CELPIP Writing Task 2: Samples with Answers & Templates
CELPIP Writing Task 2 hands you two options and 26 minutes to argue for one of them. The current CELPIP format is a survey-response prompt that presents two choices on a Canadian workplace, community, or social topic. You pick one option, give two reasons with examples, and acknowledge the other side. 150-200 words. One submission, no second take.
Quick heads-up. If you've asked AI for help with Task 2, you may have been told it's a 'do you support X?' agree/disagree prompt. That's an older variant that still appears occasionally, but the dominant modern format (per the official CELPIP Writing Pro: Target 9+ study pack) is the two-option survey. Both this article and our CELPIP writing samples library cover both patterns, so you're prepped either way.
This guide pulls together Task 2 sample questions in both formats, model answers at CLB 7 and CLB 9 with rubric-level annotation, the five-paragraph template that scales, and the timing breakdown that gets you through 26 minutes without rushing the conclusion. No PDF downloads. Every sample is here in the browser, and the practice button below sends your own writing through AI scoring against the four CELPIP Writing scoring dimensions.
What is CELPIP Writing Task 2?
Understanding the exact format and requirements is your first step toward a higher score. Task 2 follows a specific structure that evaluators expect.
CELPIP Writing Task 2 is the Responding to Survey Questions task. You read a short survey scenario, pick one of two options, and write a 150-200 word response arguing for your choice in about 26 minutes. Trained raters score it on four traits, each mapping to a CLB level.
Task 2 Quick Facts
- Time limit: 26 minutes
- Word limit: 150-200 words (aim for 175-190)
- Task type: Survey response. Choose one of two options and defend it.
- Weight: 50% of your total writing score
Task 2 presents a survey topic on a Canadian workplace, community, or social issue. You'll see two options. Your job is to choose one, give reasons with examples, and acknowledge why someone might pick the other one.
What the prompt actually looks like
Modern Task 2 prompts follow this two-option pattern (used in the current CELPIP Writing Pro: Target 9+ study pack):
Survey response prompt (two options):
"Your [employer / city / community] is choosing between two options: (A) [first option], or (B) [second option]. Which option do you prefer? Choose one and explain your choice with specific reasons and examples."
You'll occasionally still see the older agree/disagree variant, which works the same way structurally:
Older survey response prompt (agree/disagree):
"Do you support [position/policy]? Explain your position with reasons and examples. Discuss any potential challenges."
Either way, the rubric is the same and the template that works for one works for the other. The article shows you both.
Address every part of the prompt
CELPIP Writing Task 2 Sample Questions
These sample questions reflect the types of topics you'll encounter on test day. Practice with each to build confidence and flexibility.
Workplace Topics
Sample Question 1: Flexible Work (two-option format)
"Your company is offering employees two options: (A) a permanent work-from-home policy with no required office days, or (B) a hybrid schedule with two required office days per week. Which option would you choose? Explain your choice with specific reasons and examples."
Sample Question 2: Four-Day Work Week
"Some businesses are adopting a four-day work week. Do you think this is a positive change for Canadian workplaces? Support your opinion with reasons and examples. Address any potential drawbacks."
Community Topics
Sample Question 3: Public Transit
"Your city is planning to increase public transit service by raising property taxes. Do you support this proposal? Provide reasons for your position and discuss any concerns."
Sample Question 4: Community Centres
"The local government wants to convert an old building into a community centre for seniors. Do you think this is the best use of the space? Explain with examples and address alternative suggestions."
Social Topics
Sample Question 5: Technology in Education
"Some people believe students should use tablets instead of textbooks. Do you agree or disagree? Support your position with reasons and examples. What challenges might schools face?"
Sample Question 6: Environmental Initiatives
"Your neighbourhood is considering banning single-use plastics at local events. Do you support this initiative? Provide reasons and examples. Discuss any practical challenges."
CELPIP Writing Task 2: Samples with Answers
Study these model answers at different CLB levels. Notice how higher-level responses develop ideas more thoroughly and use more sophisticated language.
Sample Question: Flexible Work Policy
"Your company is offering employees two options: (A) a permanent work-from-home policy with no required office days, or (B) a hybrid schedule with two required office days per week. Which option would you choose? Explain your choice with specific reasons and examples."
Model Answer (CLB 9+) - 185 words
Of the two options, I would choose Option A: the permanent work-from-home policy. It offers substantial benefits for both employees and the company, and the trade-offs against a hybrid schedule are manageable.
First, full remote work significantly improves work-life balance. Employees save considerable commuting time, often 90 minutes daily in cities like Toronto, which they can redirect toward family responsibilities or personal development. In my previous role, colleagues who worked remotely full-time reported higher job satisfaction and lower stress than colleagues on a hybrid schedule.
Second, full remote also reduces operational costs more than the hybrid option. Companies can downsize office space entirely instead of maintaining a partially-used office, potentially saving thousands of dollars annually in rent and utilities. Those resources can be reinvested in employee benefits or professional development programs.
I acknowledge Option B has appeal for people who value in-person collaboration, and some employees may struggle with isolation under Option A. To address that, the company could implement regular virtual team meetings and optional in-office days for those who want them.
Overall, the benefits of full remote outweigh the structured-routine benefits of a hybrid schedule, making Option A the stronger choice for our workplace.
Why this scores CLB 9+:
- Clear option choice stated immediately (Option A)
- Specific examples with data (90 minutes, Toronto)
- Sophisticated vocabulary (substantial, considerable, redirect, manageable, partially-used)
- Smooth transitions (First, Second, To address that, Overall)
- Addresses every part of the prompt
- Balanced perspective: acknowledges Option B's appeal without abandoning the chosen position
- Proposes solutions to concerns about isolation
Sample Question: Public Transit Funding
"Your city is planning to increase public transit service by raising property taxes. Do you support this proposal? Provide reasons for your position and discuss any concerns."
Model Answer (CLB 9) - 182 words
I firmly support the proposal to enhance public transit through increased property taxes, despite understanding the financial concerns some residents may have.
Improved public transit provides significant environmental benefits. With more frequent bus and train services, residents would have a viable alternative to driving, potentially reducing carbon emissions across the city. In Vancouver, similar investments led to a notable decrease in traffic congestion and air pollution.
Additionally, enhanced transit accessibility benefits the entire community, particularly those who cannot drive, including seniors, students, and people with disabilities. Better service enables them to access employment, healthcare, and social activities independently.
While I acknowledge that property tax increases concern many homeowners, particularly those on fixed incomes, this investment generates long-term returns. Rising property values in well-connected neighbourhoods typically offset the additional tax burden.
Ultimately, I believe investing in public infrastructure strengthens our community's foundation. The modest tax increase represents a worthwhile contribution toward building a more accessible and sustainable city for future generations.
CELPIP Writing Task 2 Template Structure
Use this proven template structure to organize your response. The template ensures you address all requirements while maintaining logical flow.
Five-Paragraph Template
Paragraph 1: Position Statement (25-35 words)
State your clear position on the issue. Use strong phrases:
- "I strongly support/oppose..."
- "I firmly believe that..."
- "In my view..."
Paragraph 2: First Reason + Example (45-55 words)
Present your strongest argument with a specific example:
- Start with transition: "First," "To begin with,"
- State the reason clearly
- Provide concrete example with details
Paragraph 3: Second Reason + Example (45-55 words)
Add your supporting argument:
- Use transition: "Furthermore," "Additionally," "Moreover,"
- Develop with different angle
- Include specific evidence or experience
Paragraph 4: Acknowledge Challenges (30-40 words)
Show balanced thinking:
- "While I acknowledge..." "Although some may argue..."
- Briefly mention counterpoint
- Optionally suggest solution
Paragraph 5: Conclusion (25-30 words)
Reinforce your position:
- "Overall," "In conclusion," "Ultimately,"
- Restate position with confidence
- End with forward-looking statement
Template Phrases for CLB 9+
26-Minute Strategy for Task 2
Effective time management separates high scorers from struggling test-takers. Follow this proven breakdown.
Time Allocation
| Phase | Time | Activities |
|---|---|---|
| Planning | 3-4 minutes | Read prompt twice, identify requirements, decide position, brainstorm reasons |
| Writing | 18-19 minutes | Write all 5 paragraphs following template structure |
| Review | 3-4 minutes | Check task fulfillment, fix grammar errors, verify word count |
Planning Phase Checklist
Before you start writing, make sure you:
- Identified ALL parts of the question (opinion, reasons, challenges)
- Chose your clear position (agree or disagree)
- Have 2 strong reasons with specific examples ready
- Know what challenge/counterargument to mention
This 3-4 minute investment prevents mid-response confusion and ensures complete task fulfillment.
CELPIP Writing Task 2 Word Limit: What Really Matters
Many test-takers stress about the 150-200 word limit. Here's what you actually need to know.
Word Count Guidelines
- Minimum target: 160 words
- Optimal range: 175-190 words
- Maximum safe: 210 words
Important: Slight variations from 150-200 words typically don't affect your score if you address all requirements completely.
What Matters More Than Word Count
Priority Order:
- Task fulfillment:Address every part of the prompt
- Complete ideas:Finish your thoughts clearly
- Organization:Logical paragraph structure
- Word count:Within reasonable range
A 175-word response addressing all requirements outscores a 200-word response that misses a prompt element.
Common Word Count Mistakes
- Padding with filler: Repeating the same idea in different words wastes space
- Cutting important content: Don't sacrifice your challenge paragraph to hit 150 words
- Ending mid-sentence: An incomplete conclusion hurts more than being 5 words short
Top Mistakes That Lower Task 2 Scores
Avoid these common errors that consistently prevent test-takers from achieving their target CLB levels.
Task Fulfillment Errors
Mistake 1: Missing the "challenges" requirement
If the prompt asks you to discuss challenges or concerns, you MUST include them. Many test-takers write excellent opinions but forget this part.
Mistake 2: Vague position
"I think this idea has both good and bad points" is not a clear position. State whether you support or oppose clearly.
Mistake 3: General examples
"Working from home is good for many people" lacks specificity. Use concrete details: "In my previous role at a Toronto marketing firm..."
Language Errors
- Run-on sentences: Break complex ideas into shorter sentences
- Repetitive vocabulary: Don't use "good" five times. Vary with "beneficial," "advantageous," "positive"
- Informal tone: Avoid contractions (use "cannot" not "can't") and slang
- Missing transitions: Each paragraph needs connection to the previous one
CELPIP Writing Task 2 Tips for CLB 9+ Success
These proven strategies help you move from adequate (CLB 7) to excellent (CLB 9+) performance.
Vocabulary Enhancement
Replace basic words with sophisticated alternatives:
| Basic (CLB 7) | Advanced (CLB 9+) |
|---|---|
| good | beneficial, advantageous, valuable |
| bad | detrimental, problematic, concerning |
| a lot | substantial, considerable, significant |
| help | facilitate, enable, enhance |
| I think | I firmly believe, In my view, I am convinced |
Sentence Variety
Mix simple and complex sentences:
- Simple: "Remote work improves productivity."
- Complex: "Although some managers worry about supervision, remote work often improves productivity because employees can focus without office distractions."
- Compound: "This policy benefits employees, and it also reduces company expenses."
Canadian Tone
Use diplomatic, collaborative language:
- "Perhaps this approach could be reconsidered" instead of "This approach is wrong"
- "I would suggest that..." instead of "You should..."
- "While I understand different perspectives..." shows balanced thinking
Task 2 Readiness Check
Test your understanding of Task 2 requirements
A Task 2 prompt asks: "Do you support banning plastic bags? Provide reasons and discuss challenges." What MUST your response include?
Additional Task 2 Practice Questions
Practice with these additional topics covering common CELPIP themes. Time yourself for 26 minutes and aim for 175-190 words.
Workplace Topics
- "Should employees be required to return to the office full-time? Explain your position with reasons and examples."
- "Your company wants to reduce email and use instant messaging instead. Do you support this change? Discuss benefits and concerns."
- "Should employers provide mental health days in addition to sick leave? Give reasons and address potential challenges."
Community Topics
- "Your neighbourhood wants to create more bike lanes by reducing street parking. Do you support this? Explain your reasons and concerns."
- "Should libraries extend their hours to include evenings and weekends? Provide reasons and discuss funding challenges."
- "Your community centre is considering offering free fitness classes. Do you think this is a good use of resources?"
Social Topics
- "Should social media platforms require age verification? Give your opinion with reasons and examples."
- "Do you think electric vehicles should receive government subsidies? Explain your position and address counterarguments."
- "Should universities prioritize online learning over traditional classroom instruction? Discuss with examples."
How Task 2 Is Scored
Understanding the scoring criteria helps you focus your practice on what matters most for higher CLB levels.
| Criterion | CLB 7 Standard | CLB 9+ Standard |
|---|---|---|
| Task Fulfillment | Addresses all parts adequately | Fully developed with thorough coverage |
| Coherence | Clear paragraphs with basic transitions | Smooth flow with sophisticated linking |
| Vocabulary | Adequate range, some repetition | Precise, varied, topic-appropriate |
| Readability | Clear paragraphing; some grammar or punctuation errors don't impede meaning | Strong paragraphing and transitions; complex structures with minimal errors |
Key insight: Task fulfillment carries disproportionate weight. Perfect grammar with incomplete task fulfillment scores lower than adequate grammar with complete coverage of all prompt requirements.
Related CELPIP Writing Resources
Continue your writing preparation with these additional resources.
Keep exploring: CLB Score Calculator
Your Path to Task 2 Success
Mastering CELPIP Writing Task 2 requires understanding the format, practicing with realistic prompts, and developing your ability to express opinions clearly in Canadian professional contexts.
Start with the template structure provided in this guide. Practice with the sample questions, timing yourself for 26 minutes. Focus first on task fulfillment. Address every part of every prompt.
As you progress, develop your vocabulary range and sentence variety. Study the CLB 9+ model answers to understand what excellent responses look like.
Consistent practice is more effective than cramming. Even 20-30 minutes daily of focused writing will build the skills you need.
Your next step: choose one sample question from this guide and write a practice response. Check it against the template structure and ensure you've addressed every required part. One real practice session puts you ahead of most test-takers who never practise before their exam.
Sources & further reading
These official Canadian sources back up the survey response format and free practice material in this guide.
- CELPIP-General Test FormatOfficial source for the test's section structure and timingOfficial CELPIPcelpip.ca
- CELPIP Free ResourcesOfficial CELPIP study webinars and resourcesOfficial CELPIPcelpip.ca
Common Questions About CELPIP Writing Task 2
Clear answers to frequent questions about the survey response task