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Speaking · S4

CELPIP Speaking Task 4: predictions with evidence

Connect each prediction to a clue and separate possibility from certainty.

By MockMaple · Updated

Try the prompt

Using the same library scene described in the reference facts, predict what will probably happen next. Explain your reasoning.

  • A woman holds the entrance door open for a man pushing three boxes on a trolley.
  • A child points to a dropped glove beside an older person seated with a walking stick.
  • The scene does not establish who owns the glove.

Plan your approach

  1. Identify an action already in progress.
  2. Predict its likely next step and explain the clue.
  3. Mark uncertainty when the facts do not establish an outcome.

Complete sample response

Synthetic reading of the complete sample response. This short teaching example is not a full timed test performance.

The man will probably push the trolley through the entrance next, since the woman is already holding the door for him. Once the boxes are inside, she may let the door close and follow him. Beside the bench, I expect the child to draw the older person’s attention to the glove. The child might pick it up and ask whether it belongs to them. I cannot tell who owns it, so it is also possible they will leave it somewhere visible for its owner. Those small actions seem more likely than everyone leaving immediately, because both groups are in the middle of doing something.

Why these choices work

A response or interpretation to improve

The man will go somewhere. The child will take the glove because it is his glove. Everyone will leave and the library will close. I think this is what will happen next.

because it is his glove → I cannot tell who owns it

The revised response avoids treating an unknown owner as a fact. Try this: Use may or might for a plausible event the scene does not establish.

The man will go somewhere. → push the trolley through the entrance next

A specific prediction is linked to the open door rather than a vague destination. Try this: Pair each prediction with one visible detail that supports it.

Vocabulary in context

probably

Likely, but not certain.

The man will probably move the boxes inside.

Choose the right alternative: Might expresses possibility without the same confidence as probably.

Usage note: Do not replace probably with definitely unless the evidence supports certainty.

Explore vocabulary, synonyms and idioms

Check your understanding

Choose an answer to see the evidence and an explanation for every option. These checks are not a proficiency score.

1. Which revision best follows the lesson’s approach?
All answers and explanations

Which revision best follows the lesson’s approach?

Answer: The child might ask who owns the glove.

Evidence: The scene does not establish who owns the glove.

  • The glove definitely belongs to the child.: Ownership is not established by the described scene.
  • The child might ask who owns the glove.: This is a possible next action and does not invent ownership.
  • The library will close in five minutes.: The scene gives no closing time.

Try a new situation

A cyclist has stopped beside a fallen shopping bag. A pedestrian is reaching toward an orange on the pavement. Predict two likely next actions using these described clues.

Use your own notes or voice recorder, then check your work:

  • Can you point to a source detail for each prediction?
  • Identify one specific detail that supports your main message.
  • Revise one vague expression without changing your meaning.
Apply this in free practice

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