Question 1Aim for about 35 seconds
Which word can go after “honey” to make a new word?
Show the worked answer
Answer: D, comb
How to work it out
- honey + comb = honeycomb.
- Say each option after “honey” and check it makes a real word.
Compound words: 11 Plus verbal reasoning practice
Join two words to make a new one.
CoreIn almost every paper that tests this subjectAbout 35 seconds a question in the test
The big idea
A compound word joins two complete words: sun + flower = sunflower. Some are tricky because the new word sounds different: car + pet = carpet.
Tips that save marks
- Say the joined word aloud.
- Check it’s a real word, not just something that sounds possible.
Now try five
Try each one before you look at the answer: answering from memory is what makes it stick. Tap an option to check it. Most children get three or four right at first; five out of five means move on to the next topic.
Question 2Aim for about 35 seconds
Which word can go after “ear” to make a new word?
Show the worked answer
Answer: D, ring
How to work it out
- ear + ring = earring.
- Say each option after “ear” and check it makes a real word.
Question 3Aim for about 35 seconds
Which word can go after “cup” to make a new word?
Show the worked answer
Answer: C, board
How to work it out
- cup + board = cupboard.
- Say each option after “cup” and check it makes a real word.
Question 4Aim for about 35 seconds
Which word can go after “ear” to make a new word?
Show the worked answer
Answer: C, ring
How to work it out
- ear + ring = earring.
- Say each option after “ear” and check it makes a real word.
Question 5Aim for about 35 seconds
Which word can go after “war” to make a new word?
Show the worked answer
Answer: C, den
How to work it out
- war + den = warden.
- Say each option after “war” and check it makes a real word.
More verbal reasoning topics
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