Abacus is a method used to improve mathematical skills in kids intelligently and playfully. It is considered to be the fastest way of learning math thereby helping improve the problem-solving ability of kids.
It’s an ancient multi-sensory calculating tool, that helps kids understand math easily and interestingly. Abacus a Chinese calculator also called “Suanpan” and has been used for more than 2,000 years back.
It consists of a wooden frame divided by a horizontal bar into upper and lower sections. The vertical wires consist of beads from top to bottom. The part of the wire is referred to as heaven or upper deck, and the area below the bar is referred to as “Earth” or lower deck.
In this tool, the lower bead has a value of one and the upper bead has a value of 5. The abacus method is used to perform math problems like addition, subtraction, multiplication, and even extraction of square-roots and cubic roots.
Benefits of Learning Abacus Math
Learning abacus math offers numerous advantages for children, enhancing their cognitive abilities and mathematical skills. Here are some key benefits:
Improved Mental Calculation Skills: Abacus training significantly enhances children's ability to perform mental arithmetic. As they practice, they develop a strong foundation in basic math operations, which can lead to faster and more accurate calculations
Enhanced Concentration and Focus: The tactile nature of using an abacus requires children to concentrate deeply on their calculations. This practice not only improves their focus during math tasks but also translates to better attention spans in other areas of learning
- Boosted Memory Retention: Engaging with the colorful beads of the abacus helps children retain information more effectively. The hands-on experience reinforces memory through visual and tactile learning, making it easier for them to remember mathematical concepts.
- Development of Analytical Thinking: Abacus training encourages children to apply their learning in practical contexts, fostering analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. This capability is beneficial as they encounter more complex mathematical concepts in their education
- Increased Self-Confidence: As children master the use of the abacus and improve their math skills, they often experience a boost in self-esteem and confidence. This newfound confidence can positively impact their overall attitude towards learning
Support for Special Needs: The abacus method has been shown to be particularly beneficial for children with learning difficulties, such as dyslexia and dyscalculia. The visual and tactile aspects of the abacus help these children grasp mathematical concepts more easily, reducing anxiety associated with traditional math learning.
Summary
Mathematics is undoubtedly one of the important subjects; however, many students experience anxiety concerning or become confused while solving mathematical problems, which leads to academic failure. There are some students who really have grown nervous about solving mathematics problems. The is, therefore, a very helpful tool that teaches the student the art of addressing problems without remotely feeling an iota of uncertainty. Solving with the help of the Abacus enables a child to arrive at an answer for even the most complex problems almost instantaneously and with extreme accuracy, and the child may never learn to use a calculator, as the child takes and reinforces the lessons in mental calculations.