How do grammar school exams work?

What Types of Exams Are There?

Grammar school exams are often referred to as the 11 Plus (11+) exams. They can vary significantly depending on the region and the specific school. Generally, each exam will consist of a number of different papers. These usually include Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning and Non-Verbal Reasoning tests. Non-Verbal Reasoning includes spatial reasoning. Verbal reasoning exams focus on word skills such as missing letters, alphabetical order and coding. Non-verbal reasoning exams focus on shape and spatial skills such as pattern recognition, sequences and odd one out.

What Subjects Are Assessed?

The subjects assessed in grammar school exams are Maths, English and Reasoning. The Reasoning papers have been explained above. English assessments focus on two sections: comprehension and SPaG (spelling, punctuation and grammar) sometimes alongside a creative writing test. Maths exams test both numeracy and problem-solving. Both English and Maths 11+ exams are based on the current National Curriculum up to the level expected of a first-term Year 6 student.

Which Exam Boards Are Used for Grammar School Exams?

Two main exam boards provide the tests for grammar school 11+ entrance exams. These are GL (Granada Learning) Assessment and CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring). GL Assessment exams are often paper-based, so used by schools with limited IT set-ups (which includes most primary schools). CEM exams, on the other hand, are often taken online (so each applicant will need their own computer). Some regions, mostly in or around London, also use bespoke exams tailored to the specific requirements of locally selective schools. At Owl Tutors, we recommend that parents carefully consider which exam board their targeted grammar school(s) uses, as preparation strategies can vary accordingly.

Resources for Further Reading:

Website

1. GL Assessment
2. CEM

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