Mini Whiteboards
Knowledge-Building for Teachers Series
One of the most versatile tools in the classroom is the classic mini whiteboard. These handy little boards can be used for retrieval practice, whole class response, stop and jot, sketch and tell, and so much more. I originally considered mini whiteboards not worth the trouble, but I am now a convert and cannot imagine teaching without them. Read below for effective routines and many versatile uses of mini whiteboards.
Infographic
visual reference
Mini Whiteboards to Check for Understanding by Greg Thornton mrthorntonteach
Thornton at has created a handy one page infographic highlighting the uses and benefits of mini whiteboards. It is definitely worth printing out for a quick reference.
Podcast
short, sweet, on-the-go
To make sure your students are ready to practise, use mini-whiteboards with Adam Boxer and Craig Barton on Tips for Teachers
I love this conversation between Boxer and Barton. I especially appreciate Adam’s “conversion” story to mini whiteboards. Bonus: He also includes what to do when students misuse mini whiteboards—send a pic to the parent. Love it!
Video Clip
see it in action
Mini Whiteboards #1 by Laura Stam
See how mini whiteboards are used in a real classroom. This is a little video of my classroom using mini whiteboards during a phonics lesson.
Articles and Substacks
quick reads
Mini-Whiteboards: See Thinking. Check Understanding. Adapt Teaching. by Jamie Clark
As always, ⚗️DistillED is a good place to start for a quick overview of any topic, and this article on mini whiteboards certainly delivers.
Starting Small: Bringing Mini-Whiteboards into Your Classroom by Katie Baker
A great article from Katie on the first steps to implementing mini whiteboards and how she made it work for her classroom.
Show Me: Maximising the Use of Mini Whiteboards in Lessons by Phil Stock from must do better…
This article is a quick break-down of how to include plans in your lessons for mini whiteboards from pre-planned questions to responsive feedback.
Dual Coding in Action: The Power of Sketch and Tell by Brett Benson SoL in the Wild
A unique but powerful use for mini whiteboards, Sketch and Tell has become a new favorite in my classroom thanks to this post.
Book
actionable guide
The Tips for Teachers guide to Mini-whiteboards Book 2 by Craig Barton
Part of a new series The Tips for Teachers guides to…, this handy text is the perfect go-to guide for mini whiteboard use. It includes tips for managing materials, establishing routines, and using best practices. My favorite quote:
You can see all students’ responses to any question instantly. This is not the case with any other form of student participation.
If you want to really nerd out, I highly recommend searching Barton’s website and Substack where you’ll find super specific deep dives on all things mini whiteboard.
We’ve had the same journey! Only took me 23 years to get on board (get it?) 😆☺️
I use the mini whiteboards in my classroom more than any other tool!!