CELPIP Listening Practice Test 4 — All 6 Parts With Transcripts & Answers

Free CELPIP Listening practice test 4: 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

Male: Good morning, Sarah. Thanks for meeting with me. I’m concerned about the recent OC Transpo route changes. They’re affecting the tour groups I lead. Female: I understand, Mark. I’ve heard similar complaints from other public servants. The city did this to streamline service, but it’s causing confusion at stops near Parliament Hill. Male: Exactly. Many tourists rely on the 16 bus to get to the Hill from downtown hotels. Now that route ends at Rideau Centre, they’re lost. We’ve had several delays. Female: Have you considered creating a simple handout explaining the alternative routes? Maybe a map? Male: We tried that, but visitors find the language in official transit maps too technical. Could we collaborate on a simpler guide? Female: That might work. I can ask my colleague in communications to help. We could also set up a volunteer information booth at the major stops during Winterlude. Male: That would be fantastic. The festival draws thousands, and if we can reduce transit confusion, the overall experience improves. Female: Agreed. I’ll draft a proposal by Friday. We’ll need approval but I think it’s feasible. Male: Thank you, Sarah. Let’s also ask the library to print bilingual copies. Many of our visitors are French-speaking. Female: Good thinking. I’ll include that in the plan. We can meet again next week to finalize details. Male: Perfect. See you then.

Questions

1. What is the main problem discussed in the conversation?

  1. The 16 bus route has been discontinued completely
  2. OC Transpo route changes are causing confusion for tourists
  3. Tourists are getting lost at Parliament Hill
  4. The city has reduced funding for Winterlude
Answer: B

Why: The speakers discuss how recent OC Transpo route changes are causing confusion for tourists visiting Parliament Hill.

2. What did the tourists rely on the 16 bus for?

  1. To travel to the airport
  2. To reach the Rideau Centre
  3. To access the library
  4. To get from downtown hotels to Parliament Hill
Answer: D

Why: The male speaker says many tourists rely on the 16 bus to get from downtown hotels to Parliament Hill.

3. What solution does Sarah offer first?

  1. A new bus route
  2. A simplified handout with alternative routes
  3. A bilingual information line
  4. A meeting with the transit authority
Answer: B

Why: Sarah suggests creating a simple handout explaining alternative routes, possibly with a map.

4. Why do the speakers think official transit maps are problematic?

  1. They contain language that is too technical
  2. They are too expensive to produce
  3. They are not available in print
  4. They are only in French
Answer: A

Why: Mark says visitors find the language in official transit maps too technical.

5. What does Sarah suggest Mark hand out to his tour groups?

  1. She will design a new app
  2. She will contact OC Transpo headquarters
  3. She will personally volunteer as a guide
  4. She will ask a colleague in communications to assist
Answer: D

Why: Sarah offers to ask her colleague in communications to help prepare the guide.

6. What event is mentioned that could increase visitor numbers?

  1. Canada Day
  2. The Tulip Festival
  3. The Royal Winter Fair
  4. Winterlude
Answer: D

Why: Mark mentions that Winterlude draws thousands, and reducing transit confusion will improve the festival experience.

7. What will the library be asked to do?

  1. Print bilingual copies of the guide
  2. Sponsor the information booth
  3. Provide staff for the booth
  4. Donate maps to the city
Answer: A

Why: Mark suggests asking the library to print bilingual copies, as many visitors are French-speaking.

8. When will the speakers meet again?

  1. The next day
  2. Next week
  3. Friday
  4. The week after next
Answer: B

Why: At the end, Mark says, "We can meet again next week to finalize details."

Part 2 — Listening to a Daily Life Conversation

Transcript

Female: Have you decided what to do for Winterlude this year? Male: I’m thinking of going to the ice skating on the Rideau Canal. There’s also a special night show at Confederation Park. Female: That sounds great. I’ve heard the ice sculptures are amazing this year. My friend said they have an entire castle made of ice. Male: Really? I’d love to see that. Maybe we can go together on the weekend. Female: Sure. But be careful – the forecast says it might snow on Saturday. Male: Snow isn’t a problem as long as we dress warmly. Are the snow slides still open? Female: Yes, they are at Jacques Cartier Park. They’re very popular, so there might be a long line. Male: Let’s go early then. I can pick you up at 9 AM. Female: Perfect. I’ll check bus schedules just in case the parking is full. OC Transpo should have extra service during Winterlude. Male: Good idea. We can take the bus if we need to. Female: By the way, do you have a preference for food? We can grab a beavertail while we’re there. Male: Absolutely! I love the classic cinnamon sugar one. Female: Me too. We’ll make it a fun day.

Questions

1. What event are the speakers discussing?

  1. Winterlude festival
  2. The Changing of the Guard
  3. Canada Day celebrations
  4. The Tulip Festival
Answer: A

Why: The conversation begins with "Have you decided what to do for Winterlude this year?"

2. What attraction did the female speaker's friend mention?

  1. A polar bear swim
  2. A castle made of ice
  3. A lighted ski run
  4. A giant snowman
Answer: B

Why: She says, "My friend said they have an entire castle made of ice."

3. What is a potential inconvenience on Saturday according to the forecast?

  1. Freezing rain
  2. Snow
  3. High winds
  4. Rain
Answer: B

Why: The female speaker says, "the forecast says it might snow on Saturday."

4. What does the male speaker suggest to avoid long lines?

  1. Going on a weekday
  2. Going early
  3. Skipping the snow slides
  4. Buying tickets online
Answer: B

Why: He says, "Let’s go early then." in response to the mention of long lines.

5. What food item do both speakers agree on?

  1. Poutine
  2. Beavertail
  3. Maple taffy
  4. Hot chocolate
Answer: B

Why: The male says "love the classic cinnamon sugar one" referring to beavertails, and the female agrees.

Part 3 — Listening for Information

Transcript

Good morning everyone. I’m Dr. Anna Leblanc, a university librarian at the University of Ottawa. Today I’ll explain how to access our digital research databases, which are a key resource for your studies. First, you need to log into the library website using your student ID and password. Once logged in, click on the “Databases” tab. You’ll see a full list of over 200 databases covering many subjects. For example, if you are writing a paper on Canadian history, you might want to use “Historical Abstracts” or “Canada Commons.” To find the right database, you can also use the search bar at the top of the page. Type in a keyword like “education” or “economic policy.” A drop-down menu will show potential matches. Click on the database name, and you will be redirected to that provider’s site. At that point, you can enter your search terms. Remember to use advanced search options to narrow down results. For instance, you can filter by date, peer-reviewed journals, or document type. If you aren’t sure which database to use, ask a librarian at the help desk. We offer drop-in hours every weekday from 10 to 4. Also, for those who need it, there are online tutorials about effective database searching on the library’s YouTube channel. These tutorials cover Boolean operators, citation management, and more. Please have a look if you get stuck. Finally, don’t forget that most databases allow you to save your searches and set up alerts for new publications. This can help you stay updated on recent research. I hope this information is useful. Happy researching!

Questions

1. Who is giving this talk?

  1. A professor of history
  2. A student assistant
  3. A tech support specialist
  4. A university librarian
Answer: D

Why: The speaker introduces herself as Dr. Anna Leblanc, a university librarian.

2. What is the first step to access the databases?

  1. Choose a database from the list
  2. Log into the library website with your student ID
  3. Watch an online tutorial
  4. Click on the "Search" button
Answer: B

Why: The speaker says, "First, you need to log into the library website using your student ID and password."

3. How many databases are available?

  1. Over 200
  2. More than 300
  3. Exactly 200
  4. Exactly 250
Answer: A

Why: She says, "You’ll see a full list of over 200 databases."

4. What subject is mentioned as an example for using a specific database?

  1. Political science
  2. Art history
  3. Canadian history
  4. Biology
Answer: C

Why: She uses "Canadian history" as an example for using "Historical Abstracts" or "Canada Commons."

5. What hours does the help desk offer drop-in support?

  1. 9 AM to 5 PM
  2. 12 PM to 8 PM
  3. 9 AM to 6 PM on weekends
  4. 10 AM to 4 PM on weekdays
Answer: D

Why: She says, "We offer drop-in hours every weekday from 10 to 4."

6. What can users do to stay updated on new publications?

  1. Visit the help desk regularly
  2. Follow the library on social media
  3. Subscribe to the library newsletter
  4. Use the save and alert features in databases
Answer: D

Why: She mentions that most databases allow you to save searches and set up alerts for new publications.

Part 4 — Listening to a News Item

Transcript

This is the Ottawa news brief. Starting next Monday, OC Transpo will implement changes to several bus routes to improve efficiency during the Winter season. Route 6, which runs from downtown to the airport, will be extended to serve the South Keys transit station. Route 12 will see a reduction in frequency during off-peak hours, changing from every 15 minutes to every 20 minutes. However, Route 7 will have increased service on weekends to connect with Winterlude activities. In addition, the O-Train line 2 will undergo maintenance work from December 20 to January 5, requiring bus replacement service along that stretch. The city advises commuters to check the OC Transpo website for updated schedules and maps. In other news, the Winterlude festival is expected to generate over $30 million in economic activity for the region. Organizers project more than 500,000 visitors this year. To accommodate the influx, special transit passes are available at designated stations. Finally, an environmental group has praised the city’s decision to use electric buses on four routes starting in January. The move is part of the city’s goal to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030. For more details, visit the city’s official site. I’m David Cheng reporting.

Questions

1. When will the bus route changes take effect?

  1. Next Wednesday
  2. Next Friday
  3. December 20
  4. Next Monday
Answer: D

Why: The report says, "Starting next Monday, OC Transpo will implement changes."

2. What change is happening to Route 12?

  1. It will be replaced by a bus shuttle
  2. It will be extended
  3. It will run only on weekends
  4. It will have reduced frequency during off-peak hours
Answer: D

Why: Route 12 will see a reduction in frequency during off-peak hours from 15 to 20 minutes.

3. Why will O-Train line 2 be affected?

  1. For regular maintenance
  2. Due to construction
  3. To prepare for Winterlude
  4. Because of a driver shortage
Answer: A

Why: The report says the O-Train line 2 will undergo maintenance work.

4. How many visitors are expected for Winterlude this year?

  1. Around 300,000
  2. More than 500,000
  3. Exactly 500,000
  4. Over a million
Answer: B

Why: Organizers project more than 500,000 visitors this year.

5. What environmental initiative was praised?

  1. A carbon tax reduction
  2. Electric buses on four routes
  3. Solar panels on transit shelters
  4. New bike lanes
Answer: B

Why: An environmental group praised the city’s decision to use electric buses on four routes starting in January.

Part 5 — Listening to a Discussion

Transcript

Moderator (Male 1): Welcome to For the Record. Today we’re discussing the link between government policy and university education. I’m joined by Minister James Evans and Professor Lisa Tran. Minister Evans, why is the government investing in digital resources for libraries? Minister (Male 2): Well, we believe that access to information is a cornerstone of democracy. By funding digital archives and online databases, we’re supporting research and education. It also helps smaller universities that cannot afford expensive subscriptions. Professor Tran (Female): I appreciate that, but some feel the funding should be more directly tied to hiring more faculty. Our libraries are well-stocked, but class sizes are growing. Moderator: That’s a valid point. Professor, what specific changes would you like to see? Professor: I’d like a portion of the budget to go toward student assistants in libraries and labs. This would give students valuable work experience while easing the burden on staff. Minister: We are considering a pilot program for that. The challenge is that we have to balance many priorities. Education is only part of the picture; we also have health care and infrastructure. Professor: True, but education and health care are interconnected. A well-educated population contributes to better health outcomes. Minister: I agree entirely. That’s why we’re also investing in community health research databases, accessible through university libraries. Moderator: So there is common ground. Let’s talk about Winterlude. Professor: I’ve seen how Winterlude boosts tourism and brings in revenue. My students often do field research during the festival. The recent route changes, though, have made it harder for them to get to the sites. Minister: That’s a concern we hear. The city is committed to efficient transit. The route changes are meant to improve long-term service. We’re asking for patience. Professor: I hope the improvements will be swift. Many of our international students rely on public transit. Moderator: Thank you both for your insights. We’ll continue to follow this topic.

Questions

1. What is the primary subject of this episode of For the Record?

  1. The economic impact of Winterlude
  2. The role of libraries in democracy
  3. The recent bus route changes in Ottawa
  4. The relationship between government policy and university education
Answer: D

Why: The moderator introduces the topic as the link between government policy and university education.

2. What does Minister Evans say is a reason for funding digital resources?

  1. To create more jobs for IT professionals
  2. To reduce paper waste
  3. To support research and education
  4. To compete with private sector databases
Answer: C

Why: He says, "By funding digital archives and online databases, we’re supporting research and education."

3. What specific change does Professor Tran suggest?

  1. Hiring more faculty
  2. Decreasing tuition fees
  3. Spending on student assistants in libraries and labs
  4. More funding for library buildings
Answer: C

Why: She says she would like a portion of the budget to go toward student assistants in libraries and labs.

4. What counterargument does Minister Evans give to the professor’s suggestion?

  1. The government cannot afford it
  2. They are already funding similar programs
  3. There are many competing priorities like health care and infrastructure
  4. The idea is not popular with other departments
Answer: C

Why: He says, "The challenge is that we have to balance many priorities. Education is only part of the picture; we also have health care and infrastructure."

5. How does Professor Tran connect education and health?

  1. Government funding for health directly improves schools
  2. University research leads to medical advances
  3. A well-educated population contributes to better health outcomes
  4. Healthy students learn better
Answer: C

Why: She states, "A well-educated population contributes to better health outcomes."

6. What problem do the professor’s students face during Winterlude?

  1. Lack of research opportunities
  2. Difficulty finding accommodation
  3. High costs of festival tickets
  4. Difficulty getting to festival sites due to bus route changes
Answer: D

Why: She says, "The recent route changes, though, have made it harder for them to get to the sites."

7. What does Minister Evans say about the route changes?

  1. They will be reversed soon
  2. They are the result of public input
  3. They are meant to improve long-term service
  4. They are a temporary measure
Answer: C

Why: He says, "The route changes are meant to improve long-term service."

8. Which group is mentioned as relying on public transit?

  1. Local residents
  2. Tour guides
  3. City councillors
  4. International students
Answer: D

Why: Professor Tran mentions, "Many of our international students rely on public transit."

Part 6 — Listening to Viewpoints

Transcript

I’d like to share my thoughts on the recent OC Transpo changes and how they affect families. I’m a mother of two school-aged children, and we use the bus nearly every day. I appreciate the city’s effort to improve efficiency, but the recent changes have created new challenges for our morning routine. For example, the Route 7 bus used to come every 10 minutes during peak hours. Now it’s every 15 minutes. This means I have to leave home 10 minutes earlier to make sure the kids get to school on time. While that might not seem like a big deal, it adds up over a week. Moreover, the stop closer to our house was removed. Now we have to walk 15 minutes to the next stop. In winter, that’s difficult with young children. I understand that the city wants to save money and reduce congestion, but I wonder if they considered the impact on families. I think there should be more consultation with citizens before implementing such changes. Perhaps the city could provide a free shuttle to major stops during peak hours. That would alleviate some of the burden. On a positive note, the new electric buses are excellent. They are quieter and seem more reliable. But overall, I feel the changes have caused confusion and inconvenience for many families. I hope the city will listen to feedback and adjust accordingly. After all, public transit is for everyone, and it should serve the needs of all users, not just those who can adapt easily.

Questions

1. What is the speaker’s main viewpoint?

  1. The city should focus only on peak hour service
  2. Electric buses are not worth the investment
  3. The changes have caused challenges for families
  4. The OC Transpo changes are excellent and should be expanded
Answer: C

Why: The speaker says the changes have created new challenges for her family’s morning routine and are inconvenient.

2. How did the frequency of Route 7 change?

  1. It decreased from every 15 to every 20 minutes
  2. It increased from 10 to 5 minutes
  3. It decreased from every 10 to every 15 minutes
  4. It stayed the same
Answer: C

Why: She says, "Route 7 bus used to come every 10 minutes during peak hours. Now it’s every 15 minutes."

3. What difficulty does the speaker mention about the bus stop removal?

  1. It is too crowded
  2. They have to walk 15 minutes in winter
  3. The stop is not sheltered
  4. It is now located in a dangerous area
Answer: B

Why: She says, "Now we have to walk 15 minutes to the next stop. In winter, that’s difficult with young children."

4. What does the speaker think the city should do before implementing changes?

  1. Issue a press release
  2. Implement changes gradually
  3. Hire more drivers
  4. Consult more with citizens
Answer: D

Why: She says, "I wonder if they considered the impact on families. I think there should be more consultation with citizens before implementing such changes."

5. What suggestion does the speaker make?

  1. Create a mobile app for schedules
  2. Reduce bus fares for families
  3. Increase the number of electric buses
  4. Provide a free shuttle to major stops during peak hours
Answer: D

Why: She suggests, "Perhaps the city could provide a free shuttle to major stops during peak hours."

6. What positive aspect of the changes does the speaker mention?

  1. The new electric buses are quieter and more reliable
  2. More bus stops
  3. Lower fares
  4. Faster service
Answer: A

Why: She says, "the new electric buses are excellent. They are quieter and seem more reliable."

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