Preparing for the 11+ without a tutor, from Year 4
Pick the school and entry year, use its familiarisation, and keep a small routine. In Year 4 that means reading, arithmetic and explaining a method.
A week you can adjust
| Activity | Your job |
|---|---|
| Read and discuss a short passage | Ask which words prove the answer |
| One number problem | Ask what the numbers mean |
| Return to a mistake | Change the numbers and try again |
| Write a short scene | Ask for one clear revision |
Shorten or skip sessions around illness and busy weeks.
Match the resource to the test
Timings and question counts vary by area. Check your school's subjects and answer formats.
Teach one decision
Worked example Compare prices by a common amount
A 600g bag costs £2.10 and a 900g bag costs £2.88. Which costs less per 100g?
Answer: £2.10 ÷ 6 = 35p per 100g. £2.88 ÷ 9 = 32p per 100g. The 900g bag is cheaper per 100g.
The trap: The smaller total price does not mean better value.
When extra help is worth it
- The same mistake survives several calm explanations: ask the class teacher.
- Reviews end in arguments: try shorter sessions or a different adult.
- Any tutor or app should give you a clear next task, not just a score.
Compare total cost
Ask for price per session, number of sessions, cancellation terms and materials. For subscriptions, total the months you will use. Put every option over the same period.