Chess II

This chess course is meant for middle school and high school kids who have no or some experience playing the game of international chess.

Overview and Objectives

Welcome and introduction to the class
Explanation of the goals and objectives of the course
Brief history of chess and its importance

The Chessboard and Pieces

Understanding the chessboard layout
Introduction to the pieces: King, Queen, Rook, Bishop, Knight, Pawn
Movement and capture rules for each piece

Basic Chess Principles

Control of the center
Piece activity and mobility
King safety

Piece and Positional Value

Relative value of each piece (Pawn = 1, Knight/Bishop = 3, Rook = 5, Queen = 9)
Positional value and importance
Impact of piece value on strategic decision-making

Proper Development

Development strategies for each piece
Importance of developing pieces early
Common opening principles and mistakes to avoid

Advanced Piece Value Concepts

Positional vs. material advantage
Evaluating piece activity
Dynamic vs. static positions

Positional Play and Strategy

Understanding weak and strong squares
Pawn structure and its impact on the game
Creating and exploiting weaknesses

Proper Development Form

Principles of piece coordination
Setting up effective piece networks
Maintaining flexibility in development

Practical Exercises and Games

Practice games focusing on piece value and development
Analysis of classic games and positions
Interactive group activities and discussions

Review and Assessment

Recap of key concepts from the first two weeks
Assessment quizzes and practical evaluations
Feedback and Q&A session

This curriculum aims to provide students with a solid foundation in the essential principles of chess, including understanding piece and positional value and proper development form. Each session combines theoretical insights with practical exercises, ensuring a comprehensive and engaging learning experience.

This is

Monday and Wednesday 12:30pm-1:30pm.

Fees

HITTA Camp trainees: $11 per class

non HITTA campers: $14 per class

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Teacher

Mike Holt

Mike Holt's journey reflects a remarkable transition from a high-powered career in consultancy to a passion-driven vocation in chess coaching. As a Microsoft Certified System Engineer (MCSE), Mike carved out a distinguished career as a premier business consultant. His expertise was sought by multimillion-dollar nationwide companies, and his portfolio included government, law enforcement, and military contracts.

Despite his success in the business world, Mike's true passion lay elsewhere. Around 2020, his profound interest and understanding of chess grew substantially. This newfound enthusiasm prompted him to leave his lucrative consultancy career and dedicate himself entirely to chess. Thus, Regicide Chess Club was born in Katy,

Texas Regicide Chess Club quickly became a prominent fixture in the Katy chess community, garnering widespread acclaim. The overwhelming demand from parents led Mike to offer chess classes, where he has since worked with hundreds of children. His coaching has propelled many of his students to top positions in local and state academic competition tournaments.

Mike's life mission now revolves around expanding the chess community and fostering a love for the game among youth. He possesses extensive experience working with children with Autism, ADHD, and other special needs, making his approach uniquely inclusive and supportive.

Through Regicide Chess Club, Mike Holt continues to inspire and cultivate a new generation of chess enthusiasts, ensuring that the legacy of this timeless game thrives in Katy and beyond.

Houston International Table Tennis Academy

Chess II