What's material of a good whiteboard?

Answer 1

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Whiteboard

Aparently, it's in the coating, either ceramic or enamel.

Answer 2

I have not tried this yet -- but I have been told that the same material used for a tub-surround can be bought and used for a whiteboard. This is especially useful if you want to make lots of small whiteboards (30 or more so that each student will have one for both small group and whole class activities.) These can be cut to fit into small wooden frames (say 10" X12" or whatever is most common) big enough for the students to use easily and small enough to be stored easily -- all for a very minimal cost.

I am pretty sure that this will work. Start by making just one small whiteboard. Call your local hardware store to find out if they carry the tub-surround material similar to a whiteboard and what size picture frames they carry. Find out what is the best way to cut the tub-surround material (utility knife, hack-saw, etc.) and make sure you either have one or plan on buying one or borrowing one from a friend. When you are making your first whiteboard pay close attention to how long it takes to make so you'll have a good idea of how long it will take you to make 30 of them.

After you have made the first one of these framed whiteboards, test it out and see if it meets your expecations. If it works then go ahead and make a big one maybe 48"X36" or so that you can hang over your chalkboard as a supplemental presentation surface. Then if your students are old enough and you feel confident in their handy-craft abilities you could enlist them to make their own whiteboards. If they are too young you won't want them using utility knives or other sharp objects -- but they can still help with the assembly of the boards/frames.

Just some ideas for you.

But make sure you test out the first one you make to see that you really like it before you make any larger ones or ones for your students.

Best wishes,

MrMerchant