How to Succeed in CELPIP Speaking Task 4 – Making Predictions

CELPIP Speaking Task 4 confuses many candidates because it is not about describing what you see, but about predicting what will happen next.

Many students lose points because they:

• Describe the picture again
• Make predictions without explanation
• Speak without a clear structure

In this guide, you will learn exactly how to make clear, logical predictions and score higher in CELPIP Speaking Task 4.

What Is CELPIP Speaking Task 4?

In CELPIP Speaking Task 4 – Making Predictions, you look at a picture and predict what is likely to happen next.

⏱ Preparation time: 30 seconds
⏱ Speaking time: 60 seconds

You must:

• Make 2–3 logical predictions
• Explain why you think they will happen
• Connect predictions to what you see in the picture

What CELPIP Examiners Are Looking For

Examiners evaluate:

1. Relevance

• Are your predictions based on the picture?
• Do they make sense logically?

2. Organization

• Clear sequence of predictions
• Smooth transitions

3. Clarity & Fluency

• Natural tone
• Clear explanations

4. Vocabulary (Functional & Predictive)

• Future-focused language
• Logical connectors

👉 Predictions + reasons = higher score

The Best Structure for CELPIP Speaking Task 4 (60 Seconds)

Use this structure every time:

✅ 1. Brief Context (1 sentence)

Mention what is happening now.

✅ 2. Prediction #1 + Reason

Say what will happen and explain why.

✅ 3. Prediction #2 + Reason

Add another logical outcome.

✅ 4. Optional Prediction or Result

Explain the possible consequence.

✅ 5. Short Conclusion

Wrap up naturally.

Useful Phrases for Making Predictions

Prediction Starters

• I think that…
• It is likely that…
• This situation will probably lead to…
• There is a good chance that…

Giving Reasons

• because…
• based on what I can see…
• as a result of this…
• due to the fact that…

Future Outcomes

• This could cause…
• This may result in…
• In the end…

Common Mistakes in CELPIP Speaking Task 4

🚫 Only describing the picture
🚫 Making predictions without explanation
🚫 Giving unrealistic ideas
🚫 Speaking too quickly
🚫 Ending abruptly

❗ CELPIP wants logical thinking, not imagination.

Sample Answer (Band 7–8 Level)

In this picture, it appears that a child is standing too close to a wet floor sign in a shopping mall.
I think the child might slip and fall because the floor looks wet and there is no adult nearby. As a result, someone may quickly come to help or call for assistance.
It is also likely that a staff member will notice the situation and try to block the area to prevent accidents. In the end, this could lead to improved safety measures in the mall.

Why This Answer Works

✔ Clear predictions
✔ Logical explanations
✔ Relevant to the picture
✔ Natural flow
✔ Good use of future language

How to Practice CELPIP Speaking Task 4 Effectively

Smart Practice Method:

1. Look at the picture and identify a risk or action
2. Predict what will happen next
3. Explain why
4. Add a possible result
5. Practice finishing on time

Final Tip for Higher Scores

You do not need to predict many things.
Two strong predictions with clear reasons are better than many weak ideas.

Practice CELPIP Speaking Task 4 with Real Feedback

Practice alone helps, but feedback makes the difference.

👉 Practice making predictions with real CELPIP timing and get instant feedback on clarity, logic, and fluency.