CELPIP Speaking Part 4: Making Predictions
In Task 4, you look at an image and predict what will happen next. You use future tenses and conditional language to explain your predictions with reasons. You have 30 seconds to prepare and 60 seconds to speak.
Practice Making Predictions NowWhat Task 4: Making Predictions looks like on test day
You will see the same type of image as Task 3 — a scene with people and activities. But instead of describing what you see, you predict what will happen next.
You need to make 2-3 predictions about what the people in the image will do, what might change in the scene, or what consequences could follow from the current situation.
Raters evaluate your use of future tenses, conditional structures, logical reasoning, and vocabulary range.
How to score CLB 9+ on Task 4: Making Predictions
- Use future language: "I think the man will...", "She is probably going to...", "It looks like they might..."
- Give reasons for your predictions: "Because the sky looks dark, I predict it will start raining and the people will move inside."
- Use conditional structures: "If the traffic continues, the bus will probably be late." This demonstrates grammar range.
- Make 2-3 distinct predictions rather than one long guess. Each prediction should be a separate idea with its own reasoning.
- Connect your predictions to visible evidence in the image: "Since the woman is carrying an umbrella, she probably expects rain."
Common mistakes on Task 4: Making Predictions
- Confusing prediction with description. Raters want "will" and "going to" forms with reasoned guesses, not a recap of what you see.
- Hedging too much ("maybe... perhaps... I'm not sure"). It signals low confidence and lowers your task fulfillment score.
- Making 1–2 predictions then stopping. Aim for 3+ predictions, with at least one cause-effect chain ("because... so...").
- Switching out of future tense back into descriptive present tense mid-answer. Stay future-focused for the full 60 seconds.
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Start PracticingTask 4: Making Predictions FAQ
Is Task 4 related to Task 3?+
Task 4 often uses the same or a similar image as Task 3. In Task 3, you describe what you see. In Task 4, you predict what happens next. Think of it as the "before and after" pair.
What if my predictions are wrong?+
There are no wrong predictions. The raters assess your English ability — grammar, vocabulary, coherence — not the accuracy of your guesses. Any reasonable prediction with good reasoning scores well.
What tenses should I use?+
Future simple ("will happen"), going to ("is going to leave"), might/could/may ("might start raining"), and conditionals ("If X happens, then Y will follow").
How many predictions should I make?+
Aim for 2-3 predictions in 60 seconds, each with a brief reason. Don't rush through 5 predictions — depth and language quality matter more than quantity.