From regulating the pace of a class to inviting a comforting sense of nostalgia into the classroom, there are many benefits of using a chalkboard while teaching. Besides, it’s almost impossible to think of a classroom without a chalkboard. Since the first slab of slate was hung on a wall in Scotland in 1801, chalkboards have been an integral part of the classroom. And while many teachers have gone the modern route and replaced chalkboards with whiteboards, many choose to keep the old and use it with the new.

Teaching Penmanship

When it comes to teaching students how to write, one of the best ways to learn and practice is on a chalkboard. In addition to bringing students up to the main chalkboard, some teachers provide students with personal chalkboards complete with lines.

Have students that cannot tolerate the texture or sound of chalk? Try chalk markers—these modern marvels are a fun and contemporary way to write on chalkboards. You can choose from small fine tipped, detail-centered markers or jumbo chalk markers, depending on your needs.

Providing a Helpful Visual Aid

The use of bold colors on chalkboards and whiteboards can help to draw more attention to the information on the boards, highlighting important things for students to focus on. Some students just have a hard time learning when a visual aid isn’t involved. Chalkboards are a great way to maximize your students’ ability to learn and retain new information. 

By writing out key points and drawing helpful illustrations on the chalkboard, students are also able to take better, more accurate notes. Watching you write and draw will also hold their interest longer than a boring PowerPoint. Using bold colored chalk markers can stimulate their senses and help to retain information.

Creating and Enforcing Structure

Students of all ages benefit tremendously from structure. When teachers make a regular practice of writing an outline of the day on the chalkboard, students are able to see what comes next, prepare for future lessons, and plan ahead. This minimizes anxiety and contributes to optimal productivity and performance.

Monitoring Behavior

A major aspect of a teacher’s job is to monitor and modify student behavior. Because chalkboards are located in the front of a classroom, teachers are placed in a prime location to keep an eye on their kids. Chalkboards allow teachers to maintain greater control of their classrooms by providing a place to notice and monitor disruptive students. The use of chalkboards also requires classroom lights to be on, which holds students’ attention and helps teachers more closely monitor student behavior.

Set an Appropriate Pace

From their position at the front of the classroom, teachers using chalkboards are able to pick up on student cues. They are able to gauge where students are at in their understanding of the content and speed the lesson up or slow it down accordingly. Noticing confusion or boredom also enables teachers to stop, ask questions if need be, and get the class back on board.