CELPIP Speaking Task 1 Template: Giving Advice (With Sample Answers)
A proven fill-in-the-blank framework to structure your advice in 60 seconds. Includes CLB 7, 9, and 12 examples.
What Is CELPIP Speaking Task 1?
Task 1 tests your ability to give clear, well-organized advice in a natural, conversational tone.
Sample Prompt
“Your friend is thinking about quitting their stable job to start a small bakery business. Give them your advice.”
You will see a prompt like this on screen. You have 30 seconds to plan your response before the 60-second recording begins.
The 4-Step Template for Task 1
Use this fill-in-the-blank framework during your 30 seconds of prep time. Pick one phrase from each step and fill in the blanks.
Opening — Acknowledge + State Your Advice
10–15 seconds- •“If I were in your situation, I would suggest ___.”
- •“That sounds like a tough decision, but I think you should ___.”
- •“I can understand why you're considering this, and my advice would be to ___.”
Reason 1 — With Supporting Detail
15–20 seconds- •“One important reason is ___.”
- •“First of all, I think this makes sense because ___.”
- •“The main benefit of this is that ___.”
Reason 2 — With Supporting Detail
15–20 seconds- •“Another thing to consider is ___.”
- •“On top of that, ___ would also be a big advantage.”
- •“Besides that, you should also think about ___.”
Closing — Restate Your Recommendation
5–10 seconds- •“So overall, I would definitely recommend ___.”
- •“All things considered, I truly believe ___ would be the best choice.”
- •“That's why I'd encourage you to go ahead and ___.”
Sample Responses by CLB Level
See how the same prompt is answered at three different proficiency levels. Click each tab to compare.
Key Features at This Level
- ✓Gets the point across clearly
- ✓Simple but functional connectors (First, Also, So)
- ✓Basic vocabulary — limited range
- ✓Some repetition (I think) but message is understood
- ✓Adequate organization with beginning, middle, end
These are original sample responses created for learning purposes. They are not from official CELPIP materials.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
These are the most frequent errors that hold test-takers back in Task 1.
Not giving specific advice
Saying 'it depends' or staying neutral instead of clearly recommending a course of action.
Always pick a side. State your recommendation in the first 10 seconds and support it with reasons.
Spending too much time on one point
Going deep into your first reason and running out of time before covering your second point or conclusion.
Aim for 15–20 seconds per reason. Practice with a timer to develop a feel for pacing.
Not using conditional language
Using direct commands ('You must do this') instead of softer advisory language.
Use phrases like 'If I were you,' 'I'd recommend,' 'You might want to consider' to sound natural.
Forgetting to conclude
Stopping mid-sentence or trailing off when time runs out instead of wrapping up cleanly.
Reserve 5–10 seconds for a brief closing. Practice ending with 'Overall, I'd recommend...'
Pro Tips for a High Score
Strategies used by test-takers who consistently score CLB 9 and above.
Use 'If I were you' and 'I'd recommend'
Conditional language is what separates Task 1 from a regular opinion question. Examiners look for advisory tone, not commands.
Give exactly 2 clear reasons
Two well-developed reasons with details will score higher than three rushed, surface-level points. Quality over quantity.
Practice with a 60-second timer
Record yourself and review. Most test-takers either finish too early (under 45 seconds) or get cut off. Target 55–60 seconds.
Personalize with a brief anecdote
Saying 'A friend of mine did something similar and...' adds authenticity and demonstrates narrative ability at higher CLB levels.
Frequently Asked Questions
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