CELPIP Writing Task 2 Template: How to Respond to a Survey

Goal

Write a persuasive survey response (150–200 words) expressing a clear opinion on a specific topic. You must demonstrate Persuasive Language, Complex Argumentation, and Contrast.

What the Examiner Looks For (Assessment Criteria)

• Task Fulfillment (Relevance): You must choose one option and stick to it. Do not sit on the fence. You must also acknowledge the opposing side (the counter-argument) to show critical thinking.
• Coherence & Cohesion (Flow): The examiner looks for specific Transitions of Contrast (Admittedly, However) and Addition (Additionally, Furthermore).
• Grammar (Range & Accuracy): You must demonstrate Complex Sentences (using Since, If, Unless) and Passive Voice to sound objective.
• Vocabulary (Lexical Resource): You need strong persuasive verbs (Optimize, Foster, Ensure) and topic-specific vocabulary rather than repeating the words from the prompt.

Step 0: The Setup (Analyze the Options)

Goal: Choose the option that is easier to support with logical reasons, even if it is not your personal opinion.

The Rule of 3

Before writing, quickly identify:

1. Reason 1 for your choice: (e.g., Convenience)
2. Reason 2 for your choice: (e.g., Cost-saving)
3. One positive aspect of the other choice: (To use in your counter-argument).

Step 1: The Introduction (Stance & Paraphrase)

Goal: State your opinion immediately and paraphrase the context using formal grammar.

The Paraphrasing Toolkit

To paraphrase effectively, do not just change one word. Use a combination of these four strategies to completely rewrite the prompt while keeping the same meaning.

The Template

• Opening: "To the [City Council / Manager / Department],"
• The Hook: "After careful consideration, I strongly support the proposal that [Option A be implemented] rather than [Option B]."
• The Roadmap (Optional): "While both proposals add value, I believe [Option A] offers broader benefits regarding [Theme 1] and [Theme 2]."

Example (Using Passive Voice + Synonyms):

• Prompt: "The boss wants to give everyone a bonus."
• Your Answer: "After careful consideration, I strongly support the proposal that financial incentives be distributed to all staff."

Step 2: Body Paragraph 1 (Primary Argument)

Goal: Present your strongest reason. Focus on the main benefit (Efficiency, Money, or Community).

Grammar Booster: Cause & Effect (Conditionals)

Use "If/Then" logic or strong connectors to show the positive result of your choice.

• Formula: If + [Action], + [Result].
• Connectors: Consequently, Therefore, As a result.

The Template

• Topic Sentence: "First and foremost, the most compelling reason to support [Option A] is [Concept: Time Efficiency / Cost Effectiveness]."
• Explanation: "Currently, [Describe the problem with the status quo]."
• Result (Complex Sentence): "Consequently, if [Option A] is implemented, it will allow [Stakeholders] to [Benefit], significantly reducing [Negative Issue]."

Example: "The primary reason is time efficiency. Commuting to a separate facility is stressful. Consequently, if the company provides an on-site facility, we allow parents to synchronize their commute, significantly reducing daily travel stress."

Step 3: Body Paragraph 2 (Secondary Argument)

Goal: Present a second, distinct benefit. If Body 1 was about "Time," make Body 2 about "Health" or "Money."

Grammar Booster: Gerunds as Subjects

Start sentences with an "-ing" verb to sound sophisticated and concise.

• Weak: It is good to have a garden because it helps people learn.
• Strong: Having a garden provides a unique opportunity to learn.

The Template

• Transition: "Additionally, the [Educational / Financial] value of this proposal cannot be overstated."
• Detail (Gerund): "[Verb-ing]... is a significant asset that..."
• Benefit: "It provides a unique opportunity for [People] to [Action]."

Example: "Additionally, this initiative optimizes work-life balance. By offering care within the same building, the company ensures that parents have peace of mind, knowing they are just a few floors away from their children."

Step 4: Body Paragraph 3 (The Counter-Argument)

Goal: Acknowledge the other option (to show you are reasonable), then explain why your choice is still better. This acts as a "Checkmate."

Grammar Booster: Contrast Markers

Use the "Admittedly... However..." structure. This is a hallmark of a high-scoring essay.

• Formula: Admittedly + [Good point about other option]. + However + [Why it is flawed/inferior].

The Template

• Concession: "Admittedly, some [residents/colleagues] might argue that [Option B] would [Benefit of Option B]."
• Rebuttal: "However, [Option A] better suits our needs because [Reason]." OR "However, [Option A] addresses a more urgent priority."

Example: "Admittedly, a playground would provide a recreational space for children. However, playgrounds are often unused during winter months; thus, a garden better suits our needs as it serves all demographics year-round."

Step 5: The Conclusion (Summary)

Goal: Summarize your main points and give a final recommendation. Do not introduce new ideas.

Grammar Booster: Parallel Structure

List your reasons using the same grammatical form (Noun, Noun, and Noun).

The Template

• Summary: "To sum up, based on the fact that [Option A] provides [Benefit 1] and [Benefit 2],..."
• Final Push: "I therefore strongly urge the [Council/Management] to proceed with [Option A]."

Example: "To sum up, based on the superior convenience and the optimization of work-life balance, I therefore strongly urge management to proceed with the on-site daycare."

CELPIP Writing Task 2: Model Answer (Score 9+)

Instruction: Your community is planning a new program and is deciding between offering Cooking Classes or starting a Recycling Collection Program. Write a response stating which option you support and why.

Model Answer:

To the Community Planning Committee, Salutation

After careful consideration, I firmly support the proposal that a recycling collection program be established rather than offering a cooking class. Intro: Stance + Paraphrase

The primary reason is environmental sustainability. Body 1: Topic Sentence (Environment) Statistics have shown that local landfills have reached dangerous capacity levels because many recycled materials are currently thrown away with regular trash. Explanation: Context Consequently, by implementing a formal collection service, the community will have significantly reduced its carbon footprint by diverting tons of waste from dump sites before they overflow. Result: Complex Sentence

Additionally, this initiative optimizes municipal spending. Body 2: Topic Sentence (Economy) Sending refuse to landfills incurs high disposal fees; therefore, community funds are currently wasted on burying useful materials. Detail: Problem By recovering recyclables for resale, the community transforms waste management from a financial liability into a revenue stream. Gerund Phrase + Benefit

Admittedly, some neighbors might argue that cooking classes promote dietary health. Body 3: Concession (The "Admittedly" Clause) However, managing waste is a public responsibility that requires a coordinated system, whereas cooking is a skill that can be learned individually at home. Rebuttal (The "However" Clause)

To sum up, based on the critical environmental protection and long-term cost savings for the community budget, I strongly urge the community to proceed with a recycling collection program. Conclusion: Summary + Final Urging

Universal Sentence Starters (The Skeleton)

Use this table to build your paragraphs. Mix and match the Topic Sentences with the Supporting Templates to create a full logical flow.

Universal Argument Themes (The Meat)