The competition kicks off Tuesday morning for spellers with a written exam that tests both spelling and vocabulary. This is the second year vocabulary has been part of the Bee, and the test's format has changed this year.
All 285 spellers will take the test at the same time, and family members and other Bee fans will be able to watch the test. While last year's exam took place on computers, this year's will use pencils.
The exam will have 12 spelling words and 12 vocabulary words worth one point apiece, then two additional vocabulary questions worth three points apiece.
For the spelling portion, Dr. Jacques Bailly, the Bee's pronouncer, will read a word and give identifying details such as the language of origin. Spellers will also have those details on a written sheet. They will choose one of five options and fill in a Scantron bubble that corresponds with the way they think the word is spelled.
On the vocabulary portion, spellers will have four options for a definition after Dr. Bailly pronounces the words.
In each case, he will pause for 20 seconds before moving on to the next word. Dr. Bailly will reread each of the spelling words and each of the vocabulary words before moving on to the next section. Spellers will have 10 minutes at the end to look over their answers.
Corrie Loeffler, the Bee's program manager, said the changes were about adding transparency to the written test and ensuring that all spellers are able to take the exam at the same time.
"We're excited about it," she said.
The written test will be used to help identify the spellers who will move on to the semifinals. Spellers' scores will be released while their groups are on stage spelling for the next round.