Welcome to our dedicated page for resources and tips! Whether you're a budding speller or a supportive parent, you'll find valuable tools and strategies here to help you excel in the Annual School Spelling Bee.
Build a daily routine with a realistic word target (for example, 50–100 new or review words per day) and track progress in a notebook or spreadsheet.
Study actively: spell out loud, write each word several times, and say the definition, part of speech, and a sample sentence to make it stick.
Use spaced repetition: review words after 1 day, 3 days, 1 week, and 1 month so you do not forget earlier lists.
Websites:
Learn prefixes, suffixes, and common roots from major languages of origin (Latin, Greek, Germanic, French, etc.) so you can “build” spellings even for unseen words.
Pay attention to tricky patterns: homophones, silent letters, doubled consonons, and common endings like “-ible/-able” or “-tion/-sion.”
Practice asking for language of origin and definition, then use that information to reason through spellings during drills.
Use online dictionaries with audio to hear pronunciations and see full entries (definition, part of speech, example usage, origin).
Try digital flashcards and vocabulary apps or platforms designed for spelling bee practice so you can quiz yourself efficiently and on the go.
Print or download practice worksheets and planners to organize weekly goals and track accuracy over time.
Website:
Run regular mock bees: have a parent, friend, or coach pronounce words, and respond exactly as you would on stage, including asking clarification questions.
Simulate conditions with a timer, standing up, and a quiet audience so you get used to pressure and pacing.
Train competition mindset: use breathing techniques, positive self-talk, and visualization so nerves do not erase what you studied.
Rest & Nutrition: Get a good night's sleep before the competition and eat a healthy, balanced meal. A well-rested and nourished mind performs best.
Arrive Early: Give yourself ample time to get to the venue, settle in, and calm any pre-competition nerves.
Listen Carefully: Pay close attention to the pronouncer for every word. Don't be afraid to ask for repeats, definitions, or sentences before you begin spelling. This is allowed and encouraged!
Stay Calm & Focused: Take a deep breath before spelling. Visualize success. If you make a mistake, remember it's a learning opportunity.
Speak Clearly: Articulate each letter distinctly and at a moderate pace. Remember the spelling procedure: pronounce, spell, pronounce.
Good Sportsmanship: Cheer for your fellow spellers and congratulate them, regardless of the outcome. The spelling bee is also about learning and community.