1. We will give you a copy of the words for each swarm.

2. The procedure is for you to pronounce the word, define it and use it in a sentence and then repeat it. The teams participating in a swarm may ask you to repeat the word one more time, but no more. If there is a question about pronunciation, the judges shall adjudicate. You may divide the responsibilities for reading the words however you like.

3. After the judges have called time, you should announce the correct spelling and name the teams who are still "in". Teams who got the word wrong must lower a flag. Each team is entitled to two misspellings before they are eliminated.

4. A swarm is over when all but one team has been eliminated.

5. There will be a short break after swarm 4.

For a PDF version of these instructions click here.

1. It is your job to keep time: The teams will have 30 seconds to write their words. At the 30-second mark, please call "time."

2. Teams are eliminated when/if: they have spelled two words incorrectly

• they continue to write after "time" has been called
• they attempt to change letters on the white board after time has been called
• they attempt to erase their white board before the correct spelling has been officially announced.

3. A word is misspelled when/if:

• the team spells it incorrectly
• the word as written by a team is illegible or letters are ambiguous

4. The judges shall resolve any and all disputes concerning:

• pronunciation
• interpretation of rules or procedures
• time
• anything else

5. Before the Championship Swarm begins, the judges have the privilege of announcing the winner of the prize for the most creatively dressed team.

Remember, the judges will resolve any disputes, there are no appeals, and you may resort to whatever legal remedies you deem appropriate as the situation demands.

For a PDF copy of these instructions, click here.