11-Plus Verbal Reasoning: Word Within a Word

Word Within a Word

The topic of Word Within a Word is an essential component of 11-Plus Verbal Reasoning. It involves identifying smaller words that are contained within larger words using consecutive letters. This skill is crucial for students as it enhances their vocabulary and logical reasoning abilities.

Understanding the Concept

In this exercise, students are tasked with finding smaller words hidden within a larger word. For instance, the word 'THEATRE' contains the smaller words 'HEAT', 'EAT', 'THE', and 'AT'. Recognizing these smaller words can help students improve their verbal reasoning skills and prepare for the 11-plus examination.

How to Approach the Exercise

When tackling a Word Within a Word question, students should:

• Look for common prefixes and suffixes.
• Identify vowels and consonants to form potential smaller words.
• Practice with a variety of words to enhance recognition skills.

Examples

Worked Example

Problem: Identify smaller words within the word 'CONVERSATION'.

Solution:

• Smaller words include: 'CON', 'VERSE', 'SATION', 'NATION', 'AT', 'ON'.

Practice Makes Perfect

To excel in this area, students should engage in regular practice. They can use flashcards, word lists, and online resources to enhance their skills. Additionally, solving puzzles and games that focus on word formation can be beneficial.

Conclusion

Mastering the skill of finding smaller words within larger words is not only vital for the 11-plus exam but also enriches a student's overall language proficiency. By dedicating time to practice and applying these strategies, students can significantly improve their verbal reasoning abilities.