CELPIP Writing Task 2 · Responding to Survey Questions · question 13 of 15
Canada Day Fireworks or Drones
A CELPIP Writing Task 2 practice question (Responding to Survey Questions), with a model answer below. No sign-up needed. Read the task, then write 150–200 words in 26 minutes, as you would on the test.
The task
Your city is planning its Canada Day celebration at the waterfront park. The events committee is asking residents which evening show they would prefer to see this year. Choose the option you prefer and explain the reasons for your choice. Write about 150-200 words. Option A: Keep the traditional fireworks display, which costs about $35,000. Option B: Replace the fireworks with a drone light show, which costs about $45,000.
- Choose Option A or Option B.
- Explain the reasons for your choice with details and examples.
- Length
- 150–200 words
- Time
- 26 minutes
- Question
- 13 of 15
A simple way to build your answer
- Explain what makes the event meaningful to residents.
- Use the cost information in the prompt to support your argument.
- Acknowledge the advantages of the other option, such as noise or environmental concerns.
Model answer · CLB 9
187 words · no sign-upI would prefer Option A, keeping the traditional fireworks, because they are part of what makes Canada Day special and they cost less. First of all, fireworks are a tradition that brings many generations together. Every July 1, my family spreads a blanket on the grass at the waterfront, and my parents still talk about watching the same display when they first arrived in Canada. For many residents, colours bursting over the water are the highlight of the year. A drone show, however impressive, might feel more like a technology demonstration than a celebration. Secondly, the city would save about $10,000 by keeping the fireworks. That money could be used to improve other parts of the festival, such as more washrooms, free water stations or extra shuttle buses, which would make the whole day more comfortable for families. I recognize that fireworks are noisy and can upset pets and some veterans, and that drones produce less smoke. Perhaps the city could offer a quieter viewing area or add a short drone segment first. For these reasons, I still believe Option A is the better choice this year.
Why this answer works
- It makes skilful use of the cost figures, calculating the $10,000 saving and proposing how to use it.
- The family memory of watching the display as newcomers gives the tradition argument emotional weight.
- It acknowledges noise concerns for pets and veterans and offers creative compromises, showing nuance.
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