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The Abacus

Introduction:

What the heck is an abacus? Wait, I've seen one before, but I have no idea how to use one. Do people still use those things to add? You bet they do, and a whole lot more.

Task:

Your task is to investigate and learn how to use the abacus. You will find out who uses the abacus and where it comes from.

Resources:

The web site used will be:

This site contains a vast wealth of information about the abacus including history, basic use, and use today.

Process:

  • Investigate The Abacus Homepage. Check out the sections on history and uses today.
  • Play with the Java-enabled abacus (way cool).
  • Complete the questions below.
  • Build your own Abacus in class. (If materials are available)

Evaluation:

Answer the following questions in a Word document.

1. When was the abacus first used? By who?

2. What is an abacus typically made of?

3. What terminology is used to name to top and bottom halves of an abacus?

4. How should you hold an abacus? Be specific.

5. Do the beads all have the same value? Describe what determines how much a bead is worth.

6. Describe the general layout of the Chinese abacus. How many beads are in what parts? How many rows of beads are there?

7. Name the other two types of abacus. How are they different from the Chinese abacus?

8. Describe what each row of beads represents.

9. How is the abacus related to the way we generally write numbers? (hint: use "place value" in your answer)

10. Describe the proper "finger technique" on the abacus.

11. Who still uses the abacus today in business?

12. Is there a specific group of people that the abacus is especially suited for?

13. Check out The Abacus vs. The Electric Calculator. Pay particular attention to how hard the problems were. What were the results?

Conclusion:

The abacus is a tool that still generates interest. It has been used for nearly 2500 years. Not only can it be handy as a calculating device, it is a great reinforcer in understanding place value.

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