CELPIP Speaking Task 4: A Foolproof Guide to Making Predictions

Introduction

In CELPIP Speaking Task 4, you'll describe what might happen next based on the same picture from Task 3. Your goal is to speculate logically using context clues from the image while maintaining a clear, structured response.

Below is a six-step formula with sample sentences and an expanded vocabulary list to help you sound natural and confident when making predictions.

1. Brief Recap of the Scene

Before jumping into your predictions, quickly summarize the scene to provide context.

What to Do:

• ✔ Describe the key elements of the image in one or two sentences.
• ✔ Keep it brief and relevant—no need to repeat too many details from Task 3.

Example Summaries:

• "The image shows a crowded shopping mall, with people carrying bags and chatting."
• "This is a busy airport terminal—some passengers are checking in, while others wait at security."
• "The scene takes place at a beach where families are relaxing, kids are playing, and surfers are out in the water."
• "It's an office setting—several employees are in a meeting, while one person looks deep in thought."
• "This looks like a restaurant where a waiter is serving food, and customers are engaged in conversations."

2. Transition into Predictions

Now, shift from describing the scene to predicting what might happen next.

What to Do:

• ✔ Use transition phrases to introduce your speculation.
• ✔ Keep it natural and conversational.

Example Transitions:

• "Based on what I see, I think a few interesting things might happen next."
• "Looking at the situation, I can predict how this might unfold."
• "Given the expressions and actions of the people here, I suspect a few possible outcomes."
• "Observing these details, I can make an educated guess about what's coming next."
• "From the looks of it, something unexpected could happen soon."

3. Highlight One Main Prediction

Start with one clear, logical prediction based on visible clues.

What to Do:

• ✔ Focus on a single subject or event.
• ✔ Use verbs like 'might,' 'could,' or 'is likely to.'

Example Predictions:

• "The woman rushing through security might miss her flight if she doesn't hurry."
• "Since the sky is getting darker, I predict that it's about to rain, and people will start packing up."
• "The waiter carrying the tray looks unsteady, so he might accidentally drop the food."
• "One of the kids running near the waves could slip and fall into the water."
• "The man in the office seems frustrated—he might be about to argue with his colleague."

4. Add a Second or Third Prediction

If time allows, speculate about additional events to add depth to your response.

What to Do:

• ✔ Make 1–2 more logical predictions based on clues from the image.
• ✔ Use different sentence structures to avoid sounding repetitive.

Example Additional Predictions:

• "Meanwhile, the elderly man walking toward the train might struggle to board before it departs."
• "At the same time, the cashier could run into a problem if the credit card machine stops working."
• "I also think the surfer in the distance is about to catch a big wave, which could either go smoothly or cause a wipeout."
• "The child playing with his toy might get distracted and accidentally bump into someone."
• "The couple at the restaurant might be celebrating something special, and I wouldn't be surprised if one of them makes a toast."

5. Provide Logical Explanations

Support your predictions by explaining why they make sense based on the visual details.

What to Do:

• ✔ Connect your predictions to specific observations.
• ✔ Use words that indicate reasoning, like 'since,' 'because,' and 'given that.'

Example Explanations:

• "Since the waiter is carrying multiple plates and looks rushed, there's a high chance he might drop something."
• "Given that the woman is constantly checking her phone, she might be waiting for an important message."
• "Because the waves are getting stronger, some beachgoers could decide to pack up and leave."
• "As the teacher is handing out papers, I think she's about to announce a quiz, catching students off guard."
• "Seeing that the man is glancing at his watch anxiously, he's probably running late for an appointment."

6. Wrap Up with a Strong Conclusion

End your response smoothly with a natural-sounding closing statement.

What to Do:

• ✔ Summarize your predictions briefly.
• ✔ Use confident yet speculative language.

Example Conclusions:

• "Overall, I expect a few surprises and quick reactions in the next few moments."
• "So, in short, I foresee a mix of minor accidents, quick decisions, and unexpected turns."
• "All in all, these small details suggest that the scene is about to change dramatically."
• "Time will tell what happens next, but from the clues I see, these events seem very likely."
• "Those are my main predictions based on this scene—let's see how things play out!"

Powerful Vocabulary for Logical Predictions

Speculative Verbs

• ✔ anticipate – expect or foresee
• ✔ foresee – predict something will happen
• ✔ suspect – believe or assume something is likely
• ✔ reckon – think or have an opinion about something
• ✔ imagine – visualize a possible scenario

Probability & Possibility Words

• ✔ might – a possible but uncertain outcome
• ✔ could – a potential scenario
• ✔ is likely to – something that will probably happen
• ✔ on the verge of – something about to occur
• ✔ probably – a strong likelihood

Linking & Reasoning Phrases

• ✔ given the fact that… – considering the situation or evidence
• ✔ seeing that… – noticing something that indicates a likely outcome
• ✔ as a result of… – because of the preceding actions or context
• ✔ from the looks of it… – judging by appearances
• ✔ in view of… – taking something into account

Observational Clues

• ✔ restless – showing signs of impatience or agitation
• ✔ distracted – preoccupied with something else
• ✔ flustered – appearing nervous or overwhelmed
• ✔ on edge – looking anxious or uneasy
• ✔ enthusiastic – showing excitement or eagerness

Linking Predictions

• ✔ meanwhile – happening at the same time
• ✔ likewise – similarly, in addition
• ✔ as for… – referencing another person or situation
• ✔ next up… – introducing a following event
• ✔ following that… – pointing to a subsequent development

Possible Outcomes

• ✔ chaos – a state of complete disorder
• ✔ relief – the easing of worry or tension
• ✔ accident – an unintended event, often causing minor trouble
• ✔ confrontation – a direct encounter or argument
• ✔ resolution – the point at which a conflict or confusion is solved

Final Thoughts: Master CELPIP Task 4 with Confidence

By following this six-step formula, you'll create a clear, logical, and well-structured prediction that impresses CELPIP examiners.

Key Takeaways:

• ✅ Summarize the scene briefly before making predictions.
• ✅ Use transition phrases to smoothly shift from description to speculation.
• ✅ Make 1–2 strong predictions using logical reasoning.
• ✅ Support your predictions with clear explanations based on the image.
• ✅ Wrap up your response naturally and confidently.
• ✅ Use varied vocabulary to sound fluent and engaging.

💡 With practice, making logical predictions will become second nature—both for CELPIP and real-life conversations!

✨ Good luck, and trust your instincts! ✨