Vocabulary for the 11+ Exam

Vocabulary for the 11+ Exam

Vocabulary is a very important part of the English language as it helps us convey and express ourselves better. The wider your vocabulary the more effectively you can make your point. The other reasons why its important include:

• To understand text 
• To be able to infer meaning from text
• To understand instructions, be it for the 11+ exams or to put a model toy together
• 11+ English and Verbal reasoning sections place emphasis on vocabulary

Why is vocabulary important for 11+ success? 

• To understand text 
• To be able to infer meaning from text
•  To understand instructions, be it for the 11+ exams or to put a model toy together
• 11+ English and Verbal reasoning sections place emphasis on vocabulary

  How do I help my child develop their vocabulary and writing skills for the eleven plus exams?

• Use ‘Challenging’ vocabulary in conversation
• Encourage a response
• Learn a new word everyday
• Keep a Jargon Journal
• Record the new word
• Put it in a sentence

• Challenge your child’s reading
• Encourage different genre
• Take a trip to the library
• Set a regular family reading time 

• Share a book –be part of your child’s 11+  journey
• Read a loud
• Discover new words
• Discuss possible meanings
• Find a Synonym/Antonym for the word

• Play word games:
• Scrabble
• Eye-spy ( metaphors instead of letters)
• Family word game – select a word and each member must write down  5 rhyming words in a given time.
• Hang man
• Unscramble the word

Building a strong 11plus vocabulary bank is of utmost importance when preparing for 11+ exams. A better understanding of words means a better understanding of what is being read and what is needed to complete the task at hand!

At SmartStepz we can help your child with their English. Your child’s success is a joint effort between you, and us. Find out more about what else is required in the English  exam and access practise papers to help your child. If you are interested in our one to one sessions or online platform, please do get in touch.

 Written By Aroob Manzoor