Tip #26 Writing Task 2 Responding to Survey Questions: Structure your response, use persuasive techniques (eg chain logic, addressing counterarguments.. etc), concentrate on appropriate tone and avoid word salad

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Pre-Writing Tips

1. Structure Your Response
✔ Paragraph 1: State Your Opinion

• "I strongly support Option B because..."
  ✔ Paragraph 2: Reason 1 + Cause/Effect
• "Expanding public transit would reduce car dependency. If more buses and trains are available..."
  ✔ Paragraph 3: Reason 2 + Long-Term Impact
• "Additionally, bike lanes promote healthier lifestyles. Over time, this would..."
  ✔ Paragraph 4: Counterargument + Rebuttal
• "Some argue congestion fees are faster, but they unfairly burden low-income drivers."
  ✔ Paragraph 5: Suggestion/Hope
• "I urge the city to prioritize transit upgrades for a fair, sustainable solution."

2. Persuasive Techniques
✔ Cause/Effect: "If Option A is implemented, traffic might decrease, but public resentment could grow."
✔ Comparative Language: "Option B is not only cheaper long-term but also more inclusive."
✔ Data/Examples: "Cities like Vancouver saw a 20% traffic drop after transit expansions."
3. Tone & Clarity
✔ Formal but direct (survey = semi-formal).
✔ Avoid emotional language (e.g., "Option A is terrible!" → "Option A has significant drawbacks.").

CELPIP Writing Task 2: Responding to a Survey
Time: 26–27 minutes | Word Count: 150–200 words

Task Prompt
"Your city is considering two options to reduce traffic congestion:

• Option A: Charge drivers a fee to enter the downtown core during rush hour.
• Option B: Invest in expanding public transit (more buses, trains, and bike lanes).

Which option do you support? Give reasons for your choice."

Model Response (190 words)
I strongly support Option B: expanding public transit to reduce traffic congestion. While congestion fees might discourage driving, they disproportionately affect low-income workers who rely on cars.
First, improving buses and trains offers a practical alternative to driving. If the city adds more routes and frequency, commuters would willingly switch from cars, easing traffic naturally. For example, after Toronto expanded its streetcar lines, downtown car use dropped a lot.
Second, investing in bike lanes promotes health and sustainability. The long-term effect would be fewer cars on the road and lower pollution levels. Cities like Amsterdam show how bike-friendly infrastructure can transform transportation habits.
Some argue congestion fees (Option A) are quicker to implement. However, this penalizes drivers without providing alternatives. Many people, like nurses with late shifts, have no choice but to drive during rush hour.
In the long run, Option B creates a fairer, greener city. I suggest the council phase in transit upgrades while educating the public about their benefits. This approach ensures maximum support and lasting impact.


Post-Writing Assessment & Reflection
Self-Checklist
✔ Did I clearly pick a side in the first sentence?
✔ Did I provide 2 logical reasons with cause/effect?
✔ Did I address the counterargument?
✔ Did I suggest future action?
✔ Did I stay within 200 words?
Reflection Questions

1. Were my reasons convincing and well-explained?
2. Did I balance logic and fairness?
3. How could I make the counterargument stronger?
   

Practice Tip: Time yourself responding to other dichotomous surveys (e.g., "Should schools ban smartphones?"). Focus on structure over perfection.