Question

checkmate
1 “ernie, why are you home early?” his mother called as he walked through
the door.
2 it was the first day of chess team tryouts at ernie’s school. ernie had learned to
play chess a few months ago, and he loved it. he had practiced every day, and
when he found out his school had a chess team, he couldn’t wait to try out – or
so he thought.
3 “it was the worst,” ernie groaned, as he flopped onto the couch. “all of the
kids have more experience than me, and they knew all sorts of advanced moves,
so i just left.”
4 “i remember being afraid during softball tryouts when i thought everyone else was
better,” his mom replied. “i might have a solution – when grandpa comes over
today, ask him to play chess. i am sure you will learn a thing or two.”
5 ernie wasn’t sure what his grandfather was going to be able to teach him, but
when he arrived, ernie decided to give it a try. “hey, grandpa. i am trying to make
the chess team, and mom says you might be able to teach me some moves.”
6 “i would love to play,” ernie’s grandfather replied, his eyes twinkling mysteriously.
7 ernie set up the board. he made the first move and then watched his grandfather,
who was concentrating intently on his own move, and only a few turns later, ernie
had lost the game.
8 “how did you do that?” ernie asked, amazed at his grandfather’s skill.
9 “perhaps your mother didn’t tell you that i was once a state chess champion,” his
grandfather chuckled. “so, let’s play a few more games, and i can show you some
more things.”
10 two hours and six games later, ernie had learned a lot and had almost beat his
grandfather in the final game. “thanks, grandpa,” ernie said when it was time for
his grandfather to leave. “i definitely feel better about trying out tomorrow.”

Explanation:

Since no specific question is provided about this text, it's not possible to give a targeted answer. If you have a question related to this passage, such as a comprehension question, a question about literary analysis (like theme, character development), or something else, please share it so that I can assist you.

Answer:

Since no specific question is provided about this text, it's not possible to give a targeted answer. If you have a question related to this passage, such as a comprehension question, a question about literary analysis (like theme, character development), or something else, please share it so that I can assist you.