How to Build Your Child’s Vocabulary for the 11+

If there’s one “secret weapon” for the 11+, it’s vocabulary. A wide word bank helps with Verbal Reasoning, English comprehension and writing all at once. The good news: it’s very buildable with the right habits.

Why vocabulary matters so much

Synonyms, antonyms and analogies in Verbal Reasoning depend directly on knowing words. Comprehension questions are easier when a child understands the passage’s language. And richer writing uses more precise words. Vocabulary quietly lifts every part of the exam.

Read widely — and talk about it

Reading is still the single best way to grow vocabulary. Encourage a range — fiction, non-fiction, newspapers for children — and chat about new words as they come up, so meaning sticks in context.

Learn words in context, not just lists

Word lists have their place, but a word learned inside a sentence is far more memorable than one memorised in isolation. When your child meets a new word, use it in a sentence together.

Little and often, then revisit

A handful of new words a day, revisited over the following days, beats cramming fifty in one sitting. This “spaced” approach is how vocabulary moves into long-term memory.

Make it a game

Flashcards, matching games and quick quizzes turn learning into play. Our built-in word trainer covers 595 essential 11+ words with flashcards, quizzes, matching and spelling — spaced over days so they genuinely stick.

Ready to test some word knowledge? Try our free 11+ practice test.