Bagley Elementary “Chess Mates” Club is a 4th-6th grade after school activity designed to give kids an opportunity to learn the game of chess, improve their chess skills, and to enjoy competition against their peers. Chess will increase critical thinking and plan of action to defeat your opponent. Novice players will be taught the basic rules, the value of pieces, and how to checkmate. More experienced players will learn different opening and defense strategies, various tactics, and will be given the opportunity to challenge themselves. While students will have the chance to measure their progress through wins and losses against their peers, our focus will be on encouraging good sportsmanship and on having fun.