The 11 plus Maths exam
Maths is one of the trickiest subjects and it becomes all the more difficult when you are appearing for a competitive exam like 11+. But don’t worry, if you follow the right approach and 11+ maths tips, cracking this exam will not be a daunting task. So, read on to find out from the toppers themselves about what worked for them and helped them score straight A grades in maths!
The 11-plus exam is an entrance test for students before the end of year 6 in Grammar schools in the UK. In Northern Ireland, grammar schools use the northern Ireland Transfer test.
Since there are multiple 11+ exam boards like GL Assessment, CEM, SET, CSSE, ISEB, etc. you will need to check with the school as to which board they are using.
In some counties in the UK, children are automatically registered for the eleven-plus exam. Therefore, if a parent does not want the child to take the exam they have to deregister the child. The website of the local authority will give you more information on the Registration.
11 plus papers are set to test students' prowess in English, Maths, Verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning.
Maths Syllabus for the 11-Plus Exam
The 11-plus maths syllabus is set by the government and is the same for all schools in England and Wales. The topics covered in the 11+ maths papers are arithmetic, algebra, geometry, and data handling.
Arithmetic is the basic mathematics that students learn in primary school. In the 11 maths exam, students will be asked to solve problems using addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Algebra is the study of equations and how to solve them. In the 11+ maths exam, students will be asked to solve equations and word problems. Geometry is the study of properties and relations of points, lines, surfaces, and solids. The following 11 plus maths topics are covered in the syllabus:
- addition
- multiplication
- subtraction and division
- fractions
- decimals
- time
- area and perimeter
- prime numbers and prime factors
- averages
- distance, speed, and time
- graphs and charts
- calculating angles
- reflection and rotation
- percentages
- simple ratio and probability
- sequences and number patterns
- shapes and
- the volume of cubes and cuboids
How to Prepare for 11+ Maths Exams?
The 11+ Maths exam is daunting for many students, but with the proper preparation, it can be manageable. The exam tests a student’s ability to solve mathematical problems, so practicing plenty of questions is essential. It’s also important to remember the basic concepts that are covered in the exam.
Some of the topics that are likely to be tested in the maths 11+ entrance exam include basic operations such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division; fractions, decimals, and percentages; geometry; and algebra. There are plenty of online resources that can help students prepare for the exam such as 11 plus maths papers pdf with answers and worksheets
It is important to make an 11- plus timetable for the preparation. There are many ways to make a timetable. One way is to use software like Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets. Another way is to use a website.
Top 10 Preparation Tips for 11+ Maths Exam from Toppers
Tip #10: Practise Mental Maths
Mental maths is an important skill for children to learn. It helps with problem-solving and can improve mathematical understanding.
There are a number of ways parents can help their children practice mental maths. One is to use flashcards. Flashcards can be used to practice a range of skills, such as addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division. Parents can also use online resources, such as games and quizzes, to help their children practice mental maths.
Tip #9: Turn it into a Game
Turn the learning of maths into a game with maths games for 11-year-olds. Try to mentally add up the cost of items when you go shopping and see how close you come to the actual figure when you check out. You can also look online for maths games full stop by using games it becomes much more fun to practice mathematics.
Maths practice doesn't have to be boring. In fact, it can be turned into a fun game that the whole family can enjoy. Here are a few 11+ maths tips on how to make maths practice into a game:
- Give each player a different number and ask them to work out the sum.
- Use flashcards with different mathematical problems on them.
- Play Hangman with maths words.
- Draw shapes on paper and ask players to calculate the perimeter or area.
Tip #8: Form a Study Group
If you are looking for a way to improve your maths skills, and potentially score higher in the 11+, then forming a study group could be the answer. There are many benefits to be gained from being part of a study group. Here are just a few:
- You can share ideas and strategies with others who are in the same boat as you. This can be really helpful, as you can get feedback and advice from people who have been in the same position as you.
- You can practice problem-solving techniques with others. This is a great way to learn new methods.
- Each member can learn one topic thoroughly and then teach it to others in the group. This cuts down learning time and both, the study group “teacher” and study group “pupils” benefit.
Tip #7: Make a Time Table, and Stick to it!
One of the best ways to ensure that you stick to your resolutions is to make an 11+ exam timetable. This will help to break down your goals into manageable chunks and will also keep you accountable.
When creating your timetable, it is important to be realistic. Don’t put too many tasks on your list or else you will become overwhelmed and discouraged. Make sure that the tasks you choose are important and relevant to your goals.
Also, be sure to schedule some time for breaks. You need to give yourself time to relax and rejuvenate so that you can continue working productively.
Make sure to set aside a specific time each day to practice Maths. If you are using a study group, take a time when all members are free.
Tip #6: Use 11+ Past Papers and Sample Papers
11+ Maths Past papers and sample papers can be extremely helpful when it comes to preparing for an upcoming exam. Not only do they give you a better understanding of the type of questions that are likely to be asked, but they also help you to identify any topic areas that you may need to focus on more.
It’s important to note that not all exams will have past papers available for students to study. In these cases, it’s a good idea to try and find some sample papers instead. This will at least give you an idea of the style of questions that are likely to be asked.
Tip #5: Take Mock Exams
11 plus Online Mock exams are a great way to gear up for the 11+ Maths Exam. Treat the mock exam exactly as you would the real test. Set a time aside for it. Let friends and family know that you are not to be disturbed for the duration of the test. Set a timer so that you take the test at exactly the time you would need for the real exam. When the timer goes off, STOP. You’ll get better at solving sample papers if you discipline yourself to do this. Yes, it can be disappointing and even frustrating to stop when the timer goes off but this is important as a step in preparing for the 11+ Maths Exam.
Tip #4: Use Solved Papers
Avoid the temptation to use solved papers as merely study material. Instead, don’t refer to them until you have attempted to solve them as a mock exam. Then use them to check your answers. You will not only get an idea of how well you fared, but you’ll also get an insight into how you could have answered better.
If you are in a study group, you can also check each other's papers against the solved papers. You’ll be surprised at the amount of insight you can gain from each other’s papers.
Tip #3: Reward Yourself
Set up a system whereby you get a reward for each task you perform; learning a topic, solving a paper, teaching a topic, etc. If you are a parent helping your child prepare for the 11+ Maths exam, keep treats handy. These could be time watching a favorite TV show, an outing, or even candy. Make sure to vary the rewards and keep them random. Your child should not know for certain whether they are getting a big treat or a little one. This actually keeps them motivated to stick to the timetable and practice for the 11+ Maths Exam.
Tip #2: Use Online Resources
There are many online resources to help prepare for the 11+ Maths exam. From online tutors to sample papers or 11+ maths past papers to maths games to forums, you can find a lot of advice online.
There are also videos available that explain mathematical concepts in a fun way for children. Evaluate them and select the ones you think will be best for your child/ward to use. Some videos are very well put-together and can even be used as rewards for a job well done in 11+ Maths preparation!
Tip #1: Stress on Quality, not Quantity
Choose practice programs and online resources carefully. Your child has to be kept engaged for a very long time to prepare for the 11+ Maths exam. So be sure you select resources that have a generous dollop of fun for the child, while at the same time imparting the right concepts and knowledge.
So there you have it; top ten tips from toppers on how to prepare for the 11+ Maths exam. Use these 11+ maths tips to prepare your child to face the test confidently!
