Why Are We Called 'Blackboard' When It's Green?
Have you ever wondered why we call it a 'blackboard' when it is generally green in color? This confusion stems from historical usage, color perception, and the evolution of educational materials over time. Let's explore this interesting linguistic and practical phenomenon.
Historical Usage
The term 'blackboard' dates back to a time when the earliest blackboards were indeed made from materials like slate, which were dark in color (often black). Even as the materials evolved, the name 'blackboard' stuck. This continuity in terminology reflects the strong influence of historical context on modern nomenclature. As new materials such as green chalkboards and whiteboards became popular in the mid-20th century, the label 'blackboard' remained a deeply ingrained part of our vocabulary.
Color Perception
Color perception plays a crucial role in the evolution of the term. Early chalkboards were dark, and the term 'blackboard' reflected this. However, with the advent of green chalkboards in the 1980s, educators and students began to notice a difference. Green boards were believed to be easier on the eyes and reduce glare, making it easier to read and write. Despite this change in color, the term 'blackboard' has persisted, reflecting a historical antenna that many people still associate with traditional educational materials.
Modern Variants
The evolution of educational materials has led to the adoption of various types of writing boards. For instance, in the 1960s to 1980s, most school writing boards used by teachers in the US were indeed black. The term 'greenboard' came into common use in the mid-1980s due to its perceived benefits. By the 1990s, some schools began to use 'whiteboards' to further enhance visual clarity and ease of use.
Chalkboards as 'Blackboard'
Technically speaking, chalkboards are often dark grey to black, which is why 'blackboard' is such a fitting term. Similarly, the term 'blackcurrant' refers to a fruit that is more a dark purple than black. Just as blackcurrant isn't truly black, many dark items are colloquially referred to as 'black'. This linguistic phenomenon explains why the term 'blackboard' has endured despite changes in color.
Practical Considerations
The preference for 'blackboard' over 'chalkboard' also reflects a practical distinction. While 'chalkboard' is a more accurate term, 'blackboard' offers an elegant contrast when paired with 'whiteboard'. This dichotomy helps in clearly distinguishing between different types of writing surfaces, making it easier for educators and students to refer to the traditional and modern versions of chalkboards.
Summary
In summary, the term 'blackboard' has its roots in historical usage and color perception. Despite the evolution of materials and the introduction of green and white boards, the term 'blackboard' has remained a steadfast part of educational language. Understanding why this term persists can help us appreciate the influence of history and perception in the vocabulary we use every day.