The Day of the 11 Plus

How Can I Prepare for 11 Plus Day?

Parents need to do some homework before the big day! The key to successful preparation is to eliminate any potential surprises because this can be quite unsettling for a child who is already facing an unfamiliar situation.

Make certain you are well-informed about the exact date, time, and location of the exam. Also, ensure you have a clear understanding of the logistics involved in getting your child to the exam venue with plenty of time to spare.

Determine which tests your child will be taking. In some cases, the 11 Plus exam may consist of multiple sessions or sections, each assessing different skills or subjects.

Find out exactly how long the test(s) will be.

One of the most crucial aspects is to share all the above details with your child well in advance. This way, they can mentally prepare for what lies ahead and approach the exam day with confidence.

How can I Reassure my Child that 11 Plus Success is not Crucial?

Encourage a positive attitude towards the exam, viewing it as a challenge to overcome rather than a pass-or-fail test.

Your child is likely to be aware of the significance of the exam for their future education. But it's vital to explain that failing the 11 Plus does not signify the end of the world. No matter the outcome, they will continue to be loved and cherished, and attending a grammar school does not define their entire future.

How can I Help my Child Overcome Nervousness?

The day of the 11-plus exam can be nerve-wracking for children, and parents play a pivotal role in helping ease their anxiety. Leading by example, displaying calm and composure, is essential as children are remarkably sensitive to our emotional cues.

Maintaining a sense of normalcy in their daily routine is also important. Avoid placing undue emphasis on waking up unusually early or having a different breakfast, as this can add unnecessary pressure.

If your child has previously been introduced to relaxation techniques or breathing exercises, encourage them to utilize these valuable tools in the hours leading up to the exam. These techniques can help them remain calm and focused.

What Should my Child's Diet Consist of?

Nutrition is a crucial factor in optimizing brain function. It's important to ensure that your child's diet includes slow-release carbohydrates like cereals or toast, which can provide sustained energy to support their cognitive performance during the exam. It's advisable to steer clear of sugary foods, as they may offer a temporary energy spike but could lead to subsequent mental fogginess.

How can I Avoid Stress in the Hours Before the Exam?

Timing is an important factor in ensuring your child's readiness for the exam. A rushed and stressful morning can negatively impact their performance. Plan to wake up with plenty of time, allowing for a pleasant and unhurried atmosphere at home. Consider potential traffic delays and aim to arrive early at the exam center to avoid any last-minute panic.

What Supplies Should my Child Take to the 11-plus Exam?

Your child will be required to answer the exam questions using an HB pencil, which should typically be supplied by the school. However, it's advisable to bring a spare pencil or two, along with a rubber and a pencil sharpener. If your child uses a pencil case, ensure it is clear to prove that it does not contain any unauthorized aids.

How do I Manage Pre-test Toilet Breaks?

Encourage your child to use the bathroom shortly before the exam. Time during the test is precious, and having to leave the room can consume valuable minutes that could make the difference between passing and failing.

How Should Distractions be Handled?

This is likely to be the first time that the child has encountered strict exam room conditions, and for young children, this can be intimidating. Some may become anxious or easily distracted by other candidates, especially if they are noisy or crying. Encourage your child to ignore distractions, choose a seat away from potential disturbances like doors, and remain fully focused on the test.

Make your child aware that sometimes unusual things happen – fire and car alarms go off, children leave the room, invigilators change, etc. The key is for the child to stay focused on answering the questions to the best of their ability.

What Preparations are Required for Managing the Exam Duration?

While there will likely be a clock visible to all students during the exam, it's a good idea to ensure your child has a watch that they are comfortable using.

It's essential to emphasize that the exam has a specified duration, and it's crucial to monitor the time. This allows for strategic planning on how much time to allocate to each question or section. Starting with the easier questions can help accumulate points early, leaving more time for tackling the more challenging ones later.

Do I Need to Answer Every Question?

Answering each multiple-choice question is of paramount importance. Sometimes, as the exam's end approaches, a few questions may remain unanswered, but approach these with determination. Make educated guesses whenever possible, ensuring that you select an option for every question. Keep in mind that a correctly guessed answer holds the same value as a carefully calculated one.

What if my Child Falls Ill During the Exam?

If the child feels very unwell or is unable to continue with the test, then the reason should be conveyed to the invigilator straight away. In these circumstances, make sure that the invigilator has made a note of what happened and ask them to confirm to you in writing.

How do I Handle a Debriefing After the Exam?

Reassure them that your love and support remain unwavering, whether they pass or fail. Discuss your child's thoughts and express your pride in their effort, regardless of the outcome.

What if my Child Becomes Unwell Before the 11 Plus?

It's of utmost importance that your child does not sit the test if they are feeling unwell. Excuses related to being 'under the weather,' 'recovering from a cold,' or 'wanting to get it over with' are generally not well-received by appeal panels.

The primary guideline to follow is this: if your child would not have attended school with the same symptoms, it's best not to let them take the exam.

If possible, obtain a letter from your GP to provide evidence that your child was not in suitable health to sit the test.

If my Child Cannot Take the Test Due to Illness, Will There Be Another Opportunity?

Yes, arrangements are always in place to allow your child to take the test at a later date. In such situations, it's essential to ensure that your school or admission authority informs you in advance, enabling you to make the necessary preparations once again.