CELPIP Writing Task 2: Survey Response Samples with Answers
Task 2 asks you to respond to a survey question by choosing one of two options and explaining your choice. You have 26 minutes and 150-200 words. Below are sample prompts with model answers at CLB 7, 9, and 12 levels.
Practice Task 2 FreeTask 2 Overview
Time Allowed
26 minutes
Word Count
150-200 words
In Task 2, you respond to a survey question by choosing one of two options and explaining your preference with clear reasons and examples. This is similar to a short opinion essay.
Your response is scored on the same four criteria as Task 1: content and coherence, vocabulary, readability, and task fulfillment. A strong response takes a clear position, supports it with 2-3 reasons, and briefly acknowledges the other option.
Scoring Criteria
Content/Coherence
Logical organization of your argument. Clear position stated upfront with supporting paragraphs.
Vocabulary
Range and accuracy of word choice. Use opinion language and precise alternatives to common words.
Readability
Grammar, spelling, and sentence variety. Mix simple, compound, and complex sentence structures.
Task Fulfillment
Did you choose an option, explain your reasons, and provide supporting examples? All parts matter.
Sample Prompts and Model Answers
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.
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.
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.
Task 2 Writing Tips
- 1
Choose the option you can argue MORE about
Pick the side you can support with stronger reasons and examples, not necessarily the one you truly prefer. The examiners score your English, not your opinion.
- 2
Use a clear structure
State your choice, give 2-3 reasons with examples, briefly acknowledge the other option, and conclude. This structure ensures logical flow and strong coherence scores.
- 3
Support each reason with a concrete example
Instead of "parks are good for health", write "parks give people a place to walk, play sports, and exercise outdoors, which helps reduce stress and stay active."
- 4
Use opinion language
Phrases like "I firmly believe", "from my perspective", "the evidence suggests" show vocabulary range and fit the opinion format perfectly.
- 5
Briefly mention why the other option is less appealing
One sentence acknowledging the alternative shows critical thinking. For example: "While libraries are valuable, many services are now available online."
CELPIP Writing Tasks
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