The English comprehension section of the 11+ English exams tests not only your child’s understanding of a text but also their ability to analyze and interpret information. Quest for Exams has several practice papers, mock exams, and more, to help students work on their comprehensions. Here’s a guide on how to read and solve comprehension questions effectively.

Understanding Comprehensions a part of the 11+ English Exam

2. Read Actively: As your child reads the passage, remind them to underline or highlight key points, unfamiliar words, or important details. Active reading promotes better retention and understanding of the material. Encourage them to ask questions about the text as they read: What is happening? Why is it important? This is called deduction. It is when the reader forms an understanding based on the evidence given in the text.

3. Summarize: After reading, summarizing the passage in their own words can help students reinforce comprehension. This practice aids in clarifying main ideas and supporting details, making it easier to answer related questions later. It helps them rephrase and explain the entire passage in just a few sentences, which is a big part of the 11+ English Exams.

4. Analyze the Questions: When moving on to the questions, instruct your child to read each question carefully. They should identify keywords and consider what the question is specifically asking. Some 11+ English exam questions may require them to refer back to specific parts of the text, while others may ask for overall themes or implications.

5. Consider Context and Tone: Questions may ask about the author’s tone, purpose, or perspective. Teach your child to consider the context and any literary devices used in the passage, such as similes or metaphors, as these often provide deeper insight into the text. This is known as inference. It is when the reader makes an interpretation of the text that goes beyond the literal information given.

To build confidence and skill, regular practice with a variety of comprehension passages is crucial. Utilizing resources like practice papers or comprehension workbooks can provide valuable exposure to different question types.

Mastering reading comprehension for the 11+ English exam takes time and practice, but with the right strategies, your child can approach the task with confidence. By focusing on active reading, thorough analysis, and strategic answering techniques, they will be well-equipped to tackle comprehension questions effectively.