The importance of reading for children cannot be underestimated and is essential for the 11+ exams. Whilst some parents may think that it's not important given your child doesn't actually sit a reading exam, reading is a magic tool and it can significantly enhance their development in numerous ways.
A child who reads every day is more likely to have a much wider vocabulary, better grammar and punctuation skills and much better spelling than a child who reads very little. Research also suggests that a child who reads frequently has an increased chance of understanding questions in the 11+ exams, as well as demonstrating strong concentration skills during the exam. The ability to read fluently and quickly, through regular reading, is vital when it comes to your child completing a long or detailed comprehension exercise.
Limited breadth of vocabulary can also really hold back a child's progress in Creative Writing and Verbal Reasoning. When children attempt to make their writing more interesting by adding adjectives and adverbs, they will have a much more varied choice of words available to them than a child who doesn't read at all or as regularly. We strongly believe that one of the key points of difference between students who succeed at the 11+ exams and those who don't, is the breadth of their vocabulary skills.
Not only do we want the bookmark reward scheme to improve your child's development, but above all, for your child to read for pleasure so that he/she looks forward to sitting down with a book. Over time, your child will hopefully see reading as an enjoyment as well as a means to relax - this can be great for our Year 5 students who have been working really hard in the run up to the 11+ and is a wonderful way to get them to unwind and switch off before bedtime. Although we would always recommend to our students to read a variety of books to stretch their vocabulary, any reading material is better than none, so allow your child to read a book that stretches their imagination and appeals to them. Gradually your child should then feel more comfortable reading more challenging material and books beyond their comfort zone, which will really help them succeed in their 11+ exams.
Happy reading to all our students!
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