First Move

The Chess Club and Scholastic Center of Saint Louis has partnered with America's Foundation for Chess (AF4C) to help implement the First Move program in area schools.

First Move is designed to teach chess to 2nd- and 3rd-grade students by utilizing instructional DVDs to emphasize classroom engagement. This program is the perfect complement to the CCSCSL's after-school program, and can be facilitated during the regular school curriculum.

According to AF4C's website, this current school year, nearly 60,000 children in 27 states across the country will participate in the First Move program. Its goal in the 2010-2011 school year is to add 1200 new classrooms to the program. Many of those will be schools/districts with high levels of free and reduced lunch, high levels of mobility and/or low state test scores.

To be a part of the AF4C mission, or for more information about First Move, please visit AF4C's website: www.af4c.org. 

A survey of St. Louis teachers that participated in First Move found overwhelming support for the program:

Of the teachers surveyed:

• 90% say the curriculum relates to their required core subjects (10% were neutral)
• 90% say the curriculum is easy to facilitate (10% were neutral)
• 90% say First Move creates an engaging learning environment (10% were neutral)
• 95% say they appreciate the opportunity to have chess as a learning tool (5% were neutral)
• 100% say their students are excited to learn chess in school
• 90% say they have seen social and behavioral benefits (10% were neutral)
• 80% say they have seen increased self-esteem in their students (20% were neutral)
• 95% would recommend First Move to other schools (5% were neutral)(Not one teacher disagreed with any of the statements)

Teachers involved with the program state:

“It is a marvelous thinking technique that requires no batteries.”

“I have so many positive things to say about the program, I do hope it continues. The materials are unbelievable. The children are inspired to learn. They learn from each other. They get a feel for history. The children demonstrate polite and respectful behavior when they play. The students are very excited; it keeps their interest and attention. I have noticed interaction amongst all students.”

“I love the history and the way the program relates with the introduction of algebra.”

“First Move is a wonderful program! My class eagerly awaits chess day. Parent feedback is enthusiastically positive.”

“First Move is an awesome program! My students look forward to the weekly lessons. First Move has improved higher level thinking and encouraged good sportsmanship. I would highly recommend this program to other schools!”

“I believe this program is beneficial for my students. It has given many students a chance to shine. It also has many learning connections.”

“I love watching their minds turn while they are playing.”

“My students are learning so much; especially how to think and work well with others.”

“I have noticed that during chess my students are especially well behaved. We look forward to the program every week.”

“The DVD is easy to use and I am learning right along with my kids. What a fun thing to do together!”

“I love this program and so do my students!”

“The program is easy to understand and teach. My students enjoy the program and practice their skills whenever they can.”