11+ maths word problems can be a challenging component of the eleven plus exam for many children. These questions require not only mathematical ability but also strong reading comprehension and problem-solving skills to translate written information into a numerical solution.
This guide provides a structured, step-by-step method to approach 11+ maths word problems, helping your child to break down complex questions, identify key information, and build confidence in finding accurate answers.
Maths: word problems 11+ at a glance
Word problems test both mathematical understanding and the ability to interpret written information correctly.
Common topics include ratios, percentages, fractions, time, distance/speed, and money.
Many 11+ exams, including CEM and GL Assessment, feature word problems prominently.
Careless errors often arise from misreading the question or missing a key detail within the text.
Developing a systematic approach helps to reduce anxiety and improve accuracy.
Step 1: Understand the Question
The first and most crucial step is to read the word problem carefully and completely. Encourage your child to read it at least twice. The goal is to fully grasp what the question is asking and what information is provided.
Identify the 'unknown' – what needs to be calculated?
Highlight or underline key numbers and phrases.
Look out for trick words or phrases that might suggest a different operation than expected. For example, 'altogether' often means addition, while 'difference' suggests subtraction.
Step 2: Plan Your Approach
Once the question is understood, a plan of action can be formulated. This step involves deciding which mathematical operations are needed and in what order. For multi-step problems, breaking them down into smaller, manageable parts is essential.
Draw diagrams or models if they clarify the problem (e.g., bar models for fractions or ratios).
Estimate the answer. This helps in checking if the final calculated answer is reasonable.
Consider what information is irrelevant – word problems sometimes include extra data to distract.
Step 3: Solve and Review
Execute your plan and perform the calculations. It's important to show working out, even if not explicitly required, as this helps to track steps and identify errors. Once a solution is reached, the final step is to review and check the answer.
Check calculations carefully for arithmetic errors.
Does the answer make sense in the context of the question?
Has the question been fully answered, including units if appropriate (e.g., £, cm, kg)?
Compare the answer to your initial estimate.
Try Maths: word problems 11+ practice questions
Question 1
A baker uses 150g of flour for every 10 biscuits. If she wants to make 60 biscuits, how much flour (in kg) will she need?
Answer: 0.9 kg. For 10 biscuits, 150g flour is needed. To make 60 biscuits, which is 6 times 10 biscuits, the baker will need 6 times 150g of flour. 6 x 150g = 900g. To convert grams to kilograms, divide by 1000. 900g = 0.9 kg.
Question 2
Sarah saved £45. This is 25% of the total cost of a new bicycle. What is the total cost of the bicycle?
Answer: £180. If £45 represents 25% of the total cost, then 1% of the cost is £45 ÷ 25. To find 100% of the cost, multiply this by 100. (45 ÷ 25) x 100 = 1.8 x 100 = £180.
Question 3
A train leaves Newton station at 09:35 and arrives at Oldford station at 11:10. How long does the journey take?
Answer: 1 hour 45 minutes. From 09:35 to 10:00 is 25 minutes. From 10:00 to 11:00 is 1 hour. From 11:00 to 11:10 is 10 minutes. Total time: 1 hour + 25 minutes + 10 minutes = 1 hour 35 minutes.
Question 4
In a class, the ratio of boys to girls is 3:2. If there are 12 boys, how many girls are there?
Answer: 8. The ratio of boys to girls is 3:2. This means for every 3 boys, there are 2 girls. If there are 12 boys, and 12 is 3 x 4, then the number of girls will be 2 x 4 = 8 girls.
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What is the best way to start tackling 11+ word problems?
Always begin by reading the problem carefully multiple times to fully understand what is being asked and to identify all key numbers and operations.
Should my child draw diagrams for every word problem?
Drawing diagrams or models can be very helpful for visualising the problem, especially for more complex questions involving fractions, ratios, or geometry. It's not necessary for every problem but is a good strategy to employ when the problem logic isn't immediately clear.
How can I help my child avoid careless errors in word problems?
Encourage a systematic approach: read, plan, solve, and most importantly, review. Teaching them to check their calculations, ensure their answer makes sense in context, and re-read the question to ensure all parts have been answered are effective strategies.
Are there specific types of word problems that appear more frequently in 11+ exams?
Common recurring types include questions on ratios, percentages, fractions, time (duration and schedules), money calculations, and distance/speed/time problems. Practising a wide variety of these is crucial.