What is
"abacus"?
Abacus is the oldest computer surviving more
than 2,000 years. Until now, abacus remains a favourite math tool in the
digital age. The unplugged (non-electrical) bead-based calculator is prosperous
as a complement of modern computer and is now widely recognized as a means for
effective math learning and mental development in early childhood.
What is
"abacus math"?
The "abacus math" is an arithmetic
method based on the principles of abacus calculation.
What is
"abacus mental math"?
After one is working on an abacus for a while,
a virtual picture of the abacus is formed in mind. One can use the virtual
abacus to perform calculations. It is not unusual for a person to handle a
series of 5 or more digits numbers in +, -, x, or / operations at highly accelerated
speed using the abacus mental math method.
What ages are
suitable for this abacus math program?
This depends on the purpose of the pupil. If the purpose is to promote the IQ effect by nourishing the rapidly growing neurons before the prime times end. Then it is better to start abacus learning at a young age that is around 10 years old or earlier. Anyone who can count from 1 to 10 and backward is qualified for taking the abacus math program. The earliest age to start the abacus math is normally about 5 years old. Relatively older people who start to learn abacus normally can achieve an advanced level in a short time and enjoy the lifelong benefit.
This depends on the purpose of the pupil. If the purpose is to promote the IQ effect by nourishing the rapidly growing neurons before the prime times end. Then it is better to start abacus learning at a young age that is around 10 years old or earlier. Anyone who can count from 1 to 10 and backward is qualified for taking the abacus math program. The earliest age to start the abacus math is normally about 5 years old. Relatively older people who start to learn abacus normally can achieve an advanced level in a short time and enjoy the lifelong benefit.
How can the abacus mental math help the school
work?
Most
young children started to learn "numbers" by counting with
their fingers. It is difficult for them to comprehend numeric relationships
beyond the number 10 for lack of countable objects. Using regular math,
children can use nothing but limited memory and brain power to solve arithmetic
problems. Abacus presents multi-digit numeric relationships in a concrete
bead-based system. Using an abacus, young children can relate number values and
comprehend the concepts of mathematics easily. Therefore, the abacus math is
far more superior to regular math that is presented to children in an abstract
form.
Abacus math
establishes numeric relations in a clear and logical way for young children.
The abacus mental picture training will elevate memory power and improve the
concentration of a child. The speed training enables the child to respond to
questions promptly. In addition, the speed hearing training encourages the
child to dedicate his/her full attention to study by listening more attentively
and effectively. Ultimately, the abacus training will make the learner more
confident and interested in school work, both curricular and extra-curricular.
His/Her creativity and ability to analyze problems will be improved
considerably.
Arithmetic skill
can be trained in different ways. However, resolving a mathematical problem
quickly and accurately is not always accomplished by every child. The abacus
math program complements and supplements the arithmetic approaches adopted in
schools, and helps students to overcome the fears of mathematics, if any, and
gain confidence. Evidence shows that those who have taken the abacus math
program would have the following advantages:
Ø Improved
comprehension in math
Ø Better and faster
calculation skills
Ø Better problem
solving skills
Ø Clearer logic
reasoning
Ø More attentive to
instructions
Ø Keener listening
skill
Ø Sharper memory
Ø Better reflexes
Ø Stronger mental
formation skills
Ø Improved
confidence and self-esteem
Ø Better endurance
of stress and pressure
Ø Better and faster
calculation skills
Outcome of the
abacus math program will also influence and be transferred to other subjects.