11 Plus Maths tests are a vital part of the admissions process for many secondary schools. These tests assess a student’s mathematical ability and knowledge of various mathematical topics.
The tests can change from school to school, and the time can also differ, ranging from 30 minutes to an hour. Some schools also use numerical reasoning tests to make their exams more ‘tutor-proof.’
Students must be familiar with these topics to be successful in their 11 Plus Maths test. It is also crucial for students to practise and prepare for the test to ensure they do their best.
What Are The Key 11 Plus Maths Tests Topics?
Your child will sit for the 11 Plus exam in September of Year 6 if they wish to enter a Grammar school. Private school entrance exams usually occur later in the year, around November or January.
This test relates to Level 5 of the UK’s Key Stage 2 syllabus. Your child’s knowledge of early Year 6 topics may be tested through questions. Your child must master these topics to score excellent grades in 11 Plus exams.
- Shapes and Space (geometry)- Relevant topics are:
- Angles and symmetry
- Area and perimeter
- Cubes, spheres, and pyramids are all 3D shapes
- Transformations
- 2D shapes like triangles, circles, and polygons
- Measurements – These include questions such as:
- Height and depth
- Length and width
- Multiplication, division, addition, and subtraction
- Volumes
- Time variables
- Weight and mass
- Scales
- Times table
- Numbers – The following topics are included in these questions:
- Square roots
- Square and cube numbers
- Numerical values
- Negative values
- Money
- Triangular numbers
- Prime numbers
- Data Handling – This covers elements such as:
- Simple Probability
- Grids
- Graphs
- Frequency
- Coordinates
- Tables
- Median, mode, and mean
- Problem-solving – This is the most challenging 11 Plus Maths question. The list can include:
- Story-based question types
- Patterns with missing numbers
- Equations, formulas, and Algebra
1. 11 Plus Geometry Questions
This 11 Plus Maths test topic focuses on geometric figures, angles, dimensions, areas, and volumes. Several methods exist for resolving these issues. Geometry is an essential topic for 11 Plus Maths as it involves understanding the properties of two and three-dimensional shapes, angles, and measurements.
To help your child understand this topic, it is essential to provide them with hands-on activities and games that involve different shapes and sizes. Additionally, visual aids such as diagrams and images can help your child to better understand the concepts of geometry and apply them to solving mathematical problems.
We list a few of the ideas below:
- Playing with objects actively helps children grasp objects’ properties since shapes and spatial reasoning are intertwined. According to research, improving spatial skills is vital in problem-solving, Mathematical learning, and reading fluency.
- You can help your child learn the rules for areas, perimeter, volume and surface area by allowing them to use their skills in real-life scenarios. For example, when painting a room, your child can use geometry to calculate the paint needed.
Here is an example of a Geometry Question
What is the maximum angle in an equilateral triangle and a right-angled isosceles triangle?
- 60 and 60 degrees
- 30 and 90 degrees
- 90 and 60 degrees
- 60 and 90 degrees
Answer: 60 and 90 degree
2. 11 Plus Measurements
Measuring is often a confusing subject for many children. These are our ideas for helping your child understand the topic:
- Learn about the different measures of units by giving your child numerous opportunities to practise them. Let them know how heavy an object is by weighing it on a scale.
- For measuring their beverages and toys, give them rulers and water bottles. The starting point for success is knowing how measurements work.
- Help your child remember the different conversion techniques for metric units. You can use 11 Plus measurements worksheets which will build your child’s knowledge base
- Despite imperial measurement being less common in real life, 11 Plus papers may contain imperial measurement questions. Your child should also memorise the metric-imperial conversion rates.
- Looking for ways to make Maths enticing for your child here is the link to our blog, which discusses top tips to make 11 Plus Mathematics inspiring and engaging. It will surely motivate and charge your child and enable them to achieve outstanding academic performance.
Examples of 11 Plus measurement questions include:
How many metres are there in 10 kilometres?
- 100
- 10
- 1,000
- 10,000
Answer: 10,000
3. 11 Plus Numbers
11 Plus Numbers include prime numbers, negative numbers, square roots, triangular numbers etc. Students are required to have a firm grip on basic operations. Your child should be able to understand Roman numerals up to 1000 and recognise years written in Roman numerals.
For example, your child should be able to identify prime numbers, such as 3, 5, 7, 11, and 13, or negative numbers, such as -4, -5, -6, and -7. They should also be able to recognise square roots, such as √9 or √16, and triangular numbers, such as 1, 3, 6, 10, and 15.
Here is an example of an 11 Plus number question:
Find the value of (-10)³
- -100
- 1000
- -1000
- None of the above
Answer: -1000
4. 11 Plus Data Handling
Data handling is an integral part of 11+ exams. Students should be able to read and interpret data from graphs, tables, and charts. They should also be able to draw conclusions and make predictions based on the data.
Furthermore, students should be able to calculate a data set’s median, mode, and mean. They should also be able to identify and describe patterns in the data. Students should also understand how to create data visualisations to present their findings and be able to explain the implications of their conclusions. It is also essential for them to connect their data to other datasets.
What is the median of the following set of numbers: 2, 4, 5, 6, 8, 10, 11
- 11
- 6
- 10
- 2
Answer: The median is 6. This is calculated by ordering the numbers from lowest to highest and selecting the middle number.
5. 11 Plus Problem-Solving
In 11 Plus problem-solving, children must be able to interpret their results and draw valid conclusions. They must also be able to communicate their findings effectively both verbally and in writing.
Students should also be able to identify patterns and trends within data and use logical reasoning to develop solutions. One of the core topics included in 11+ problem-solving in Algebra.
Many children struggle with algebra, but it does not have to be that way. Early on, schools introduce students to introductory algebra. However, the majority of children are unaware of this.
Without knowing it, children are learning how to solve linear equations! Children can see that they can tackle complex equations by introducing them to the idea that algebra is just an extension of arithmetic. 11+ algebra worksheets and practice resources can boost your child’s understanding and enable them to see their weaknesses.
An example of an 11 Plus algebra question is:
What is the value of ‘x’ if 6x + 2 = 5x + 11?
- 9
- 12
- 14
- 13
Answer: 9
Another example of a Problem-solving question may include
There are 5 balls and 6 bats in a kit; calculate the probability that a batsman will randomly choose a bat.
- 6/11
- 6/13
- 5/12
- 5/11
Answer: 6/11
6. 11 Plus Maths Fractions, Decimals and Percentages
Since most children need time to become acquainted with these three concepts, we suggest teaching fractions to your child from an early age. They will need a lot of illustrations and realistic examples in their daily lives to master the concept, as understanding numbers smaller than one can be challenging.
The 11 Plus Maths ratio questions can be tricky for pupils. Despite learning ratios and proportions easily, some children struggle to apply them correctly. Multiplication and fraction misconceptions may influence children’s perceptions of ratios and proportions.
The key to ensuring your child can solve word problems in the 11 Plus exam is ensuring their mastery of fractions is connected to their percentage and decimal knowledge.
An example of an 11+ Maths fraction question is: “If 3/4 of a pizza is eaten, what fraction of the pizza is left?”
- 1/3
- 1/9
- 1/4
- 1/12
Answer: 1/4 of the pizza is left.