Since the time of the ancient Egyptians, the game of checkers has been a universal favorite combining strategy and fun. Bob Pike, American Checker Federation champion and author of a children's checker tactics book, hosts this video that quickly familiarizes the viewer with the basic rules and strategies of the game. After a brief history of checkers, we join Pike and 3 elementary-age children for the lesson. Instead of a boring lecture format, the information is presented in a conversational, question-and-answer style between the kids and Pike that is both natural and easier to follow. Combined with computer graphics and close-ups of the checkerboard, Pike shows best and worst moves, single-checker and king situations, and presents specific and practical strategies for being a better player. Although the kings and single checkers are difficult to tell apart, most of the information is presented in an organized, easy-to-follow manner, and the program effectively stresses the importance of checkers as a way to teach math, problem solving, deductive reasoning, visual-spatial skills, and patience. Recommended. Aud: E, I, P. (E. Gieschen)
Learning to Play Better Checkers
(1995) 23 min. $14.95. Curriculum Media, Inc (dist. by Library Video Co.). PPR. Color cover. Vol. 11, Issue 4
Learning to Play Better Checkers
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