Exam papers and syllabi

So You Really Want to Learn Junior Science Book 3 by Sue Hunter

So You Really Want to Learn Junior English Book 3 by Andrew Hammond

Written for Year 5 pupils, this provides the fundamentals of grammar, spelling and punctuation. Lively reading passages drawn from a wide selection of texts and suggestions for further reading combine with challeging exercises and 'Other things to do'. Clear explanations of topics are followed by exercises to reinforce learning. The range of comprehension exercises is good - we are so often asked for comprehension texts. Plenty of variety in the book means English won't be perceived as 'boring'! Attractively presented, with lots of colour illustrations and photographs. Parents confident in their grasp of English may be able to help children with their answers, otherwise you will need Junior English Book 3 Answer Book 

So You Really Want to Learn Geography Book 2 by James Dale-Adcock

An excellent book, written for Year 8,  for preparation for the geography element of Common Entrance, written by someone who obviously has vast experience in his field - the exam tips and chapter on exam technique are particularly useful. There are chapters on map reading, landforms, weather and climate, settlement and location. The book includes more challenging scholarship level questions too. So you really want to learn Geography Book 2 Answers provides the answers to the questions in this book and So You Really Want to Learn Geography Book 1: A Textbook for Key Stage 3 and Common Entrance covers Year 7 material. 

Maths Practice Exercises 13+ by David E Hanson

Mathematics ISEB Revision Guide by Stephen Froggatt and David Hanson

This is the revised edition for the syllabus introduced for exams in 2010, so you know it covers what the student needs. It covers all maths topics needed at 11+ and 13+. Six major topics are covered, each split into 11+ and 13+. Plenty of examples are clearly laid out for the reader to work through, all reinforced by exercises and exam questions (and answers!). Clearly laid out with copious use of diagrams, the explanations are clear and understandable, reassuring the student and building of previous knowledge. A thick book and excellent value! 

English Practice Exercises 13+ by Amanda Alexander and Rachel Gee 

This book is valuable both for use in school and for parents wanting to give their child a boost at home. It starts with a useful analysis of the papers, so the student knows what to expect. Texts are wide-ranging and include non-fiction and poetry for comprehension practicde - always a popular topic and an area which will be useful throughout KS3 in all schools. The studied literature section tests the students knowledge and understanding of their chosen texts. Get maximum value by using this with the English Practice Exercises 13+ Answer Book.

History Practice Exercises 13+ by Gavin Hannah and Paul Spencer

This useful book provides excellent practice in answering evidence questions and essay questions for the period 1066 - 1900. The evidence questions are supported by a wide range of sources including texts and one illustration for each topic - excellent for getting the student to make deductions from the evidence. To get the full benefit, you really need History Practice Exercises: Answer Book (Practice Exercises at 11+/13+) to go along with this book. It is an excellent way to familiarise the student with the requirements of the ISEB exams, as it covers all the topics and is written in the style of the exams. There is also practical advice at the beginning - especially on widening out and not just answering the questions on the period being studied.

 Science ISEB Revision Guide by Richard Balding

This covers the ISEB syllabus for science at 11+ and 13+. It is also an excellent general revision textbook for use at KS3. Physics, chemistry and biology are covered, each with a chaper for 11+ and 13+. Chapters are further divided into very manageable chunks - perfect for one revision session. Each section includes sample questions (and answers) to ensure the subject is learnt.thoroughly. As a revision guide, there is an overview of each topic, making it easily digestible for revision purposes - Galore Park produce an excellent range of of books - So You Really Want to Know, with more detail. Plenty of diagrams reinforce learning.

Study skills by Elizabeth Holtom

This book is a brilliant concept. We are so often asked how parents can help their children learn to study and the answers can be found in this book. The author starts by explaining how the brain works and how we can help our brain. Did you know that the brain is greedy? We all learn in different ways and the books shows us how to make the best of the way our brain works - just as useful for the adults! This is a very personal book - there are exercises to complete all the way through and going back to check up on resolutions made will be a great motivator. The book discusses all sorts of ways of learning and is highly recommended for early KS3 use.

 English Year 9 by Susan Elkin

This is the first in a new series from Galore Park. It aims to introduce students to the wonderful range of English language available. Each section contains a series of excerpts of different genres of writing, linked by a common theme. This use of different forms of writing will draw in the student and ensure that there is something to appeal to everyone. Fiction and non-fiction are included, under sections such as Eureka; the World at Work and Behind Bars. As well as questions based on the passages, there are a wide range of questions aimed at improving student's literacy skills and helping them to become fluent writers. This is a great way of drawing students in through short, inetersting texts which will whet their appetites to read the full versions.