Crafting a Winning Weekly Practice Timetable for 11 Plus Exams
The 11 Plus exam is an important stepping stone for many young students. But alongside regular classroom learning, dedicated home practice is key to achieving success. The challenge? Creating a practice routine that's effective yet manageable within a busy schedule.
Here's how to craft a winning weekly timetable for conquering the 11 Plus at home:
1. Know the Exam:
Before diving in, familiarise yourself with the specific format and content areas of the 11 Plus exam your child will be taking. Most 11 Plus exams assess a combination of:
English: Comprehension, vocabulary, grammar, punctuation, and creative writing.
Maths: Arithmetic, problem-solving, reasoning, and data handling.
Verbal Reasoning: Identifying patterns in words, letters, and numbers, and following logical sequences.
Non-Verbal Reasoning: Identifying patterns, spatial awareness, and logical thinking.
2. Assess Your Child's Needs:
Every child learns differently. Some might excel with short, focused sessions, while others benefit from longer stretches spread throughout the week.
Consider learning style: Is your child visual, auditory, or kinaesthetic? Tailor practice methods accordingly.
Identify strengths and weaknesses: Does your child struggle with specific topics? Dedicate extra time to those areas.
3. Plan for Short Bursts of Focus:
It's more effective to have multiple shorter practice sessions throughout the week than one long, tiring one. Aim for manageable sessions of 30-45 minutes, with short breaks in between to avoid burnout.
4. Structure Your Sessions:
Divide each session into focused blocks tackling different skills. For example, 15 minutes for maths problem-solving, followed by 15 minutes for English comprehension, and another 15 minutes dedicated to verbal reasoning practice.
5. Mix it Up!
Variety is key to keeping practice sessions engaging. Use a combination of resources such as past papers, online quizzes, textbooks, and workbooks.
6. Integrate Practice into Daily Life:
Sneak in quick revision opportunities throughout the day. Play word games for vocabulary building, practice mental maths while shopping, or discuss logic puzzles during meals.
7. Schedule "Off" Days:
Don't overload your child's schedule. Include rest and relaxation days to avoid fatigue and maintain overall well-being.
Bonus Tip:
Consider involving your child in the timetable creation process. Allowing them some ownership encourages engagement and responsibility.
Remember:
Consistency is key! Sticking to a regular practice routine will ensure your child feels confident and prepared for the 11 Plus exam.
