Learning & Exam Tips
Expert advice and strategies to help your child prepare effectively for the 11 Plus exam.
Stay Calm on Exam Day
Teach your child relaxation techniques such as deep breathing. On exam day, ensure they have a good breakfast, arrive early, and read each question carefully. If stuck, move on and come back to difficult questions later.
Build Vocabulary Daily
Learn 3-5 new words each day. Write them down with meanings and example sentences. Play word games like Scrabble or do crossword puzzles. A strong vocabulary helps with both comprehension and verbal reasoning.
Practice Under Timed Conditions
The 11 Plus is a timed exam, so practising under timed conditions is essential. Start with relaxed timings and gradually reduce them to match exam conditions. This builds both speed and confidence.
Learn Your Times Tables
Fluency in times tables (up to 12x12) is fundamental for the Maths section. Quick recall frees up time and mental energy for more complex problems. Use flashcards, songs, or apps to make practice fun.
Master Mental Maths
Practice mental arithmetic regularly. Learn shortcuts for calculations like multiplying by 5 (multiply by 10 then halve), finding percentages, and estimating answers. This saves precious time in the exam.
Create a Study Timetable
Plan your study sessions in advance. Allocate specific times for Maths, English, and breaks. Consistency is key - even 30 minutes of focused practice each day makes a big difference. Use a visual timetable so your child can see what's coming up.
Read Widely and Often
Reading is one of the best ways to prepare for the English section. Encourage your child to read a variety of texts including fiction, non-fiction, newspapers, and poetry. Discuss what they've read to build comprehension skills.
Review Mistakes Carefully
When marking practice papers, don't just note the score. Go through each wrong answer to understand why it was wrong. This targeted review helps identify weak areas and prevents repeating the same mistakes.