English
English 11 Plus exams and independent school admission exams come in a variety of forms. We offer several English Programmes to address these varied tests and provide the best assistance to pupils in building their confidence through understanding of the exam environment and question types. As part of our Programmes, we can cover the following elements:
Comprehension
Comprehension training involves giving students short texts (500-750 words), varying between classic works, modern texts and factual writing, e.g., press articles. Pupils will then answer questions that test their literal and interpretive comprehension skill and knowledge of literary techniques and devices (such as similes or metaphors).
Vocabulary
Pupils will answer the questions about the meaning of words included in the short texts provided. Pupils will also be asked to provide synonyms and antonyms for the given words, fill in the gaps in a sample text and complete other exercises that test their knowledge of English vocabulary.
Grammar/Punctuation/Spelling
Questions in this section vary and may take different forms, such as identification of spelling and punctuation errors in a sample text or filling in the gaps in sample words.
Writing Composition and Creative Writing
Practice in this section involves the key elements of essay writing tasks at 11 Plus exams – planning, structure and comprehensive writing.
Maths
The maths curriculum is varied and vast for 11 Plus exams. That’s why we offer a tailored programme of maths each week to aid your child’s progress. It’s the perfect complement towards their 11 Plus exam.
In general, the 11 Plus maths test will only cover topics that the children will learn in school up to the end of the primary school curriculum. For that reason, it’s of key importance that your child has mastered those basic skills and concepts before moving to more advanced material.
It is common for children to struggle with accuracy in their basic maths when under pressure. Therefore, it is essential that they acquire confidence in using fundamental mathematical statements (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) before attempting an important exam.
Key concepts we cover:
- Number
- Fractions, decimals and percentages
- Handling data
- Shape & space Measurement
- Timetables
Verbal Reasoning
Verbal Reasoning attempts to test pupil’s combined skills in vocabulary use, logical reasoning and code deciphering. Math skills such as sequencing and understanding numerical patterns might also be involved.
Although some children are so gifted in solving these types of tests, it is mostly the practice that makes perfect. In addition to solving 11 Plus-based material (past papers, revision booklets), tackling brain teasers such as word search puzzles or Sudoku is a good way to improve your child’s reasoning skills.
Non-Verbal Reasoning
Non-verbal reasoning as such is rarely taught at school. It includes your child’s ability to solve problems and puzzles. NVR questions include code and shape sequencing, testing student’s grasp on logic and spatial imagination.
Each question will provide the children with a sequence of 3-5 shapes which they must analyse. Questions will include ‘find the next one in the sequence’ or ‘find the odd one out’.
Non-Verbal reasoning challenges children to interpret visual problems, without the need to make drawings. For this reason, it is seen as a ‘pure analytical intelligence’ test. To tackle this exam with confidence, children must be familiar with the different question types and practice to improve their swiftness and accuracy. Tackling Jigsaw puzzles at home with your child can significantly improve their skills in non-verbal reasoning.
