11 plus English exam │ Bond 11+
Find out more about the 11+ English exam and how Bond 11+ English practice papers and resources can support your child on their path to exam success.
11+ English exam overview
Although 11+ English exams vary from region to region these are the key topics that your child will be tested on:
- 11 plus english sample papers, comprehension practice papers, where children have to read pieces of text and answer questions on them
- 11+ writing tasks, where children have to write something themselves
- Punctuation and grammar problems, where children show their understanding of how English works as a language
- Spelling tasks, where children spot incorrect spellings
There are two different formats for 11 plus English exam papers:
- Standard format – where children write their answers on the test paper
- Multiple-choice format – where answers are marked in a separate answer booklet
11+ English exam papers are timed and usually last between 45-60 minutes. Children should practise with timed 11+ mock test papers, as well as working through non-timed practice, so they can see what they are able to do within a given time frame.
Bond 11+ English Assessment Papers
Bond Assessment Papers
Topic-based practice questions that set the foundation for success. These carefully-graded practice papers provide essential practice for each question type in a realistic exam style. Ages 5-13+
Now with fully explained answers (for ages 9-11)
11+ English Handbook
Step-by-step guidance for developing the skills needed for the 11+ English exam and other entrance tests. With clear explanations and worked examples of all 11+ English question types.
Practical support for parents and children aged 8-11+
Bond CEM 11+
Developed specifically for the CEM 11+ exam, we’ve created a range of materials to help you prepare your child for the CEM 11+ exam, including assessment papers, test papers and learning guides. Ages 8-11+
Bond Test Papers
Bond 11+ test paper packs enable realistic mock exam practice at home, matching the style, content and difficulty of the real 11+ examination. Tutor tips for exam success are included, written by leading 11+ tutors and packed with advice to help gain extra marks. Ages 7-11
Bond 10 Minute Tests
Bite-sized tests for quick practice and revision, including coverage of all the core skills and motivating and fun puzzle selections. Ages 7-12+
Bond Online
Used by thousands of parents and children every year, Bond Online gives your child unlimited access to thousands of 11+ questions and is a fun and engaging way of helping your child prepare for the 11+. Age 9+
The Parents' Guide to the 11+
The essential manual for all parents whose children are about to embark on their 11+ exam journey. Written by an experienced 11+ tutor, this guide offers a practical 4-step approach to guide you through the entire process.
Tips for parents
Here are some ideas for you to try at home in order to help your child prepare for their 11plus English exam and grammar schools.
Year 4 – check up on basic skills during the summer term and use the summer holidays to:
- Ensure your child is reading regularly. Reading is a key skill so spend time reading with your child during the summer. Ask them to explain what they’re reading so you can gauge their comprehension skills.
- Keep a diary or write a summer project to help your child improve their writing skills. Use this opportunity to develop their vocabulary and spelling skills.
- Use quizzes, dictionary games and crosswords to further extend your child’s knowledge.
Year 5 – this is the time to start regular 11+ revision and practice. Support your child by:
- Establishing a regular routine of bedtime reading, if that’s not already part of your child’s life. Encourage a wide range of reading material to ensure your child is exposed to a variety of authors and styles as this will help to build their vocabulary. As well as factual books and fiction you might want to include diaries and newspapers written especially for children.
- Planning some quiet, uninterrupted reading and writing sessions each week. Aim for one reading and one writing session per week, although you might want to do more if English is your child’s weaker subject.
Free resources
- Sign up to the Bond website and download free 11+ resources, including activity sheets and assessment papers