Book reviews - revision guides AE Publications

AE Publications began publishing educational books in 2000. These books are easy to follow and ideal to use for home tutoring, whether to support work done in school, or for home schoolers. All their books can be purchased through their Bookshop.

They are re-branding their titles and introducing age ranges. These new titles are at the top of my page, with the books grouped by age rather than by subject and in date order of publication - newest first. The older publications are arranged under subject and can be found further down the page.

  • 11 Plus Workbooks and 11 Plus Testbooks are used to teach all core subjects.
  • 11 Plus Maths covers topics such as numbers, data handling, shape, space and measures.
  • 11 Plus Verbal Reasoning covers topics like alphabet reasoning, word patterns and codes, vocabulary with spelling and vocabulary with meaning.
  • 11 Plus Non-Verbal Reasoning covers topics like elements, movements, manipulations, patterns and layering.
  • 11 Plus Spelling and Vocabulary boosts comprehension and word power skills.
  • 11 Plus Creative Writing covers topics like generating story ideas, literary and grammatical devices, story dialogue and character development.

KS2 Maths Year 3/4 Testbook 1: Standard 15 Minute Tests

For 2018, AE Publications have produced a whole new range of maths workbooks and testbooks which provide a really comprehensive resource to support learning through KS2. The 15 minute tests in this book are perfect for reinforcing learning. It's important at this stage, though, not to rush children through the tests - it's more important that they work at their own pace and have got a good understanding of what they are doing; they will speed up naturally with regular practice. It's also important to be guided by your child's learning - these tests extend children's learning beyond their expected age-related National Curriculum standard but do make sure your child is ready for this progression. The testbook provides practice for SATs, GL Assessment and CEM 11+ exams, CATs, the Northern Ireland Transfer Test, Common Entrance and scholarship examinations for independent schools. The answers can be filled in directly on the page and there is also a page for working out. Answers, Progress Charts and a Certificate of Achievement are included at the end of the book. This book is followed up by KS2 Maths Year 3/4 Testbook 2: Standard 15 Minute Tests.

KS2 Maths Year 3/4 Workbook 1: Numerical Reasoning Technique

This is the first in a comprehensive set of eight books which will really ensure children have had plenty of opportunities to practise and reinforce their skills in Numerical Reasoning Technique. The contents of the books are as follows:

  • Workbook 1 Tens Number System
  • Workbook 2 Addition; Subtraction
  • Workbook 3 Multiplication; Division
  • Workbook 4 Number Relationships; Decimals
  • Workbook 5 Fractions
  • Workbook 6 Money and Costs; Measurement; Averages
  • Workbook 7 Percentages; Probability; Lines and Angles; Time
  • Workbook 8 Symmetry; Shapes; Perimeter and Area; Geometry; Tables, Charts and Diagrams; Algebra

The Key Stage 2 Maths series covers mathematical technique for SATs, GL Assessment and CEM 11+ exams, CATs, the Northern Ireland Transfer Test, Common Entrance and scholarship examinations for independent schools, and all other styles of mathematical test, and is designed for pupils working above the national standard. This series of books is designed to be used in sequence from Workbook 1 onwards. Each technique has a clear explanation over several pages which is well presented with excellent use of diagrams. A worked example is followed by plenty of practice questions. Answers, Progress Charts and a Certificate of Achievement are included at the end of every book. The pages within the books are usefully coded, showing mathematical information that should be understood, techniques that should be mastered and exercises that should be practised. The explanations match up with the practice questions through the colour coding.This really helps with progressive learning. All AE materials have been rigorously classroom tested and the material covers all the requirements of the National Curriculum. The methodologies have been successfully used in AE Tuition classes for over 20 years. The books are really well laid out and with eight books covering material for Years 3 and 4 (ages 7 - 9), parents can be reassured that their child is really covering the topics as fully as possible. As well as supporting work done at school, the books are also excellent for home educators, with their clear explanations of the topics to support learning and understanding. It's also good to see high production values, making the books appealing in appearance (especially the bright colours) and enjoyable to use. The books, including the two Testbooks, can be bought as a good value bundle directly from AE.

KS2 Maths Year 4/5 Testbook 1: Standard 15 Minute Tests

These testbooks are designed to be used alongside the Workbooks reviewed below and are a natural progression from the books listed and reviewed above.  The progressive tests give extra practice to support the Workbooks. There are 36 in all. Please don't feel constrained by the 15 minutes suggested for each test - children will naturally speed up as they gain confidence, and that confidence will come from stradily working through the tests. These tests extend children's learning beyond their expected age-related National Curriculum standard but please don't push your child beyond the level they are ready to work at. The testbook provides practice for SATs, GL Assessment and CEM 11+ exams, CATs, the Northern Ireland Transfer Test, Common Entrance and scholarship examinations for independent schools, and all other styles of mathematical test. The testbooks are designed to be used in conjunction with the KS2 Maths workbooks as an additional learning tool. After completion, the maths testpack should be used for final exam preparation. Answers, Progress Charts and a Certificate of Achievement are included at the end of the book. Follow this book with KS2 Maths Year 4/5 Testbook 2: Standard 15 Minute Tests.

KS2 Maths Year 4/5 Workbook 1: Numerical Reasoning Technique

The Key Stage 2 Maths series covers mathematical technique for SATs, GL Assessment and CEM 11+ exams (always check with your child's school to ensure you know which test will be taken), CATs, the Northern Ireland Transfer Test, Common Entrance and scholarship examinations for independent schools, and all other styles of mathematical test. This series of books is designed to be used in sequence from Workbook 1 onwards and should be used in this sequence to ensure progression is logical and coherent, reinforcing classroom learning. The workbook series is complemented by testbooks (see above) that reinforce a child's mathematical technique and knowledge, as well as testpacks for final exam preparation. Usefully, answers, Progress Charts and a Certificate of Achievement are included at the end of every book. All AE materials have been rigorously classroom tested and the methodologies are tried and tested, having been successfully used in AE Tuition classes for over 20 years. The bright covers with a cheerful ringmaster on the front will appeal to children and give a nice feel to the books; the high quality of the paper makes the books good to work in. The books cover the following topics: 

  • Workbook 1 Tens Number System; Addition; Subtraction
  • Workbook 2 Multiplication; Division
  • Workbook 3 Number Relationships; Decimals
  • Workbook 4 Fractions
  • Workbook 5 Money and Costs; Measurement; Averages 
  • Workbook 6 Percentages; Ratio; Probability; Lines and Angles
  • Workbook 7 Time; Symmetry; Shapes
  • Workbook 8 Perimeter, Area & Volume; Geometry; Tables, Charts, Graphs & Diagrams; Algebra

By working methodically through the eight books in the series, children will cover all they need for the National Curriculum; they will respond well to the consistent approach and familiarity of the teaching material. A bundled set which includes the eight workbooks and the two testbooks can be purchased directly from AE Publications at a discounted price. Used to follow on from the books for Years 3 and 4, these really do provide comprehensive coverage of all children need to know. The combination of explanations, worked examples and practice questions is well balanced and enables parents to ensure their child has fully understood the concepts before trying out the Testbooks. The explanations are well presented with good use of step-by-step guidance. The use of colour coding to differentiate mathematical information that should be understood; mathematical technique that should be mastered and mathematical exercises that should be practised makes the books easy to use and follow. An excellent series to support school and home teaching, well presented and sequenced.

11+ Non Verbal Reasoning Year 5-7 Workbook Additional Practice Questions by Stephen Curran

Support your child's exam preparation with this book, which continues AE's series on non-verbal reasoning - a subject often not covered in state schools. It contains additional practice questions for the Non-verbal Reasoning component of the CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring) exam and is also valuable preparation for all other styles of Non-verbal Reasoning tests. The extensive course prepares children for standard and multiple-choice examination papers, and develops in them the confidence that comes from familiarity with the whole range of questions that will be encountered. This series of books is designed to be used in sequence from Workbook 1 onwards (see my earlier reviews). The workbook series is complemented by testbooks that reinforce the child's Non-verbal Reasoning technique and knowledge. Answers, Progress Charts and a Certificate of Achievement are included at the end of every book. An excellent series which gives a thorough grounding.

11+ Maths Year 5-7 Testpack A Papers 5-8: Numerical Reasoning Gl Assessment Style Practice Papers by Stephen Curran

AE Publications Maths Workbooks and short Testbooks should be used before progressing on to the test papers - this will ensure children are completely confident about the various question types they will experience. They should be used as learning reinforcement and are valuable for exam preparation. Each practice paper is set out in the format and content of the 11+ exam and may be completed as a standard or multiple-choice test (please check which your child will be doing). This set is for GL Assessment style papers. Each test should take about 50 minutes, however it is more important that a child completes the test accurately and does not rush - the will speed up naturally with practice and it is important to build confidence. The work continues in 11+ Maths Year 5-7 Testpack A Papers 9-12: Numerical Reasoning Gl Assessment Style Practice Papers

11+ Maths Year 5-7 Testpack B Papers 5-8: Numerical Reasoning CEM Style Practice Papers by Stephen Curran Similar in purpose to the set reviewed above, these books are specifically for pupils sitting CEM style exams - it is important that you check with your child's school as to the exam style expected. They provide valuable learning for children working above the expected level in Year 6, as well as for quantitative reasoning for CATs, Common Entrance and scholarship exams and Northern Ireland Transfer Tests. The whole series from AE Publications covers all areas relevant to the National Curriculum above national standard. Each pack contains four practice papers and answers are included. Also available is 11+ Maths Year 5-7 Testpack B Papers 9-12: Numerical Reasoning CEM Style Practice Papers

11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Cloze Testbook 1 by Stephen C. Curran

This book contains 40 Cloze tests, mostly occupying a single A4 page, so they are perfect for revision as children can tackle just one or two at a time over a period, giving them plenty of practice and confidence in the build-up to exams. Guidance Notes for Parents explain that different forms of text are used - historical, biographical, general knowledge, prose and poetry. The testbooks are designed to be used in conjunction with AE Publications 11+ Verbal Activity workbooks as an additional learning tool. During an intense learning phase children also improve their Verbal Activity skills through a testing process, provided that the main emphasis is focused on acquiring techniques from our workbooks. The tests are not exclusively book specific but they are progressive and give extra practice in most of the techniques contained in the Verbal Activity workbooks. The answers to the tests are included in the book. To follow on, there is 11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Cloze Testbook 2, which follows the same format.

verbal activity

11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 CEM Style Testbook 1: 20 Minute Tests 1-20 by Stephen C. Curran

This book contains 20 tests, designed to take 20 minutes each - please don't pressure your child to finish the earlier tests in a restricted time - they will soon speed up as they work their way through the books, and will be confident in meeting the time demand by the time they have done the tests in this book and its sequel. The books prepare children for 11+, 12+ and 13+ state grammar entrance, CE and scholarship exams for independent schools and the VR element of CATS. Children enter their answers directly into the book and answers are u=included. During an intense learning phase, children also improve their Verbal Activity skills through a testing process, provided that the main emphasis is focused on acquiring techniques from our workbooks. The tests are not exclusively book specific but they are progressive and give extra practice in most of the techniques contained in the Verbal Activity workbooks. The books are clearly laid out and easy to use. Follow on the work in 11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Cem Style Testbook 2: 20 Minute Tests 21-40

11+ Maths Year 3/4 Testbook 2: Standard 15 Minute Tests by Stephen C. Curran

Usefully this series of books os designed for specific years, with an overlap so parents and teachers can ensure children have thoroughly understood the work for the age before moving on. The logical progression is really valuable. The series is ideal as a learning tool in conjunction with our other maths materials. This is useful preparatory material for children who will eventually be sitting for the 11+ grammar school or independent school exams. Provides practice for GL Assessment, CEM and all other styles of mathematical tests. This testbook covers the following topics: Basic Number; Number Relationships; Decimals; Fractions; Money and Costs; Measurement; Averages; Lines & Angles; Time; Symmetry; Shapes; Tables, Charts, Graphs and Diagrams. These tests extend children's learning beyond their expected age-related National Curriculum levels. The testbooks in the series provide practice for GL Assessment, CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring) and all other styles of mathematical tests. The testbooks are designed to be used in conjunction with our 11+ Maths workbooks as an additional learning tool. During an intense learning phase children also improve their mathematics skills through a testing process, provided that the main emphasis is focused on acquiring techniques from our workbooks. Continue your child's learning journey with 11+ Maths Year 4/5 Testbook 2: Standard 15 Minute Tests 2016 and 11+ Maths Year 5-7 Testbook 2: Numerical Reasoning Standard 15 Minute Tests. These books are also valuable for pupils working up to Mastery Standard in the new National Curriculum. The tests are clearly laid out and there is room for pupils to show their working out.The tests are not exclusively book specific but they are progressive and give extra practice in most of the techniques contained in the Maths workbooks. Each test should take about 15 minutes, however it is more important that a child completes the test accurately and does not rush their answers. Children will speed up naturally with practice. Answers, Progress Charts and a Certificate of Achievement are included at the end of every book.

11+ Maths Year 5-7 Testbook 3: Numerical Reasoning Standard & Multiple-Choice 6 Minute Tests by Stephen C. Curran

These quick tests are preparatory material for children who will eventually be sitting for the 11+ grammar school or independent school exams; they are also useful in assessing suitability for the tests. Provides practice for GL Assessment, CEM and all other styles of mathematical tests; they are also suitable for children working above the NC national standard. They are set out as 40 daily tests, each on a single page with spaces for answers, with space opposite for working out. There are also multi-choice answer sheets so children can become accustomed to the alternative format. This book is a rebranded and combined version of IPS 11+ Daily Practice Testbooks 1 & 2 (Book 1 IS-BN: 9780954285395 and Book 2 ISBN: 9781905025121). The content remains the same.

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11+ Maths Year 5-7 Testbook 3: Numerical Reasoning Standard & Multiple-Choice 35 Minute Tests by Stephen C. Curran

This is useful preparatory material for children who will be sitting for the 11+ grammar school or independent school exams and is designed for children in Years 5 - 7. Provides practice for GL Assessment, CEM and all other styles of mathematical tests. During an intense learning phase children also improve their maths skills through a testing process, provided that the main emphasis is focused on acquiring techniques from our workbooks. The tests are not exclusively book specific but they are progressive and give extra practice in most of the techniques covered in the Maths workbooks.This book is a re-branded version of IPS 11+ Mathematics Practice Papers Book D (ISBN: 9780954285371). The content remains the same. The longer format of the tests (there are 10 in all) gives children realistic exam practice, enhanced by the inclusion of multi-choice answer sheets along with the test papers. Answers are included.

11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Testpack B Papers 1-4: CEM Style Practice Papers by Stephen C. Curran

It's important to note that these practice papers are designed to be completed after our 11+ Verbal Activity workbooks and short testbooks, so children are fully prepared to take the tests. They should be used as learning reinforcement and are essential for exam preparation. Each practice paper simulates the format and content of the 11+ exam and, usefully, may be completed as a standard or multiple-choice test. Each test should take about 50 minutes, however it is more important that a child completes the test accurately and does not rush. Children will speed up naturally with practice and with the four papers in each pack, there is plenty of opportunity for this - it's so important to build up children's confidence with the questions without initially being under time pressure. The format replicates the actual test papers, and this is important for confidence and familiarity. There are two more packs of papers to continue pupils' learning - 11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Testpack B Papers 5-8: CEM Style Practice Papers and 11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Testpack B Papers 9-12. A ssuperbly comprehensive resource.

11+ Maths Year 4/5 Testpack a Papers 1-4: Numerical Reasoning Gl Assessment Style Practice Papers by Stephen C. Curran

Again, please note that these practice papers are designed to be completed after AE's 11+ Maths workbooks and testbooks. This is important, as if children do not fully understand the techniques, they could easily become discouraged. The papers should be used as learning reinforcement and are essential for exam preparation. Each practice paper simulates the format and content of the 11+ exam and may be completed as a standard or multiple-choice test. Each test should take about 40 minutes, however it is more important that a child completes the test accurately and does not rush. Each pack contains 4 Practice Papers; Answers and Guidance Notes for Parents; Multiple-choice Answer Sheets plus a Certificate Children will speed up naturally with practice, and their confidence will build. For children closer to the exams, the follow-on book is 11+ Maths Year 5-7 Testpack A Papers 1-4: Numerical Reasoning Gl Assessment Style Practice Papers. It's good to see a sequence, which helps pupils' with familiarity and confidence, ensuring full coverage of the exam requirements.

11+ English Year 4/5 Testpack a Papers 1-4: GL Assessment Style Practice Papers by Stephen C. Curran

This testpack prepares children who are working above the expected level for 11+, 12+ and 13+ state grammar entrance, Common Entrance and scholarship examinations for independent schools, and the English element of Cognitive Abilities Tests (CATs). The CATS preparation element is useful as these tests are not generally available. These practice papers are designed for early exam preparation, to be used as learning reinforcement. Each paper simulates the format and content of the 11+ exam and may be completed as a standard or multiple-choice test; the choice of formats means pupils can become familiar with the layout of the tests they will take, enhancing their confidence - this is really important. Each test should take about 40 minutes, however it is more important that a child completes the test accurately and does not rush. Children will speed up naturally with practice and as confidence increases. The follow-on book, to ensure children are up to speed before the tests is 11+ English Year 5-7 Testpack A Papers 1-4: GL Assessment Style Practice Papers.

11+ Verbal Activity Year 4/5 Testpack A Papers 1-4 by Stephen C. Curran

It's really important for parents to start giving their children experience of the Verbal Activity tests that they will encounter, because this is not taught as a separate subject in most schools, so children do need the extra experience offered by test and practice books. As with the other test papers, these practice papers are designed to be completed after our 11+ Verbal Activity workbooks and short testbooks. They should be used as learning reinforcement and are essential for exam preparation. Each practice paper simulates the format and content of the 11+ exam and may be completed as a standard or multiple-choice test. Each test should take about 40 minutes, however it is more important, especially at this age, that a child completes the test accurately and does not rush. Children will speed up naturally with practice and confidence. so please do not get anxious over speed. By starting preparation early, there is plenty of opportunity for children to gain experience and speed up - the value offered by these tests for Years 4 and 5 is immense.

11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Testpack A Papers 1-4: GL Assessment Style Practice Papers by Stephen C. Curran

Here we have an extensive series of test papers which really will give children a very thorough grounding before tackling the Verbal Activity element of 11+, 12+ and !3+ state grammar entrance, CE and scholarship exams and the VR element of CATS tests, which many children will take in their first year of secondary school, as well as in external exams. These practice papers are designed to be completed after AE Publications 11+ Verbal Activity workbooks and short testbooks. This series extends children’s learning beyond their expected age-related National Curriculum levels. The testpacks provide practice for GL Assessment style verbal activity exams. Each test can be taken as a standard or multiple-choice test. Each test should take about 50 minutes, however it is more important that a child completes the test accurately and does not rush. Children will speed up naturally with practice. Answers, Multiple-choice Answer Sheets and a Certificate of Achievement are included in every pack. Continuation papers are found in 11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Testpack A Papers 5-8: GL Assessment Style Practice Papers 5-8 and A very extensive and valuable resource.

11+ Times Tables Workbook 1: 15 Day Learning Programme for 2x - 12x Tables by Stephen C. Curran

Nobody can argue with the fact that learning times tables is an essential foundation for maths work - and for everyday life. This novel approach has been tested and proved a success with over 2,000 students. The pack contains a book which covers the tables from 2 - 12 with exercises which cover the four different ways that sums can be laid out - this is an excellent way to ensure students are confident regardless of the way questions are presented. There are also pages at the end of each group of tables to reinforce learning plus mixed tables at the end. In addition, there are flash cards to use to practise each table. The combination provides a really good way to ensure a complete grasp of every table and the process is well explained in the introduction. Progress charts and certificate of achievement are also included so students get a real sense of accomplishment.

11+ Times Tables Workbook 2 by Stephen C. Curran

As with Workook 1, this programme is designed to be covered in 15 says (3 weeks with the weekends off!). This time, tables from 13 to 20 are covered - unusual but extremely useful and practical - in the same format as the previous book. AE Tuition assure us that: "The book and system are rigorously classroom tested. Methodologies presented are used in AE Tuition classes for over 20 years. There is over 85 per cent success rate in 11+ and selection tests." Taken together, these books provide valuable learning for any test, including SATS, CATS, 11+ and CE. By enhancing numerical and quantitative reasoning skills, learning is helped.

11+ Year 5/7, ages 9-12

11+ Non-Verbal Reasoning Non Verbal Reasoning Technique Year 5-7 Workbook 6: Non-Verbal Reasoning Technique by Stephen C. Curran

It is unlikely that your child will be taught verbal and non-verbal reasoning techniques if they attend a state school. They are, however, key parts of many 11+ and Common Entrance exams, and that's where these books come in. Give your child much-needed experience with the set of six progressive workbooks, and they will benefit hugely, not only for these tests but also in the way they develop spatial reasoning. They do help specifically with 11+ CEM and GL Assessment Tests and the Northern Ireland Transfer Tests. This book covers Rrecognising shapes; rotation and reflection, more analogies; more similarities and more matrices; the chapters are then sub-divided so each technique can be mastered separately. Clear explanations are followed by easy-to-follow step-by-step examples which break the problem right down. These are followed by two pages of practice for each topic. This comprehensive series ensures children are familiar with the many types of question they may encounter.

11+ Verbal Activity Verbal Reasoning Technique Year 5-7 Workbook 7 by Stephen Curran

This is the 7th in a series of workbooks which use clear and exhaustive methodologies to teach children to understand how to approach VR questions. By the time children reach this book, they will be really well prepared for 11+, Common Entrance and Northern Ireland Transfer tests, as well as benefiting from developing their thinking skills. The chapter numbering follows on from previous books and this emphasises the fact this is a continuation. Topics are alphabet work; more codes; word play; word manipulation and grouping and these are followed by revision. Again, the questions are well demonstrated through examples which break the question right down so children can follow the process step-by-step. Understanding can be checked by working through the questions in each section (answers are included). Comprehensive and thorough.

11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Testbook 8: CEM Style Practice Papers 1-4 by Stephen C. Curran

There are three testbooks in this series, which provide practice for the CEM style of Verbal Activity tests. Testbooks 8-10 are CEM Style Practice Papers, with a total of 12 papers to complete. They should be used in conjunction with the 11+ Verbal Activity workbooks as an additional learning tool. The tests are not exclusively book specific but they are progressive and give extra practice in most of the techniques contained in the Verbal Activity workbooks; we all know the importance of practice and reinforcement and these tests provide that in abundance. All the papers can be completed as standard or multiple choice tests (answer sheets are, of course, provided). Make sure you check what style of paper your child will be sitting. The series continues with 11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Testbook 9: CEM Style Practice Papers 5-8 and 11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Testbook 10: CEM Style Practice Papers 9-12.

11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Testbook 6: CEM Style Cloze Activity Tests by Stephen C. Curran

The testbooks 6 and 7 are designed to be used in conjunction with the 11+ Verbal Activity workbooks as an additional learning tool. They provide a high level of experience so that children are totally confident to face all question types, whatever style of exam they are sitting. The papers are presented in an exact test format, including instructions and timing, so parents can ask their children to practise under test conditions. All possible question types are included and by this stage, children should be familiar with them all, so they tackle these papers with confidence. Follow on with 11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Testbook 7: CEM Style Cloze Activity Tests 2015. AE Publications have produced an exceptional set of resources that will provide everything to give your child the best possible learning so they can tackle tests and exams with confidence. Remember, though, to take advice from your child's school when planning for tests and exams.

 11+ Non-verbal Reasoning 3 with supplementary material by Stephen C Curran

 This volume focuses specifically on three-dimensional rotation. It is ideal preparation for the CEM 11+ examination. This workbook explains the two types of 3D Rotation: Viewer Rotation and Rotational View. It comes as a pack which includes Supplementary Material pages to be used in conjunction with the workbook; 11 sheets of pop-out shapes to construct your own 3D visual aids and 5 sheets of stickers which work alongside the shapes to help understanding. The construction of the shapes is a useful exercise in itself, and the completed shapes can then be used to help in answering the questions, providing a useful visual aid. This is the first time I have seen this extra resource and it really does help in understanding a topic which can be tricky for some. It's definitely an area where practice and familiarity pay dividends and this approach really does work to demystify 3D rotation.

 Non-verbal Reasoning Workbook 4 for Year 5-7 by Stephen C Curran

Books 4 and 5 follow on from Books 1-3, with additional practice questions which are excellent for reinforcing non-verbal reasoning skills learnt in the earlier books. Clearly laid out pages replicate exam papers, thus encouraging familiarity; an example question is given for each question type. Odd one out, codes and analogies are the topics covered in Workbook 4; each topic has 4 levels (basic, intermediate, advanced and higher) followed by mixed levels. This ensures there are questions suited to children working at every level and provides a clear progression through the various topics. A clear and practical approach. Also available is 11+ Non-Verbal Reasoning Year 5-7 Workbook 5: Additional Practice Questions which covers similarities, series and matrices, following the same format as Book 4. By the time children come to the end of this set of books they will have a really excellent understanding of all the question types.

Maths Workbook 1 by Stephen C Curran

The Maths workbooks will provide essential learning for the skills required in preparing for SATs at Key Stage 2 (especially those preparing for Level 6), state grammar 11+ examinations and independent school examinations (CE) in Maths. The 'how-to' techniques and exercises in these workbooks provide a clear and concise learning process to give pupils a strong grounding; working through the entire series gives a comprehensive and coherent coverage of every topic. Baisc number, number relationships and decimals are covered in this book; within the topic, attention is given to each area with explanations, examples and practice questions. 11+ Maths Year 5-7 Workbook 2: Numerical Reasoning covers fractions; money and costs; measurement; averages; and bases.
 AE Publications recommend that the workbooks are followed with the testbooks to ensure a complete learning journey.
 

Maths Workbook 3 by Stephen C Curran

Maths Workbook 3 has extensive coverage of percentages and ratio and proportion. These are practical topcs which are easily transferred to daily life and the examples given draw on this to ensure that they are relevant and appropriate. The page layout makes a clear distinction between each subject area, with good use of coloured boxes to differentiate one topic from the next. With plenty of practice questions, children will be given a good grounding,whether for tests and exams or simply to reinforce class work. 11+ Maths Year 5-7 Workbook 4: Numerical Reasoning covers probability; lines and angles; time; symmetry; and shapes. The explanations for each topic are clear and simple and the exercises, which link closely, allow for reinforcement and show if understanding is complete.

Maths Workbook 5 by Stephen C Curran

Maths Workbook 5 covers perimeter; area and volume, geometry; and tables, charts, graphs and diagrams. Children can work through the whole series to ensure complete coverage of every topic, or individual books can be used if just specific topics are required - the clear contents facilitate this. AE Publications are re-branding their range; the new books are a pleasure to use, with attractive covers and good quality glossy paper which is really easy to write on, with no ink showing through. The layout of the questions is good - there is plenty of space for answers and no confusion between each question.  In 11+ Maths Year 5-7 Workbook 6: Numerical Reasoning , children will learn about algebra - the whole book concentrates on this single topic, meaning there is really thorough coverage.

Maths Workbook 7 by Stephen C Curran

 Maths Workbook 7 is a completely new title, which focuses on using scientific instruments and the scientific calculator in 11+ and Key Stage 2 Maths test questions.  It starts with use of rulers, set squares, protractors, compasses and calculators, with clear explanations and good use of diagrams.The book includes a useful picture of a scientific calculator, with labels showing the function of each key; it clearly explains exactly how to use the calculator. The step-by-step instructions on problem solving are very clear and detailed, ensuring children have complete confidence in using what can be a complex device. There are plenty of practical exercises to check and reinforce learning.
 

11+ Maths Year 5-7 Testbook 1 by Stephen C Curran

This book of standard 15 minute tests is the perfect companion to the workbooks, giving plenty of practise in the lead-in to tests and exams, as well as for reinforcing classroom teaching.  Children learn not only through practice, but also through testing themselves. AE Publications have developed testbooks to accompany workbooks to provide a fully comprehensive learning experience. This Maths testbook is designed to be used with all 7 of the Maths workbooks in a progressive manner to emphasise the elements of the seven books. As with all the books, there are answers, progress charts and a certificate of achievement.

11+ Semantics Workbook 1 - Synonyms by Stephen C. Curran

Once again, AE Tuition have gone into more depth than most other workbooks. Designed to be used as a follow-on to the Spelling and Vocabulary series, these three books should be used in sequence. The books boost comprehension, word power and creative writing skills and prepare children for 11+, 12+ and 13+ State Grammar entrance and Common Entrance and scholarship examinations for Independent Schools. Synonyms are vital in helping pupils make their writing - and speech - engaging and descriptive and by the end of this book they will have learnt a total of 460 words. There are 20 words on each page and each word has to be fitted into both a crossword and a sentence. This two-pronged approach reinforces learning and provides variety to keep children's attention.

11+ Semantics Workbook 2 - Antonyms by Stephen C. Curran

Following on from Synonyms, this book has the same format with sentences and a crossword to complete for each set of words - again, a total of 460 words. This is a really excellent way to enhance children's vocabulary and to encourage them to think about how they use the words. At the back of each book, all the words are listed alphabetically to give extra opportunities to reinforce learning. The answers are included. Clear layout makes the book easy to follow and there are spaces to write in the answers.
 

11+ Semantics Workbook 3 - Homonyms by Stephen C. Curran

The third in the series features homonyms, which includes homographs and homophones. These can be confusing for children so the extensive practice offered by this book is invaluable. The crosswords add a refreshing element of fun, so that pupils will look forward to completing the work - and there's a puzzle hidden in the crosswords for an extra incentive. The amount of work in each section is just for a right practice session - not so much as to be daunting. In common with all the books, progress charts and a certificate of achievement are included. By the time children have worked through these books, their vocabulary will be vastly enhanced!

11+ English Comprehension Workbook 1 by Stephen C. Curran

The book covers five sections - basic approaches to text, probing the text, analysing prose, analysing poetry and then a varied range of comprehension practice. The strength of the book is in the fact that each technique has a clear explanation, with a worked example, followed by plenty of practice questions. The explanations are detailed and really help pupils understand the purpose behind the questions they are asked, thus enabling them to give better answers. The book covers English Comprehension technique for GL Assessment, CEM, CE and SATS - but it's not just valuable for exam revision, it provides an excellent range of comprehension exercises to enhance pupil's understanding and enjoyment of reading. An excellent book which covers areas most others do not.

11+ Creative Writing Workbook 1 by Stephen Curran

Creative writing skills are essential learning for all children. Whether preparing for SATs at Key Stage 2, state grammar 11+ examinations or independent school examinations, they need to master these skills; skills which do not come easily to everyone. Not just for exams though - creative writing extends children's vocabulary, imagination and thinking skills so is an essential part of learning. I like the way this book starts off by encouraging children to use their senses and think about their feelings; this makes them think about what is going on around them and then encourages them to rite about it.
 

11+ Creative Writing Workbook 2 by Stephen C. Curran

By woring through this series of six books, children will understand how to generate story ideas; use literary and grammatical devices; compose story dialogue; create interesting characters; master the elements of story; voice stories; structure stories and construct story endings. This book encourages children to think about the five elements of story - where, when, who, what and why. Folowing this section, they write the first draft of a story; then, after section 2 which focuses on dialogie, they write their second drafts. Throughout the book, there are plenty of examples for children to study and opportunities for them to do their own pieces of writing.

11+ Creative Writing Workbook 3 by Stephen C. Curran

Book 3 focuses on voicing your story, with plenty of examples of how to use different tenses in story writing. Throughout all the books, children are given examples to follow and then encouraged to write their own stories with the story starters given; there is space within each of the books to facilitate this. Often, it is starting the writing which is the hardest part, so the inclusion of starters is a great help and encouragement. The second section addresses the six facets of character; this is quite a complex section and children may need some help with these concepts; however, the examples given will be helpful in explaining this principle.

11+ Creative Writing Workbook 4 by Stephen C. Curran

Book 4, the first section concentrates on grammatical devices and parts of speech - essential skills for all children, not only in creative writing, but in all aspects of written and spoken English. Again, there are plenty of examples as well as practice exercises to enhance and assess understanding - as with each book, there is a certificate of achievement at the end. The second section discusses the structure of stories. Throughout, explanations are clear and easy to follow, with good layout and progression through the books.

11+ Creative Writing Workbook 5 by Stephen C. Curran

More advanced literary devices and the story climax are the topics of this book. Plenty of practice exercises are included in this series of books to ensure children can greatly enhance their ability to write creatively. All AE workbooks are rigorously classroom tested, frequently revised and updated - this series has been updated for the 2014 curriculum. The methodologies contained in these workbooks have been successfully used in AE Tuition classes for over 17 years; every over 85 per cent of children in the AE Tuition learning programme achieve success in the state grammar school 11+ examinations and independent school selection tests. Children normally achieve higher attainment levels in SATs in year 6.

11+ Creative Writing Workbook 6 by Stephen C. Curran

Additional grammatical devices, sub plots and plot endings are the topics to round off this comprehensive series which covers all aspects of story writing for Yars 5 to 7. By the time they reach this point, children will have an excellent grounding in all the skills needed to produce top quality creative writing. You can buy the complete set at a discounted price from the AE Publications website - AE Publications say: 'To gain the maximum benefit from our courses, we recommend your child works through the complete set of workbooks in each series. We aim to sell our 11+ workbook sets more competitively than anyone else because we want to provide you with the best value for money.'

11+ Year 5-7, ages 9-12

 

11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Workbook 1 by Stephen C. Curran

This series of books is designed to be used in sequence from Book 1 onward - this way, children will be given a thorough and progressive grounding in all the skills they need for 11+, CE, CATS and SATS. This workbook series is complemented by testbooks that reinforce the child’s Verbal Activity technique and knowledge, reviewed below.This title covers alphabet reasoning, word patterns and codes, vocabulary with spelling and vocabulary with meaning. Explanations and examples are followed by exercises; each topic is broken up into small sections so pupils can focus on just one key element at a time. Answers are included.

11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Workbook 2 by Stephen C. Curran

Workbook 2 covers logical reasoning and mathematical reasoning, with plenty of examples for children to work through. The Verbal Reasoning Full Set of Workbooks 1-4 will provide essential learning for the skills required in preparing for SATs at Key Stage 2 and 3, state grammar 11+ examinations and independent school examinations. The series covers Verbal Activity technique for GL Assessment, CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring) and all other styles of Verbal Activity tests. Each technique has a clear explanation, with a worked example, followed by plenty of practice questions. The course prepares children for standard and multiple-choice examination papers.

11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Workbook 3: Technique for CEM Style Questions by Stephen C. Curran;

The numbering of the chapters in these books show the importance of viewing thme as a complete series to be worked through as a whole as the num bering is continuous through the books. In this, Chapter 7 is classification and 8 is Odd One Out. By woking through the series, children will cover every type of verbal reasoning question so they do need the whole series; this book and the next focus on CEM style questions. Each type of question is explained and analysed, then there are examples to work through. Answers, Progress Charts and a Certificate of Achievement are included at the end of every book.

11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Workbook 4: Technique for CEM Style Questions by Stephen C. Curran

Syntax and comprehension are the topics covered in this book. THe book explains that syntax questions usually involve unscrambling jumpled words and forming them into a sentence. The comprehension section covers the three question types found - factual information, contextual understanding and evaluative opinion; the passages used give experience in each of these. The book also covers poetry.

11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Workbook 5: Additional Multiple-Choice Practice Questions by Stephen C. Curran

Books 5 and 6 again form part of a whole learning course. Book 5 includes Letter Sequencing, Alphabet Codes, One Word Patterns, Two Word Patterns, Secret Codes, Letter Shifts, Compound Words, Hidden Words, Missing Letters and Analogies, showing the wide range of question types that may be encountered. It is important for pupils to gain experience in these, to give them confidence when facing them in a test situation. As with all AE Publications, the quality of the book production is high, with glossy paper and clear layout, making them a pleasure to use.

11+ Verbal Activity Year 5-7 Workbook 6: Additional Multiple-Choice Practice Questions by Stephen C. Curran

The final book in this series comprises multiple choice questions on Similar Meanings, Word Links, Opposite Meanings, Odd Ones Out, Missing Words, Logical Reasoning, Substitution, Arithmetic Equations, Number Sequencing and Number Links. As with Workbook 5, there are three levels for pupils to work through as their confidence and knowlegde inproves.
Buy the complete set of Verbal Activity Workbooks 1-6 from AE Publications at a special price.
Working through this series will give children an exceptionally good grounding in verbal activity which they can build on with the series below.

11+ Year 5-7, ages 9-12

11+ Verbal Activity Year Testbook 3: NFER Style Multiple-Choice Tests (Papers 1-4) by Stephen C. Curran

Four complete test papers make up this book - each contains 80 questions and the target time is 50 minutes. Answers, Progress Charts and a Certificate of Achievement are included at the end of every book and again, it is the high quality production that sets these books apart from others. The attractive new covers are an added bonus. As with all AE Publications, the books have been extensively tested in the classroom, giving reassurance that they are set at the right level and written in a way that children will undertsnad.

11+ Verbal Activity Testbook 4: NFER Style Multiple-Choice Tests (Papers 5-8) by Stephen C. Curran

A further four practice papers make up this book; each is set out like a genuine test paper, so children are familiar with how to tackele these. These books, however, valuable though they are in all tyes of exam preparation, also have a much wider use, in encouraging and developing all kinds of verbal reasoning skills in children; skills that will stand them in good stead in all aspects of learning, especially as they move on to secondary education.

11+ Verbal Activity Testbook 5: NFER Style Multiple-Choice Tests (Papers 9-12) by Stephen C. Curran

By the time children complete the four test papers in thsi book, they will have an excellent understanding to take them forward into any tests and exams they face in the future. A valuable and comprehensive series that will give parents and teachers the confidence that they have done their very best for the children they teach inpreparing them, not simply for tests and exams but for future learning.

11+ Year 4/5, ages 8-10

11+ Verbal Reasoning Workbook 1 by Stephen Curran

The books in this series provide a complete course for children sitting 11+, CATs, Common Entrance and scholarship examinations.  Plenty of practice exercises are a key feature of these books, giving children the confidence that comes from practice and repetition. This series is especially valuable as VR is not routinely taught in primary schools. The clear explanations of methods together with worked examples make for good understanding. This book contains Alphabet Reasoning, Word Patterns and Codes, Vocabulary with Spelling, and Vocabulary with Meaning. Useful hints and approaches to multiple-choice papers are included as well as practice exercises. This work also prepares children for Cognitive Abilities Tests (CATs), taken by over 1 million children every academic year. As with all AE publications, the books are rigorously classroom tested so teachers and parents can be confident they work well and make learning easy..

 

11+ Verbal Reasoning Workbook 2 by Stephen Curran

Book 2 contains Logical Reasoning and Mathematical Reasoning, so is an essential follow-on to Book 1 if you want to ensure coverage of all the topics which may come up in the 11+ or in Common Entrance exams. Answers, a progress chart and a certificate of achievement are also included. The whole series is designed to be completed over 4 to 6 weeks; to ensure your child has experience of all the types of paper which may be encountered, you do need the whole series. Practice in verbal reasoning is also an excellent way to develop thinking skills, so it is valuable for all learners, not just for exam preparation.

11+ Verbal Reasoning Year 4/5 Testbook 1: Standard Short Tests by Stephen C. Curran

This book of tests is the perfect companion to the two books listed above, as it gives extensive practice in answering all the question types. There are 36 tests, each containing a wide range of questions so that children get a real feel of what an actual paper will be like. The value of doing these tests lies in the fact that they make it clear where any problems are encountered, so parents and teachers can take children back through the guidelines in the workbooks.

11+ Non-verbal Reasoning Year 4/5 Testbook 1: Standard Short Tests Stephen C. Curran

As with verbal reasoning, NVR is a subject where practice definitely pays off in familiarising children with the vast array of differing questions and so giving them confidence when faced with an exam situation. These short tests each cover a different type of test (eg series, codes, similarities) on a two page spread; they are easily manageable and not daunting and each contains a worked example. Answers are included as well as a progress chart and certificate. As with all the AE Publications, the production is high quality with glossy paper which makes using them a pleasure.

11+ Maths Year 4/5 Testbook 1: Standard Short Tests by Stephen C. Curran

36 single page tests are an ideal length for children to tackle to support school work and to show where some extra help may be required. This is useful preparatory material for children who will eventually be sitting for the 11+ grammar school or independent school exams, as well as working to Level 5 in the National Curriculum. A page to show workings is included - this is useful for children to accustom them to the fact that they are often required to show their working out as part of an exam - this can show they know the correct method even if they don't necessarily arrive at the correct answer.

11+ Year 3 - 7, ages 7-12

11+ Spelling and Vocabulary Workbook 1: Foundation Level by Stephen Curran

The 12 books listed here give a comprehensive course in all aspects of spelling and vocabulary children need for work through KS2 and on to the first year of secondary education.  Ideal preparation for SATS, 11+ examinations and independent school examinations, there is plenty here for all pupils.  The books are enlivened by  picture theme pages - for example, this book has a picture of a classroom and children have to write the names of numbered objects - and cartoon characters to hold children's interest. As well as traditional question formats, there are also crosswords to make learning enjoyable.

11+ Spelling and Vocabulary Workbook 2: Foundation Level by Stephen Curran

In total, the three books at the foundation level include 1380 words - all the words used in each book are listed at the end of the book. This is a useful feature and gives parents and teachers additional opportunities to extend learning. Every book in the series includes full answers plus a progress chart and a certificate of achievement - this gives children a good incentive to complete the book. The words for each double page are clearly shown at the top of each page.The foundation series is completed by 11+ Spelling and Vocabulary Workbook 3: Basic Level (Foundation)

11+ Spelling and Vocabulary Workbook 4: Intermediate Level by Stephen Curran

Moving on to the intermediate level, all the excellent features of the earlier books are continued. Each group of words has two sets of 10 questions (including a score box) plus a crossword (these feature a mystery letters challenge). As well as giving an excellent grounding in spelling & vocabulary expertise, working through this series will increase verbal reasoning, comprehension and word power skills. In order to produce good engaging creative writing, children need an extensive vocabulary and this series will certainly develop that. The oourse continues with 11+ Spelling and Vocabulary Workbook 5: Intermediate Level

11+ Spelling and Vocabulary Workbook 6: Intermediate Level by Stephen Curran

As with all AE Publications, this series has been the subject of rigorous testing in the classroom. This gives teachers and parents the assurance that the questions are appropriate and can be easily understood by the pupil. The four books at the intermediate level bring the word count to a total of 1,840 words. The books are all produced to a very high quality which makes them a pleasure to use - the new covers give a contemporary feel and I find that the slightly glossy paper is really nice to write on; little things count! 11+ Spelling and Vocabulary Workbook 7: Intermediate Level is the next in the series.

11+ Spelling and Vocabulary Workbook 8: Advanced Level by Stephen Curran

This is the first in the advanced level, which moves on seamlessly from the previous book; the exercises are sequentially numbered through the entire series and the total count is displayed with each set . The series is designed to be completed over the course of one school year and if worked through in the year, the child will learn 20 new words each day. As with any course like this, please be guided by your child - all children work at a different pace and it's vital to ensure that children are understanding and applying learning before moving on. Continue the learning with 11+ Spelling and Vocabulary Workbook 9: Advanced Level

11+ Spelling and Vocabulary Workbook 10: Advanced Level by Stephen Curran

This set of books meets all the requirements for NFER/GL Assessmenr, CEM and all other forms of .verbal activity and English testing. Kate and Oliver plus Dickens the dog are the friendly cartoon characters who guide pupils through the books. Picture themed pages are good for adding variety to learning - in this book, children will enjoy being at the circus and on the village green. 11+ Spelling and Vocabulary Workbook 11: Advanced Level is the penultimate book in the series.

11+ Spelling and Vocabulary Workbook 12: Advanced Level by Stephen Curran

By the time children have reached the end of the advanced level with Book 12, they will have learnt a total of over 5,400 words - the 5 books at the advanced level contain 2,200 words. Each book tells the student how many words they have learnt through the book - this is a great way to give satisfaction and motivate learning. The progression is excellent - it can be confusing to work through different sets of books, so give children the reassurance of knowing they have covered everything through one exceptionally in-depth series.

Year 3/4

11+ Maths Year 3/4 Testbook 1: Standard Short Tests by Stephen C. Curran

Preparation for the 11+ always benefits from an early start; using books like this, which are specifically geared to the requirements of the test, give a good early indication of a child's suitability too. This series of short tests can be used as a learning tool in conjunction with other maths materials and doing the tests is valuable in showing areas of weakness. Each of the 36 tests is just one page long, meaning they can be easily tackled without being too daunting. The tests rovide practice for NFER/GL Assessment, CEM and all other styles of mathematical tests. The questions cover up to Level 4 in the new National Curriculum and are equally useful for any child wanting some extra practice. An excellent set of practice papers.

11+ Verbal Reasoning Year 3/4 Workbook 1 by Stephen C. Curran

Verbal and non-verbal reasoning are not part of the standard curriculum in state schools, so these really are areas where children need extra support. This, with Book 2, is a complete and comprehensive teaching and learning course intended for children sitting 11+, CATs, and common entrance and scholarship examinations. It is arranged by chapter in a topic by topic format, with clear child-friendly explanations on each question type likely to be encountered. Each topic has questions to answer to check understanding. Book 1 contains Alphabet Reasoning, Word Patterns and Codes, Vocabulary with Spelling, and Vocabulary with meaning. The whole series is designed to be completed over 4 to 6 weeks.

11+ Verbal Reasoning Year 3/4 Workbook 2 by Stephen C. Curran

Book 2 contains Logical Reasoning and Mathematical Reasoning. Children can follow through the worked examples before trying questions for themselves. Useful hints and approaches to multiple-choice papers are included. We are often asked about CATS tests - this series prepares children for Cognitive Abilities Tests which are taken by over 1 million children every academic year. Progress charts and a certificate of achievement are good motivators which are included in the books.

11+ Verbal Reasoning Year 3/4 Testbook 1: Standard Short Tests by Stephen C. Curran

This book is the ideal complement to the books above, as it gives plenty more questions, this time arranged as complete papers. As with all AE Publications, the books have been tested in the classroom. work through your child's answers, refer back to the preceding books for explanations of any topic not answered correctly. As you The three books taken together provide a thorough grounding in verbal reasoning which will benefit all students.

11+ Non-Verbal Reasoning Year 3/4 Workbook 1 by Stephen C. Curran

Alongside verbal reasoning, non verbal reasoning is not only useful when preparing for 11+ and similar tests but it helps children develop key reasoning skills which will stand them in good stead in every aspect of school work. Again, these books are designed to be used as a series. They introduce children to recognition, manipulation and movement of shapes, enabling them to develop advanced skills in spatial reasoning. Non verbal reasoning is an unfamiliar topic to many children - some take to it with ease, others find it more of a challenge, but whichever category they fall into, there is no doubt that plenty of practice pays off. Each technique - elements, movements, manipulations, patterns and layering - has a clear explanation, with a worked example, followed by practice questions.

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11+ Non-Verbal Reasoning Year 3/4 Workbook 2 by Stephen C. Curran

There are many different types of non VR questions and it's best for children to become familiar with one type at a time before moving on to tackle the mixed questions found in papers. This book covers components, odd one out, codes, analogies, similarities, series and matrices. Clear explanations give children confidence in tackling the unfamiliar and studying the worked examples enhances uderstanding. Answers are given and a progress chart and certificate of achievement are included in both these books.

11+ Non-verbal Reasoning Year 3/4 Testbook 1: Standard Short Tests by Stephen C. Curran

Make sure children have a thorough grounding through the workbooks before they tackle these question papers, so they start off with confidence. The book provides practice for NFER/GL Assessment, CEM (Centre for Evaluation and Monitoring) and all other styles of Non-verbal Reasoning tests and prepares children for both standard and multiple choice examination papers. This is a really comprehensive series of papers, with carefully selected questions to ensure children have covered all the types of question likely to occur - each paper focuses on one area (these link with the workbooks), so you can ensure full understanding. Practice is key, so the 36 tests will provide plenty of opportunity. Taken as a set, these books will provide all a Year 3/4 child needs to get on the path to exam success.

11+ Verbal Reasoning Workbook 1 by Stephen Curran

The books in this series provide a complete course for children sitting 11+, CATs, and common entrance and scholarship examinations.  Plenty of practice exercises are a key feature of these books, giving children the confidence that is generated by practise and repetition.. Book 1 contains Alphabet Reasoning, Word Patterns and Codes, Vocabulary with Spelling, and Vocabulary with meaning. To ensure your child has experience of all the types of paper which may be encountered, you do need the whole series.

11+ Verbal Reasoning Workbook 2 by Stephen Curran

Book 2 contains Logical Reasoning and Mathematical Reasoning, so is an essential adjunct to Book 1 if you want to ensure you have covered all the topics which may come up in the 11+ or in Common Entrance exams. Practice in verbal reasoning is also an excellent way to develop thinking skills, so it is valuable for all learners, not just for exam preparation.
 
 

11+ Verbal Reasoning Workbook 3 by Stephen Curran

Book 3 provides 550 Additional Multiple-Choice questions. Answers, progress chart and certificate of achievement are also included. The whole series (books 1 - 3) is designed to be completed over 4 to 6 weeks. As well as being useful for the 11+, these books also reinforce the skills needed for CATS tests, which many children now take. They are challenging, but the more children practise, the easier the questions will become.

11+ Verbal Reasoning Testbook 1 by Stephen Curran

During an intense learning phase, children also improve their Verbal Reasoning skills through a testing process, provided that the main emphasis is focused on acquiring techniques from our workbooks. The tests are not exclusively book specific but they are progressive and give extra practice in most of the techniques contained in the Verbal Reasoning workbooks. The tests are more literary in content than standard Verbal Reasoning tests, with the aim of also improving and developing children's literary skills.  
 

11+ Non Verbal Reasoning Workbook 1 by Stephen Curran

They introduce children to recognition, manipulation and movement of shapes, enabling them to develop advanced skills in spatial reasoning. This book includes plenty of practice tests. The most useful feature is the analysis of the types of non VR questions, and the explanations on how to tackle each type. Unusually, the book gives the names for each type of fill, which is something I have not seen elsewhere. Children are asked to explain why they reach their answers - this may seem tedious but is excellent for reinforcing understanding, and for allowing the adult to see where mistakes (if any!) are being made.


 

 

 

11+ Non Verbal Reasoning Workbook 2 by Stephen Curran

As with the Verbal Reasoning titles, you do need to purchase both books in the series to ensure full coverage of the topics which may come up in exams. These books are a useful and well-priced resource, which help to overcopme the fact that many state schools do not teach VR and non VR.

 

 

 

 

11+ Non Verbal Reasoning Testbook 1 by Stephen Curran

This book reinforces the learning from the Workbooks 1 and 2. It is progressive and emphasises the elements of the two Non-verbal Reasoning workbooks in order.

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