What are paper tests?
If your child is applying to a grammar school, their real exam will most likely be on paper instead of on a computer. Atom Home's paper tests are designed to help children know what to expect from this experience. They are downloadable, printable PDF documents containing:
- A full-length question paper and answer sheet for each exam subject.
- A parents' guide and answer key to help you run and mark the test for your child.
Our admissions experts have carefully replicated each real exam to create the paper tests on Atom Home.
Why use paper tests?
While online mock tests are the most efficient way to build exam skills, paper tests are a great way to build extra confidence. They will help your child get used to navigating question booklets and marking their answers clearly on the answer sheet. This will mean that they can focus on their answers in the real exam and avoid wasting any time or mental energy!
When should we use paper tests?
A good time to introduce paper tests is about two months before the exam. They only need to practise a few paper tests to get the benefits.
Your child should start using online mock tests about six months before the exam, starting with one each month. Then, in the last two months before the exam, increase this to one online mock test per week. Substitute a paper test for a few of these.
Which paper tests are available for my child?
With an Exam Prep Plus subscription, your child has access to one free full-length paper test. Customers in certain regions can also choose to buy paper tests that are tailored specifically to their target school. These copy the exact GL configurations chosen by your target grammar school or consortium.
How much are paper tests?
A full-length paper test is included for free with an Exam Prep Plus subscription.
Customers in some regions can also buy tailored paper tests specific to their target school or consortium for £29.99.
Why are there no paper tests for my target school yet?
We wanted to reach as many children as we could as soon as possible, so we’ve started by developing tests for the areas where the most customers live. We want to make sure every paper test is 100% accurate and meets our quality standards, which takes time.
If we don’t have a tailored paper test for your target school yet, we recommend using:
- The online mock tests tailored for your target school, combined with
- The free GL-style paper that comes with your subscription.
This will be plenty to help your child build specific exam skills, plus get familiar with a standard question booklet and answer sheet layout.
Do I have to use paper tests?
No. The online mock tests included in your subscription are the most efficient way to build exam skills. They are tailored to mirror the curriculum, topics and timings of your child’s real exam.
We wanted to offer parents the choice of adding paper tests to their child’s revision. We know that for some children, it’s helpful to get used to navigating the question booklets and marking their answers clearly on the answer sheet.
How do I download a paper test?
To download a paper test:
- Log in to Atom Home. Go to your Test page.
- Select ‘Paper tests’. If you’ve set a target school, you’ll automatically see the most relevant paper test for your child’s school. You can also type in the search box to search for any paper test. Click ‘Details’ for more information about any test.
- If the paper test you want is included free with your subscription, simply click ‘Download’. You’ll be able to print and use the test straight away.
- If you want a tailored paper test, click the ‘Buy’ button. You’ll be prompted to put in your payment details. Once you have paid, you’ll be able to download and print the test. We’ll also send a copy to your email.
If you have any questions, please contact the Customer Support team at support@atomelearning.co.uk.