CELPIP Writing Task 1 & 2 templates
Both CELPIP Writing tasks want 150–200 wordsand are scored on four things: Content/Coherence, Vocabulary, Readability, and Task Fulfillment. Below is a reusable structure for each task and a band-9 example — use them as a skeleton, then fill in your own specific reasons so it doesn’t read as a memorized template.
Task 1 — Writing an Email (~27 min)
You get a situation and three bullet points. Your job is to write a complete email that addresses all three, in a tone that matches the reader.
Template
- Greeting: “Dear [Name],” (formal) or “Hi [Name],” (informal)
- Opening line: state your purpose in one sentence
- Body 1: address bullet #1 + one specific detail
- Body 2: address bullet #2 + one specific detail
- Body 3: address bullet #3 + one specific detail
- Close: polite closing line + sign-off (“Sincerely,” / “Thanks,”)
Band 9 example (complaint email)
Dear Property Manager, I am writing to report an issue with the heating in my apartment, Unit 304, which has not worked since last Tuesday. First, the temperature has dropped to the point where the unit is uncomfortably cold in the evenings, and my two young children have been affected. Second, I contacted the front desk on Wednesday but have not yet received a response or a repair date. Finally, I would appreciate it if a technician could visit before this weekend, as colder weather is forecast. Please let me know a time that works, and I will make sure someone is home to provide access. Sincerely, Jordan Alvarez, Unit 304
Task 2 — Responding to Survey Questions (~26 min)
You’re given a scenario with two options. Pick one and defend it with clear reasons and specific examples. There’s no correct choice — you’re scored on how well you justify it.
Template
- State your choice: name the option you prefer in the first sentence
- Reason 1 + example: your strongest reason, backed by a specific example
- Reason 2 + example: a second, different reason with its own example
- Acknowledge + rebut (optional): note the other option briefly, then say why yours still wins
- Restate: one closing sentence that reaffirms your choice
Band 9 example (new community centre: library vs. gym)
I believe the new community centre should include a public library rather than a gym. First, a library serves every age group at once. Children can attend after-school reading programs while retirees borrow books and use the computers, so a single space benefits the whole neighbourhood. Second, it supports newcomers directly: free English resources and quiet study space are exactly what many new residents in our area need to settle in and find work. A gym would help some residents stay active, but private gyms already exist nearby, whereas there is no free library within walking distance. For these reasons, a public library would give the most lasting value to the greatest number of people.
What raters actually reward
- Content/Coherence: ideas that connect logically, with clear paragraphing.
- Vocabulary: a range of precise words used correctly — not thesaurus padding.
- Readability: clean grammar, spelling, and a mix of sentence structures.
- Task Fulfillment: every bullet or reason addressed, right tone, right length.
CELPIP Writing questions
How long should a CELPIP Writing answer be?
Both CELPIP Writing tasks ask for 150–200 words. Task 1 (email) gives you about 27 minutes and Task 2 (responding to survey questions) about 26 minutes. Staying inside the word range and fully addressing the prompt matters more than writing extra.
How is CELPIP Writing scored?
Each response is rated on four dimensions, each 1–12: Content/Coherence (are your ideas clear and organized), Vocabulary (range and accuracy of word choice), Readability (grammar, spelling, sentence structure), and Task Fulfillment (did you fully do what was asked, in the right tone and length). Your overall level is a blend of the four.
What is the CELPIP Writing Task 1 email format?
Task 1 gives you a situation and three bullet points. Write an email that opens with an appropriate greeting, states your purpose, clearly addresses all three bullets (usually one short paragraph each), and closes politely. Match the tone to the reader — formal for a manager or company, friendly for a friend.
What is CELPIP Writing Task 2?
Task 2, Responding to Survey Questions, gives you a scenario with two options. You pick one, then explain your choice with clear reasons and specific examples in 150–200 words. There is no 'right' option — you're scored on how well you justify your choice, not which one you pick.
Do templates hurt my CELPIP score?
A structure helps you organize and manage time; a memorized, off-topic template hurts you. Use a template as a skeleton, then fill it with your own specific reasons and examples that directly address this prompt. Raters reward relevant, specific content — not formulaic filler.
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