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Kings, passed pawns and opposition

Name: __________________________ Date: __________________

Read the side to move where shown. Use a board if it helps, and explain your answer before checking the solutions.

White to move. The kings have direct opposition, but with no pawns or other pieces the game is drawn. White to move.
White to move. The kings have direct opposition, but with no pawns or other pieces the game is drawn. White to move.

  1. White Ke3, Black Ke5: which square lies between the kings?

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  2. Can either king move onto e4 in that position?

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  3. What is a passed pawn?

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  4. Does direct opposition with only two kings mean one side wins?

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Final check

Ask why a passed pawn can still fail to promote.

Answers: Kings, passed pawns and opposition

  1. White Ke3, Black Ke5: which square lies between the kings?

    e4. This is direct opposition.

  2. Can either king move onto e4 in that position?

    No. It would stand next to the opposing king.

  3. What is a passed pawn?

    A pawn with no enemy pawn ahead of it on its own or either neighbouring file.

  4. Does direct opposition with only two kings mean one side wins?

    No. King against king is drawn.

Teaching note

Watch for adjacent kings and automatic pawn pushes. Opposition is a tool for gaining squares, not a promise that every pawn ending is winning.