Here is the information which can help you choose your level:
BEGINNER
Level 1 - Introduction (CMA Pawn equivalent):
An introduction to the movement of the pieces, the goal of the game, the basic rules, the initial position and the chessboard.
The introductory course is mainly aimed at children aged 5 to 7 who have never played chess or are just starting out.
AND
Level 2 - Beginner (CMA Knight equivalent):
Learn castling, the "en passant" move, checkmate in 1, stalemate, staricase checkmate (2 rooks against lone king). This course is for:
- children who have successfully completed the Introduction / Pawn level course.
- OR children who already know how pieces move.
INTERMEDIATE
Level 3 - Intermediate (CMA Bishop and Rook equivalent):
- Get to know some basic tactical themes.
- Know several checkmate patterns.
- Learn the elementary checkmates: king and queen against king, king and rook against king.
- Get an idea of openings.
This course is for:
- children who have successfully completed the Beginner / Knight level course.
- OR children who already know castling, the "en passant" move, checkmate in 1, stalemate, staricase checkmate (2 rooks against lone king).
ADVANCED
Level 4 - Advanced level 1 (CMA Queen and King equivalent):
- Review the checkmate with queen and king against king, and the checkmate with rook and king against king.
- Understand and be able to recognize the different cases of draws.
- Learn the basic principles of openings, understand the concept of piece activity
- Deepen the study of combinations by working on advanced tactical themes: sacrifices, elimination of a defender, double attacks, discovered attacks.
This course is for:
- children who have passed the Intermediate / Bishop and Rook level course.
- OR children who already know basic tactics and checkmate patterns, as well as elementary checkmates (king and queen against king, king and rook against king)
AND
Level 5 - Advanced level 2 (equivalent to Intermediate and Advanced CMA levels):
- Become familiar with the strategy of escorting a pawn in the endgame.
- Complete the study of the most advanced tactical themes.
- Understand certain strategic aspects of a position (pawn structures, exchange of pieces).
- Study certain defense maneuvers (retreats, exchanges, counter-attacks).
This course is for:
- children who have passed the Advanced Level 1 course / Queen and King level.
- OR children who are already familiar with combinations, intermediate3advanced tactical themes, and the concept of sacrificing pieces to gain positional advantages.
If you have any questions you can contact us at 514-845-8352 ext. 21 or at admin@echecs.org