Ready, set, checkmate
ROOSEVELT PARK – Pupils practise hard for the upcoming chess tournament at Franklin D Roosevelt Primary School.
Pupils from Franklin D Roosevelt Primary School took out their chess boards in preparation for the Joburg North West chess club tournament on 11 and 12 March at the primary school.
Pupils from the school as well as any other school can compete in this tournament. Teacher Wendy Kowalik is also one of the parents on the JNW chess club tournament. “We decided to host the tournament this year at Franklin D Roosevelt to show parents and the community that we don’t only focus on academics, but holistically on children as well,” said Kowalik.
The children practised chess and concentrated intensely while moving chess pieces around the board. Jason McNamara said that he prefers playing chess to Xbox games. The chess players said they like it that every game has a different ending.
According to Kowalik, chess improves learning, thinking and decision-making abilities. “Children learn to strategise in chess and can use this in sport and also learn the importance of foresight and planning.” She said that she noticed that children who are really good in sport and maths are usually also very good in chess. “Chess improves concentration and academic performance,” concluded Kowalik.
The chess tournament can be joined by pupil age eight and up.
Details: Franklin D Roosevelt Primary School, 011 782 6526.
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