This information pack will provide information on the following aspects of the Eleven Plus, New Hall and Brentwood County High examinations.

What is Verbal Reasoning?

Verbal reasoning is language based problem solving. There are around fifty different types of questions which are commonly found in the eleven plus exams, requiring verbal skills in being able to identify the right answer from a selection given, making or finding words, construction of words within sentences and even mathematical calculations.
A sound vocabulary is essential for verbal reasoning as it will make it easier to find words with a similar meaning or their opposites, and it will also help with making new ones.

What is Non-Verbal Reasoning?

Non-verbal reasoning is the testing of a child’s ability to solve problems with a non-language based format, i.e. they will have familiarise themselves with pictures, patterns, shapes and symbols.
There are three main types of non-verbal questions in the 11plus exams, although the wording of each question may differ.
Type One: Similarities
Whether you have to seek the odd one out or one which belongs with a set, you will primarily have to identify any common features amongst the pictograms, patterns or symbols.
Type Two: Sequences
With these question types you will have a set of pictures or patterns etc. with which you have to find the pattern or link, which maybe confirming the repetition of a pattern or identifying the next symbol or completing a grid.
Type Three: Analogies
This is generally a two part question where firstly you have to find the link between a pair of objects and then apply that link to complete a second pair in the exact same way.
What is the best way to tackle verbal reasoning and non-verbal reasoning?
To ensure the best possible chance of success with verbal and non-verbal reasoning, you should remember to work systematically going from left to right, and eliminating the answers which you think are wrong. Don’t hesitate to use a pencil to make notes or cross out the options which are wrong. Drawing lines and arrows can help with matching meanings of words or finding the next in a sequence of symbols. Another thing to remember is to consider all the options because the answer may not be as simple as you think, and it also avoids being drawn into the sucker answer (the answer that on first appearance looks right but on closer inspection is clearly wrong)!
Which is better, standard or multiple choice format?
Standard format questions are generally seen as harder than multiple choice as there are no clues as to what the answer may be. Both can be used as preparation by firstly using multiple choice to familiarise oneself with the format and types of questions, and then switching to standard format in order to practice questions that are more challenging, as you then have to develop your thinking skills! In answering standard questions do not forget the units!
When should I start preparing my child for 11 plus exams?
I always recommend between twelve and eighteen months as there are so many topics to cover that most schools cover.
Which 11 plus exams will my child have to take?
This depends entirely on the school for which your child will be taking the selection test. You can find out the relevant information by ringing the school or your LEA.