Teaching Chess as a Pedagogical Tool for Schoolchildren

Resumen

Chess evolution is marked by historical events and great players, whose contribution have consolidated the game as one of the most complex and strategic in the world. The game requires the player to have a vision of the board as a whole, predicting moves and seeking the best combinations in order to achieve the goal, checkmate. Studies show that playing board games, including chess, provides benefits such as developing logical reasoning, increasing attention and long-term benefits in the educational process. The main objective of this project is to promote the practice of chess among children and adolescents from schools in the city of Cachoeira do Sul. Each semester, the project visits a specific school and the methodology applied is based on weekly meetings lasting two hours, divided in a theoretical stage and a practical stage. The theoretical covers topics such as the origin of chess, the particularities of the pieces and tactics. The practical consists of applying the concepts discussed, through games between participants, solving exercises and debates on strategic variants. In addition to activities at schools, weekly meetings are held on the campus of the Federal University of Santa Maria – Cachoeira do Sul, involving students and teachers and follow the same methodology used in schools. It is concluded that chess is a pedagogical tool with great potential, capable of promoting the cognitive and social development of students. The game develops interpersonal relationships, contributing for a more collaborative and inclusive school environment.