Daily Pulse /
Intermediate
Materials /
How a 12-Year-Old Beat the Dictionary: The Story Behind America’s Spelling Bee Champion
Exercise 1
Vocabulary
Direction: Listen and repeat after your tutor
Champion
/ˈtʃæm.pi.ən/
A person who wins a competition or contest.
- The spelling bee is a difficult competition that requires strong vocabulary skills.
Competition
/ˌkɒm.pəˈtɪʃ.ən/
A contest where people try to win or be better than others.
- The spelling bee is a difficult competition that requires strong vocabulary skills.
Achievement
/əˈtʃiːv.mənt/
Something good or difficult that someone has succeeded in doing.
- Winning the spelling bee is a big achievement for any student.
Dedication
/ˌded.ɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/
Hard work and strong focus on a goal or activity.
- Her dedication to studying helped her win the contest.
Exercise 2
Pulse
Direction: Read the pulse aloud or with your teacher.
How a 12-Year-Old Beat the Dictionary: The Story Behind America’s Spelling Bee Champion
A 12-year-old student recently won the famous Scripps National Spelling Bee, becoming America’s top champion in the world of spelling. The competition was tough, with many smart students trying to win.
But her dedication and focus helped her spell the final word correctly and take home the trophy. This spelling bee is one of the biggest academic competitions in the United States. It tests how well students can spell very hard and unusual words. The winner had to go through many rounds, each more difficult than the last.
This young girl's achievement is not only a personal victory. It also shows what is possible with hard work and strong support from family and teachers.
She practiced for hours every day and learned hundreds of new words. Many students dream of winning the spelling bee, but very few reach the top. This story inspires young learners to believe in themselves, work hard, and chase their goals.
Exercise 3
Discussion
Share your opinions with your tutor
1. Have you ever joined a spelling competition or another contest? What was it like?
2. What does it take to become a champion in something?
3. Do you think spelling bees are useful for students? Why or why not?
4. What kind of competitions are popular in your country?
5. How do you stay motivated to learn English or other subjects?
6. What’s the biggest achievement you’ve had in school or life?
7. Do you think dedication is more important than talent? Why?
8. Would you like to participate in an international competition one day? What kind?