What I've Learned So Far

1.)  I have learned the in-depth history of the game and many different strategies and terms that every intermediate player should know. The most important information that has stuck with me is definitely the different openings I have learned.

2.)  This is a picture of the popular opening that I like to use most often and have learned to do since beginning my research. http://www.mark-weeks.com/aboutcom/images/m61pp04b.gif

3.)   The articles I found after browsing the web were pretty good but my main source for my information has definitely been the book, Weapons of chess: an omnibus of chess strategy / by Bruce Pandolfini. It has offered me clear and concise strategies that can easily be implemented in any game. 

Independent Component 1 Plan Approval

1.)  For my independent study component, I plan on playing numerous online games against ranked opponents on the website, Chess.com. I hope to gain experience from these games to ultimately learn more openings and to improve my overall skill.

2.)  I am quite confident I can reach the goal of 30 hours of work because most of these games take quite a lot of time and effort. Some can last hours so I think the 30 hours will be reached. I can log in once I start a game and log out when I finish playing so that I can take an online screenshot of the process. I can also have an adult present as I play to be completely sure that I am working on the appropriate task.

3.)  My EQ demands knowledge in how to win a chess match and also a lot of experience doing so.  Playing countless games online against increasingly difficult players will in fact give me that experience I need in order to teach others how to win. 

Title: Defining the Essential Question

1.)  What is the best way to win a game of chess?

2.)  I think it’s pretty self-explanatory. The “best” way would be the fastest, and most foolproof way of winning that can be consistent in every game that is played.

3.)  – Study Games played by Prodigies to learn different techniques.                                                                - Analyze your own games to make sure you learn from your mistakes and improve over time.

4.)  My most important source has definitely been the book I have read, “ Weapons of Chess,” by Bruce Pandolefini. This has been a great resource on all the basics and on a number of terms and techniques that dominate the game and should be known by all intermediate players. 

Second Interview Questions

I plan on interviewing the head teacher that is in charge of the chess club at Cal Poly.

1.)  How many years have you been playing the game?

2.)  What is it that inspired you to found this club?

3.)  What would your advice be for a player wanting to improve his skill?

4.)  Do you consider yourself a “great player?” Why or why not?

5.)  Have you ever participated in or attended a chess tournament?

6.) What would you say your qualifications are for leading this club?