This is our catalog of courses. We will occasionally adjust the course listing to reflect the addition of new courses and the retirement of others.
Chess teaches students to anticipate potential problems, how to focus & concentrate, visualize a sequence of actions, weigh options, and understand actions have consequences. For both middle and high school students.
Total classes: 6
Prerequisite: None
Suggested grade level: 7th to 12th
Suggested credit: ½ semester Chess, Math, or Logic
Description
Chess is one of the oldest games, receiving acclaim from St. Thomas Aquinas to Chuck Norris. Chess has been shown to improve reading comprehension, math success, logic skills, and strategic thinking. In this course, students will learn basic chess play, structure, the function of the pieces, and strategy.
Outline
Introduction and how the pieces work
How to make good exchanges and Checkmates
The Opening and the Midgame
The End-Game, Forks, and Pins
Chess Notation, Weaknesses and Strengths
Four big mistakes and how to deal with the King
Materials and Homework
Course materials: A chess set is advised, but not required.
Homework: Students will complete simple chess puzzles to cement lessons between classes. Expect to spend approximately 30 minutes per lesson, with optional work that can take an additional 30 minutes.
