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APPROACH

In my approach to any topic, my efforts are first centered on understanding how others progress in the topic. Why re-invent the wheel? In chess, this has meant a broad study of the books written on chess and how well they explain the material. In addition, the advent of video material has expanded on approaches to chess training and coaching. Finally, I have drawn on my years as an instructor in other topics (dance and computer hardware and software) as teaching is a different skill than playing well.
 
For beginning players, I ran across the Steps Program in the Netherlands by Rob Brunia and Cor van Wijgerden. I incorporate their progression through 5 (I believe it is now 6 Steps in their system) for introducing new players and taking them up through the intermediate levels.

During my video research, Susan Polgar has an awesome series for beginners as well. I built a video series on the basics as well that I am very happy with and have used with students and groups around the country.   When I am approached by a new student, we discuss their needs and wants, building that into short term and long term goals. During these discussions, we play games to get an idea where the strengths and weaknesses lie in their games (if not absolutely beginners). We discuss how to work on these topics with direct examples in the games played or chess puzzles that focus on that subject. I will assign additional reading or video material and see how well they respond to these tools to tailor other follow ups for the highest impact.   Please contact Bruce with any questions you may have regarding his instruction and schedule. Rates to teach you are reasonable and you will find yourself participating in discussions about your goals and how we may accomplish them.   Answer to puzzle: B Perrotta vs K Furukawa 07/31/14 - This game is only at move 15, but White has a great attack going. As always we want to finish as soon as possible as wasted moves can reverse your fortunes. The best move here is 16. g8=N+! The king is frozen in place by the underpromotion of the pawn. Black is forced to take with 16...Rxg8 and White finished with 17. Qxf7#

CONTACT THE CODGER
bruce@thecodger.com
Phone: 954-464-9210