Tips for 11+ revision over May half-term!

With May half-term approaching, you may be wondering how to keep 11+ preparation ticking along without turning the whole break into a battle over revision.

The good news? A little structure goes a long way. Here are some practical tips to help your child make the most of their time off, while still enjoying the break.

🔑 Top Tips for 11+ Revision Over Half-Term:

1. Complete a timed practice paper
   This helps your child get used to working under exam conditions and highlights any areas that need work.

2. Identify areas for improvement
   Don’t try to fix everything at once. Choose one or two focus areas that can be tackled gradually.

3. Create a simple revision plan
   A structured (but flexible) plan will help keep your child on track without feeling overwhelmed.

4. Balance challenge with confidence
   Work on weaker topics, but also include some tasks your child finds easier. This helps maintain motivation and keeps their confidence up.

🕘 Sample Half-Term Revision Schedule:

9:00am – Breakfast & vocabulary game (quiz, cloze task, scavenger hunt)
9:30am – Revision session 1 - focus area identified in mock paper
10:30am – Brain break
11:00am – Revision session 2 - mixed revision (focus area combined with areas of confidence)
12:00–5:30pm – Lunch & family time
5:30pm – Reading and discussion (predict what might happen next and why, ask how a character is feeling (ask for evidence from the text), ask for 3 key events in the chapter, ask what impression they get of the setting (for example, gloomy, mysterious or inviting).

⏱️ Tip: Aim for quality over quantity. Morning sessions can work best when children are alert, and regular breaks help keep focus high.

🎯 Make Learning Fun and Effective

Here are a few creative ways to boost engagement:

• Games-based learning: Use Bingo, SNAP, Connect 4 or Snakes & Ladders with vocabulary words.

• Scavenger hunts: Match words to meanings or synonyms hidden around the house.

• Quizzes: Use Kahoot or Quizlet to create quizzes and assess your child’s progress in a fun way.

• Role reversal: Ask your child to "teach" you a topic—they’ll soon realise what they know and what needs more work.

• Writing competitions: Challenge friends or family to a creative writing contest.

Need a Little Support?

If you’d like some guidance, I run a variety of 11+ group classes, all tailored to build skills, boost confidence and prepare for exam success.

Group Class Options:
📘 Monday 4:40pm – 11+ English (Y3 creative writing & comprehension) – from £20/week
📘 Tuesday 4:40pm – Verbal reasoning (Y4/5) – from £18.50/week
📘 Tuesday 5:40pm – 11+ English (Y4/5 creative writing and reading comprehension) – from £20/week
📘 Wednesday 4:50pm – 11+ Reading comprehension (Y4/5) – from £20/week
📘 Thursday 4:40pm – 11+ English (Y4/5 creative writing and reading comprehension) – from £20/week

You can book a paid trial and if you decide not to continue, we’ll give you your money back - what's to lose?

If you haven’t already, don’t forget to join our free Facebook group – 11+ English Success – where I share regular tips and resources.

Enjoy the break — and good luck with the revision!