11 Plus Overview
Our experienced tutors tailor lessons to target the skills and reasoning abilities your child needs to excel in these highly competitive exams.
What is the 11 Plus?
The 11 Plus (11+) is a selective entrance exam that students in Year 6 take to gain admission into grammar schools. It assesses key academic skills and reasoning abilities in subjects such as verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, mathematics, and English. In the Slough area, this test is a critical step towards securing a place in one of the four highly sought-after grammar schools:
Langley Grammar School
Herschel Grammar School
St Bernard's Catholic Grammar School
Upton Court Grammar School
11 Plus in Slough: Berkshire Test
The 11 Plus test for Slough grammar schools is administered by the Slough Consortium of Grammar Schools and is provided by GL Assessment. This test focuses on assessing a student’s natural ability and understanding, rather than what they have been specifically taught, making it challenging to prepare for without developing strong reasoning skills.
Each section of the test is designed to measure a child’s cognitive abilities, with the aim of selecting students who have the academic potential to succeed in a grammar school environment.
11 Plus in Buckinghamshire: The Buckinghamshire Test
Parents in Slough may also consider applying to grammar schools in neighbouring Buckinghamshire. The Buckinghamshire 11 Plus test, also administered by GL Assessment, follows a similar format to the Slough/Berkshire test but may include variations in specific content or question types.
If you're considering grammar schools in both Slough and Buckinghamshire, it’s essential to understand the entry procedures for both areas and ensure your child is well-prepared for the different variations of the test.
Test Format and Preparation
The 11 Plus test typically lasts 2 hours, comprised of 2 papers and divided into 4 different sections focusing on verbal reasoning, non-verbal reasoning, English and mathematics. The 11 Plus test is designed to be "tutor-proof," meaning that it aims to assess natural ability rather than coaching. However, preparing through structured learning can still be highly beneficial, especially in areas such as vocabulary development and problem-solving techniques.
Verbal Reasoning
Verbal Reasoning tests a child’s ability to understand and reason using concepts framed in words. This section assesses vocabulary, logic, grammar, and comprehension, focusing on how well students can solve problems through language.
What it includes:
Synonyms and Antonyms: Identifying words with similar or opposite meanings.
Word patterns: Rearranging letters or words to fit a pattern.
Reading comprehension: Understanding and interpreting written passages.
Tips for preparation:
Encourage your child to read widely, focusing on developing a strong vocabulary.
Practice solving word puzzles and logic-based language games.
Non-Verbal Reasoning
Non-Verbal Reasoning assesses a student’s ability to understand and interpret visual information and solve problems using shapes and patterns. This section tests spatial awareness and logical thinking rather than language-based skills.
What it includes:
Pattern recognition: Identifying how shapes and figures change or follow a sequence.
3D visualisation: Imagining how shapes look when rotated or folded.
Analogies: Finding relationships between different shapes and patterns.
Tips for preparation:
Work with your child on puzzles like jigsaw puzzles or games that involve visual thinking.
Practice non-verbal reasoning workbooks designed for 11+ preparation.
Mathematics
The Mathematics section tests a child’s ability to apply mathematical concepts from the Key Stage 2 curriculum. Questions in this section assess fluency with numbers, problem-solving skills, and logical thinking.
What it includes:
Arithmetic: Addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division.
Word problems: Applying maths to real-life situations.
Geometry: Shapes, angles, and spatial reasoning.
Fractions, decimals, and percentages: Understanding and converting between them.
Tips for preparation:
Ensure your child understands key maths concepts covered in their school curriculum.
Practice mental maths exercises and word problems regularly.
English
The English section tests a student’s comprehension, spelling, punctuation, grammar, and writing skills. The focus is on understanding text, interpreting meaning, and applying rules of language in different contexts.
What it includes:
Reading comprehension: Understanding and answering questions about a passage.
Spelling and grammar: Identifying correct spelling, punctuation, and grammatical structures.
Cloze tests: Filling in blanks with appropriate words based on context.
Tips for preparation:
Encourage regular reading to improve comprehension skills.
Review spelling, punctuation, and grammar rules with practice tests.
Preparing for the 11 Plus with Top Grade Tuition
At Top Grade Tuition, we specialise in preparing students for both the Slough (Berkshire) and Buckinghamshire 11 Plus exams. Our experienced tutors tailor lessons to target the skills and reasoning abilities your child needs to excel in these highly competitive exams.
We offer:
1-2-1 and Small Group Sessions: Personalised support focusing on each child’s specific needs.
Mock Exams: Full-length practice exams that replicate the real 11 Plus testing environment.
Weekly Progress Reports: Regular updates on your child’s development, ensuring consistent progress.
Experienced Tutors: All our tutors are graduates from top UK universities, with special expertise in preparing students for the 11 Plus.
By choosing Top Grade Tuition, you’re investing in your child’s future success, providing them with the skills and confidence to thrive in grammar school.