Verbal and non verbal reasoning
From the last term of Year 4, our pupils are taught Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning Skills. However, in Year 5 this becomes really important so is taught as a separate subject.
Non-verbal reasoning involves answering problem solving questions that appear in diagrammatic or pictorial form. Non-verbal reasoning tests allow potential to be measured as complex problems can be solved without relying upon, or being limited by language skills.
Verbal reasoning is understanding and reasoning using concepts framed in words. It aims at evaluating the ability to think constructively, rather than at simple fluency or vocabulary recognition. It is key to build a good vocabulary to achieve success in these papers. Knowledge of homophones and homonyms is essential. This overlaps well with our work in English lessons.