This is the second article in the “Can’t Teach Without…” series.
I have two whiteboards in my studio and I can’t imagine teaching without either of them! Both are magnetic which is important so that I can use all the wonderfully cute magnets that are available to teachers these days (check your local Target or Office Max for a great selection). Â With these magnets, I can do melodic dictation with my students (either on or off the staff–simply showing the direction of a given number of notes/magnets), rhythmic dictation, write announcements, post certificates, teach group lessons, etc.
Not all whiteboards are created equal. Some are harder to erase than others and some are outrageously priced. The first whiteboard that I bought (and finally replaced this year after about 5 years of wear and tear) was this one (I’ll list several of the sizes):
Universal Magnetic Dry Erase Board 3×2 ft Currently, it’s listed for $41, regular price $178
Universal Magnetic Dry Erase Board 4×3 ft Currently, it’s listed at $65, regular price $300 (though that would be overpriced)
The second white board that I bought seems indestructible and is a must-have for any music teacher. It was off the market for a while, but has returned courtesy of Music Educator’s Marketplace. It’s one that I purchased at a national conference almost 15 years ago! This board is worth the investment (along with the staff magnet package) and I can’t imagine teaching without it!
I love my large EZ Notes magnetic board and use it often in my group music classes. I found it listed here: http://www.grothmusic.com/p-3165-ez-notes-large-magnetic-music-board.aspx.
Just received a reply back from Churck Cimijotti of Groth Music, who says they do have it in stock and ship to the U.S. and Canada. Hope this helps!