Earlier in the term were reported that our Spelling Bee had been buzzing with energy as Year 7 and 8 students tackled a tricky selection of spellings, inspired by their autumn curriculum and key age-related words. From limericks to Wordle, they learned the initial list through fun and creative activities!
Top scorers from each class advanced to the week’s Semi-Finals, facing additional spellings and surprise tie-breakers. After a tense competition, the 6 top scorers moved on to the Final, with even more challenging words ahead!
English teachers have been really impressed with the manner in which the Year 7s and 8s took on this challenge – the year groups have been ‘a-buzz’ with excitement!
A massive well done to all students; particular well done to the semi finalists and finalists. Standards were really high and it was a close run competition to get into the next round.
A special shout-out to Miss Woodier, our fantastic spelling bee pronouncer, who donned an awesome costume!
It was time for the finals and it was a close fought contest. Congratulations to all the finalists and in particular, winner Emily Z (7Mot). Miss Theobald caught up with her to ask her a few questions about the experience.
What was the best thing about being part of the spelling bee?
‘The ending (of course!) It was really fun, we got cupcakes and Miss Woodier was dressed up as a bee. I also got to pick a book as a prize! I also loved it when I got a trophy (who wouldn’t)?!’
What was the trickiest word to learn?
‘Entrepreneur. I kept thinking enterpreneur or entreprenaur!’
How did you practice the spellings?
‘I put the words in a spelling test generator.’
How do you feel about winning?
‘I’m really happy. I wasn’t expecting to even get to the semi finals!’
What were the other competitors like?
‘They were really kind about it and no one was sad. I also made a friend!’
Have you always been good at spelling?
‘I always practice and in primary school I got £1 for every 10/10 I got and I was quite wealthy (for an 8 year old)! I still mess up though.
Miss Theobald also spoke to Tess C who won the Year 8 competition:
What was the best thing about being part of the spelling bee?
I got to learn new words and their meanings and I got a free book.
What was the trickiest word to learn?
I think the trickiest word to learn was probably commemoration.
How did you practice the spellings?
I got my mum to read them aloud to me and I would say the spelling back. I also would sometimes have a quick look over the words and write them down then go back over them to check any mistakes.
How do you feel about winning?
I felt incredibly happy and I was so proud to show all my friends and family the trophy and certificate.
What were the other competitors like?
The other competitors were very happy for me and they did really well in their spellings as well and in the end there was only one point difference between the winner and second place.
Have you always been good at spelling?
I would say I have because I have always been a very enthusiastic reader and widened my vocabulary that way.
