6 11 Plus Audio and Video Resources for Sensory Learners
Preparing for the 11 Plus exam can be a challenging experience, especially for students who learn more effectively through sensory methods such as listening and watching. Traditional revision techniques might not suit everyone, but there are numerous audio and video aids available to help. For sensory learners, these resources can make the revision process more engaging and productive.
This article will categorise some of the best audio and video resources that can support sensory learners in preparing for the 11 Plus exam.
Audio Resources
Podcasts for 11 Plus Preparation
Podcasts are ideal for auditory learners who absorb information best through listening. They can be played on the go, whether on the way to school, during a break, or while doing other activities. Several educational podcasts focus specifically on 11 Plus preparation, providing valuable insights and covering subjects such as English, maths, verbal reasoning, and non-verbal reasoning.
A particularly useful podcast is The 11 Plus Journey, which discusses exam techniques, common challenges, and effective revision strategies. Both students and parents can benefit from the detailed discussions on the exam process.
Another popular choice is Maths for Key Stage 2, which breaks down essential mathematical concepts covered in the 11 Plus syllabus. These podcasts help reinforce understanding and build confidence by presenting information in a clear and accessible way.
Audiobooks for Vocabulary and Reading Comprehension
For students aiming to improve their vocabulary and reading comprehension, audiobooks offer an effective alternative to traditional reading. Listening to well-narrated books can enhance language skills, pronunciation, and understanding of complex texts. Many classic and contemporary novels that feature on 11 Plus reading lists are available as audiobooks, providing a different way to engage with literature.
Audiobooks can introduce new vocabulary, idioms, and sentence structures, which are crucial for the English section of the 11 Plus exam. Books like Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland and The Wind in the Willows are not only enjoyable but also help enhance comprehension skills.
Platforms such as Audible and Librivox offer a broad selection of educational content, including grammar guides and language courses, which can support students in strengthening their language abilities.
Educational Apps with Audio Features
Educational apps like Quizlet and Memrise provide audio features that support learning on the go. These apps allow students to create or access flashcards with audio recordings, helping with pronunciation and memory retention. For example, students can listen to the correct pronunciation of new vocabulary words, which is particularly beneficial when preparing for the English portion of the 11 Plus.
Apps like Audible also offer a ‘read-along’ feature that synchronises the text with the audio, enabling students to follow along while listening. This can help improve reading speed and comprehension, making it an effective tool for sensory learners who benefit from simultaneous visual and auditory input.
Video Resources
Educational Videos for Visual Learning
Visual learners often find it easier to understand information when it is presented in a dynamic and engaging way.
Platforms like YouTube and educational websites such as BBC Bitesize have numerous videos that cover key subjects of the 11 Plus exam. These videos use animations, diagrams, and other visual aids to explain concepts clearly, making them an excellent resource for students who struggle with textbook learning.
Math Antics on YouTube, for example, provides simple explanations of various mathematical topics with step-by-step demonstrations, helping students build essential skills needed for the exam. Likewise, the Verbal Reasoning Tutor channel offers video tutorials that guide students through different types of verbal reasoning questions, making it easier to recognise patterns and sequences. Students can learn at their own pace, rewinding or pausing as necessary to grasp the material thoroughly.
Interactive Video Lessons
In addition to regular videos, interactive video lessons offer a more dynamic and engaging learning experience. Websites like Atom Learning and EdPlace feature structured tutorials with quizzes and exercises that allow students to test their knowledge immediately after learning a concept. This interactivity keeps learners engaged, making revision sessions more effective and enjoyable.
These lessons often use visuals to illustrate complex concepts, such as animations that demonstrate how to solve non-verbal reasoning questions. The combination of visual aids and interactive quizzes helps students reinforce their understanding and improve their problem-solving skills, giving them more confidence when tackling similar questions during the exam.
Online Courses with Audio-Visual Content
For those who prefer a more organised approach to learning, online courses provide a structured revision programme that combines video lessons with audio features.
Platforms like Udemy and Learning Street offer comprehensive courses covering all aspects of the 11 Plus exam, including English, maths, and reasoning skills. These courses are taught by experienced tutors who explain key topics using a mix of spoken instructions, on-screen text, and visual demonstrations.
Students can revisit these lessons as many times as they need, ensuring a firm grasp of each subject before moving on. This multimodal approach makes it possible for auditory and visual learners to engage with the content in a way that suits their individual learning style, making revision more effective and less overwhelming.
Summary
Preparing for the 11 Plus exam doesn’t have to be a solitary or monotonous experience. Sensory learners, in particular, can benefit from a range of audio and video resources that make revision more engaging and accessible. Podcasts, audiobooks, educational videos, and interactive lessons provide different ways to understand and retain information, catering to both auditory and visual learning styles.
By incorporating these resources into their study routines, students can approach the 11 Plus exam with greater confidence, equipped with the skills they need to succeed.
