Air-Dry Clay Chess Pieces and Story
In this class, we will design our own unique chess piece and explain why it deserves a place on the board, replacing an existing piece.
What's included
1 live meeting
55 mins in-class hoursClass Experience
Class Experience What will be taught? In this class, learners will explore chess history, creativity, and strategy by learning about unique pieces that almost made it into the game and designing their own original chess pieces. What topics will you cover? • The history of chess pieces and the evolution of their roles. • Examples of alternative chess pieces, such as the Amazon, and why they were excluded from modern chess. • Creative thinking and logical reasoning while designing a new piece. • Persuasive communication to explain and defend their designs. How is your class structured? The class is interactive and engaging, with a mix of history, brainstorming, and creative activities: 1. Introduction and group discussion on chess pieces and their roles. 2. Brief history of alternative pieces like the General. 3. Guided brainstorming session to design a new chess piece. 4. Learners will present their creations and explain why their piece deserves a spot on the chessboard. How will you teach? The class will include short lectures, discussions, visual aids, and interactive activities. I’ll guide learners with prompts and questions to encourage creativity while teaching key historical and strategic concepts. What’s your teaching style? My teaching style is interactive, student-centered, and encouraging. I aim to create a relaxed yet stimulating environment where students feel confident to share ideas and ask questions. How much will learners get to interact with you? Learners will actively interact throughout the class. They’ll participate in discussions, ask and answer questions, brainstorm their ideas with my guidance, and present their creations to the group. I’ll provide personalized feedback and encourage collaboration among peers.
Learning Goals
Understand the roles and significance of traditional chess pieces and their historical evolution.Develop creative thinking skills by designing an original chess piece with unique abilities and purpose.
Other Details
Supply List
Any air-dry clay will work. If you would rather use play-dough (Play-Doh), that is fine as well.
Language of Instruction
English
External Resources
Learners will not need to use any apps or websites beyond the standard Outschool tools.
Teacher expertise and credentials
I have loved both art and chess for as long as I can remember, starting from my earliest childhood memories. Chess has been a lifelong passion, and I’ve been fortunate to turn that passion into a career. Currently I am a chess coach at my favorite chess school in California. Collectively, I have been teaching players of all levels for over 15 years.
My art teaching journey began at in-person summer camps, where I first introduced the concept of creating custom chess pieces. Watching kids combine strategy with creativity brought incredible joy to both them and me. Since then, I’ve refined this activity into a class that combines chess history, strategy, and imagination, making chess more engaging and personal for learners.
Throughout my years of teaching, I have worked with children of all ages and skill levels, helping them build confidence, think critically, and have fun while learning the game. My experience ensures a supportive and engaging learning environment tailored to each student’s needs.Reviews
Live One-Time Class
$18
per classMeets once
55 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 8-12
2-10 learners per class
