"In some respects the game of checkers is similar to a war. Each player can be likened to a general with an army of twelve men on a battleground of thirty-two squares. The leaders in war maneuver their forces with military precision, attacking here, sacrificing there, striving to outwit their foe by strategy or overwhelming them with superior numbers. These same tactics are used in the friendly sport of checkers, a game that is based purely on mental skill. An army does not advance into battle haphazardly. Neither should a game of checkers be anything but a scientific affair, planning in advance and using formations in which the men protect one another and present a concerted front toward the opposition."--Derek Oldbury, retrieved from the American Checkers Federation website
Checkers Club
All students in 3rd grade ESP must participate in Checkers Club and keep a journal of the games played. Checkers is a game of strategy and critical thinking and will help prepare students for chess in grades 4 & 5. Students learn focus, strategy, perseverance, and good sportsmanship in this game. Students are expected to go beyond playing for simple recreational reasons and use reasoning and strategy to plan their moves.