11+ CEM v GL

[munchbunch12]

Hi everyone!

My DD is going into Year 5 in September (England) so we’re starting to think about preparing for the 11+ in the Autumn. When DS took it (there is a large age gap) it was a CEM test so we bought some books of CEM practice papers from Letts.

However, the area has changed to using GL tests instead. I was wondering if I could still use the same books even though the test has changed, will the type and styles of question be similar between the 2 types? If they are very different and we need new resources to prepare for GL, does anyone have any recommendations?

Thanks in advance for any help or advice!

My DD took the CEM test in the last year of CEM in our region (West Midlands) and friends with younger siblings did reuse some CEM workbooks. Maths was extremely similar, NVR pretty similar but VR different in places.

It will vary by area - if you mention which area you're in, you might get some specific advice.

Thanks for your reply. I'm in the West Mids too.

yes, from what i understand all the surrey schools are having their own tests, i have helped a great number of children get into their school of choice.
The papers for GL assessement are similar to CEM .
I still tutor on a one to one basis and live in cheam.
My telephone number is 07747032395,
If i can help you in any manner please let me know

Thanks for your message. We aren't really looking for a tutor (plus we live in Birmongham!), just checking if the 2 test types are similar and if we need to buy some new GL books.

you might as well buy the latest GL papers , it will help .

GL seems to be more maths heavy, CEM more focussed on English

@munchbunch12 I expect you've seen the familiarisation guide on the West Midlands Grammar Schools site.

https://westmidlandsgrammarschools.co.uk/assets/WMGS-Fam-Guide-2023.pdf

I noticed that the GL test has some more 'code' style questions in the VR section.

If I had a younger child I would start by using my old CEM books, and then, a little nearer the time of the test, I would get some GL-style practice papers, and if there are any surprises after your DD tries a practice paper, I'd supplement with a GL book in the corresponding area!

If you have access to a book shop with a good range of 11+ material, it's worth going for a browse. We liked the CGP books best, but it's probably a good idea to use a range of publishers to widen the exposure.

Yes, I was a bit surprised to see the codes @LetItGoToRuin as I didn't remember anything like that when DS was preparing for his. I live in Birmingham so have access to some fairly big bookshops and will go and have a look. Thanks for your reply.

CEM has very high standards for vocabulary and lots of reading within tight timeframe. That's how I understood.

GL is easier in my opinion.

The stake is high. If you can afford, get GL materials. Otherwise it's another challenge for the kids to face when they never saw the type of paper before in the real thing.

GCP has monthly online subscription. Give that a try.

Thank you to everyone for your advice.