In this article, I’ll discuss the popularly known demo board, a tool that’s as educational as it is impressive.
As a former (local) chess instructor, this particular board is my personal favorite because it’s a fantastic teaching aid.
There’s even a deluxe carry bag featuring a shoulder strap to take up the chess gear.
Why the Pocketed Demonstration Board is a Must-Have
Chess is not just a game of strategic thinking but also of clear communication, especially when teaching.
Here’s why the pocketed demonstration board stands out:
- Portability and Convenience: Transporting it is a breeze, thanks to the included carrying bag.
- Ease of Display: It can hang virtually anywhere – all it needs is a small tab to be hooked up.
- Extra Pieces and Teaching Tools: You get extra queens for promotions and six stars to highlight key squares.
The stars are great because when you want to show important squares on the board, use the stars.
If you’re probably coaching kids and want to say, ‘Hey, listen, we’re going to develop our chess pieces and focus on f7, the weakest point on the Black position at the start of the game,’ you put a star there for highlight.
- Smooth Piece Movement: Pieces slide in and out effortlessly, which isn’t always the case with slotted demonstration boards.
Pocketed vs. Slotted Demonstration Boards
When choosing a demonstration board, the main dilemma is whether to go for the pocketed or the slotted variety.
Slotted boards are typically more affordable, but the pocketed option, despite being pricier, offers a smoother experience.
With slotted boards, pieces might get caught in the slots over time, which can be frustrating in the midst of a captivating lesson.
With the pocketed board, you won’t face this issue—the pieces flow smoothly from one move to the next, eliminating any awkward fumbling and keeping students engaged.
The Versatility of the Star Pieces
The inclusion of star pieces with your demonstration board might raise some eyebrows, but their utility is unmatched.
These stars are excellent for emphasizing strategic squares or concepts during your lessons.
For example, if you’re highlighting the significance of preventing a potential mate, you can place a star on the critical square as a visual cue.
Choosing the Right Size for Your Setting
The 36-inch pocketed demonstration board is ideal for large settings like classrooms or libraries, where visibility is key.
However, for more intimate environments or when space is a constraint, the 27-inch version might be a better fit. It’s more affordable, easier to carry around, and adaptable to various spaces.
In other words:
- 36-inch Board: Best for larger venues and groups.
- 27-inch Board: Perfect for smaller settings and private lessons.
Final Thoughts
In closing, the pocketed demonstration board is an indispensable tool for any chess teacher or enthusiast seeking to enhance the learning experience.
With its easy-to-use design and practical features, it brings a new level of clarity and engagement to chess instruction.
Let me know if you found this review helpful.