There are two main types of 11 Plus exam papers that you may come across when preparing your child for the entrance exam for the Grammar School: CEM and GL. Students' entrance to the best Grammar Schools in the UK is determined by their performance on the 11 Plus test, which consists of several challenging exams. 

Students taking the Grammar School admission exams must comprehend the CEM and GL assessments. This article will elucidate the distinction between the GL 11 Plus and CEM tests.

What is CEM?

The University of Durham's CEM, or Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring, creates the test papers for the 11 Plus programme. These exams aim to reduce expectations that the current 11 Plus tests were overly transparent. Thus, the educational authorities created new tests in response to concerns that the current 11 Plus exams were becoming excessively obvious. 

In the past few years, we have seen a shift to CEM exams in different regions. Schools in some parts of the UK or England use a combination of CEM and GL Assessment exam papers. In an effort to reduce "teaching to the test," CEM modifies exam formats and does not release practice materials.

What is GL?

GL Assessment, formerly known as NFER, was rebranded in 2007. It creates and administers 11 Plus examinations in numerous Grammar School subjects, including English, Maths, Verbal Reasoning, and Nonverbal Reasoning. Grammar Schools might administer all topics or those that best match their needs.

For more than two decades, GL has been the preferred exam board for most grammar schools and continues to be extremely popular. All questions are multiple-choice, with five answers available for each question. Depending on the school, the GL 11 Plus comprises one or more tests. 

Difference Between CEM and GL

In CEM and GL Assessment 11 Plus tests, you will practise vital areas such as Maths, English, Verbal and Nonverbal Reasoning. However, there are specific significant differences that you should be aware of before beginning your preparations.

• 11 Plus Exam Subjects

GL Assessment papers include English, Math, Verbal, and Nonverbal Reasoning assessments. Grammar Schools can opt to teach all these essential disciplines or just those that best fit their entrance standards for eligible pupils.

CEM tests assess Numerical, Verbal, and Nonverbal Reasoning. However, the Verbal Reasoning paper covers most of the competencies covered in the English paper on the GL Assessment. Furthermore, the Numerical Reasoning section incorporates core Mathematical abilities.

• Exam Format of 11 Plus GL and CEM

The GL 11 Plus test papers consist of English, Math, Verbal, and Nonverbal Reasoning. They include questions from GL question banks and past exams. As a result, students must practise consistently to become familiar with the many questions they may encounter on the final exam. There may be multiple-choice questions with answers provided in a separate answer book.

On the other hand, CEM tests do not distinguish between topics. Generally, one paper analyses a child's English and Verbal Reasoning skills, while the other evaluates pupils' Maths and Nonverbal Reasoning abilities. However, exam papers typically comprise many sections. Students start by answering basic Maths questions, then move on to Nonverbal Reasoning and word problems.

• CEM vs GL Exam Timings

A single-subject GL paper usually takes 45 to 50 minutes to complete. But this timeline guarantees a reasonable testing period and a thorough subject matter evaluation.

Exam formats for CEM papers are flexible and might vary from year to year. Check the school's website for previous test information and current paper structures. When given permission, children can only go to the next section of CEM exams. Timed portions covering many subjects are common in these exams.

How to Prepare for CEM and GL 11 Plus Exams?

To prepare effectively for the 11 Plus entrance exams, following a structured study plan and utilising the best 11 Plus tutoring services available is essential. Here are some vital tips:

Understand the exam formats: First, familiarise yourself with the structure unique to your location for the 11 Plus CEM and GL test. Although the test's format and content may differ between schools, your excellent understanding of the format will guide your preparation efforts.

Seek professional guidance: Professional support may provide valuable insights and specialised training, so hire a tutor or enrol your child in an 11 Plus preparation programme. Experienced tutors may offer expert guidance, tailored study strategies, and useful insights into test patterns.

Start Early: It is best to plan for at least a year. The earlier you begin, the more time your youngster will have to improve their abilities and gain confidence. In this manner, 11 Plus CEM and GL preparation will be less rigorous and beneficial to your child's well-being, with long-term academic advantages.

Practice Frequently: Success requires consistent practice. To simulate exam conditions, use authentic past papers or resources from reputable sources. Concentrate on enhancing accuracy and time management.

Proper Study Routine: Develop a schedule that includes all key disciplines, such as Maths, English, Verbal Reasoning, and Non-Verbal Reasoning. Set aside time for each topic depending on your child's skills and shortcomings.

Final Words

Understanding the nuances of CEM and GL exams is crucial for students and parents seeking the best 11 Plus tutoring services. The difficulty level of each exam board is subjective and depends on individual strengths and weaknesses. Therefore, it is essential to prepare strategically. With the right approach and support, students can increase their chances of performing well in the 11 Plus exams and securing admission to prestigious Grammar Schools.