CELPIP® Speaking samples with estimated levels

Hi Maya! Congratulations again on getting into the program. I know choosing where to live feels like a big decision, so here’s what I’d do if I were you.

For your first year, I’d go with the residence. Everything’s right there on campus, so you won’t have to worry about catching a bus on freezing winter mornings, and most meals are included, which is one less thing to think about while you’re getting used to your classes.

The other big advantage is meeting people. Your high school friends are great, but if you live with them, it’s easy to stay in your comfort zone. In residence you’ll meet students from all over the country, and some of them could end up being your study partners, or even close friends.

That said, I’d keep the apartment idea for second year. Once you know the city and which neighbourhoods are close to your classes, sharing a place with your friends could be cheaper, and you’d have more independence.

So, my advice: residence first, apartment later. And whatever you decide, call me if you need help moving in!

Um, okay. One time I need to learn to drive very quick, because, uh, I get a new job and the bus don’t go there. My friend, he teach me. We go to the, the parking lot of the mall on Sunday morning. First I was very nervous. I, uh, I hit the curb two times. But, um, my friend is very patient. After five weeks I pass the test. I was very happy. Yeah.

Hi Dev. I know the escape room sounds exciting, but I really think the bowling night is a better choice for our team.

First, the price. Bowling is twenty-five dollars per person and the pizza is included, but the escape room is thirty-five dollars, and after that we still need to pay for dinner.

Second, the escape room takes groups of six, and we are eighteen people, so the team will be split into, um, three different rooms. With bowling, everybody stays together in one place and we can talk and have fun together.

Also, the bowling alley is ten minutes walking from the office, so nobody needs to drive downtown or find parking.

So I hope you agree with me. Bowling is cheaper, easier and better for the whole team.

Hi Erik, have you got a minute? First of all, it’s great to see you back. Your mom’s been so happy to have you around.

I wanted to ask you about the driveway, though. A few times this week your truck was parked right behind my car, and since I leave for work at seven, I’ve had to knock on your door to get out, which isn’t fun for either of us.

I was thinking, what if you parked on the left side, closer to the house? There’s room for the truck there, and I could back out without bothering you. Or, if your schedule makes that hard, we could swap numbers so I can text you instead of knocking.

Would either of those work for you? I’d really appreciate it. Thanks for understanding.

I think giving employees a paid day off on their birthday is a good idea, and I’d like to explain why.

First, it shows workers that the company sees them as people, not just as staff. It’s a small gesture, but it makes a real difference. For example, my cousin’s company started doing this last year, and she told me that her coworkers still talk about it and feel more appreciated. When workers feel appreciated, they usually stay longer, so the employer also saves money for hiring and training new people.

Second, one day is not expensive for most businesses. Many people already take a vacation day around their birthday anyway, so the company is just turning something that already happens into a nice tradition.

Of course, some workplaces, like a small restaurant, can’t easily find someone to cover a shift on a busy day. In that case, the worker could choose another day in the same month. So overall, I think a birthday day off is good for employees and for the company, as long as it’s flexible.