Chess for Beginners: Foundations
This beginner chess course is perfect for students who are familiar with the rules of the game but not much more. In this 8-week course students will solve tactical puzzles, learn endgame techniques and be introduced to opening strategy
New on Outschool
What's included
8 live meetings
7 hrs 20 mins in-class hoursHomework
1 hour per week. Optional homework will be assigned. Homework will not be checked but students are encouraged to ask questions in the following classes. Students who complete the optional homework will have a more solid understanding of the learning goals.Grading
There won't be any grades provided but parents are welcome to request feedback at any pointClass Experience
This course introduces the basics of chess beyond the rules and will ignite curiousity in students about chess. The course will cover a wide breadth of topics including tactics, opening preparation and endgame technique. Each class will include a lesson portion with new material each week, and all learners will have opportunities to answer questions and apply their new knowledge. Students will also have many chances to play practise games with other and with myself. The lessons are always fun and highly interactive and students will develop their passion to learn more about chess through this course.
Learning Goals
Students will understand the different type of tactics and be able to solve simple puzzles. Students will understand when the opening occurs and the important role it plays. Finally, students will be able to win a King + Queen and King + Rook endgame.
Syllabus
8 Lessons
over 8 WeeksLesson 1:
Forks
Learning and Practising Fork tactics 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 2:
Openings
Introduction to openings: what is the opening? what are the opening goals? Why should we study openings? Brief examples of basic opening theory 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 3:
Checkmate with King and Queen
Learning how to checkmate with just a King and Queen 55 mins online live lesson
Lesson 4:
Pins
Learning and Practising Pin tactics 55 mins online live lesson
Other Details
Parental Guidance
We will be using Lichess.org for practise puzzles, analysis and playing games. A lichess account is recommended for additional practise outside of class time, however is not required for participation in the class.
External Resources
In addition to the Outschool classroom, this class uses:
Joined October, 2022
New on Outschool
Teacher expertise and credentials
Hi! I have been teaching chess for over 10 years and have taught students anywhere from 4 years old to 60, complete beginner to intermediate club player. My current students are based in Vancouver and London and range from 5-years old to adult, from complete beginner to strong club level player, and I teach private and group classes.
I believe students can always enjoy learning. I incorporate a lot of variety into my lessons, mixing lessons with games and friendly tournaments so students will never feel bored. I personalize my lessons to target each student's weakness, design opening repertoire that's suited to them, and make sure they are always having fun.
I was a competitive chess player for 10 years, winning the 2014 U14 girls Canadian Championship and twice representing Canada at the World Youth Championships. I was a member of the BC Juniors in the Vancouver Rapid League, the UBC Chess Club, and Battersea Chess Club in London.
Outside of chess I work as a structural engineer and am a University of British Columbia graduate. I've found that lessons i've learned through chess have helped me both in logical thinking as well as applying hard work and determination to reach my goals.
I love passing on my passion for chess to new students and seeing my students improve their skills and appreciation for the game. See you in the classroom!
Best regards,
Joanne
FIDE 1761 | CFC 1780 | Lichess 2100Reviews
Live Group Course
$19
weekly or $150 for 8 classes1x per week, 8 weeks
55 min
Live video meetings
Ages: 7-10
4-8 learners per class
