The 11+ exam is a critical test for students looking to gain admission into selective schools. It can be a nerve-wracking experience, but with proper preparation, you can ace the exam. In this guide, we’ll cover what to expect on the day of the 11+ exam and how you can prepare for it to ensure success.
What is the 11+ exam?
The 11+ exam is a test taken by students in their final year of primary school (usually aged 10-11) in the UK. The test assesses a student’s ability in English, maths, verbal and non-verbal reasoning. The results of the 11+ exam are used by selective schools to determine which students to admit.
What to expect on the day of the 11+ exam?
The 11+ exam usually takes place in September or October and lasts for approximately two hours. The exam is divided into several sections, and each section has a different format.
English: The English section of the 11+ exam usually comprises comprehension and composition tasks. The comprehension tasks involve reading a passage and answering questions related to it, while the composition tasks require students to write a story or essay based on a given prompt.
Maths: The maths section of the 11+ exam tests a student’s knowledge of basic mathematical concepts, including arithmetic, algebra, and geometry. The questions are designed to assess a student’s ability to solve problems and apply mathematical principles.
Verbal reasoning: The verbal reasoning section of the 11+ exam tests a student’s ability to understand and use language effectively. The questions in this section may involve identifying synonyms or antonyms, completing analogies or code words, or rearranging jumbled sentences.
Non-verbal reasoning: The non-verbal reasoning section of the 11+ exam assesses a student’s ability to solve problems using visual and spatial reasoning. The questions in this section may involve identifying patterns, completing sequences, or rotating shapes.
How to prepare for the day of the 11+ exam?
Preparing for the 11+ exam is essential to ensure success on the day of the exam. Here are some tips on how to prepare for the day of the 11+ exam:
Understand the format of the exam: Understanding the format of the 11+ exam is critical. Knowing what to expect on the day of the exam can help you prepare effectively.
Practice past papers: Practicing past papers is an excellent way to prepare for the 11+ exam. It helps you get familiar with the types of questions that will be asked and improves your speed and accuracy.
Manage your time: Time management is crucial during the 11+ exam. You need to ensure that you have enough time to answer all the questions in each section. Practice timing yourself while completing past papers.
Stay calm and focused: The 11+ exam can be nerve-wracking, but it’s essential to stay calm and focused on the day of the exam. Take deep breaths and remember to read each question carefully before answering.
Benefits of taking mock tests
Mock tests are practice exams that simulate the real 11+ exam. Here are some benefits of taking mock tests:
Identify areas of weakness: Taking mock tests helps identify areas of weakness that need to be worked on before the real exam.
Build confidence: Taking mock tests builds confidence by providing a sense of familiarity with the exam format and reducing anxiety.
Improve time management: Mock tests can help improve time management by allowing you to practice answering questions under timed conditions.
Track progress
Taking mock tests regularly can help track your progress and identify any areas that still need improvement. This can help you adjust your preparation strategy accordingly and ensure that you’re making progress towards your goals.
Additional Tips for Success
Here are some additional tips that can help you succeed on the day of the 11+ exam:
Get enough sleep: Getting enough sleep is essential to ensure that you’re well-rested and focused on the day of the exam.
Eat a healthy breakfast: Eating a healthy breakfast can help fuel your brain and give you the energy you need to concentrate during the exam.
Read instructions carefully: It’s essential to read the instructions carefully before answering each question to avoid making mistakes.
Stay positive: Maintaining a positive attitude can help reduce anxiety and keep you motivated throughout the exam.
Conclusion:
The 11+ exam is a critical test that can determine a student’s future academic path. With proper preparation, students can excel on the day of the exam and increase their chances of gaining admission to selective schools. By understanding the format of the exam, practising past papers, taking mock tests, and following the additional tips provided, students can prepare effectively and confidently to approach the 11+ exam. Contact us today!