spelling bee

[SubZeroX]

Why do they always ask for the definition of a word in the spelling bee? I really don't see how that helps other than the fact that it allows them to stall for time.

 

[pyonir]

helps them figure out origin and the possible spellings.

 

[Viper GTS]

Avoid confusing homonyms, verify the word they want.

Viper GTS

 

[Random Variable]

They should be required to define the words themselves.

 

[SubZeroX]

good point Viper. Pyonir, they actually tell you the word origin, so you don't need to figure this out yourself.

 

[xirtam]

It can also be a tip-off on pre and posts. Also, some people can't help but emphasize certain things in the definition that give away tips on the spelling. You can also read the definition-giver's face... kind of like in poker.

Sorry... I'm a former spelling bee champion. It's not just to stall for time... after all, what could you possibly need more time for? You either know it or you don't, and you obviously don't if you're asking for the definition.

Sometimes I'd do it to get them to repeat the word -- if you ask for the definition, sometimes people think that you didn't hear the word right, so they make sure to enunciate all the parts of the word that are hard to spell. They'll vary things like pitch and intonation for you. It's at least worth a gamble.

You'll notice that many times, there aren't homonyms involved. I was assuming you were talking about those instances. Obviously you'd ask for the definition if they told you to spell "two" or "deer." But even in cases of homonyms, if you listen to the second pronunciation, sometimes that's all you need to get the spelling, because they'll pronounce it differently.

Hint: you have to be able to read people really well for this to work on the national level. They get better people to judge those. But I could go through a spelling bee on the pre-district level almost without even listening to the words -- just watching peoples faces and lip-reading. I should have tried earplugs. I really hated spelling bees -- when I won, my mom always made me study my butt off. And I always won, of course.

 

[BrunoPuntzJones]

I really hated spelling bees -- when I won, my mom always made me study my butt off. And I always won, of course.

Better than that twisted bastard who beat his girl when she lost :disgust:

 

[xirtam]

The solution: don't lose. That's why I won.

 

[StarcraftGOD]

Originally posted by: pyonir
helps them figure out origin and the possible spellings.

^