“Dear Tutoress,
We have been preparing for the 11+ for 1 year. How do I know if my child is ready? I’m worried that there’s still so much for him to learn. Any advice?”
I’m always grateful to receive emails and messages from parents asking for advice, especially when it comes to how best to prepare for the exams. The 11+ can be a whirlwind and there’s so much to take in. In today’s article, I’ll do my best to answer the above question and offer some practical advice.
For most parents who decide to embark on the 11+ or Common Entrance journey, deciding whether or not your child is ready for the 11+ exam can be very challenging. After all, the 11+ exam is a highly competitive test that generally differs based on factors such as the schools you’re considering, your location and even your budget. It’s therefore important to carefully consider whether your child is ready to take on the challenge of the 11+ exam before making the decision to have them sit for it.
One of the first things to consider when deciding whether your child is ready for the exam is their age. The 11+ exam is typically taken by students who are in Year 6, which is the last year of primary school in the UK. This means that most students who take the 11+ exam are around 10 or 11 years old. It is generally recommended that pupils are at least 10 years old before they take the 11+ exam, as this gives them enough time to develop the necessary skills and knowledge to be successful.
Another important factor to consider is your child's academic abilities. The 11+ exam covers a wide range of subjects, including English, mathematics, and Reasoning (Verbal and Nonverbal).
It is important that your child has a strong foundation in these subjects before attempting the exam. If your child is struggling with any of these subjects, it may be best to wait until they have had more time to develop their skills before taking the 11+ exam.
In addition to academic abilities, it is also important to consider your child's readiness for the exam from a psychological standpoint. The 11+ exam can be a stressful and challenging experience for students, and it is important that your child is emotionally ready to take on this challenge. If your child is easily overwhelmed by stress or has difficulty dealing with pressure, they may not be ready to sit the 11+.
One way to determine whether your child is ready for the 11+ is to have them take practice tests. Practice tests are available from a variety of sources, including schools and tutoring centers. These tests can give you a sense of your child's strengths and weaknesses, and can help you determine whether they are ready to take the 11+ exam.
It is also important to talk to your child about their feelings about the 11+ exam. Ask them how they feel about the prospect of taking the test, and listen to their concerns and fears. If your child is feeling anxious or overwhelmed about the 11+ exam, it may be best to wait until they are more emotionally ready to take it.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not your child is ready for the 11+ exam is up to you. It is important to carefully consider all of the factors mentioned above, and to make a decision that is in the best interests of your child. If you are unsure about whether your child is ready for the 11+ exam, it may be helpful to consult with a school counselor or other education professional who can provide guidance and advice.
Does my child need to be a genius in order to pass the 11+?
No, your child does not need to be a genius in order to pass the 11+ exam. The exam is challenging and is designed to measure a student's academic abilities and determine their eligibility to attend certain highly selective schools. While a high level of intelligence can certainly be beneficial, it is not the only factor that determines a student's success.
In order to pass the exam, your child will need to have a strong foundation in the subjects covered. This means that they should have a good understanding of basic concepts in English, mathematics, and Reasoning. They will also need to have good problem-solving skills and the ability to think critically.
In addition to academic abilities, your child will also need to have strong test-taking skills. This includes being able to manage their time effectively, staying focused throughout the test, and using strategies to approach difficult questions.
Overall, while a high level of intelligence can certainly be helpful when it comes to preparing for the 11+, it is not the only factor that determines a child’s success. With the right preparation and study habits, many pupils can achieve positive outcomes.