Are you or your child getting prepared for the GL Assessment tests? If yes, then you are probably looking for some reliable advice to make sure your child succeeds. These tests are essential for entry into many grammar schools across the UK and can be a little daunting. But don’t worry!
Here is a list of the top 10 GL Assessment tips to help you confidently get ready for this important milestone. So, let’s start.
1. Understand the Test Format
First things first, you need to know the structure of the GL Assessment papers. These tests typically cover four main areas: English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Familiarising your child with the format can actually reduce test anxiety and give you a clear idea of what to expect. Each section tests different skills, so understanding the format will help you plan the study strategy effectively.
When you know what’s coming your way you can prepare better. For example, English might involve comprehension and grammar, while Maths will test your numerical skills and problem-solving abilities. Verbal Reasoning measures how well you understand and process language, and Non-Verbal Reasoning looks at your ability to understand and analyse visual information. Spend some time reviewing past GL Assessment papers to get a sense of the types of questions your child might encounter.
2. Create a Study Schedule
Consistency is the secret. Develop a thoughtful study timetable for your child that covers all subject areas. Dedicate specific times each day or week to focus on different sections of the exam. This approach ensures balanced preparation and prevents last-minute problems which can be stressful and less effective. Break down the study sessions into manageable chunks and include short breaks to keep your child’s mind fresh.
A well-structured timetable can make a world of difference. Start by estimating how much time you have before the test and then divide the subjects accordingly. Maybe spend Mondays and Wednesdays on English, Tuesdays and Thursdays on Maths, and reserve Fridays for Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Remember, it’s not just about the quantity of study but the quality. Make sure each session is focused and productive.
3. Use Quality Resources
Invest in good study materials. There are many books and online resources designed specifically for mastering 11+ exams. Look for ones that offer detailed explanations and plenty of practise questions. Quality resources can make a significant difference in your child’s understanding and performance.
Online platforms and educational websites can also provide valuable insights and additional practise questions. Some websites even offer collaborative quizzes and video tutorials, which can make learning more engaging.
Libraries often have a range of books on GL Assessment papers so you can borrow different ones and see which style suits your child best. Remember, the right tools can greatly enhance the study sessions.
4. Practise with Eleven Plus Mock Exams
One of the most effective GL Assessment tips is to take eleven plus mock exams. These mocks mimic the actual test environment to help students get used to the timing and pressure of the real exam. They also highlight areas where you need to improve, allowing you to focus your study efforts more effectively. Consider taking at least one mock exam every few weeks leading up to the test.
Mock exams are a great way to practise under exam conditions. They help you build stamina and get used to sitting for extended time periods. Plus, they give you a chance to practise time management which is crucial in a limited duration test.
After each mock exam, review the answers and note any mistakes. This helps students understand where they went wrong and how to avoid similar errors in the future.
5. Focus on Weak Areas
After taking a few mock exams, identify your child’s weak areas and spend extra time on them. If Verbal Reasoning is challenging for example, allocate more study time to that section. Addressing weaknesses directly can surely boost the overall score. It’s natural to have strengths and weaknesses, so don’t get discouraged if your child finds some sections harder than others.
Use targeted practise to improve the weaker areas. If Maths is a struggle, try breaking down problems into smaller steps and practising basic concepts before attempting more difficult questions. For English, read a lot and practise writing summaries or analyses of what your child read. Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning often require a different way of thinking, so use puzzles and IQ questions to sharpen the skills.
6. Develop Exam Techniques
Time management is important in these tests. Practise answering questions quickly and accurately. Learn to skip and return to difficult questions to maximise the score. Also, make sure your child understands the instructions thoroughly before starting each section to avoid any misunderstandings.
Try different strategies during practise sessions. For example, some students find it helpful to read all the questions first and answer the easiest ones before tackling the harder ones. Others prefer to go through the test sequentially. Find techniques that work best and stick with it.
7. Stay Healthy
A healthy mind needs a healthy body. Make sure your child is getting enough sleep, eating nutritious meals, and taking breaks during study sessions. Regular physical activity can also help reduce stress and keep the mind sharp. It’s easy to manage these basics when focused on studying and they play a crucial role in your overall performance.
Make sure your child is not burning out by balancing study with relaxation and fun activities. Physical activities like walking, swimming, or playing sports can help clear the mind and boost the mood.
8. Encourage a Positive Attitude
Maintaining a positive mindset is one of the most important GL Assessment tips. Encourage your child to stay confident and remind them that the test is just one part of their educational journey. Stress and negativity can delay performance so keeping a positive attitude is essential.
Positive support can make a big difference. Praise your child for their efforts, not just their results. Help them set realistic goals and remind them that making mistakes is a natural part of learning. If they feel overwhelmed then take a break and do something enjoyable together. A positive attitude can help them approach the test with confidence and reduce anxiety.
9. Seek Support
If possible, join a study group or hire a tutor. Sometimes, a little extra help from teachers or professionals can provide new insights and boost confidence. Sharing experiences with others going through the same process can also be incredibly reassuring. Your child is not alone in this journey and having a support system can make a big difference.
Tutors can offer personalised guidance and help you focus on specific areas of need. If hiring a tutor isn’t feasible, look for online forums and communities where students and parents share tips and advice on mastering 11+ exams.
10. Review and Reflect
Regularly review what is studied and reflect on the progress. Go over previous practise papers and ensure your child understands any mistakes made. Continuous review helps reinforce learning and keeps information fresh in the mind.
Set aside time each week to review your notes and practise questions. Keep a journal of the study sessions and note what topics that are covered and how confident they feel about them. This can help you track progress and identify patterns. Reflecting on your study habits and making adjustments as needed will help you stay on track and improve your preparation.
Final Thoughts
Mastering 11+ exams is a journey that requires preparation, dedication, and a positive attitude. By following these 10 GL Assessment tips, students will be well on their way to achieve success. Remember, preparation is not just about hard work but also about smart strategies.
Using these tips, your child will be ready to tackle the GL Assessment with confidence. Whether it’s through understanding the test format, practising with eleven plus mock exams, or maintaining a positive mind set, every step you take brings you closer to success.
Happy learning!
“Anyone who has never made a mistake has never tried anything new.”
– Albert Einstein
