How to Prepare for KS2 SATs Using Worksheets

The Key Stage 2 SATs taken at the end of Year 6 are a significant milestone in primary education. These assessments test children in maths, reading, and grammar, punctuation and spelling (GPS). While the results are used primarily to measure school performance, they also provide information for secondary schools about incoming students' attainment. Effective preparation helps children approach SATs with confidence.

Understanding the SATs format is the first step to preparation. The maths papers include an arithmetic paper testing calculation skills and two reasoning papers that assess problem-solving and mathematical thinking. The reading paper presents texts of varying types and lengths with questions that test comprehension at different levels. The GPS test examines grammatical knowledge, punctuation, and includes a spelling test.

Worksheets are particularly valuable for SATs preparation because they provide structured practice in exam-style conditions. However, the key is strategic use rather than overwhelming volume. Flooding a child with worksheets can cause anxiety and diminishing returns. Instead, use worksheets diagnostically to identify gaps and then target those specific areas.

For maths revision, begin by assessing which areas need most attention. Use a general worksheet covering different topics and note which questions your child finds difficult. Common areas of difficulty include [fractions](/worksheets/maths/key-stage-2/fractions), [percentages](/worksheets/maths/key-stage-2/percentages), [algebra](/worksheets/maths/key-stage-2/algebra), and multi-step word problems. Once you have identified weaker areas, use topic-specific worksheets to address them.

Arithmetic fluency matters. The arithmetic paper has a strict time limit, so children need quick recall of number facts and efficient calculation methods. Regular practice with [times tables](/worksheets/maths/key-stage-2/times-tables), [addition](/worksheets/maths/key-stage-2/addition), [subtraction](/worksheets/maths/key-stage-2/subtraction), [multiplication](/worksheets/maths/key-stage-2/multiplication), and [division](/worksheets/maths/key-stage-2/division) builds the speed needed. Timed worksheet challenges help children work on pace.

For the reasoning papers, children need to read questions carefully and select appropriate methods. Practice with a variety of word problems helps children recognise mathematical language and identify what calculations are needed. Encourage children to show their working, as method marks are available even if the final answer is incorrect.

Reading comprehension preparation should include exposure to different text types: fiction, non-fiction, and poetry. The SATs reading paper includes all three. Practise answering questions that require retrieval, inference, vocabulary understanding, and making connections. Teach children to refer back to the text and quote evidence in their answers. Our [reading comprehension worksheets](/worksheets/english/key-stage-2/reading-comprehension) mirror SATs question styles.

GPS revision benefits from systematic coverage of grammatical terminology and punctuation rules. Children need to identify word classes, sentence types, clauses, and phrases. They should know punctuation rules and be able to apply them. [Grammar worksheets](/worksheets/english/key-stage-2/grammar) and [punctuation worksheets](/worksheets/english/key-stage-2/punctuation) provide practice in identifying and using these features.

Spelling lists for Year 5 and 6 should be practised regularly. Learn spellings in manageable groups, test frequently, and revisit words that have been forgotten. Patterns and rules, such as word endings and prefixes, help children spell unfamiliar words as well as known ones. Use [spelling worksheets](/worksheets/english/key-stage-2/spelling) to reinforce common patterns.

Create a revision timetable that balances subjects and includes rest. A sustainable schedule might include 20-30 minutes of focused revision daily, alternating between subjects. Include some fun learning activities and plenty of time for play and relaxation. An exhausted, anxious child will not perform well regardless of how much revision they have done.

Practice papers are useful but should not dominate revision. Doing too many practice papers can feel demoralising if scores do not improve quickly. Use them sparingly to familiarise children with the format and timing, but spend most revision time on targeted topic work using worksheets.

Finally, keep perspective. SATs are one assessment at one point in time. They do not define a child's worth or future potential. A calm, supportive approach from parents helps children manage any nerves and do their best on the day.