"Chess provides the opportunity for those 'invisible students' to stand out and perform at a higher level with the typical high achievers in the class" - B. Glum Royal Heights Elementary, Surrey, B.C.
"Chris' logical methods ensures that everyone learns and I have gained a deeper understanding of the game." - L. Morrison Hume Elementary, Nelson, B.C.
"Since teaching my grade three class chess, they approach math problems with greater confidence." - P. Earle Fleetwood Elementary, Surrey, B.C.
"I'm amazed to see hyperactive students seated and concentrating for so long." - D. Imai Coyote Creek Elementary, Surrey, B.C.
Workshop Format: 1.5 - 2 hours
1) Share research findings2) Individual pieces are introduced:
a) historical origin of pieceb) piece's personality & characteristics
c) how it moves
d) reinforce understanding by playing mini games:
*pawn storm *mad queen * battling bishops
*electric fence *kings' court *ride out the knight
(additional time needed to discuss organizing a club or running tournaments)
Email me to discuss how we can help you. Chris Laurie in Nelson, B.C.
or Mike Konkin Surrey, B.C.
Together, beginners and experienced students maybe led through a flexible system of eight simple mini-chess games. Each lesson introduces one piece at a time. The "mini games", give students enough practice to build confidence and develop strategies before tackling all the pieces in a regular game of chess.
Chris Laurie and Mike Konkin are elementary teachers who have successfully taught chess to students from grades three to nine. They were instrumental in raising the profile of chess in over 30 Surrey schools and Chris is duplicating this success in the Kootenays.
They have all the resources to lead whole class instruction or assist teachers interested in establishing extracurricular chess clubs.
Successful chess coaches do not have to know more than their students. A coach's role, like in ice hockey, is to maintain healthy sportsmanship and encourage players to improve. It would be their pleasure to assist with organizing matches between classes or schools.
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