What it tests
Reading comprehension is the heart of the paper. Your child reads an unseen passage, often fiction or non-fiction, then answers questions on meaning, inference, vocabulary in context and the writer technique.
- Reading comprehension with literal and inference questions
- Vocabulary, including word meanings, synonyms and antonyms
- Spelling, punctuation and grammar
- Sentence completion and identifying errors
- Creative or continuous writing, where the region includes it
Where formats differ
Many GL style papers are multiple choice and focus on comprehension, spelling and grammar. Other areas, such as the CSSE test used in Essex, include a written composition that is marked by hand. Always confirm whether your target schools assess creative writing, because it changes how you prepare.
How to improve
Wide daily reading is the single biggest lever. It grows vocabulary, builds the stamina to work through a long passage and exposes children to the sentence structures the questions test. Discussing what a character feels or why an author chose a word builds the inference skills the paper rewards.
Use our free comprehension practice at /resources/comprehension to work on timed passages, and keep a steady habit of vocabulary, spelling and grammar practice alongside it. Where writing is assessed, practise short pieces to a clear plan and a strict time limit.
See where your child stands
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