About Power Learning Chess

The Story Behind Power Learning Chess

Power Learning Chess grew from a collaboration between Harvard Professor Latanya Sweeney and her son, Leonard.

Sweeney developed the current Power Learning approach by automating earlier methods, some of which were pioneered by Orville Barrett in the teaching and learning of mathematics. She went on to refine and apply the approach over decades of teaching mathematics and computer programming.

The idea is simple: break complex skills into a tightly structured sequence of small, understandable steps, with opportunities to integrate mixed practice of steps along the way. Students learn by doing, building skill and confidence one step at a time.

When Leonard was 11 years old, he was given the challenge of teaching chess to a class of children who had never played before. He created a series of activities that introduced chess step by step and, working with his mother, applied the Power Learning approach to organizing those activities into a curriculum.

Power Learning Chess was the result.

It combines the perspective of an experienced educator with the insight of a young chess player who understood what it was like to learn the game—and what might make it easier for other kids to learn.

From workbooks to the web

The original activities now take digital form, where learners can practice each idea as they encounter it and move ahead when they are ready.

Parents can use Power Learning Chess with very young children, and newcomers of all ages can work through the activities on their own.

Enjoy! Welcome to chess.