Chess Academy

I tutored fourth graders at Chess Academy for the Cicero Community Center and I was happy to see the progress in their reading and math as the program continued. Their vocabulary, grammar and problem solving skills consistently improved and they were able to enjoy themselves through the process. It was interesting not only to help them understand the game of chess but also to see them help each other with the game and with reading and math as well. Throughout the span of the program, we had activities to increase their knowledge and abilities in reading and math with the most popular being in a group environment. Instead of being reticent and intimidated by more difficult problems, they began to enjoy them more and it helped them develop a sense of their abilities in successfully being able to solve them. Approaching it from a perspective of something could have fun with instead of a task or job they were required to complete allowed them to enjoy their time as they were learning more. Using chess as a vehicle for improving their scholastic abilities proved to be an excellent way to aid in their education.