The Ultimate Checklist Before Taking the 11+
Stepping into the world of the 11+ exam can feel overwhelming. It’s a
pivotal moment leading to grammar schools and setting the pace for
secondary education. However, as with all big ventures in life, a checklist
can be a lifesaver. In this blog, we’ll explore the ultimate checklist before taking the 11+ exam
ensure your child is adequately prepared and confident as they face this
significant milestone.
1. Comprehensive Study Materials:
✓ Study Materials: These are the foundation of your child’s preparation.
Ensure you’ve sourced the most up-to-date and recommended textbooks,
guides, and online resources.
✓ Sample Questions: These offer invaluable insight into the type of
questions your child can expect, helping them familiarize themselves with
content and style.
2. Expert Tutoring:
✓ Tutoring: Consider investing in quality tutors. They can provide
guidance tailored to your child’s needs, helping to strengthen their weak
areas.
✓ Group Study Sessions: These can be beneficial, allowing your child to
learn in a collaborative environment and gain diverse perspectives on
tricky topics.
3. Master Exam Techniques:
✓ Exam Techniques: Equip your child with strategies to tackle different
types of questions, manage their time efficiently, and remain calm under
pressure.
✓ Mock Exams: These emulate the test format and environment, helping
your child get a realistic feel of the actual exam. It’s a critical aspect of
their assessment and preparation.
4. Understand the Exam Syllabus:
✓ Exam Syllabus: Stay informed about the current syllabus. Regularly
check for any updates or changes to ensure your child’s preparation is on
track.
✓ Subject-wise Breakdown: Create a breakdown of topics within Maths,
English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. This ensures no
topic is overlooked.
5. Practice, Practice, Practice:
✓ Sample Questions: Regularly practice with sample questions to
reinforce concepts and improve speed.
✓ Time Management: Use a timer during practice sessions. This
develops your child’s ability to complete the test within the stipulated time
and helps them allocate time wisely across sections.
6. Engage in Parental Support:
✓ Parental Support: Your encouragement and belief in your child’s
capabilities can significantly boost their confidence. Offer constructive
feedback, and celebrate small victories.
✓ Consistent Check-ins: Have regular discussions about their progress,
understand their challenges, and brainstorm solutions together.
7. Seek External Support:
✓ Preparation Tips: Explore online forums, parent groups, or attend
workshops. Gaining insights from those who’ve been through the process
can be invaluable.
✓ Online 11 Plus Practice: Utilize 11 plus online test platforms to provide
diverse practice opportunities, helping your child adapt to various
question types.
8. Keep an Eye on Mental and Physical Health:
✓ Regular Breaks: Ensure your child takes short breaks during study
sessions to relax and rejuvenate.
✓ Physical Activity: Incorporate some form of physical activity into their
routine, be it a sport or simple exercises. It helps in maintaining energy
levels and reducing stress.
9. Organize Study Spaces and Materials:
✓ Dedicated Study Space: Ensure your child has a quiet, well-lit space
free from distractions.
✓ Organized Study Materials: Keep all study materials, notebooks, and
practice papers organized. Consider using folders or digital tools for this
purpose.
10. Final Preparations:
✓ Revision Schedule: In the weeks leading up to the exam, focus on
revising topics rather than learning new content. Use preparation tips
and techniques learned during tutoring sessions.
✓ Test Day Essentials: Prepare a kit with essential items like stationery,
ID, water, and any other required materials for the exam day.
Conclusion:
The 11+ journey might be intensive, but with careful planning, unwavering
parental support, and the right resources, your child will be set on the
path to success. This checklist serves as a comprehensive guide to
ensure nothing falls through the cracks.
Remember, the key lies not just in hard work, but smart preparation. And
as the saying goes, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.” Equip
your child with the best, and watch them soar in their 11+ exam!
