Is It Better to Focus on Maths and English First, or Do Everything at Once?

Introduction

Welcome back! If your child is preparing for the 11+ exam, you might be wondering whether to focus on Maths and English as core priorities or spread out your efforts across all subjects simultaneously, including Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Let’s find out how to strike the right balance.

What Does This Question Entail?

The 11+ exam often tests multiple areas: Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Deciding whether to prioritise certain subjects first or tackle them all at once can affect your child’s time management, confidence, and depth of understanding.

Why Does It Matter?

• Focus on Maths and English First: Strengthening these foundation subjects can help across the board, since reading comprehension and basic arithmetic skills underpin many questions.

• Do Everything at Once: Spreading study time among all subjects from the start might prevent any weak spots from developing, especially in areas like Verbal or Non-Verbal Reasoning.

Selecting the right approach can help your child remain well-rounded and ready for the actual exam’s diverse question types.

Key Points to Consider

1. Child’s Strengths and Weaknesses

   • If your child is already strong in English, you might shift immediate focus to weaker areas.

2. Time Constraints

   • If the exam is close, you may need a balanced plan to cover all topics quickly.

   • If you have more time, starting with core subjects can build a solid base.

3. Subject Overlap

   • Maths fosters logical thinking, helpful in Non-Verbal Reasoning.

   • English reading skills aid Verbal Reasoning understanding.

4. Avoiding Boredom

   • Focusing solely on two subjects for too long might become tedious.

   • Mixing subjects can keep study sessions fresh and varied.

Actionable Tips or Steps

1. Initial Assessment

   • Identify your child’s strengths and weaknesses via practice tests.

2. Hybrid Schedule

   • Dedicate a bit more time to Maths and English if those are weaker, but still include short sessions for Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning.

3. Interrelated Study

   • Encourage using maths problems that require verbal explanations (e.g., worded problems) to merge skills.

4. Regular Progress Checks

   • Reassess monthly. If certain areas improve quickly, shift focus to the next subject or topic.

How EdifyPod Learning Supports You

At EdifyPod Learning, we make it easy to decide whether to concentrate on Maths and English first or tackle all subjects in tandem:

• Adaptive Pathways
  Our platform tailors lessons based on your child’s current performance, ensuring weak spots get the attention they need.

• Comprehensive Subject Coverage
  Access Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning modules all in one place.

• Skill-Building Approach
  We blend foundational skills with targeted practice in advanced topics for a seamless learning experience.

• Ongoing Feedback
  Parents receive detailed progress reports, making it simple to adjust study strategies over time.

Personalised Support for Your Child’s 11+ Journey

Every child learns differently, and the right guidance can make all the difference. Let’s discuss your child’s strengths, challenges, and how we can help them succeed.

Schedule Your Call Today

Next Steps

If you’re keen to explore more about 11+ preparation, here are some questions you might have:

1. Which reading strategies help children develop stronger comprehension early on?

2. How can we incorporate playful learning to build vocabulary without boredom?

3. What’s the Best Age to Start 11+ Exam Preparation?

4. How do I handle motivation slumps if I start too early?

5. What role do mock exams play in refining overall exam techniques?

If any of these questions resonate with you, rest assured—you’re not alone. Continue reading our other blogs for practical advice on early preparation, scheduling, and nurturing a love for learning.

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