11-Plus Reading Comprehension (Archives)

About 11 Plus Reading Comprehension Exam Illustrations

Reading Comprehension in the 11 Plus checks understanding, not speed. These teacher written illustrations explain what to expect, how questions are framed, and how children can show clear evidence from the text.

Children practise finding key details, summarising meaning, explaining vocabulary in context, and making inferences. The aim is to read carefully, prove answers with the passage, and manage time confidently in an exam setting.

Parents can use these resources alongside everyday reading. Talk about what a character is thinking, why an author chose a word, or what a paragraph is really saying. Then use short quizzes little and often to build accuracy and confidence.

Official curriculum guidance

For the statutory KS2 English programme of study used in England, see GOV.UK: National curriculum in England: English programmes of study.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is reading comprehension marked in the 11 Plus?

Marks reward accurate understanding, picking out key points, and answering clearly with evidence from the passage. Some tests also assess spelling, punctuation and grammar, so careful writing matters.

How can parents help children prepare for comprehension?

Encourage regular reading, then ask open questions such as why something happened or how a character feels. Discuss tricky words, and practise short quizzes to build the habit of proving answers from the text.

Are the passages always fiction?

No. Papers can include fiction, non fiction, poetry, or extracts from older texts. Practising a range of reading helps children adapt quickly to different styles and vocabulary.

What is a simple technique for harder inference questions?

Ask, what clues in the text prove this. Encourage children to point to a phrase, description, or action that supports their idea, rather than guessing from general knowledge.

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