CLBA - Canadian Language Benchmark Assessment Social Conversation Skills Questions and Answers

Question 1

You are in a coffee shop line-up.
The person behind you says, "The weather has been so unpredictable lately, hasn't it?" What is the most appropriate response to encourage a brief, friendly conversation?

Accepted Answer

"I know, right? I almost forgot my umbrella this morning."

Answer

"Yes."

Answer

"Why are you talking to me?"

Answer

"The meteorological data shows a 30% increase in precipitation."

Question 2

You are chatting with a neighbour in the hallway of your apartment building, but you are late for an appointment. Which is the most polite way to end the conversation?

Accepted Answer

"Well, it was great chatting with you, but I have to run. Let's catch up again soon!"

Answer

"I have to go now. Bye."

Answer

Simply turning and walking away without saying anything.

Answer

"This conversation is over."

Question 3

During a team meeting, a colleague says, "I think we should cancel the company picnic this year to save money." You disagree and think the picnic is important for morale. What is the most professional way to express your different opinion?

Accepted Answer

"I understand the need to save money, but have we considered the impact on team morale? The picnic is often a big boost for everyone."

Answer

"That's a terrible idea. The picnic is the only fun thing we do."

Answer

"You're wrong. We have the budget for it."

Answer

Saying nothing, but looking annoyed.

Question 4

Which of the following questions is most effective for starting and maintaining a social conversation with a new acquaintance at a community event?

Accepted Answer

"So, what brings you to this event today?"

Answer

"Do you live around here?"

Answer

"What do you do for a living?"

Answer

"How much money do you make?"

Question 5

A friend invites you to a party, saying, "Just bring a plate." You are not sure what this common Canadian/Australian/New Zealander expression means. What is the best way to ask for clarification?

Accepted Answer

"Sorry, I'm not familiar with that expression. Could you please explain what you mean by 'bring a plate'?"

Answer

"That's a strange request."

Answer

"Okay, I will bring an empty plate."

Answer

Saying nothing and hoping you guess correctly.

Question 6

In a typical Canadian social conversation, what is a common non-verbal cue that indicates it is your turn to speak?

Accepted Answer

The speaker making direct eye contact with you and pausing.

Answer

The speaker looking at their phone.

Answer

The speaker raising their voice and speaking faster.

Answer

The speaker crossing their arms and leaning back.

You are in a coffee shop line-up.The person behind you says, "The weather has been so unpredictable lately, hasn't it?" What is the most appropriate response to encourage a brief, friendly conversation?

You are in a coffee shop line-up.
The person behind you says, "The weather has been so unpredictable lately, hasn't it?" What is the most appropriate response to encourage a brief, friendly conversation?