CELPIP Speaking Task 4: Make Predictions
Make 2–4 predictions about what will happen next, and briefly explain why. Use future forms, modals, and conditionals for a Band 7–10 response.
What They Test
A high score comes from clear predictions, natural future language, and short reasons that sound logical.
Prediction Quality
Making realistic predictions based on what you can see, not random guesses.
Future & Conditional Language
Using natural future forms and modals (will, might, could, be going to) and simple conditionals (if… then…).
Reasons (Very Short)
Giving a quick “because” for each prediction so it sounds credible and organized.
Range of Certainty
Showing different levels of confidence (for example: probably vs might) and mentioning one alternative scenario.
Template Phrases
Ready-to-use expressions that help you predict clearly and sound natural.
Opening (Picture → Situation)
- “Looking at this picture, it seems like…”
- “From what I can see, someone is about to…”
- “This looks like the moment right before…”
Prediction (Next / After)
- “In the next few moments, I think… will…”
- “It’s likely that…”
- “After that, they might…”
- “I wouldn’t be surprised if…”
Reasons (Short “Because…”)
- “This is because…”
- “The reason I think this is…”
- “Given that…, it’s reasonable to expect…”
Alternatives + Closing
- “If… happens, then… could…”
- “However, it’s also possible that…”
- “Overall, I think the most likely outcome is…”
Sample Answer (60 seconds)
See how a Band 7–10 response sounds with clear predictions and short reasons.
Scenario:
Look at the picture. What do you think will happen next? What might happen after that? Why?
Opening:
“In this picture, it looks like a man is running toward a bus, and the doors are about to close. The driver seems ready to leave.”
Prediction 1 (Next):
“In the next few moments, I think the driver will notice him and keep the door open, because the man is waving and running as fast as he can.”
Prediction 2 (After):
“After that, he’ll probably tap his card quickly and move inside so he doesn’t block other passengers. He might also thank the driver, since the driver waited for him.”
Prediction 3 (Alternative):
“However, if the driver doesn’t see him, the bus could pull away and the man will likely have to wait for the next one. In that case, he might be late for work or an appointment.”
Closing:
“Overall, I think the most likely outcome is that the driver will wait a few seconds and the situation will end smoothly.”
Why This Response Scores High:
- Gives multiple predictions (next + after + alternative)
- Uses natural future forms and modals (will, might, could)
- Adds short reasons (“because…”) instead of guessing randomly
- Ends with a clear overall prediction
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these frequent errors that lower scores on CELPIP Speaking Task 4.
Mistake 1: Only One Prediction
A strong response usually includes 2–4 predictions (next → after → alternative).
Weak:
“I think the driver will help.”
Strong:
“First, the driver will probably wait a moment. After that, the man will get on the bus and the bus will continue on its route.”
Mistake 2: No Reasons
Predictions sound stronger when you add a short reason using “because”.
Weak:
“He will catch the bus.”
Strong:
“He will catch the bus because he’s already very close and the driver can see him.”
Mistake 3: Wrong Time Reference
Task 4 is about the future (next / later), so keep your verbs in future forms.
Tip: Use time words like “in a moment”, “soon”, “after that”, “later on”, and “in the long run” to guide the listener.
Mini Quiz
Test your understanding of CELPIP Speaking Task 4 with these quick questions.
1. What is the primary purpose of CELPIP Speaking Task 4?
2. Which language forms are most important for Task 4?
3. What makes a strong prediction response?
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about CELPIP Speaking Task 4 answered.
How many predictions should I make in Task 4?
Aim for 2–4 predictions. A simple pattern is: what will happen next → what might happen after that → one alternative possibility.
Do my predictions have to be “correct”?
No. You are scored on how clearly and naturally you speak. Make predictions that are realistic and give short reasons so they sound logical.
What grammar should I use for predictions?
Use will for strong predictions, might/could for possibilities, and simple conditionals like if… then….
How do I avoid repeating the same idea?
Change the time frame (next / later) and add a different angle: action / consequence / alternative. Use transitions like "First", "After that", and "However".