CELPIP Writing Task 2 - How to Write a Persuasive Survey Response

What Task 2 Really Tests

Task 2 gives you a topic (usually two options) and asks you to take a position. You're responding to a "survey" - but really, you're writing a mini persuasive essay. The test scores:

• Did you clearly state your position?
• Did you support it with reasons and examples?
• Did you organize your argument logically?
• Did you demonstrate vocabulary and grammar range?

You're not graded on WHETHER your opinion is "right." You're graded on HOW WELL you expressed and supported it. A well-argued wrong opinion scores higher than a poorly argued right one.

The 4-Paragraph Persuasion Formula

This structure works for every Task 2 prompt:

Paragraph 1 - Position statement (2–3 sentences):
State the topic. State your choice. Give a preview of your reasons.
"The survey asks whether [X or Y]. I firmly believe that [X] is the better option for two key reasons."

Paragraph 2 - Reason 1 with example (3–4 sentences):
State your first reason. Support it with a specific example or explanation. Use a connector to link ideas.
"Firstly, [X] would [benefit]. For instance, [specific example]. This demonstrates that..."

Paragraph 3 - Reason 2 with example (3–4 sentences):
Same structure, different reason. Try to make this reason come from a different angle.
"Furthermore, [X] would also [benefit]. A case in point is [example]. Consequently, ..."

Paragraph 4 - Conclusion (2 sentences):
Restate your position. Summarize why.
"Taking everything into account, [X] is clearly the superior option because [reason 1] and [reason 2]. I strongly recommend that [relevant stakeholder] implement this choice."

This formula gives you ~150–200 words - right in the target range. And it's guaranteed to hit all scoring criteria.

Making Arguments Convincing

Use specific examples, not vague claims:
✗ "It would help a lot of people."
✓ "It would benefit families with children, particularly those who rely on public transportation to get to school."

Use cause-and-effect chains:
✗ "A park would be good."
✓ "A park would encourage outdoor activity, which would improve residents' health and reduce healthcare costs for the community."

Acknowledge the other side (briefly):
"While some might argue that [opposing view], the benefits of [your choice] far outweigh this concern because [reason]."

This last technique - concession + rebuttal - is a CLB 9+ signal. It shows sophisticated argumentation. Even one sentence like this makes your writing stand out.

Time Management for Task 2

You get 26 minutes for Task 2. Budget:

Don't spend more than 3 minutes planning. Your first instinct on position is usually fine - commit to it and start writing. The examiner can't tell if you actually believe it.