Mini Workshop Chess the Game of life

5-Day Intensive Chess & SEL Course

Master Chess Fundamentals while Building Social-Emotional Skills

60-Minute Daily Sessions Lichess.org Integration

Course Overview

Chess Learning Objectives

Understand chess history and cultural significance
Master board setup and piece identification
Learn all piece movements and basic rules
Execute special moves (castling, en passant, promotion)
Play complete games with confidence

SEL Learning Objectives

Develop self-awareness and emotional recognition
Practice responsible decision-making
Build positive relationship skills
Enhance social awareness and empathy
Strengthen self-management abilities

Day 1: Chess History & Self-Awareness

Discovering the Royal Game’s Origins while Building Self-Understanding

Learning Objectives

Chess Skills:

• Understand chess origins and evolution
• Identify cultural significance across civilizations
• Recognize chess as a mental sport

SEL Skills:

• Develop self-awareness through reflection
• Identify personal learning styles
• Practice mindful observation

Materials Needed

Computer/tablet with internet access
Chess set (physical or digital)
Reflection journal/notebook
Lichess.org account setup
Historical chess videos/resources

Introduction (10 minutes)

Welcome students with a thought-provoking question: “What do you think makes a game last for over 1,500 years?” Begin by showing images of chess being played across different cultures and time periods.

Hook Activity:

Display a famous chess position (like the “Immortal Game”) and ask students to observe and share what they notice about the board setup, creating curiosity about the complexity and beauty of chess.

Procedure (40 minutes)

Step 1: Chess Origins Exploration (15 minutes)

• Present the journey from Chaturanga (India, 6th century) to modern chess
• Discuss how chess traveled through Persia, Arab world, and into Europe
• Highlight key figures: Ruy López, Paul Morphy, Bobby Fischer, and current champions
• Show how chess pieces evolved (elephants became bishops, chariots became rooks)

SEL Connection:

Discuss how chess, like personal growth, has evolved over time. Ask students to reflect on how they have changed and grown in the past year.

Step 2: Cultural Impact Activity (10 minutes)

• Explore chess in literature (Harry Potter, Alice in Wonderland)
• Discuss chess in movies and pop culture
• Examine chess as a metaphor for life and strategy
• Share interesting chess facts and records

SEL Connection:

Discuss how games and activities we enjoy become part of our identity. Have students share a hobby or interest that defines them.

Step 3: Self-Awareness Chess Reflection (10 minutes)

• Guide students through a mindfulness exercise about learning
• Have them identify their current feelings about learning chess
• Discuss different learning styles (visual, auditory, kinesthetic)
• Create personal learning goals for the 5-day course

Reflection Questions:

• How do I feel when I’m learning something new?
• What helps me learn best?
• What are my hopes for this chess course?

Step 4: Lichess.org Introduction (5 minutes)

• Create accounts on Lichess.org
• Explore the interface and basic features
• Set up profiles and avatars
• Introduce the concept of online chess communities

Assessment (8 minutes)

Formative Assessment:

• Quick verbal quiz on chess history (3 questions)
• Share one interesting fact learned about chess
• Demonstrate Lichess.org account setup

SEL Assessment:

• Journal entry about learning feelings
• Share one personal learning goal
• Rate comfort level with new experiences (1-10)

Conclusion (2 minutes)

Summarize the incredible journey of chess through time and cultures. Emphasize how chess, like personal growth, is a lifelong journey of learning and improvement.

Key Takeaway:

“Chess teaches us that every expert was once a beginner, and every journey starts with a single move. Your chess journey begins now!”

Homework & Self-Study (Lichess.org)

Primary Assignment:

• Complete the “Chess Basics” lessons on Lichess.org (estimated 15-20 minutes)
• Watch the “History of Chess” video series in the Learn section
• Explore the “Puzzle” section and attempt 3-5 basic puzzles

Reflection Task:

• Write a brief journal entry about what surprised you most about chess history
• Set three personal goals for what you want to achieve in this course
• Practice mindful observation: spend 5 minutes watching others (family, friends) and notice their different learning styles

Parent/Guardian Note: Encourage discussion about the history and cultural aspects of chess at home. This reinforces learning and builds family connections.

Day 2: The Board, Pieces & Responsible Decision-Making

Setting Up for Success: Board Mastery and Thoughtful Choices

Learning Objectives

Chess Skills:

• Master chessboard setup and orientation
• Identify and value all chess pieces
• Understand coordinate system (files and ranks)
• Learn basic piece movement patterns

SEL Skills:

• Practice responsible decision-making
• Consider consequences before acting
• Develop systematic thinking

Materials Needed

Chess sets (1 per 2 students)
Lichess.org access
Coordinate notation cards
Piece value reference sheet
Decision-making worksheets

Introduction (8 minutes)

Begin with a relatable scenario: “Imagine you’re organizing your room. Where would you put each item, and why?” Connect this to chess setup and the importance of having everything in its proper place.

Hook Activity:

Present a scrambled chess board and ask students to work in pairs to figure out the correct setup using only logic and observation skills.

Procedure (42 minutes)

Step 1: Board Setup Mastery (12 minutes)

• Demonstrate proper board orientation (“white on right”)
• Teach the coordinate system (a-h files, 1-8 ranks)
• Practice setting up pieces systematically
• Introduce chess notation basics

♜

♞

♝

♛

♚

♝

♞

♜

SEL Connection:

Discuss how being organized and systematic helps us make better decisions. When everything has its place, we can think more clearly.

Step 2: Piece Identification & Values (15 minutes)

♔

King

Invaluable

♕

Queen

9 points

♖

Rook

5 points

♗

Bishop

3 points

♘

Knight

3 points

♙

Pawn

1 point

SEL Connection:

Discuss how different pieces have different values, just like how different choices in life have different consequences. What makes something valuable?

Step 3: Basic Movement Patterns (10 minutes)

• Demonstrate each piece’s basic movement
• Practice with guided exercises
• Identify which pieces can move where
• Introduce concept of captures

Movement Memory Tip:

Rooks move like plus signs (+), Bishops move like X marks, Queens combine both. Knights move in L-shapes like a telephone!

Step 4: Decision-Making Workshop (5 minutes)

• Present simple chess scenarios with multiple move options
• Guide students through decision-making process
• Practice the “Think-Consider-Choose” method
• Discuss how to evaluate consequences

Decision Framework:

Think: What are my options?

Consider: What might happen with each choice?

Choose: Which option best achieves my goal?

Assessment (8 minutes)

Chess Knowledge Check:

• Set up the board correctly in under 2 minutes
• Identify pieces and their point values
• Name coordinates of specific squares
• Demonstrate basic piece movements

SEL Skills Check:

• Explain the Think-Consider-Choose process
• Give example of considering consequences
• Reflect on one good decision made today

Conclusion (2 minutes)

Reinforce that mastering the basics provides the foundation for all future learning. Just as each chess piece has its place and purpose, every decision we make has its place in building our character.

Key Takeaway:

“Good decisions start with good information. Now that you know the board and pieces, you’re ready to make your first chess moves!”

Homework & Self-Study (Lichess.org)

Chess Practice:

• Complete “Board & Pieces” interactive lessons on Lichess.org
• Practice piece movement exercises (15-20 minutes)
• Try “Piece Coordination” puzzles (start with Level 1)
• Set up and reset the board 3 times for speed practice

SEL Practice:

• Apply Think-Consider-Choose to one real-life decision today
• Journal about a time when being organized helped you
• Practice identifying the “value” of different activities you do

Family Activity: Teach a family member how to set up the chess board. Teaching others helps reinforce your own learning!

Day 3: Basic Rules & Relationship Skills

Playing Fair: Understanding Rules and Building Positive Connections

Learning Objectives

Chess Skills:

• Master fundamental movement rules
• Understand check, checkmate, and stalemate
• Learn capturing and piece interaction
• Practice basic chess etiquette

SEL Skills:

• Develop positive relationship skills
• Practice good sportsmanship
• Learn respectful competition
• Build communication skills

Materials Needed

Chess sets for pair practice
Lichess.org for rule demonstrations
Chess rules reference cards
Sportsmanship checklist
Timer for practice games

Introduction (7 minutes)

Start with a discussion about rules in sports and games: “Why do we need rules? What happens when everyone follows them versus when they don’t?” Connect this to chess and life relationships.

Hook Activity:

Show a chess position where one player is in check and ask students to work together to figure out what’s happening and what the player should do.

Procedure (43 minutes)

Step 1: Movement Rules Deep Dive (12 minutes)

• Review and reinforce each piece’s movement patterns
• Demonstrate legal vs. illegal moves
• Practice capturing rules (pieces cannot jump over others except knights)
• Introduce the concept of piece blocking and protection

Key Rule:

Touch-move rule: “If you touch a piece, you must move it if a legal move exists.” This teaches commitment to decisions.

SEL Connection:

Discuss how rules create fairness and trust. When everyone follows the same rules, we can focus on playing our best game and enjoying the experience together.

Step 2: Check, Checkmate, and Stalemate (15 minutes)

CHECK

King is attacked but can escape

CHECKMATE

King is attacked and cannot escape

STALEMATE

King is safe but has no legal moves

• Demonstrate each scenario with clear examples
• Practice identifying check positions
• Show three ways to get out of check: move king, block, capture
• Explain why stalemate is a draw, not a win

SEL Connection:

Relate to problem-solving in relationships: when facing a “check” (conflict), we have options – we can avoid, address directly, or find help from others.

Step 3: Chess Etiquette & Sportsmanship (8 minutes)

Good Sportsmanship:

• Shake hands before and after
• Say “good game” regardless of outcome
• Stay quiet during opponent’s thinking
• Never gloat in victory or sulk in defeat
• Help opponent learn if they make mistakes

Poor Sportsmanship:

• Distracting opponent during play
• Celebrating excessively when winning
• Making excuses when losing
• Rushing or pressuring opponent
• Arguing about rules or moves

Golden Rule of Chess:

Treat your opponent the way you want to be treated. Chess is about respect, learning, and enjoying the game together.

Step 4: Practice Games with Relationship Focus (8 minutes)

• Pair students for short practice games (5 minutes each)
• Focus on applying etiquette rules
• Encourage positive communication during play
• Practice gracious winning and losing

Communication Prompts:

• “That was a good move!”
• “I learned something new from that game.”
• “Thank you for a fun game.”

Assessment (8 minutes)

Chess Rules Mastery:

• Identify check positions correctly
• Demonstrate ways to escape check
• Explain difference between checkmate and stalemate
• Show proper capturing technique

Relationship Skills Check:

• Demonstrate proper chess etiquette
• Show good sportsmanship during practice
• Use positive communication with partner
• Handle winning/losing gracefully

Conclusion (2 minutes)

Emphasize that chess rules aren’t restrictions—they’re the framework that makes the game fair and enjoyable for everyone. Similarly, social rules and good manners help us build strong, positive relationships.

Key Takeaway:

“When we play by the rules and treat others with respect, everyone wins—even when only one person gets checkmate!”

Homework & Self-Study (Lichess.org)

Chess Practice:

• Complete “Basic Rules” interactive lessons on Lichess.org
• Practice “Check & Checkmate” puzzles (10 easy problems)
• Play 2-3 games against the computer on beginner level
• Watch “Chess Etiquette” videos in the learning section

SEL Practice:

• Practice good sportsmanship in other activities today
• Help someone learn something new (any skill, not just chess)
• Write about a time when following rules helped create fairness
• Compliment three people genuinely today

Reflection Question: How does showing respect to others in chess help you build better relationships outside of chess?

Day 4: Special Moves & Social Awareness

Advanced Techniques: Special Chess Moves and Reading Social Situations

Learning Objectives

Chess Skills:

• Master castling (kingside and queenside)
• Understand en passant capture
• Learn pawn promotion rules
• Recognize when special moves are beneficial

SEL Skills:

• Develop social awareness
• Practice reading non-verbal cues
• Understand perspective-taking
• Recognize timing in social situations

Materials Needed

Chess sets for demonstration
Lichess.org special moves trainer
Special moves reference cards
Social awareness activity sheets
Timing exercise materials

Introduction (8 minutes)

Begin with a real-life scenario: “Think of a time when you had to read the room—maybe sensing when someone was upset or knowing the right time to ask for something. How did you know?” Connect this awareness to chess special moves.

Hook Activity:

Show a position where castling would be perfect for safety, and another where en passant could win material. Ask students to observe and guess what special moves might be possible.

Procedure (42 minutes)

Step 1: Castling – The King’s Escape Plan (15 minutes)

Kingside Castling (O-O)

• King moves 2 squares toward h-rook
• Rook jumps to square next to king
• More common and usually safer

Queenside Castling (O-O-O)

• King moves 2 squares toward a-rook
• Rook jumps to square next to king
• Requires more preparation

Castling Requirements:

• King and rook haven’t moved yet
• No pieces between king and rook
• King not in check before, during, or after castling
• King doesn’t pass through check

SEL Connection:

Castling is about timing and safety. Discuss how in social situations, we sometimes need to “get to safety” by changing our approach or seeking support when we feel overwhelmed.

Step 2: En Passant – The Sneaky Capture (10 minutes)

En Passant Rules:

• Opponent’s pawn moves 2 squares from starting position
• Your pawn is on the same rank (5th for white, 4th for black)
• Your pawn is adjacent to the pawn that just moved
• Must capture immediately (can’t wait for later turns)
• Captured pawn is removed from the square it passed through

SEL Connection:

En passant teaches us about seizing opportunities. Sometimes in social situations, we have brief moments to respond appropriately—if we miss the timing, the opportunity might be gone.

Step 3: Pawn Promotion – Transformation (7 minutes)

♕

Queen

Most powerful

♖

Rook

Great for endgames

♗

Bishop

Good for diagonals

♘

Knight

Unique movement

Key Rule: When a pawn reaches the opposite end of the board, it must be promoted to any piece except a king. Most players choose a queen, but sometimes other pieces are better for the position.

SEL Connection:

Pawn promotion represents growth and transformation. Discuss how small, consistent efforts (like a pawn’s slow advance) can lead to amazing achievements in life.

Step 4: Social Awareness Chess Exercise (10 minutes)

• Practice reading opponent’s intentions from their piece placement
• Observe body language during chess games
• Discuss timing: when to offer help vs. when to stay focused
• Practice recognizing when someone is frustrated or confused

Observation Skills:

• Notice when someone hesitates before moving
• Watch for signs of excitement or concern
• Recognize when someone wants to ask a question
• See when someone needs encouragement

Assessment (8 minutes)

Special Moves Mastery:

• Demonstrate castling in different positions
• Execute en passant capture correctly
• Choose appropriate piece for pawn promotion
• Identify when special moves are legal

Social Awareness Check:

• Notice and respond to partner’s emotions
• Show appropriate timing in interactions
• Demonstrate perspective-taking skills
• Read non-verbal cues during game play

Conclusion (2 minutes)

Emphasize that special moves in chess, like social awareness in life, require patience, timing, and careful observation. The ability to read situations and respond appropriately is valuable both on and off the chessboard.

Key Takeaway:

“Great chess players don’t just know the moves—they know when to use them. Great people don’t just know social skills—they know when to apply them!”

Homework & Self-Study (Lichess.org)

Chess Practice:

• Complete “Special Moves” lessons on Lichess.org
• Practice castling in different game positions
• Try pawn promotion puzzles (5-10 problems)
• Look for en passant opportunities in practice games

SEL Practice:

• Practice “reading the room” in three different situations today
• Notice someone’s non-verbal communication and respond appropriately
• Help someone at the right moment (good timing practice)
• Reflect on a time when you transformed something small into something big

Challenge Activity: Set up a position where you can castle, then explain to a family member why castling would be a good move in that situation.

Day 5: Playing Complete Games & Self-Management

Putting It All Together: Full Games and Managing Yourself Under Pressure

Learning Objectives

Chess Skills:

• Play complete games from start to finish
• Apply opening principles
• Develop basic tactical awareness
• Practice endgame fundamentals

SEL Skills:

• Develop self-management under pressure
• Practice emotional regulation
• Build persistence and resilience
• Learn from mistakes constructively

Materials Needed

Chess sets for tournament-style games
Lichess.org for online games
Chess clocks or timers
Game notation sheets
Certificates of completion

Introduction (5 minutes)

Congratulate students on reaching the final day! Ask: “What’s the difference between practicing individual skills and putting them all together in a real situation?” Connect this to their chess journey and life experiences.

Hook Activity:

Start with a motivational chess quote: “Every chess master was once a beginner” – Irving Chernev. Today, you stop being beginners and start being chess players!

Procedure (45 minutes)

Step 1: Game Strategy Quick Review (8 minutes)

Opening Principles

• Control the center
• Develop pieces quickly
• Castle early for safety
• Don’t move same piece twice

Middle Game

• Look for tactics
• Improve piece positions
• Create threats
• Defend carefully

Endgame

• Activate your king
• Push passed pawns
• Look for checkmate patterns
• Stay focused

SEL Connection:

Like chess games, life challenges have different phases. Sometimes we need to be patient and build (opening), sometimes we need to take action (middle game), and sometimes we need to persevere to the end (endgame).

Step 2: Self-Management Skills Training (7 minutes)

When You’re Winning:

• Stay humble and focused
• Don’t rush or get careless
• Keep playing your best
• Be respectful to opponent

When You’re Losing:

• Stay calm and think clearly
• Look for opportunities
• Don’t give up too early
• Learn from the experience

Emotional Regulation Techniques:

• Take deep breaths when feeling stressed
• Count to 5 before making important moves
• Focus on the present position, not past mistakes
• Remember that every game is a learning opportunity

Step 3: Tournament-Style Games (25 minutes)

Game Format:

• Round 1: 8-minute games (pairs rotate)
• Round 2: 8-minute games (new opponents)
• Round 3: 5-minute games (if time allows)
• Focus on applying everything learned

During Games:

• Practice self-management skills
• Apply opening principles
• Look for special moves opportunities
• Maintain good sportsmanship

Between Games:

• Reflect on what worked well
• Identify areas for improvement
• Encourage other players
• Reset emotionally for next game

Step 4: Game Analysis & Learning (5 minutes)

• Briefly analyze one interesting position from each student’s games
• Highlight good moves and learning moments
• Discuss how emotions affected play
• Share insights about self-management during games

Growth Mindset Questions:

• What did you learn about yourself during the games?
• How did you handle challenging moments?
• What chess skills do you want to improve next?
• How can these lessons help you outside of chess?

Assessment (8 minutes)

Chess Competency Check:

• Complete games from start to finish
• Apply opening principles effectively
• Use special moves when appropriate
• Demonstrate understanding of basic tactics

SEL Skills Demonstration:

• Manage emotions during competitive play
• Show resilience when facing challenges
• Demonstrate good sportsmanship consistently
• Reflect constructively on performance

Conclusion & Celebration (2 minutes)

Celebrate the incredible journey from chess beginners to competent players! Emphasize that this is just the beginning—both in chess and in developing these important life skills. Present certificates and acknowledge each student’s growth.

Final Key Takeaway:

“You’ve learned to play chess, but more importantly, you’ve learned to play the game of life better. Every move you make, both on the board and off, is an opportunity to grow!”

Homework & Continued Learning (Lichess.org)

Continue Your Chess Journey:

• Play 15-minute games regularly on Lichess.org
• Complete daily puzzle training (3-5 puzzles per day)
• Explore opening lessons based on your preferred style
• Join the Lichess4545 league for structured play
• Watch educational videos in the Learn section

Life Skills Practice:

• Apply the Think-Consider-Choose method to one decision daily
• Practice emotional regulation in challenging situations
• Look for opportunities to show good sportsmanship
• Set one specific goal and work toward it systematically
• Help someone else learn something new

30-Day Challenge: Play at least one chess game each day for the next month while practicing one SEL skill daily. Keep a journal of your progress in both areas!

Additional Resources & References

Lichess.org Resources

Learn Section: Interactive lessons for all skill levels
Puzzle Trainer: Daily tactical exercises
Opening Explorer: Study common opening moves
Analysis Board: Practice positions and variations
Study Section: Create and share chess studies
Tournament Play: Join organized competitions

SEL Extension Activities

Family Chess Nights: Strengthen relationships through play
Chess Journaling: Reflect on learning and emotions
Peer Teaching: Share knowledge with others
Goal Setting: Track chess and personal improvement
Community Service: Teach chess to younger students
Cultural Exploration: Research chess in different countries

Assessment Rubric for Educators

Skill Area	Beginner	Developing	Proficient	Advanced
Chess Knowledge	Knows basic rules	Applies rules consistently	Uses special moves	Plans strategically
Self-Awareness	Identifies emotions	Reflects on learning	Adjusts behavior	Mentors others
Decision-Making	Makes random moves	Considers options	Evaluates consequences	Plans multiple moves
Relationship Skills	Shows basic respect	Follows etiquette	Encourages others	Builds community