CELPIP Writing Task 2 Survey Response Template & Samples
A step-by-step template for choosing an option, building a strong argument, and writing a convincing survey response in 26 minutes.
What Is CELPIP Writing Task 2?
Everything you need to know about the survey response task before you start writing.
The Task
You will read a survey topic that presents 2-3 answer choices. Your job is to pick one option and write a persuasive response explaining why you support it. You have 26 minutes to read the prompt and write approximately 150-200 words defending your choice with reasons and examples.
What It Tests
- Argumentative writing — taking and defending a clear position
- Opinion expression — stating your view confidently and clearly
- Supporting with evidence — providing reasons and specific examples
- Coherence — logical flow from introduction to conclusion
- Vocabulary and grammar — range, accuracy, and sentence variety
The Fill-in-the-Blank Survey Response Template
Follow this 4-step structure for every Task 2 response. Fill in the blanks based on your chosen option.
Introduction
State your choice clearly in the very first sentence. Do not sit on the fence. Examiners want to see a decisive position right away.
Body Paragraph 1 — First Reason
Give your strongest reason first. Support it with a specific example from personal experience, general knowledge, or a logical scenario.
Body Paragraph 2 — Second Reason
Provide a different reason from your first one. Avoid repeating the same idea with different words. A new angle strengthens your argument.
Conclusion
Restate your position and briefly summarize your two reasons. End with a confident, forward-looking statement. Do not introduce new ideas here.
Sample Prompt & Answers at Every Level
See how the same prompt is answered at CLB 7, 9, and 12. Click each tab to compare the differences.
Sample Prompt
Your local community center is asking residents which new facility they should build. The options are: Option A: A swimming pool Option B: A public library Option C: A sports field Choose ONE option and explain why you think the community center should build it. Support your choice with reasons and examples.
Key Features at This Level
- ✓Clear position stated in the first sentence
- ✓Two distinct reasons provided
- ✓Simple but functional vocabulary (good, useful, best)
- ✓Basic sentence structures with some variety
- ✓Addresses the task but lacks specific examples
5 Common Mistakes to Avoid
These errors cost test-takers the most points on Task 2. Learn to recognize and fix them before exam day.
Not choosing a clear option
Writing 'Both the swimming pool and the library are good options...' and never committing to one choice.
Pick ONE option in your very first sentence. The prompt says 'Choose ONE option.' Sitting on the fence will lower your Task Completion score.
Writing about all options equally
Spending one paragraph on each of the three options instead of defending your chosen one.
Focus 90% of your response on your chosen option. You can briefly mention why you did not choose the others, but your job is to argue FOR your choice.
No specific examples to support reasons
Writing 'A library is good because people can learn' without any concrete detail or scenario.
Add at least one specific example per reason: 'For instance, children in our neighborhood currently travel 30 minutes to reach the nearest library, which limits their access to educational resources.'
Weak or missing conclusion
Ending abruptly after the second reason without restating your position or summarizing your argument.
Always write a conclusion that restates your choice and briefly echoes your two main reasons. A strong closing sentence leaves a lasting impression.
Not enough words
Writing only 100 words because you ran out of ideas after one short paragraph.
Use the template structure: introduction + 2 body paragraphs + conclusion. With 2 solid reasons and examples, you will naturally reach 170-200 words.
Pro Tips for a High Score
Strategies used by test-takers who scored CLB 9 and above on Task 2.
Choose your option in your first sentence. Do not waste words building up to it. Examiners want to see a clear thesis immediately.
Give exactly 2 strong reasons, each in its own paragraph. Two well-developed reasons beat three underdeveloped ones.
Use a specific example for at least one of your reasons. Personal experience, local context, or a logical scenario all work well.
End with a firm conclusion that restates your position. Never end with uncertainty like 'I am not sure but I think...'
Aim for 170-200 words. This is enough to fully develop your argument without wasting time or introducing errors.
Use transition words to connect your ideas: 'Furthermore,' 'In addition,' 'Moreover,' 'As a result,' 'For this reason.'
Task 1 vs Task 2 — Key Differences
Understanding how the two writing tasks differ helps you prepare the right strategy for each one.
| Aspect | Task 1 — Email | Task 2 — Survey |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Write an email/letter in response to a situation | Choose and defend an option in a survey response |
| Format | Email format with salutation and sign-off | Opinion essay with introduction, body, and conclusion |
| Tone | Varies (formal, semi-formal, or informal depending on audience) | Semi-formal to formal (persuasive/argumentative) |
| Time | 27 minutes | 26 minutes |
| Key Skill | Matching register to audience and addressing specific points | Choosing a position and supporting it with reasons and examples |
| Word Count | 150-200 words | 150-200 words |
Frequently Asked Questions
Practice Writing Task 2 with AI Feedback
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