11 Plus Exam (11+ Exam)
What is the 11 Plus Exam (11+ Exam)?
The 11 Plus Exam (11+ Exam) is a key assessment used to select students for independent or state grammar schools in certain regions of the UK. Usually taken by Year 6 students, who are around 10 or 11 years old, the 11+ Exam represents an important step in their academic journey, marking the transition from primary education to secondary school. Success in this exam provides access to rigorous academic programs and advanced educational opportunities at esteemed schools. The process is selective, helping schools identify students who are the best fit for entry into Year 7.
What does the 11 Plus Exam (11+ Exam) look like?
The 11 Plus Exam (11+ Exam) consists of a written test and an interview. The written test is divided into four parts: Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning, which includes Spatial Reasoning sections.
Maths:
The 11 Plus Exam (11+ Exam) Maths paper aims to assess students' numerical proficiency. Typically, students need to go beyond the Year 6 Maths national curriculum to excel in the 11+ Exam. This section tests their understanding of both fundamental and advanced mathematical concepts.
English:
The 11 Plus Exam (11+ Exam) English test is designed to assess students' language proficiency. It evaluates comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, and spelling skills. If there is a written exercise, it will test their ability to effectively convey ideas in writing. This may involve crafting an essay, a descriptive passage, or responding to a specific prompt, thereby examining their writing skills, creativity, organization, coherence, and clarity in expressing ideas and arguments.
Verbal and Non-verbal Reasoning:
The 11 Plus Exam (11+ Exam) Reasoning paper is designed to gauge students' logical thinking, deductive reasoning, and problem-solving abilities. It includes questions that require critical thinking, spatial reasoning, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning skills.
Interview:
In the 11 Plus Exam (11+ Exam) interview, candidates may face various questions depending on the independent school. The primary focus will be on assessing communication skills and determining suitability for the school. Interviewers will look for the ability to express thoughts, emotions, and opinions clearly and fluently. Responses should go beyond brief, one-word answers to offer insight into the child’s perspectives and feelings. Candidates who elaborate on their answers and provide reasons will better convey their personality and demonstrate strong communication skills.
How to prepare for 11 Plus Exam (11+exam)?
In the 11 Plus Exam (11+ Exam) Maths test, competitive schools often include questions that go beyond the national average for Year 6 students. Mental arithmetic is a key component and may be tested both verbally and in writing, so regular practice is essential.
For the 11 Plus Exam (11+ Exam) English test, which focuses on comprehension and creative writing skills, students should maintain a habit of reading and apply solid techniques and vocabulary in their own writing.
In the 11 Plus Exam (11+ Exam) Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning tests, students can improve their logical abilities by practicing puzzles and word games such as sudoku, jigsaws, and other brainteasers.
For the 11 Plus Exam (11+ Exam) Interview, students should prepare answers to common questions about themselves and their family, and learn interview etiquette to stay confident and polite.
To become more familiar with the 11+ Exam format, students should also take several mock exams before the test day.
Independent Schools with 11 Plus Exam (11+exam) entry:
- St. Paul’s Junior School
- St. Paul's Girls' School
- City of London School Junior
- City of London School for Girls
- James Allen Girls' Junior School
- Latymer Upper School
- St. James Senior Girls'/Boys' School
- Godolphin and Latymer School
- Alleyn’s Junior School
- Westminster Under School
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