Chess
This course will focus on a brief history of chess, chess in culture, rules & etiquette, how to read & record chess games, strategy, tactics, opening, middle & endgame theory. This course will explore methods of solving chess puzzles and problems. There will be a focus on daily in-class play. Students will benefit from the logical, critical, analytical & creative thinking chess provides - skills that can be transferred to all subject areas & facets of life.
Chess can develop communication, thinking, personal and social skills. Chess gives students the opportunity to exercise their powers of planning, memory, decision-making, judgment, creativity & concentration. This course allows students to develop resilience, and patience. Chess can assist cognitive development in four areas: logic, memory, awareness/analysis & pattern recognition. Chess is fun, engaging, inclusive, creative & the perfect venue to develop socio-emotional and cognitive domain
Strategic play and problem-solving promote logical and creative thinking development and balance. Regular play fosters the development of executive functioning skills. Chess is reflexive, experiential, and relational. Non-verbal and visual interactions help people read physical cues and become more situationally aware. Participation in leisure activities is relaxing, builds community and is part of a healthy lifestyle.
Chess is an excellent leisure activity that anyone can play. Learning the game supports the well-being of self, family and community. Chess allows students the opportunity to learn from and mentor each other to become better players. Chess involves patience and time. Students can pass along their knowledge and experience as they develop as players. Elders can share their knowledge of the game. Learning chess involves recognizing the consequences of one’s actions.