Beads of Brilliance
Every bead represents a moment of mathematical discovery
Beads of Brilliance
Every bead represents a moment of mathematical discovery
Learn the names and functions of each part of the Soroban Abacus
Look at the diagram below. Each part of the abacus is labelled. Study them carefully before moving to the exercises.
| Part Name | Description | Value |
|---|---|---|
| Frame | The outer wooden border that holds everything together | — |
| Rod | Vertical stick on which beads slide up and down | Each rod = one digit place |
| Beam | Horizontal bar that divides heaven and earth sections | — |
| Heaven Bead | 1 bead above the beam on each rod | Worth 5 |
| Earth Bead | 4 beads below the beam on each rod | Worth 1 each |