CELPIP Listening Practice Test 3 — All 6 Parts With Transcripts & Answers

Free CELPIP Listening practice test 3: all six parts (Problem Solving to Viewpoints) with full transcripts, 38 questions, and the answer key with explanations.

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CELPIP Listening practice test in the official six-part order, 38 questions. In the real test each recording plays once only; our interactive version lets you replay while you learn.

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Part 1 — Listening to Problem Solving

Transcript

Mike: Sarah, I need to talk to you about the lift issue. It's still not working properly after the Chinook winds yesterday. Sarah: I know, it's been a nightmare. We had to cancel all morning classes. The wind caused a power surge that damaged the control panel, right? Mike: Exactly. I checked the electrical circuits myself, and the surge fried several components, including the main processor. I need to replace them, but the problem is the supplier in Calgary is closed for the weekend. I tried ordering online but the express delivery won't come until Monday. Sarah: Can we use parts from another lift? The Magic Carpet is smaller, but maybe? Mike: No, the Magic Carpet uses a different voltage and control protocol. However, I noticed that the old maintenance shed has a backup control unit that might be compatible with this model. It was decommissioned two years ago, but it might have similar specs. I'd need to check the circuit diagrams. Sarah: That sounds promising. I can help you carry the unit if it's heavy. Also, head office mentioned we could call an emergency electrician from the city, but it would cost a fortune and they might not arrive until evening. Mike: I'd rather do it ourselves if possible. Let's look at the shed after lunch. I have the key. In the meantime, I can set up a temporary bypass using some spare wire and fuses, so we can run the beginner lift at low speed. It's not ideal, but it's safe. Sarah: That would be fantastic. Even one lift would allow us to run beginner classes, at least. I'll inform the guests about the delay and offer refunds or vouchers. Mike: I'll also check the other chairlifts to ensure they weren't affected. The storm caused power flickers all night, and I want to be thorough. Sarah: Thanks, Mike. You're a lifesaver. Let's hope the parts are compatible.

Questions

1. What is the main problem being discussed?

  1. The Chinook wind caused a power surge damaging a control panel.
  2. The electrician is unavailable.
  3. The beginner class is cancelled.
  4. The ski lift is broken due to age.
Answer: A

Why: The dialogue begins with Mike explaining that the Chinook winds caused a power surge that damaged the control panel, making B the correct answer.

2. What solution does Mike first propose to fix the problem?

  1. Order parts from Calgary.
  2. Call an emergency electrician.
  3. Check a backup unit in the old shed.
  4. Use parts from the Magic Carpet.
Answer: C

Why: Mike suggests checking the old maintenance shed for a backup control unit. This is his preferred first solution.

3. Why can't parts be ordered from the supplier?

  1. The parts are too expensive.
  2. The supplier is closed for the weekend.
  3. The supplier is out of stock.
  4. The delivery would take too long.
Answer: B

Why: Mike states that the supplier in Calgary is closed for the weekend, and express delivery won't arrive until Monday.

4. What temporary measure does Mike plan to implement?

  1. Run the lift manually.
  2. Set up a temporary bypass.
  3. Repair the control panel directly.
  4. Install a new motor.
Answer: B

Why: Mike says he will set up a temporary bypass using spare wire and fuses to run the beginner lift at low speed.

5. What does Sarah say she will do for the guests?

  1. Charge extra for private lessons.
  2. Inform them about the delay and offer refunds.
  3. Take them on a hiking tour instead.
  4. Give them free hot chocolate.
Answer: B

Why: Sarah says she will inform the guests about the delay and offer refunds or vouchers.

6. Why does Mike need the schematic?

  1. To show Sarah how to fix it.
  2. To order the correct part.
  3. To check compatibility of the backup unit.
  4. To trace the wiring.
Answer: C

Why: Mike says he'll bring the schematic (circuit diagram) to check if the backup unit is compatible with the current model.

7. What consequence of the Chinook wind does Mike mention?

  1. Heavy snowfall.
  2. Icing on the cables.
  3. Cold temperatures.
  4. Power flickers all night.
Answer: D

Why: Mike mentions that the storm caused power flickers all night, which indicates a consequence of the Chinook.

8. How does Sarah react to Mike at the end?

  1. Skeptical.
  2. Indifferent.
  3. Frustrated.
  4. Grateful.
Answer: D

Why: Sarah says 'Thanks, Mike. You're a lifesaver,' showing gratitude.

Part 2 — Listening to a Daily Life Conversation

Transcript

Linda: Hey David, are you planning to volunteer at the Stampede again this year? David: Absolutely! I signed up for the parking crew. It's hard work directing traffic, but I love being part of the excitement. How about you? Linda: I'm thinking about it. I volunteered for the pancake breakfast tent last year, and it was a blast. But this year I want to try something different. Maybe work at the agricultural barns? I love the animals. David: Oh, that's a great choice. The barns need volunteers early in the morning. You'll be helping with feeding and cleaning the stalls. Linda: I know. The hours are early, but it's worth it. Plus, you get free entry to the grounds on your days off. David: Exactly. And they provide meals for volunteers. Last year I had the best beef dip sandwich. Linda: I also heard they need volunteers for the evening stampede concerts, but I prefer daytime shifts. The pay is the same regardless. David: Me too. I'm actually going to the volunteer orientation session next Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Stampede Park. You should come. They'll explain the rules and give us our assignments. Linda: I'll check my schedule. By the way, do you need a ride? The weather forecast says it might snow tonight, and driving can be tricky on Deerfoot Trail. David: That would be fantastic. I don't want to deal with winter driving on top of the evening rush hour. My car hasn't had its winter tires put on yet. Linda: Sure, I'll pick you up at 6:15. We can grab coffee from Tim Hortons on the way. David: Perfect. I'm looking forward to it. It's always a good time volunteering for the Greatest Outdoor Show on Earth. Linda: For sure. I'll text you my address so you know where to meet.

Questions

1. What is David's preferred volunteer role this year?

  1. Agricultural barns.
  2. Evening concerts.
  3. Pancake breakfast tent.
  4. Parking crew.
Answer: D

Why: David says 'I signed up for the parking crew.' That is his preferred role this year.

2. What does Linda want to do differently this year?

  1. Work in the agricultural barns.
  2. Work the evening shows.
  3. Direct traffic.
  4. Volunteer with David.
Answer: A

Why: Linda says 'Maybe work at the agricultural barns?' indicating she wants to try that role differently from last year.

3. Why does David accept Linda's offer of a ride?

  1. He wants to go together.
  2. He wants to avoid winter driving.
  3. He doesn't know the way.
  4. He doesn't have a car.
Answer: B

Why: David says 'I don't want to deal with winter driving' so he accepts the ride to avoid it.

4. What time is the orientation session?

  1. 8:00 p.m.
  2. 7:00 p.m.
  3. 7:30 p.m.
  4. 6:15 p.m.
Answer: B

Why: David says the orientation session is next Tuesday at 7 p.m.

5. What does Linda suggest they do on the way?

  1. Pick up a friend.
  2. Fill up gas.
  3. Buy coffee from Tim Hortons.
  4. Check the weather.
Answer: C

Why: Linda says 'We can grab coffee from Tim Hortons on the way.'

Part 3 — Listening for Information

Transcript

Attention residents of Calgary and surrounding areas. Environment Canada has issued a Chinook wind warning for tonight and tomorrow. A strong chinook is expected to develop along the foothills, bringing powerful winds with gusts up to 100 kilometres per hour. These winds can cause sudden warming, hazardous driving conditions, and potential power outages. Please secure any loose outdoor objects such as patio furniture and garbage bins. Avoid travel if possible, especially on highways prone to crosswinds like Highway 2 near Nanton. In case of power outages, have an emergency kit ready with flashlights, batteries, and warm clothing. Temperatures are expected to rise from -10 to +8 degrees Celsius overnight, creating icy conditions as snow melts and refreezes. Drive with caution and reduce your speed. Residents should be prepared for rapidly changing conditions. The chinook wind is known for its dramatic temperature swings and strong gusts that make driving difficult. Visibility may be reduced due to blowing snow. If you must drive, keep your headlights on and maintain a safe distance from other vehicles. Schools in the affected areas may have delays or closures; please check with your school board. For those in the trades, especially those working outdoors or in construction, be aware of falling debris and wind chill despite the warming. Remember, a chinook can cause ice patches even when it melts snow, as water runoff may freeze on roads. Also, bring your pets indoors, as the winds can be stressful for animals. Check on neighbours who may be vulnerable. The City of Calgary will open emergency warming centres if needed. This chinook is courtesy of a strong Pacific front moving eastward. We will provide updates every hour. For real-time alerts, download the Environment Canada weather app. Stay safe, Calgary, and show your Alberta resilience!

Questions

1. What is the maximum wind gust expected?

  1. 100 km/h.
  2. 80 km/h.
  3. 110 km/h.
  4. 90 km/h.
Answer: A

Why: The announcement says 'wind gusts up to 100 kilometres per hour'.

2. Which highway is mentioned as particularly hazardous?

  1. Highway 8 near Springbank.
  2. Highway 1 near Banff.
  3. Highway 2 near Nanton.
  4. Highway 22 near Cochrane.
Answer: C

Why: The speaker says 'especially on highways prone to crosswinds like Highway 2 near Nanton.'

3. What temperature change is expected?

  1. From -15 to 0 degrees.
  2. From -10 to 8 degrees.
  3. From -5 to 5 degrees.
  4. From -20 to -5 degrees.
Answer: B

Why: The announcement states 'temperatures are expected to rise from -10 to +8 degrees Celsius.'

4. What advice is given regarding schools?

  1. Check with the school board.
  2. No advice given.
  3. Listen to the radio.
  4. Assume all schools are closed.
Answer: A

Why: The speaker says 'Schools in the affected areas may have delays or closures; please check with your school board.'

5. Why should outdoor workers be cautious?

  1. Risk of hypothermia.
  2. Wind chill may still feel cold.
  3. Falling debris and ice patches.
  4. Reduced visibility.
Answer: C

Why: The announcement says 'be aware of falling debris and wind chill despite the warming' and 'a chinook can cause ice patches'.

6. What should people do for their pets?

  1. Keep them in the garage.
  2. Walk them early.
  3. Provide extra food.
  4. Bring them indoors.
Answer: D

Why: The announcement says 'bring your pets indoors, as the winds can be stressful for animals.'

Part 4 — Listening to a News Item

Transcript

This is John Carter with Local News. A new initiative in Alberta aims to address the growing demand for skilled electricians. The Alberta Trades Partnership has launched a pre-apprenticeship program specifically for women and indigenous peoples. The program offers paid on-the-job training and academic instruction at SAIT Polytechnic in Calgary. According to the president of the partnership, the province needs over 3,000 new electricians in the next five years to support growth in the energy sector, especially renewable energy projects. The program covers residential, commercial, and industrial wiring, as well as solar panel installation. Graduates will receive a certificate and credit toward their journeyperson exam. Applications are open until March 15. To apply, you need a high school diploma and a valid driver's licence. We spoke to Sarah Mitchell, a first-year apprentice, who says 'This program is life-changing. I never thought I could work in the trades, but the support here is incredible.' Participants will earn while they learn, and after completing the program, they can find employment with over 50 partner companies across the province. The program also includes safety certification and mentorship. This is part of a larger push to diversify Alberta's economy and increase opportunities in the trades. Stay tuned for more on this developing story.

Questions

1. What is the goal of the new initiative?

  1. Hire indigenous workers only.
  2. Promote renewable energy.
  3. Support SAIT.
  4. Train more electricians.
Answer: D

Why: The news item says the initiative aims to 'address the growing demand for skilled electricians,' thus to train more.

2. Which groups is the program specifically targeting?

  1. Women and indigenous peoples.
  2. Immigrants and students.
  3. Youth and seniors.
  4. Women and men equally.
Answer: A

Why: The reporter says the program is 'specifically for women and indigenous peoples.'

3. Where does the training take place?

  1. SAIT Polytechnic.
  2. NAIT.
  3. University of Calgary.
  4. Bow Valley College.
Answer: A

Why: The program offers training at SAIT Polytechnic in Calgary.

4. How many new electricians are projected to be needed in five years?

  1. 3,000.
  2. 1,000.
  3. 2,000.
  4. 5,000.
Answer: A

Why: The news states 'the province needs over 3,000 new electricians in the next five years.'

5. What does the program cover in addition to standard wiring?

  1. Wind turbine maintenance.
  2. Oil rig electrical work.
  3. Solar panel installation.
  4. Smart home technology.
Answer: C

Why: The program includes 'solar panel installation' as part of its curriculum.

Part 5 — Listening to a Discussion

Transcript

Tom: Welcome to Energy Talks. Today we discuss how Alberta's energy transition affects trades workers. I'm joined by Lisa, an oil and gas administrative assistant, and Mark, a licensed electrician. Lisa, how do you see the shift affecting your field? Lisa: Well, Tom, administrative roles are evolving. We're now learning about carbon accounting and renewable energy credits. My company is investing in hydrogen, so I'm taking courses to understand the new terminology. It's exciting but challenging. Mark: From my perspective as an electrician, the demand is shifting. Traditional oil rig work is declining, but there's huge growth in solar and wind installations. I recently upgraded my certification to include solar photovoltaic systems. That's opened up many opportunities. Tom: Mark, what advice do you have for electricians considering this shift? Mark: I'd say don't wait. Learn new skills now. Many colleges offer short courses. The electrical fundamentals are the same, but the applications differ. Also, there's a lot of work in upgrading homes for EV chargers and energy-efficient systems. Lisa: I agree with Mark. Being adaptable is key. In the office, we are seeing new roles like sustainability coordinator. Those with both admin and energy knowledge are valuable. Tom: What challenges do you foresee? Mark: The biggest is that many tradespeople are set in their ways. They don't want to retrain. But the industry is changing fast. Also, supply chain for new technology can be unpredictable. Lisa: For administrators, the challenge is keeping up with changing regulations. Carbon tax policies affect everything. But it's also exciting to be part of the solution. Tom: Thank you both. This is a critical conversation for Alberta's economy.

Questions

1. What sector of the economy is the focus of this discussion?

  1. The future of oil and gas.
  2. The role of women in trades.
  3. Education programs in Alberta.
  4. Impact of energy transition on trades workers.
Answer: D

Why: Tom introduces the topic as 'how Alberta's energy transition affects trades workers'.

2. How is Lisa's role as an administrative assistant changing?

  1. She is becoming a sustainability coordinator.
  2. She is moving into sales.
  3. She is learning about renewable energy credits.
  4. She is working less.
Answer: C

Why: Lisa says she is learning about carbon accounting and renewable energy credits due to her company investing in hydrogen.

3. What new certification did Mark obtain?

  1. Wind turbine maintenance.
  2. Smart grid technology.
  3. Solar photovoltaic systems.
  4. Electric vehicle charging.
Answer: C

Why: Mark says he upgraded his certification to include solar photovoltaic systems.

4. According to Mark, what is a main challenge for tradespeople?

  1. Lack of job openings.
  2. Reluctance to retrain.
  3. Age discrimination.
  4. High cost of certification.
Answer: B

Why: Mark states 'The biggest is that many tradespeople are set in their ways. They don't want to retrain.'

5. What is a challenge for administrators according to Lisa?

  1. Learning new software.
  2. Keeping up with changing regulations.
  3. Working longer hours.
  4. Dealing with customers.
Answer: B

Why: Lisa says 'For administrators, the challenge is keeping up with changing regulations.'

6. What advice does Mark give to electricians?

  1. Start their own business.
  2. Learn new skills now.
  3. Specialize in oil rig work.
  4. Move to another province.
Answer: B

Why: Mark says 'Learn new skills now' and gives examples.

7. What does Lisa say about the role of sustainability coordinator?

  1. Unnecessary.
  2. Valuable for those with admin and energy knowledge.
  3. Overwhelming.
  4. Temporary.
Answer: B

Why: Lisa says 'Those with both admin and energy knowledge are valuable' for such roles.

8. How does Tom describe the conversation's importance?

  1. It is not relevant.
  2. It is just a discussion.
  3. It is helpful for students.
  4. It is critical for Alberta's economy.
Answer: D

Why: Tom concludes, 'This is a critical conversation for Alberta's economy.'

Part 6 — Listening to Viewpoints

Transcript

Growing up in Calgary, I've always loved winter. Some people dread the snow and cold, but I believe our winters offer incredible opportunities for outdoor activity. Skiing and snowboarding in the Rockies is world-class, but even within the city, we have great options like cross-country skiing in Fish Creek Park or ice skating on the Olympic Oval. Winter cycling is also becoming popular with fat bikes. These activities not only keep us fit but also help us appreciate the beauty of our landscape. Furthermore, winter sports boost local economy, from equipment sales to tourism. I think everyone should try at least one winter sport. It lifts your mood and makes the cold bearable. Don't stay indoors all winter; get out and enjoy our winter wonderland! Besides physical health, outdoor winter sports provide mental health benefits. Exposure to natural light even on cloudy days helps combat Seasonal Affective Disorder. The social aspect of joining a skating club or ski group also builds community. And with proper winter gear, you stay warm and safe. The City of Calgary maintains many outdoor rinks and trails, often free to use. So, I strongly encourage you to embrace winter. Visit the Canada Olympic Park for bobsleigh, or try snowshoeing in Bowness Park. It's accessible to all ages and abilities. Remember, there's no bad weather, only bad clothing.

Questions

1. What is the speaker's primary recommendation?

  1. Participate in outdoor winter sports.
  2. Stay indoors during winter.
  3. Move away from Calgary.
  4. Travel to the mountains every weekend.
Answer: A

Why: The speaker repeatedly encourages listeners to engage in outdoor winter activities.

2. Why does the speaker mention the Olympic Oval?

  1. As a tourist attraction.
  2. As a location for ice skating.
  3. As an example of expensive facilities.
  4. As a venue for Olympic events.
Answer: B

Why: The speaker mentions ice skating on the Olympic Oval as an example of a city winter activity.

3. What mental health benefit does the speaker mention?

  1. Improved memory.
  2. Increased creativity.
  3. Combating Seasonal Affective Disorder.
  4. Reduced stress.
Answer: C

Why: The speaker says exposure to natural light helps combat Seasonal Affective Disorder.

4. Which winter activity is specifically mentioned as becoming more popular?

  1. Ski jumping.
  2. Winter cycling with fat bikes.
  3. Dog sledding.
  4. Curling.
Answer: B

Why: The speaker notes 'Winter cycling is also becoming popular with fat bikes.'

5. According to the speaker, what makes staying warm safe?

  1. Wearing proper winter gear.
  2. Staying indoors.
  3. Doing rigorous exercise.
  4. Drinking hot beverages.
Answer: A

Why: The speaker says 'with proper winter gear, you stay warm and safe.'

6. What is the speaker's overall attitude toward Calgary's winters?

  1. Positive.
  2. Indifferent.
  3. Negative.
  4. Neutral.
Answer: A

Why: The speaker loves winter and enthusiastically promotes outdoor activities.

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