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ACTIVE LEARNING is any strategy that involves students in doing things and thinking about the things they are doing (*)

Igor's Chess Doubles (ICD) #5 - a Mate or an Illusion?

I got a number of favorable response after posting my first set. Here is the next set. I will not post the answers or solution until after a week or so, to give readers a chance. You are welcome to send your solutions and explanations. Please don't use computer help. Use variations only as necessary. See my answers to ICD #1 as an example.

I hope you like these puzzles and my Chess Exam books.

Check these pairs of positions. For each pair –

  1. Determine what is different between setups (A) and (B). White is always at the bottom (a1 = bottom left corner). 1 point for each pair.
  2. You always have BLACK pieces, no matter Who is to move – determine if you (Black) would rather have position (A) or (B), or indifferent. Make sure you have a good reason! You get 2-10 points, depending on complexity. Adjust your score, if your reasoning wasn't 100%.

Maximum score for set #5 is 24. How will you do? Invite your friends to compete! Enjoy!

In #1- Is there a Mate or is this just an Illusion?

     

[4 points]

#1 Easy

{A       B}

White to Move

     

[2 points]

#2 Easy

{A       B}

Black to Move

     

[6]

#3 Moderate

{A       B}

White to Move

     

[8]

#4 Hard

{A       B}

White to Move

     

 

 

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Chess Exam and Training Guide (2004)

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(*Bonwell, C., & Eison, J. (1991). Active learning: Creating excitement in the classroom (ASHE-ERIC Higher Education Report No. 1). Washington, DC: George Washington University, p. 2)