Introduction to Abacus
The abacus is a mechanical aid used for counting, it is not a calculator in the sense we use the word today.
Anatomy & Construction
The standard abacus can be used to perform addition, subtraction, division and multiplication; the abacus can also be used to extract square-roots and cubic roots. The beads are manipulated with either the index finger or the thumb of one hand. The abacus is typically constructed of various types of hardwoods and comes in varying sizes. The frame of the abacus has a series of vertical rods on which a number of wooden beads are allowed to slide freely. A horizontal beam separates the frame into two sections, known as the upper deck and the lower deck.
Why ABACUS?
A proven track record through history and recent neuro-scientific research have positively, confirmed the effectiveness of the abacus training. Calculating on an ancient abacus that utilizes a hands-on, kid- friendly and multiple-intelligence approach has proven benefits to enhance the development of human brain power. The mental abacus method has a clear advantage to keep the mind vibrant and to ease the journey of learning with WHOLE BRAIN power. Abacus instruction works because it is a unique combination of classic and contemporary methods, tools, and research. The goal of the program is to teach students how to mentally calculate while simultaneously enhancing and improving the brain.
Abacus + Brain + Software + Great Instructor = HIGH SPEED MENTAL MATH
The BRAIN is wired for challenge and can function as a SUPER COMPUTER. Information travels across the nervous system at a speed of over 200 mph. How's that for an information super highway? Yes, we are wired for very complex applications -- just like a computer. Why not use that? Forget calculators. When the hands, both hemispheres of the brain, brain waves, auditory nerves, and memory are in synch, the brain is at its best. It is wired for success. Eureka! Repeating something over and over solidifies a pathway. Brain plasticity proves that parts used are parts engaged and expanded. As the abacus training synchronizes all of these traits, brain cells grow and areas expand. Science proves it.
About Mental Abacus:
Hi-Speed Mental Math is just the beginning. Image Abacus is a method of mental calculation. Performed on a virtual image of abacus formed in the mind. It is based on the principles of abacus calculation. In this case, the abacus is merely a tool, through regular practice of which children are able to visualize and internalize the image of abacus in their mind.
How fast can it be?
By activating both sides of the brain, all students can achieve calculation speed previously only achievable by math geniuses. As a matter of fact, in Dec. 2000, a first-year student and his 2 sisters had broken 4 Guinness world records with this very same method of calculation.
How does it benefit my children?
Image Abacus trains students to use the left hemispheres (logical side) to manipulate the virtual abacus (image) on the right hemispheres (abstract side). This unique exercise fosters and strengthens the brain function in the following areas:
- Fosters one's confidence in the calculation.
- Develops mental calculation, which is the ultimate resource.
- Provides a sense of achievement as one's proficiency improves.
- Develops the right brain tremendously.
- Leads to greater mental capacity.
- Promotes intuitive thinking.
- Enhances problem-solving capability.
- Greatly enhances creativity.
- Improves memory capacity.
- Improves concentration and mental endurance