📘 What Exactly Is 11+ Maths? A Parent’s Guide to the Exam and Preparation
- Ali Javidmehr
- May 19
- 3 min read
Updated: May 22
If your child is in Year 4 or Year 5 and you're considering grammar or selective independent schools, you've likely come across the term "11+ Maths." But what does this exam involve, and how can you best support your child? This guide breaks down everything you need to know.
🧮 What Is the 11+ Maths Exam?
The 11+ Maths exam is part of the entrance assessment for selective secondary schools in England and Northern Ireland. It evaluates a child's mathematical understanding and problem-solving abilities, typically taken in Year 6 when the child is around 10 or 11 years old. The exam is designed to identify students who are well-suited for an academically rigorous environment.
📚 Subjects Covered in the 11+ Maths Exam
The 11+ Maths exam encompasses topics from the Key Stage 2 curriculum, often extending into early Year 6 material. Key areas include:
Number and Place Value: Understanding large numbers, negative numbers, and Roman numerals.
Arithmetic Operations: Proficiency in addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division, including multi-step problems.
Fractions, Decimals, and Percentages: Converting between them and solving related problems.
Ratio and Proportion: Solving problems involving relative sizes and scaling.
Algebra: Basic understanding of formulas and simple equations.
Measurement: Calculating area, perimeter, volume, and understanding units of measure.
Geometry: Recognizing properties of shapes, angles, and coordinates.
Statistics: Interpreting data from charts, graphs, and tables.
These topics are designed to assess not just rote calculation skills but also the ability to apply mathematical concepts to solve complex problems.
🏫 How Does It Differ from School Maths?
While the 11+ Maths exam is based on the National Curriculum, it often includes:
Advanced Content: Questions may cover topics not yet taught in school, especially from early Year 6.
Problem-Solving Emphasis: A greater focus on applying knowledge to unfamiliar situations.
Time Pressure: Tests are timed, requiring quick thinking and efficient problem-solving.
Varied Question Formats: Including multiple-choice and standard written responses, depending on the examining body.
This means that even strong maths students may need additional preparation to adapt to the exam's style and difficulty.
📝 Types of 11+ Maths Exams
The format of the 11+ Maths exam can vary depending on the examining body:
GL Assessment: Often multiple-choice questions covering a broad range of topics.
CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring): Focuses on problem-solving and may include numerical reasoning questions.
Independent School Exams: These can be unique to each school, often including standard written questions that require detailed answers.
Understanding the specific format your child will face is crucial for effective preparation.
👨👩👧 How Can Parents Support Their Child's Preparation?
Supporting your child through 11+ Maths preparation involves:
Early Start: Begin preparation in Year 4 or early Year 5 to build a strong foundation.
Structured Practice: Regular practice with a variety of question types to build familiarity and confidence.
Identify Weak Areas: Focus on topics where your child needs improvement.
Use Quality Resources: Employ reputable practice materials and consider professional tutoring if needed.
Encourage a Growth Mindset: Promote the idea that ability improves with effort and practice.
Remember, consistent and focused preparation is more effective than last-minute cramming.
🎁 Ready to Begin? Book a Free Online 11+ Maths Trial Lesson
To help your child get started, we're offering a free trial lesson with our experienced 11+ Maths tutors. This session will:
Assess your child's current level.
Provide insight into the 11+ exam format.
Offer personalized feedback and guidance.
There's no obligation—just an opportunity to see how we can support your child's success.
By understanding the structure and demands of the 11+ Maths exam, you can better support your child in achieving their academic goals. With the right preparation and resources, success is within reach.
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