11+ Maths: Understanding Distance (CEM & GL)
21 October 2026
What distance means in 11+ maths
In the 11+ exams, distance questions often appear as word problems. They ask how far someone or something travels, usually involving speed and time. Your child needs to understand what distance is and how to calculate it.
How distance is calculated
Distance is found by multiplying speed by time. The basic formula is:
distance = speed × time
Questions may use different units, such as kilometres, metres, or miles. It is important to check the units are consistent before calculating.
Types of distance problems
Common distance problems include:
- How far someone travels in a set time
- How long it takes to travel a certain distance
- Comparing journeys with different speeds or times
These can be presented in stories or simple calculation questions.
Key insight: Encourage careful reading
Key insight: Many mistakes happen when children rush or miss details in the question. Encourage your child to underline key numbers and units before starting their calculation.
Worked example
A person walks at 5 km per hour for 4 hours. How far do they walk?
Step 1: Write the formula distance = speed × time
Step 2: Insert the numbers speed = 5 km per hour time = 4 hours
distance = 5 × 4
Step 3: Calculate the answer 5 × 4 = 20
The correct answer is 20 kilometres.
Tips for practising distance questions
Ask your child to practise with different speeds and times, and to check their answers by reversing the calculation. Using real-life examples, such as journeys to school, can make the topic more relatable.
