How to prepare?
Non-verbal reasoning (NVR) is a type of test commonly used in 11+ exams to assess a student's ability to understand and analyse visual information. Here are some tips to help students prepare for non-verbal reasoning questions.
Utilise Visual Aids
Non-verbal reasoning questions often involve visual information, so utilising visual aids such as 3D representations, colour coding or drawing diagrams can help your child better understand and analyse the information presented. Check out our shop for products to help.
Several types of questions
There are several types of non-verbal reasoning questions, including pattern recognition, spatial awareness, and analogy. Practice with examples of each type so that your child gets a feeling for the types of questions which they will encounter.
Practice under timed conditions
11+ exams are timed, so it is essential to practice working through questions within a set time frame. This will help your child build their speed and efficiency when taking the real test.
Your oven probably has a timer which unlike a phone will not cause a distraction.
Look for Patterns
Many non-verbal reasoning questions involve finding patterns or relationships between shapes, figures, or symbols. Practice looking for patterns and relationships in different types of visual information.
Use logic and deduction
Non-verbal reasoning questions require logical thinking and deduction to determine the correct answer. Practice using deduction when working through questions to build these skills.
Do not leave blank answers
The exam paper s are designed to be challenging, to manage the allotted time a strategy of “Best Guess” can used to optimising exam out come.
It's important to keep in mind that making educated guesses based on your understanding of the subject matter is more advantageous than simply making a random guess. Before making a guess, you should eliminate any clearly incorrect answer choices and use any available information to make an informed decision.
General Guidance
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Create a studying plan
Planning study time with your child can help you stay organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed. With your child make a realistic weekly schedule that breaks down study time into smaller, manageable chunks which take into account school, sports, and TV, and stick to it.
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Optimise your study environment.
Find a study place that works best for your child. Make sure your study area is free from distractions and conducive to focus.
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Utilise active learning strategies.
Active learning strategies such as summarising information, creating flashcards, or having them teach the material to a sibling or a parent can help your child retain information better.
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Take Breaks
Taking short breaks every hour can help reduce burnout and refresh your child's mind. Engaging in physical activity, such as kicking a ball or taking a short walk can help to recharge their batteries.
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Practice, practice, practice
Doing practice questions or taking mock exams can help you identify your child's strengths and weaknesses, and also builds your child's confidence in exams.
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Get enough sleep
Lack of sleep can negatively impact your child’s focus, productivity, and overall performance. Make sure they get adequate sleep each night to perform at their best.
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Incentives work
Immediate incentives provide a sense of satisfaction and reward, which can be a powerful study motivator for children. Additionally, immediate incentives can create a sense of urgency, which can help children focus their attention and take quick action.
A reward of screen time or a walk to a corner store to purchase some sweets on successful completion of a task can be a powerful motivator.