Imagine a classroom where the loudest sound is the hum of deep concentration. Here, seven-year-olds aren't just memorizing facts; they are calculating possibilities, weighing risks, and mastering the "ability to act in mind." This isn't a dream—it is a proven pedagogical framework that could revolutionize the Malaysian school system. To the Parents: Developing Your Child’s "Mental Muscle" As parents, we often search for ways to give our children a competitive edge in an increasingly complex world. While many see chess as a mere hobby, the Chess in Education (CIE) framework reveals it as a powerful tool for cognitive development. The most effective time to start is during the "sensitive period" (ages 5-6) , when children are uniquely receptive to developing their internal plan of action. By moving through structured stages—from physical moves on a board to performing complex calculations entirely "in mind"—children develop transversal ski...
Hey there, future Grandmasters! Have you ever looked at a chess puzzle, stared at the screen for five minutes, and then just... clicked a random move because you had no idea what to do? We’ve all been there. It’s called "Guess-Chess," and while it’s tempting, it’s not how you get that shiny high rating. The secret to solving puzzles like a pro isn't just being a genius—it’s having a system . Based on a legendary Lichess discussion , I’m going to teach you the two-step checklist that will turn you into a puzzle-solving machine. Phase 1: The Quick Scan (CCT) Before you do anything, always run the CCT check. These are the "forcing moves" because they force your opponent to react! C – Checks: Can I put the King in danger? Always look at every check first, even the "crazy" ones where you lose a piece. Sometimes they lead to checkmate! C – Captures: Can I take anything for free? Or trade a small piece for a big one? T – Threats: Can I move a piece to a ...