While I do talk about the Jigsaw in some of my seminars, and I train the teachers I consult with to use it, I don’t talk about it in great detail. There are a variety of print and online resources that discuss this teaching strategy, but the clearest and most comprehensive, in my opinion, is The Jigsaw Classroom, a website devoted entirely to the use and implementation of the Jigsaw. Take a look and add this great strategy to your teaching tool box.

Free Alternatives

At Lowes or Home Depot teachers can purchase a sheet of flat white tile board for under twenty dollars. Often, store staff will cut the board to ‘personal size’ for free if they know it’s for educational use. Also, small pieces of carpet are available as free samples and work perfectly as erasers.

Another option is to purchase black or navy children’s sock. The sock are just the right size to hold a marker inside. The dark color keeps them looking nice longer. I put the white board, one sock and a dry-erase marker or erasable crayon in a Ziploc food storage bag. Students can store the bags in their desk or they can be stored all together in a milk rate It’s an efficient way to distribute the board and markers.

Some teachers shared that they use the Mr. Clean wipes. Others have shared a concern that they could be toxic. So, do be careful with what students use to wipe off their white boards.

If you have a favorite Individual White Board Activity tip, please add it through the comment field.