires negotiation, empathy, and adaptability -- skills that are arguably as valuable as any acquired in a lecture hall. The diversity of perspectives one encounters in a residence hall accelerates cultural competence in ways that a solitary apartment simply cannot replicate. From a practical standpoint, the convenience factor is substantial. Eliminating a daily commute not only saves time but also reduces the logistical burden of managing transportation, meal planning, and household maintenance simultaneously with academic obligations. Critics often cite cost as a deterrent, and admittedly, campus housing can be expensive. However, when one factors in transportation costs, utility bills, and the hidden expenses of independent living, the financial gap narrows considerably. Moreover, many institutions offer residence-based scholarships and meal plans that further offset the cost. In sum, the academic, social, and practical benefits of on-campus living create an environment uniquely conducive to student success.
Why this scores CLB 12:
Sophisticated thesis, multi-layered argumentation with evidence references, seamless transitions between paragraphs, advanced vocabulary ("seamless integration", "conducive"), nuanced counterargument handling, authoritative academic tone.
How to Score CLB 9+ on CELPIP Writing
Apply these strategies consistently across both writing tasks to maximize your score.
- 1
Address ALL points in the prompt
Task fulfillment is weighted heavily. Missing even one sub-point can drop your score by a full CLB level.
- 2
Use a clear structure: opening, body paragraphs, closing
Raters look for logical organization. Start with a purpose statement, develop each point in its own paragraph, and close with a summary or call to action.
- 3
Vary your vocabulary
Avoid repeating the same words. Instead of "good" multiple times, use "beneficial", "advantageous", or "valuable" where appropriate.
- 4
Mix simple and complex sentence structures
Use at least three sentence types: simple, compound (with "and", "but"), and complex (with "although", "because", "which").
- 5
Stay within 150-200 words
Going significantly over or under can affect your score. Aim for 170-190 words as your target range.
- 6
Leave 2-3 minutes to proofread
Check for grammar and spelling errors. Common mistakes include subject-verb agreement, article usage, and verb tense consistency.
- 7
Match your tone to the context
Use formal language for complaints, requests, and professional emails. Use a friendly, conversational tone for emails to friends.
- 8
Practice with AI-scored mock exams
Get instant feedback on each criterion so you know exactly where to improve. Track your CLB score trend over multiple attempts.
Related CELPIP Resources
Practice CELPIP Writing with AI Scoring
Ready to practice? CELPIP Simulator scores your writing responses instantly using AI, with detailed feedback on grammar, vocabulary, coherence, and task fulfillment. Get your estimated CLB score after every attempt.
2 free full-length exams, no credit card required. 115+ mock exams available with Premium.
CELPIP is a registered trademark of Paragon Testing Enterprises. CELPIP Simulator is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to Paragon Testing Enterprises in any way. All practice content on this platform is original and independently created.