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How to use the Rekenrek (Abacus)

Maarten avatar
Written by Maarten
Updated over a week ago

The Rekenrek, or abacus, is a visual tool that helps students recognize number structures and patterns. It is especially useful for practicing the five-structure and ten-structure, supporting early arithmetic skills and number sense.

How it works:

  1. Move the beads from left to right to represent numbers.

  2. Use the five- or ten-structure to show numbers in groups, making it easier to see number bonds.

  3. Practice addition and subtraction by sliding beads across in steps.

Settings:

  1. Amount of rows: Choose how many bead rows you want to display.

    • 1 row (10 beads)

    • 2 rows (20 beads)

    • 5 rows (50 beads)

    • 10 rows (100 beads)

  2. Bead structure:

    • 5-structure: Each row shows 5 red and 5 white beads.

    • 10-structure: Each row contains 10 beads of alternating colors.

  3. Extra option:

    • Color each row differently for easier distinction.

💡Tip: Use the rekenrek to show number combinations visually. For example, move 7 beads (5 red and 2 white) and ask students how many more are needed to make 10. This makes addition and subtraction strategies more concrete.

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