Description
Preparing for the 11 Plus exam typically requires 18 to 24 months of dedicated study. The exam assesses skills in Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Effective preparation involves five key components: mastering subject knowledge, applying topics, refining exam techniques, practicing with past papers, and allowing time for assimilation.
For English, students will be tested on comprehension and writing skills. They may be required to read passages and answer questions or write essays and short stories within a strict time limit, often between 20 to 30 minutes.
Verbal Reasoning evaluates a student’s ability to understand and reason using concepts framed in words. This goes beyond simple vocabulary recognition to assess constructive thinking and engagement with language.
Improving verbal reasoning skills can be achieved through regular practice of verbal reasoning tests, reading reputable publications like The Guardian, The Times, or The Economist, and engaging in word games and quizzes. Activities such as crosswords, word searches, and games like Hangman can also enhance these skills, making them both educational and enjoyable for your child.
The 11+ Maths syllabus, while based on KS2 foundations, extends into more advanced topics, requiring a deeper grasp of mathematical concepts. These include number and place value, advanced arithmetic operations, complex fractions, percentages, decimals, ratio and proportion, introductory algebra, as well as more sophisticated elements of measurement, geometry, and statistics.
Non-Verbal Reasoning (NVR) is a critical, though often unfamiliar, component of the 11 Plus exam. It evaluates a child’s logical thinking and pattern recognition skills through problem-solving with shapes, puzzles, and abstract concepts. This section tests a child’s ability to process graphical information, apply logical thinking, and understand spatial relationships, including advanced concepts such as rotation, reflection, and symmetry.
Creative writing is an expressive form of writing that transcends traditional academic, technical, or professional formats. It spans various genres and styles, including fiction, poetry, prose, playwriting, and journalistic writing. Though its definition can be broad, creative writing is primarily recognized by its focus on narrative craft, emphasizing elements like character development, plot, and imaginative storytelling. This type of writing is not bound by conventional rules and embraces originality in its structure and content.