CELPIP Writing Task 2: Responding to Survey Questions Strategies

What this part tests

You will read a survey question that presents two options (Option A and Option B).

You must choose one option and write a persuasive response explaining your choice with clear reasoning and examples.

Your response should have a clear position, supporting reasons, and a conclusion.

You are scored on Content/Coherence, Vocabulary, Readability, and Task Fulfillment.

Key strategies

Choose the option you can argue best, not the one you actually believe

Pick whichever option gives you more to say. If Option B is easier to support with examples, choose it even if you personally prefer A.

State your choice clearly in the opening

Don't make the reader guess. Name the option you picked in the first sentence.

Write“I strongly support Option A because…”“In my opinion, Option B is the better choice”

Give 2-3 distinct reasons with examples

Each reason should be different (don't repeat the same point in different words). Brief examples make your reasons concrete: "For instance, at my workplace, we implemented Option A and saw a 20% improvement in..."

Briefly acknowledge the other option

One sentence like "While Option B has its merits..." shows balanced thinking and earns coherence points. Don't spend more than 1-2 sentences on this.

End with a strong conclusion

Restate your preference and briefly summarize your reasoning. A definitive ending leaves a strong impression.

What it looks like

Read the following information.

Youth Sports Philosophy Survey

Our local youth sports league, facing concerns about high dropout rates and increasing pressure on young athletes, is re-evaluating its core philosophy. We are surveying parents, coaches, and community members to determine whether our league should primarily emphasize skill development and enjoyment or competitive success and winning. Your input will help shape our league's future direction.

Choose the option that you prefer. Explain the reasons for your choice. Why do you prefer your choice? Write about 150-200 words.

Option A: Emphasize Participation and DevelopmentOption B: Emphasize Winning and Competition

Explain the reasons for your choice. Write about 150-200 words.

Strong sample response

I strongly advocate for emphasizing participation and skill development in youth sports. This approach creates lasting benefits that extend far beyond the playing field.

Firstly, a participation-focused environment cultivates a lifelong love for physical activity. When children are not solely judged by scores, they feel less pressure and more joy, leading to sustained engagement in sports well into adulthood. Research consistently shows that young athletes who enjoy their experience are far more likely to remain active throughout their lives.

Secondly, prioritizing development builds essential character traits such as teamwork, perseverance, and sportsmanship. These qualities are transferable to academics and future careers. For example, a child who learns to support teammates during a losing game develops empathy and resilience that no trophy can teach.

While competition certainly has its place and can motivate some athletes, an overemphasis on winning often leads to burnout, anxiety, and early dropout from sports entirely.

In conclusion, fostering an environment where every child feels valued and has opportunities to develop skills through participation is paramount for their holistic growth and continued involvement in sports.

How to apply the strategies

Strategy #1 (Choose what you can argue best): The writer chose the option they could argue most convincingly for, regardless of personal belief.
Strategy #2 (State your choice clearly): The opening sentence immediately states the chosen option with conviction: "I strongly advocate for..."
Strategy #3 (Give 2-3 distinct reasons): Two distinct reasons are provided, the love for physical activity and character development, each supported by specific examples and evidence.
Strategy #4 (Acknowledge the other option): Competition is briefly acknowledged in one sentence before being dismissed.
Strategy #5 (Strong conclusion): The response ends with a definitive conclusion that restates the position.