You have only 90 seconds to impress the raters in Task 1 of the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) Speaking test. Solid CELPIP Speaking Tips help you think fast, organize ideas, and deliver advice that sounds natural and persuasive. In this guide, you will learn step-by-step techniques, CELPIP exam strategies, and test-day advice that push your score toward Level 9 and beyond.
Understanding Task 1: Giving Advice
CELPIP’s first speaking prompt asks you to give practical suggestions to someone facing a real-life situation. According to the official CELPIP test page, raters grade you on content, coherence, vocabulary, and pronunciation.
Key points to remember:
- Context is clear. You usually advise a friend, coworker, or classmate.
- Two or three suggestions are enough; depth beats quantity.
- Tone matters. Friendly, respectful language scores higher than blunt commands.
Scoring Breakdown at a Glance
| Criterion | Weight | What Examiners Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Content | 30 % | Relevant, specific advice with reasons |
| Coherence | 30 % | Logical order, clear transitions |
| Lexical | 20 % | Variety of vocabulary, idiomatic but accurate |
| Delivery | 20 % | Steady pace, accurate pronunciation |
Proven CELPIP Speaking Tips for Planning Your Response
Planning saves you from rambling. Use the R-S-R method: Read the prompt (15 s), Sketch a quick outline (15 s), then Respond (60 s).
- Opening (10 s). Acknowledge the situation and show empathy.
- Advice 1 (20 s). State suggestion and one supporting reason.
- Advice 2 (20 s). Give a contrasting or complementary option with a reason.
- Closing (10 s). Encourage the listener and invite follow-up.
Quick CELPIP Speaking Tips Checklist
- Use transition phrases: First, you could…, Another option is…, Finally, I recommend…
- Keep each sentence under 15 words to maintain clarity.
- Vary stress and intonation to sound engaging.
Pro Tip: Set a timer and simulate exam pressure with a quick CELPIP Practice Test to see how well your structure holds up.
Delivering Advice Clearly and Confidently
Great ideas still need smooth delivery. Focus on these areas:
Pace and Pauses
Speak at 130–150 words per minute. Insert micro-pauses after each main point to let examiners process your advice.
Pronunciation Drills
Record yourself. Then shadow native speakers on short Canadian podcasts. Aim for crisp consonants and connected speech.
Vocabulary Upgrades
Replace generic verbs (do, make, get) with precise choices (implement, create, obtain). Sprinkle in one or two idioms that suit the context: “That plan will give you more bang for your buck.”
Practice Routines to Build Fluency
Consistency turns theory into muscle memory.
- Daily 5-Minute Monologues
Pick a random scenario—advise a friend on saving money, choosing a gym, or moving cities. Time yourself. - Peer Feedback Loop
Exchange recordings with a study buddy and rate each other on clarity, organization, and vocabulary. - Weekly Mock Runs
Schedule full-length CELPIP Mock Exams every weekend. Track your word count, note filler words, and refine pacing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: How many pieces of advice should I give?
Two well-developed suggestions with reasons outweigh four rushed ideas.
Q2: Can I use personal stories?
Yes—brief anecdotes make your advice memorable, but keep them under 10 seconds.
Q3: What if I finish early?
Add a polite recap or offer further help: “Let me know which option feels best, and I’ll gladly support you.”
Q4: Do examiners penalize accents?
Accents are normal. Examiners focus on intelligibility—clear pronunciation and appropriate intonation.
Key Takeaways
- Follow a simple outline: opening, two advices, closing.
- Practice under timed conditions to avoid rushing or trailing off.
- Upgrade verbs and use transitions for smooth flow.
- Record, review, and refine—feedback accelerates improvement.
Conclusion
Mastering Task 1 starts with structured planning, clear delivery, and regular practice. Apply these CELPIP Speaking Tips consistently, and you will turn test-day nerves into confident, high-scoring advice.