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Grammar vs Independent School Writing Tasks: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to preparing for the 11 Plus, one question that often comes up is: “Is the writing task the same in grammar and independent school exams?” It’s an important question – because while both types of schools test writing, how they do it and what they expect can vary quite a bit. I
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11 Plus Preparation for Year 4: How to Get a Head Start Without the Stress
When parents come to me asking when to start preparing for the 11 Plus, I always tell them the same thing: earlier is easier. Not earlier in the sense of drilling exam papers – but in creating the right habits and mindset. Year 4 is the sweet spot. It gives children time to grow into
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What Do Examiners Look for in the 11 Plus Creative Writing Task?
Over the years, I’ve had countless parents come to me feeling lost. Their child writes stories – sometimes even enjoys writing – but when it comes to the 11 Plus, they’re not producing good pieces of writing. I remember one mum telling me, “He’s imaginative – but we’re just not getting the ideas on paper
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Exploring Different Writing Styles: Finding Your Unique Voice
Every writer has a voice. It’s the special way you tell a story, the words you choose, and the way your sentences flow. Have you ever read something and thought, “Wow, I know exactly who wrote this!”? That’s because the author’s voice was clear and strong. Finding your unique writing style can feel tricky at
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How to Build Tension and Suspense in Your Writing
Have you ever read a story where you just couldn’t stop turning the pages? Where every word made your heart race, and you couldn’t wait to find out what happened next? That’s the power of tension and suspense. These tools are what keep readers glued to your story, eager to see what happens next. But
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Creating Atmosphere: Using Words to Set the Mood
Have you ever read a story that made you feel nervous, excited, or even peaceful just from the way it was described? That’s the power of atmosphere. Atmosphere is the feeling or mood you create in your story through your words, descriptions, and tone. Whether it’s a spooky haunted house, a bright summer’s day, or
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How to Plan and Write a Winning 11 Plus Essay
The 11 Plus exam is a significant milestone for children aiming to secure a place in selective grammar or independent schools. Among its various components, the essay writing task often feels like the most challenging. However, with the right preparation, structure, and mindset, your child can excel and approach this task with confidence. In this
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Creative Writing Crash Course for 11 Plus Success: Bespoke Marking and Feedback System
Supporting Families Across the UK and Globally Preparing for the creative writing component of the 11 Plus exams can be overwhelming for parents and children alike. Whether it’s a grammar school Stage 2 exam or an independent school entrance assessment, creative writing requires a unique blend of creativity, structure, and technical skills. At Geek School
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Expert 11 Plus Creative Writing Tuition in Bromley and Lewisham
We’ve been helping local Bromley and Lewisham pupils get a place at their dream grammar or independent school for more than a decade. If you’re a parent in Bromley or Lewisham, you know how competitive the 11 Plus exams can be. The creative writing component is one of the most challenging but critical parts of
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The Power of Sensory Details in Creative Writing
Have you ever read a story and felt like you were right there with the characters? Like you could smell the flowers, hear the birds, or feel the chill in the air? That magic happens when a writer uses sensory details. Sensory details help readers see, hear, smell, taste, and touch the world in your