teaching abacus-based math online
The abacus tool is a simple structure with a series of rods each containing 5 counters. The rods represent various units of measures like ones, tens, hundreds, and so on. Through the movement of counters on rods inside the abacus tool, students learn how to perform foundational mathematical operations including addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
Only two fingers are needed to move abacus beads up and down the apparatus. With these two fingers, you can compute millions, billions, trillions and more depending on the number of rods comprising the abacus.
The abacus method of learning is effective because it teaches students ultimately how to perform mathematical computation through visualization of an abacus. After some time of physical abacus practice, the imaginary abacus develops in your head. It goes with you anywhere you go. Whatever you do, you cannot help but use it. This is called Anzan (mental math).
Mental Math skills using imaginary abacus are phenomenal. Students perform way above grade level at school. That gives a head start for advanced math in higher grades. Students gain tremendous confidence in classrooms.
As part of abacus practice, each number is carefully studied. This approach helps students build strong concentration skills. This is further developed through Dictation and Flash Anzan techniques [see FAQ] taught in our intermediate and advanced programs.
With speed and accuracy, using two fingers to control abacus beads develops dexterity. It strengthens fine motor skills with excellent hand-eye coordination, which are only developed in early years.
Abacus learners ultimately process written number and abacus beads as mental images. The processing speed of those images is so fast that it expands working memories and cognitive capabilities.
The abacus learning journey challenges students with exams and competitions at a pace suited to individual’s needs. In a safe and supportive environment, students learn how to push themselves to achieve goals and develop tenacity that will benefit them in many aspects of their life.
Joyful Abacus School provides online lessons accessible to individuals worldwide, with in-person classes available in limited capacity. Our adaptable lesson schedule presents a variety of options (refer to the Schedule), catering to both individual learners and home-schooling groups.
Our instructor, Akiko Amano, holds a graduate degree in Electrical Engineering and has taught college-level math and engineering subjects. After realizing the need of strong computational skills in elementary math, she decided to train children with abacus-based math. She runs her abacus instruction in partner with teachers at the Kawakami School in Japan.
Our small group lessons are designed to be inclusive and supportive of each student’s unique learning needs. Students are encouraged to be inquisitive and ask questions both inside and outside our weekly lesson. Our program ensures an environment that welcomes students of all ages, genders, and races.
Hello, I'm Akiko Amano from Joyful Abacus School. In our classroom, as the name suggests, we strive to create a joyful and cheerful learning environment. Learning the abacus can be both enjoyable and challenging, and we cherish the feelings of "I can do this!" and "It's fun!". While celebrating achievements, we also work together during challenging times, figuring out why something may seem difficult and gradually expanding capabilities. We prioritize close communication with parents and respond promptly to individual needs.
It is our hope that your child will experience these tremendous benefits from studying abacus math with us and master techniques for managing future challenges. We welcome adult students who have either learned abacus before or are interested in trying it for the first time. I look forward to getting to know your child and your family.
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