The abacus is the first calculating device recorded in history. Used way before there was a written numeral system, the abacus was and is commonly found in China, Japan, Africa and India. Today it is still used in countries where electricity is not readily available. Made for adding, subtracting, dividing, and multiplying as well as for more complex calculations involving fractions and square roots, the abacus is still popular with many shopkeepers and as an excellent teaching tool for youngsters. The abacus, in fact, is now becoming more popular in the United States for teaching kids the basics of math as it encourages them to become less dependent on electrical calculators for solving simple math problems, especially multiplication. Using an abacus eliminates the need to memorize tables, and helps to develop calculation skills in any type of numbering system. In addition, the abacus helps to integrate the right and left hemispheres of the brain simultaneously through the use of both hands moving the beads while making calculations. This communication between the hands and brain stimulates brain cells, helping with whole brain development.
What to Look for
Originally the abacus was used with beads or stones that moved in grooves made in the sand or tablets of stone, wood or metal. In general, a good working abacus is made of a hardwood frame. Abaci come in many sizes, with the most usable size measuring 14 inches wide. The frame consists of a series of vertical rods where wooden beads slide up and down along with a horizontal beam that separates the frame into two sections creating an upper and lower deck. The beads should slide easily on the rods when the abacus is placed flat on a surface. Look for clear directions on how to use your abacus and pay attention to proper finger technique, which uses the thumb along with the index and middle fingers.
Common Pitfalls
Abaci can also be made of materials other than wood. Mostly these models, such as those made of brass, made lovely ornamental gifts. If you are looking for an abacus that will provide fast and accurate calculations, it is best to buy those made of high quality wood.
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