Factors Affecting the Eleven Plus

One of the advantages of the eleven plus examination taking place when children are ten and eleven years old is that at that age a pleasant proportion of the aspiring candidates are still malleable and responsive. Of course there will be the occasional child with a behaviour problem but most children will be eager and willing to learn.

Each eleven plus child will be following his or her built in growth pattern and timetable. Some children will be mature and ready on examination day. Others may need a little extra time. Parents will be aware of the growth patterns of their own children. Over the years there will have been spurts of physical growth and advances in vocabulary and emotion stability.

Not all children will develop in the same way and at the same speed. Some children may offer evidence of emotional maturity as the examination grows closer. It is likely, however, that the eleven plus candidate will be physically active.

Some of the girls may be advancing through prepubescence.

It is likely that the eleven plus child will have many interests. Sometime this breadth and depth could potentially get in the way of completing eleven plus studies. This is where some children may need considerable support and understanding.

There will be times when our eleven plus children will need to feel secure and loved. Without question the children should be approaching the examination free of guilt and free of fear.

But how malleable will our eleven plus child be?

It depends.

What does it depend on?

Many factors.

Can the factors be controlled?

It depends.

Will parents every feel loved, respected and appreciated?

It depends.

What does it depend on?

Many factors.

Can the factors be controlled?

It depends.

Is this an easy time for parents?

Who knows!