It’s that time of year again- the 11+ exam is just around the corner. If your child is preparing for it, you may be wondering how to best help them. don’t worry, we are here to help! In this blog post, we will discuss some ways that you can prepare your child for the big day.
We will talk about topics such as studying habits, test anxiety, and what to do on the day of the exam. Follow these tips and your child will be ready to ace the 11+ exam!
What Is The 11+ Exam?
The 11+ exam is a test that is taken by children in their last year of primary school. The exam is used to determine which secondary schools the child will be eligible to attend.
The 11+ exam covers a range of topics, including English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Also, some schools may have their own specific entrance exams that the child will need to take.
Provide Them With Exam Papers
One of the best ways to help your child prepare for the 11+ exam is to provide them with practice papers.
This will give them a chance to become familiar with the format of the exam and the types of questions that will be asked. It is also a good opportunity for you to see which areas your child needs to work on. You can find practice papers online or at your local library.
Also, exam papers for the 11+ exam are available for purchase from most stationary stores. They are usually sold in a set of three, which includes the answer key. This is a great resource to have as you can go through the papers with your child and help them to understand any concepts they are struggling with.
Encourage Good Studying Habits
It is important to encourage good studying habits in your child. This means that they should be doing regular revision and practicing past papers. Try to create a study schedule for them to follow, and make sure that they stick to it. Also, try to create a quiet and distraction-free environment for them to study.
This will help them to focus and retain information better. Finally, make sure that they take regular breaks so that they don’t become overwhelmed. This is important as it will help them to stay motivated and avoid burnout. Also, try to praise them when they do well so that they stay positive and confident.
Help Them To Overcome Test Anxiety
One of the biggest challenges for children taking the 11+ exam is test anxiety. This can be a major obstacle to their success. To help your child overcome this, it is important to talk to them about their anxiety and help them to understand that it is normal.
Also, try to teach them some relaxation techniques that they can use on the day of the exam. For example, you could teach them some deep breathing exercises. Finally, make sure that they are well rested and have eaten a healthy meal on the day of the exam. This will help them to feel calmer and more focused.
Encourage Regular Reading
Encourage your child to read frequently as one of the best things you can do to assist them to get ready for the 11+ exam. They will be able to increase their vocabulary and their literacy thanks to this.
They can also unwind and relax by doing it. To increase their likelihood of sticking with it, try to find literature that they are interested in. Make sure kids have a peaceful, uninterruptible space to read as well. In order to keep them motivated, attempt to compliment them when they perform well.
Make Learning Fun
Make sure that your child is having fun while they are preparing for the 11+ exam. This will help them to stay engaged and motivated. One way to make learning fun is to play educational games with them.
There are many great ones available online or in stores. You could also try creating a rewards system for when they reach their goals. For example, you could take them out for a special treat or buy them a new toy. Finally, make sure that you praise them regularly so that they feel good about their progress.
Enroll Them Into Tutoring Programs
Enrolling your child in a tutoring program is a great way to help them prepare for the 11+ exam. These programs provide extra support and guidance that they may not be getting at school. They will also get the opportunity to meet other children who are preparing for the same exam, which can be beneficial.
There are many different tutoring programs available, so make sure to do your research to find one that is right for your child. For example, you may want to look for a program that uses interactive methods such as games and activities. Or, you may prefer a program that is more traditional and focuses on teaching through lectures and practice exams.
Find Out What Exam Board Will Administer the Test
The 11+ exam is administered by different boards in different areas. It is important to find out which board will be administering the test in your area so that you can get the appropriate resources for your child.
Each board has its own website where you can find information about the exam, including sample papers and practice questions. This information will be essential for helping your child prepare.
What To Do On The Day Of The Exam
On the day of the exam, it is important to make sure that your child is relaxed and has everything they need. First, they should have a good breakfast to give them energy.
Then, they should double-check that they have all of their stationary and revision materials. It is also a good idea to pack a healthy snack and some water so that they can stay hydrated during the exam. Finally, make sure that they arrive at the exam center in plenty of time so that they don’t feel rushed.
Preparing your child for the 11+ exam can seem like a daunting task. However, if you follow the tips above, you will be giving them the best chance of success. Just remember to be patient, keep things fun, and praise their progress along the way. Good luck!