CELPIP Speaking: Opinions 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: A prompt asks whether children should have homework. A strong opener would be:
- I believe children should have homework because it builds discipline. (Correct answer)
- Homework is a thing children sometimes do.
- Maybe yes, maybe no, it depends.
- I'm not really sure about this.
Correct answer: I believe children should have homework because it builds discipline.
It states a clear position and previews a reason.
Question 2: Which transition word best introduces a second supporting reason?
- Additionally, (Correct answer)
- However,
- Nevertheless,
- In contrast,
Correct answer: Additionally,
'Additionally' adds another point in the same direction.
Question 3: How can you show balanced thinking while still keeping your opinion?
- Acknowledge the other side, then explain why yours is stronger (Correct answer)
- Argue both sides equally with no conclusion
- Ignore opposing views entirely
- Change your opinion mid-response
Correct answer: Acknowledge the other side, then explain why yours is stronger
Recognizing a counterpoint then refuting it shows mature reasoning.
Question 4: Which sentence shows the clearest reasoning?
- Public transit is better because it reduces traffic and pollution. (Correct answer)
- Public transit is better, you know, just because.
- I like buses sometimes.
- Cars and buses both exist.
Correct answer: Public transit is better because it reduces traffic and pollution.
It gives a specific cause-and-effect justification.
Question 5: What vocabulary feature improves an opinion response's score?
- Varied and precise word choice (Correct answer)
- Repeating the same adjective
- Using only basic words
- Avoiding any descriptive language
Correct answer: Varied and precise word choice
Lexical variety demonstrates stronger English proficiency.
Question 6: If you make a small grammar mistake while speaking, you should:
- Continue speaking confidently (Correct answer)
- Stop and start the whole answer over
- Apologize repeatedly
- Stay silent for several seconds
Correct answer: Continue speaking confidently
Minor errors are normal; fluency matters more than perfection.
Question 7: Which closing best completes an opinion answer about remote work?
- For these reasons, I strongly prefer working from home. (Correct answer)
- Anyway, that's all I can think of.
- I forgot what I was saying.
- Let me start over.
Correct answer: For these reasons, I strongly prefer working from home.
It restates the position and signals a confident finish.
CELPIP Speaking: Opinions 3
A prompt asks whether children should have homework.
A strong opener would be: