CELPIP Writing Task 2: Opinion Survey Tips from an Examiner

CELPIP Writing Task 2 is a survey response. You read a short prompt about a local proposal or issue, then write 150–200 words expressing your opinion and supporting it with reasons. The topic is usually community-level — parking, parks, transit, schools, housing. The marking criteria are identical to Task 1: Content/Coherence, Vocabulary, and Readability.

What makes Task 2 different from Task 1

Task 1 has specific bullets you must address. Task 2 asks for your opinion, which gives you more freedom — but freedom is harder to manage. Many candidates write general statements that never directly answer the survey question. The examiner is looking for: a clear position stated early, at least two reasons supporting that position, and a specific example or detail for at least one reason.

A reliable structure for 150–200 words

• Sentence 1: State your position directly. 'I support / I oppose the proposal to [topic] because...'
• Sentences 2–5: First reason with a specific supporting detail or example.
• Sentences 6–9: Second reason with a specific supporting detail or example.
• Sentence 10: Concluding statement that connects back to your position or adds a broader point.

Vocabulary range at Band 7 — Task 2 examples

Band 7 Vocabulary in Task 2 means you vary how you express your position and your reasons. Instead of 'I think this is good', try 'This proposal would benefit residents by...' or 'This initiative addresses a practical need in our community.' Instead of repeating 'people' throughout, use 'residents', 'local families', 'commuters', 'business owners' depending on the context. Precision in your vocabulary is what moves a response from Band 6 to Band 7.

The example or detail that most candidates skip

Most Band 5–6 responses give two reasons but no examples. A Band 7 response typically includes at least one concrete detail: a number, a location, a specific group of people, or a named consequence. You do not need to cite real statistics — reasonable, plausible details work. 'Many residents drive more than 30 minutes to access public transit' is more compelling than 'People have to travel far.'