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Mastering CELPIP Speaking Task 4: How to Make Predictions

celpip speaking

If you’re preparing for the CELPIP exam, you know how crucial the Speaking section is. Task 4, in particular, focuses on making predictions based on a given image. This task tests your ability to think critically, use future tense verbs, and construct a coherent narrative—all within 60 seconds. In this article, we’ll break down how to excel in Task 4, using SEO-friendly tips and strategies to help you succeed.

Also, check out these other articles on Celpip speaking:

Mastering CELPIP Speaking task 5: Comparing and Persuading

Master CELPIP Speaking Test: Tips to Boost Your Score

CELPIP Speaking Practice: 7 Sample Responses for Every Task

Understanding CELPIP Task 4: Making Predictions

In Task 4 of the CELPIP Speaking section, you’ll be shown the same image from Task 3 (where you described a scene). This time, however, you’ll need to predict what will happen next. The key here is to use future tense verbs and create a logical sequence of events that fills the 60-second response time.

For example, if the image shows a fish and a fishhook, you might say:
“I think the fish will bite the hook, but it might struggle to escape. The fisherman will try to reel it in, and eventually, the fish will either get caught or break free.”

Why Verb Tenses Matter

The CELPIP exam is designed to test your mastery of English grammar, including verb tenses. Here’s a quick breakdown:

  • Task 2 (Past Experience): Use past tense verbs (e.g., “Two years ago, I went on a trip”).
  • Task 3 (Describing a Scene): Use present tense verbs (e.g., “This picture shows a parrot sitting in a tree”).
  • Task 4 (Making Predictions): Use future tense verbs (e.g., “I think the cat will chase the mouse”).

Using the correct tense is not just a formality—it’s a critical part of scoring well on the exam.

Tips for Crafting a 60-Second Prediction

  1. Use Future Tense Phrases: Start your prediction with phrases like:
    • “I think…”
    • “I’m pretty sure…”
    • “What’s going to happen next is…”
    • “What will probably happen is…”
  2. Create a Series of Events: Don’t stop at one prediction. Build a story with multiple steps to fill the 60 seconds. For example:
    • “First, the cat will try to catch the mouse. Then, the mouse will run into a hole. The cat will wait outside, but the mouse will escape through another exit.”
  3. Be Creative: The exam doesn’t require realism—just coherence. Use your imagination to create an engaging narrative.
  4. Practice Timing: Use a stopwatch to practice speaking for a full minute. This will help you gauge how much detail you need to include.

Example Responses for Task 4

Let’s look at two examples to inspire your practice:

Example 1: Cat and Mouse

image-1-png Mastering CELPIP Speaking Task 4: How to Make Predictions


“I think the cat is going to try to catch the mouse, but the mouse is smart. It will run into a small hole, and the cat won’t be able to follow. The cat will wait outside, but the mouse will escape through another exit. The cat will then chase the mouse around the house, and eventually, the mouse will find a safe place to hide. In the end, the cat will give up and take a nap.”

Example 2: Shark Attack

image-png Mastering CELPIP Speaking Task 4: How to Make Predictions


“I think the shark is going to attack the girl because it looks hungry. The girl will fight back by punching the shark in the nose. The shark will get angry, and they’ll struggle for a while. Eventually, the girl will get tired and try to swim away, but the shark will bite her leg. Luckily, some fishermen will see the scene and shoot the shark, saving the girl. In the end, the girl will lose a leg but survive.”

Homework: Practice Predicting

Here’s a challenge for you: Look at the image below and write your prediction in the comments.

Image Description: A building is on fire, with a man standing on the roof and people below.

What do you think will happen next? Use future tense verbs and create a 60-second story.

Key Tips for Success

  1. Practice Verb Tenses
    • Task 2: Past tense (e.g., “I went to the beach last year.”)
    • Task 3: Present tense (e.g., “This is a picture of a fish.”)
    • Task 4: Future tense (e.g., “The fish will try to escape.”)
  2. Expand Your Answer
    Avoid giving short, one-sentence answers. Instead, create a series of events to make your response more engaging.
  3. Speak Fluently
    • Use fillers like “I think,” “probably,” or “it’s likely” to keep talking.
    • Don’t worry too much about minor mistakes; fluency matters more.
  4. Time Yourself
    Practice speaking for exactly 60 seconds. Use a timer and try to stay consistent.

Final Thoughts

Task 4 of the CELPIP Speaking section is all about creativity, coherence, and correct grammar. By practicing with different images and focusing on future tense verbs, you’ll be well-prepared to ace this part of the exam. Remember, the key is to stay calm, use your preparation time wisely, and tell a creative story using future tense verbs.

Good luck with your CELPIP preparation, and remember—practice makes perfect!

Hi there! I'm Sarah Evans, an English enthusiast and the creator of this blog dedicated to helping you master the English language. As someone who knows the challenges of learning and improving a second language, my goal is to share practical tips, fun exercises, and real-world strategies to make your English journey easier and more enjoyable. Whether you're working on grammar, expanding your vocabulary, or aiming for fluency, you'll find resources here to guide you every step of the way. Let’s turn your English goals into reality, one word at a time. Feel free to connect with me—I'd love to hear about your progress!

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