MYP students have taken part in a project entitled “ISP Chess Masters: strategy and thinking in action” as part of the Individuals and Societies subject. This activity forms part of the Middle Years Programme (MYP), with a particular focus on criteria B (Investigation) and D (Reflecting on the impact of decisions and learning). Project objective The main purpose is for students to understand chess as a tool for developing strategic thinking, decision-making and reflection on their own actions. Throughout the project, students analyse games, research strategies and apply their knowledge in real playing situations within an international competitive context. Students also reflect on how chess has historically served as a model of thinking linked to strategy, conflict and planning, making connections with subject-specific content. IB Learner Profile attributes developed This project promotes a range of IB Learner Profile attributes, including: Inquirers, as students research strategies, openings and styles of play; Thinkers, as they analyse positions and make informed decisions; Communicators, as they explain their moves and reflect on their choices; Risk-takers, as they face new challenges in each game; Reflective learners, as they evaluate their mistakes and learning throughout the process; and Caring, collaborative students, as they respect their opponents and participate in a fair playing environment. Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills Throughout the project, students are developing important MYP Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills: research skills, through finding information about strategies, players and styles of play; critical thinking skills, through analysing positions, anticipating moves and solving problems; communication skills, through clearly explaining ideas and using chess-specific language; social skills, through respecting rules, demonstrating sportsmanship and working as a team; and self-management skills, through emotional control, concentration and time management during games. Through this activity, we aim for students to understand chess as a learning tool that goes beyond the game itself, supporting the development of critical thinking, decision-making and personal reflection in real contexts.
