Sometimes you just have to see it in action. If this describes your child, you might enjoy this free interactive abacus (or number rack) from The Math Learning Center.
Most children go through a manipulative mode of thinking, working with real objects to help them understand math. That is why you often see them counting beans or place settings, M&M’s, or simply their fingers. In our early learning years we used teddy bear counters. Historically, the Romans used an abacus-like calculator where pebbles were moved along a groove in a board.
You can just as easily use an abacus. In fact, an abacus can grow as your child matures mathematically. An abacus can be used to learn place value, addition, subtraction, and even multiplication and division. Most work of the work a student can do on a hundred number chart can be taught on an abacus.
The instructions (bottom-right on app) will help you navigate the interactive. Add rows until you reach 10 to get the most out of it. You may also find the tutorial helpful.
No matter what math curriculum you are using (if any at all), this free interactive find will come in handy!
Free Resource
- Number Rack @ MathLearningCenter.org
Additional Resources
Learning to Think Mathematically
The book that goes along with the site. Word problems toward the end are great!
Student Activity Book
Workbook with student problems.
Melissa and Doug Abacus
For those that prefer the real thing!
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