Tackling GEP Singapore Selection Test
GEP Selection Test – Here’s What to Do to Prepare!
1. Practise Maths Olympiad questions
The mathematics questions are similar in scope and complexity as Maths Olympiad questions. (Take note that questions which require knowledge beyond P3 syllabus will not be tested so you could leave those out if you wish to be selective).
This will expose them to a variety of concepts that they may not have seen before and prepare them for the multitude of ways the same concept can be tested. Familiarity with these types of questions will boost their confidence during the test, which is crucial since they’ll be working against a ticking clock.
GEP tests aside, practising such questions will also place them in good stead for their upper primary learning journey.
2. Learn words from Primary 4-5 vocabulary books – for GEP Singapore Vocabulary
Check out the English section of any assessment book store and you’ll find plenty of vocabulary guides and aids for all levels. Students should pick the Primary 4 or higher level books, and learn as many words as possible.
This will help them in the English Language and General Ability components of the GEP Screening Test. For the English paper, having a large vocabulary will directly translate into greater success for the Vocabulary MCQ portion. For the General Ability Paper, knowing more words is necessary in answering the verbal or language type of General Ability questions.
3. Complete the Vocabulary and Cloze sections of the English Language Paper first, and do the Comprehension section last
In terms of time spent and marks earned, the Comprehension section requires the most amount of time per mark. Therefore, it makes sense to secure the low hanging fruits and complete the Vocabulary and Cloze sections first, which require less time per allocated mark.
For students who have trouble completing the paper, this time-management strategy could improve scores by 10-15%.
4. Don’t spend more than 3 minutes on an MCQ question – Best TIP for GEP Selection Test
If a student is unsure about a particular question, he or she should shade the OAS first based on his or her best guess, and then circle the question. If time permits, the student can revisit the question later. If a student is struggling with a Maths MCQ question, the easiest method is to simply substitute each option into the question and see if the equations work out. This, however, is time-consuming and should be used only as a last resort.