I JUST finished the first meeting with the Washington Chess Club and I'd like to reflect on some observations. First off, the club is almost too big for our facilities; 70 kids in a room that is almost too small for that many. I also didn't have enough equipment for everybody; luckily I brought extras sets from Madison just in case. Last year, I divided the club into two groups at each school. I created video lessons for a volunteer to show the advanced players and then had the kids play their tournament games after the lesson. I think I'll have to do that again this year. I'll simply write to my parents and ask for volunteers to help. They'll come through!
I remember why I like running a tournament during the chess club meeting. It helps cut down on players talking. When standings and chess team placement are on the line, the kids focus harder and concentrate better during those tournament games. I don't pick the chess teams until February but I start collecting and tracking data starting week #2. This week, we didn't start the tournament. I let the kids pick their own opponent to help shake off the rust from months of not playing. I had to stop play on many occasions to get the talking to stop. I can't wait to start the tourney next week. I'll blog about how I set it up next week.
No comments:
Post a Comment