End Game Practice #1: The Power of the King

The following exercises are for the students of KLA Chess Club, a title I, charter public school located in San Diego, CA. Chess is offered as an everyday class

We will be practicing some basic end game positions. By practicing the endgame, this will help:

1. Your overall chess knowledge and realize that the King isn't useless afterall.

2. Help develop a plan during your opening and middle game; If you are up material, it is often a good strategy to keep trading off pieces  till eventually you can promote a pawn for an easy win.

Look at the following example of how the King can be powerful:

Now, with your partner, play out the following positions. Start with the position shown and then turn the screen so you do not see the following moves. Take turns with who starts and afterwards, check to see how your game played out.

Position #1: White to move: Set up the board and check your answers AFTER:

Position #2: White to move: Set up the board and check your answers AFTER: Remember the theme: Power of the King.

Now, with your partner, try and solve the following puzzle:

Use your board for help: