Dyslexia

Despite what CEM claim, the CEM tests are mini-speed tests. The most important thing you can do for your child is to have them classed as dyslexic. This is because they will be awarded 25% extra time in these mini-timed tests. There are schemes where tutors teach children how to pass the "dyslexia test" and be classed dyslexic. There is an upsurge in dyslexics!  We believe every child should be given 25% extra time so those who are really "dyslexic" can finish and others can finish and check. All children should get the same time. If this does not happen then to obtain equity have your child classed dyslexic.
 

Tricks Tips & Techniques
 

• When using an online learning system, use them as a tool to learn and not just as a testing process. There is only one test, and that is the "real" 11-plus. Make mistakes when learning and learn from them.  Work on weaker areas.
   
• Check the dates of your 11+ tests. Find out if other regions have an earlier testing date. If so, enter your child for that test as a free mock exam. This will allow familiarisation of sitting a real test, timing and type of questions. It is far better than paying for a mock exam. Of course travelling costs and time mean it is not really "free". Share a car!  Walsall, Shropshire & Wolverhampton and 11+ tests (on the same date). This is one mock available to many. Birmingham and Warwickshire are also 11+ tests children can consider, especially if children are living in the South.
   
• Make sure you know where the testing site is and any car parking arrangements. It is better to be early so you can settle down and relax as opposed to rushing. Sleep early on the day before the test. Do not put pressure on the child. Tell them they worked hard and they can only do their best. Ensure they visit the toilet before the test starts.
   
• If there are second sittings of a test, consider delaying the test date. Smaller groups and more preparation time may be of benefit to some children. This also levels the playing field as some councils and schools are aware tuition centres pass on questions to late sitters and children discuss questions.
   
• For the test, a child should take an analogue watch and keep it on their desk so they are aware of the time they have left in each section. They should also take a non-fizzy drink and snack to consume in the break between the two papers
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• If your test includes multiple-choice questions, remember children do not lose marks by answering a question incorrectly. When there is one minute left, children should start guessing all remaining questions and then return to working out answers.
   
• The tests require an element of speed. If a child cannot answer a question, they should move on. They should not spend lots of time on one question. If they do not know the answer, they should guess. They may as well select the same letter every time.
   
• Children should not panic if they find a section hard. It may be hard to others. Scores are standardised. In some areas the average raw score in maths was less than 25%.
   
• If a child has an 11+ test in year 6, work during the summer holidays. Six weeks with no work may mean the child forgets a lot. After the 11+ they can relax and enjoy their last year of primary education.
   
• "Failing" to secure a grammar school place is not the end of the world. Many non-grammar schools stream or "set" children and these top streams or sets are often equivalent to grammar school classes. 11+ tests do not test many areas such as sciences; languages; act or drama, so if this is an area of excellence for your child, do not despair. There are many other paths to ultimate success.
  
  Children`s Educational Material Selection
  
  For those parents who wish to prepare their children early can select material that can be used from the early years of primary education. WordBuilder.co.uk and CoolCleverKids.co.uk are tools to enhance VR and Maths skills at an early age.
  
  Childrens`s Educational Material Selection for the 11+
  
  WordBuilder.co.uk and CoolCleverKids.co.uk are tools for the 11+  to enhance VR and Maths & NVR, focusing on key skills for 11+ tests.