For the first time in history, the Scripps National Spelling Bee requires more than just spelling. According to Chris Kemper, administrator of the bee, the E.W. Scripps Company and local spelling bee sponsors from over 13 different countries administer the bee on a not-for-profit basis. Their mission is to help students improve spelling, widen vocabulary and correctly use English all throughout the students’ lives. Kemper said the organizers of the spelling bee have decided to incorporate the evaluation of vocabulary knowledge into the competition this year. The bee is scheduled with the first preliminary round on May 28, and as the students are eliminated throughout the next few days, the finalists move on to the championship finals on May 30 at 8 p.m. EDT. The championship can be watched on ESPN. Sample questions courtesy of Scripps National Spelling Bee.
Take this quiz to see if you’re smart enough to qualify in the spelling bee.
1. What is the purpose of defibrillation?
a) removing fibrous matter from vegetables
b) removing bodily hair
c) restoring the rhythm of the heart
d) reducing a fever using medication
2. An heiress is a woman who:
a) inherits great wealth
b) owns a hot air balloon
c) accrues massive debts
d) tests new hair products
3. What does it mean to be intestate?
a) to be under strenuous circumstances
b) to be without a valid will
c) to be in the middle of a test in school
d) to be in possession of a large amount of money
4. Something described as indocile is:
a) markedly inane or foolish
b) not able to be physically documented
c) not easily instructed or controlled
d) perseveringly active
5. What does it mean to winnow?
a) to expel through an opening in the side of a building
b) to swim quickly
c) to take out undesired parts
d) to play a game of chance for money or other stakes
6. What does it mean to appertain to something?
a) to assume the character or appearance of
b) to belong either as something appropriate or as an attribute
c) to distress severely so as to cause continued suffering
d) to be guilty of
7. Something described as corrigible is:
a) correctable
b) rigid
c) unmanageable
d) filled with air
8. What does it mean to eradicate something?
a) to send it out from one focal point
b) to illuminate it
c) to deeply root it
d) to destroy it completely
9. Something described as refulgent is:
a) tending to move toward one point
b) demanding immediate action
c) rising from an inferior state
d) giving out a bright light
10. Nomenclature has to do with:
a) religious ceremonies
b) names
c) bones
d) folk superstitions
11. Something described as volatile is:
a) illegal
b) impressive
c) explosive
d) calming
Answers: 1c, 2a, 3b, 4c, 5c, 6b, 7a, 8d, 9d, 10b, 11c