CELPIP Speaking Task 4: Making Predictions
- jpcanadaenglish
- 1 day ago
- 4 min read
Updated: 22 hours ago
If you're preparing for the CELPIP test, Task 4 of the Speaking section — Making Predictions — it first important to note the similarities and differences to Task 3.
Comparison of CELPIP Speaking Task 3 vs Task 4
Feature | Task 3: Describing a Scene | Task 4: Making Predictions |
Task Focus | Describe what is happening in a picture | Predict what might happen next based on a picture |
Type of Image | A fully detailed scene (e.g., park, market, classroom) | Exactly the same image as Task 3 |
Speaking Time | 60 seconds | 60 seconds |
Preparation Time | 30 seconds | 30 seconds |
Main Skill Tested | Observation, description, vocabulary use | Interpretation, reasoning, prediction using modals |
Tense Used Most Often | Present continuous (e.g., “She is walking…”) | Future/modal (e.g., “She might fall…”) |
Grammar Structures to Use | Present continuous, passive voice, prepositions of place | Modal verbs (might, could, will), conditionals, cause & effect |
Required Thinking | Visual analysis and verbal organization | Logical speculation and forward thinking |
Common Pitfall | Listing too many trivial details without structure | Just describing the image instead of predicting |
Tip for Success | Focus on interactions and move from general to specific | Use clues in the image and support your predictions logically |
While Task 3 (Describing a Scene) and Task 4 (Making Predictions) may appear similar — both involve analyzing a picture and speaking for 60 seconds — they test different skills. Task 3 focuses on observation and detailed description using the present continuous tense, while Task 4 emphasizes speculation and logical prediction, often using modal verbs and conditional structures.
Both tasks require strong organization, clear language, and the ability to describe visual information, but Task 3 stays in the present, while Task 4 moves into the future. Understanding these subtle differences can help you tailor your approach and maximize your score.
Strategy: How to Structure Your Prediction
To give a strong response, follow this simple structure:
Step 1: Start by introducing task
Start by introducing task. DO NOT introduce picture again. AVOID repetition of what you mentioned earlier in Task 3.
Example: "Now, I'm going to make some predictions of what I think will happen next."
Step 2: Identify key elements or clues
Focus on what looks unusual, dangerous, surprising, or incomplete. These are hints about what might happen next.
Example: "There’s a small dog running across the road in front of him, and he doesn’t seem to see it."
Step 3: Make a prediction using modals
Use will, might, could, or is going to to predict what could happen.
Example: "The man might fall off his bike if he doesn’t stop in time."
Step 4: Give reasons for your prediction
Support your answer by explaining why you think this will happen.
Example: "He’s looking to the side, and the dog is running very quickly across his path."
Step 5: End with a second possibility or longer-term consequence
Add a secondary outcome or something that might happen afterwards.
Example: "If he falls, people around him may rush over to help."
This structure makes your prediction organized, logical, and easier for the listener to follow.
Sample Prediction Prompts
Let’s look at some sample scenes and how you can respond effectively.
Prompt 1: A Boy Climbing a Tree
“Hi Jenny! I have a picture I want to tell you about. This is a scene of a young boy climbing a tree in a backyard. He’s already quite high, and it looks like one of the branches he’s holding is very thin. I think he might lose his grip and fall. The way his feet are positioned shows he’s not very stable. If he does fall, he could hurt his arm or leg. His little brother is watching from below, so he may call for help or try to catch him, which might not be very safe either.”
Prompt 2: A Woman Reaching for Something on a High Shelf
“Hi Liam! I’m looking at a photo of a woman in a grocery store trying to reach a cereal box on a top shelf. She’s on her tiptoes and holding a basket in one hand. There’s also a stack of cans right below her. I think she might lose her balance and knock over the cans. That could startle other shoppers nearby. She might also ask someone for help if she realizes it’s too difficult to reach.”
Prompt 3: A Child Chasing a Ball Near a Street
“Hey Sarah, I have an image to describe. This is a picture of a child running after a ball that rolled toward the street. The child isn’t looking at the road, and a car is coming from the right side. I think the driver might hit the brakes quickly, but there’s a chance the child will step into the street before the car can stop. Hopefully, an adult nearby will stop the child in time.”
Key Phrases for Making Predictions
1. Modal Verbs for Speculation
He might fall…
She could drop it…
They are likely to miss the bus…
The car is probably going to stop suddenly…
2. Conditional Sentences
If she keeps reaching like that, she might lose her balance.
If the boy climbs higher, he could slip and fall.
If no one notices the dog, it may cause an accident.
3. Cause and Effect Phrases
As a result…
Because of that…
This might lead to…
That could cause…
4. Phrases to Show Uncertainty or Possibility
It looks like…
There’s a chance that…
Maybe…
I’m guessing that…
Final Tips for Task 4 Success
Don’t just describe what you see — always talk about what you think will happen next.
Use a mix of modals like “will,” “might,” “could,” and “going to” for variety.
Speak clearly and confidently, even if you're unsure. It’s okay to guess — what matters is how you support your idea.
Time yourself during practice so you get used to the 60-second limit.
Use details from the image to support your prediction, but don’t get stuck describing every object.
With practice, you’ll get better at thinking quickly and speaking fluidly. Just remember: observe, predict, explain, and expand.
Learn More or Get in Touch
At www.englishabilitycanada.com, we help students master CELPIP with 1-on-1 and group classes that fit your needs and schedule. From fluency coaching to detailed speaking feedback, we’ve got your back.
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