Here you will build numbers on the abacus one bead at a time. Use the rods and beads to make each number exactly as asked.
You are asked to build the number 5 on the ones rod. How many beads do you lift?
4
6
5
3
Building a number means lifting the same count of beads. So the number 5 needs five beads up.
To make the number 2 on the abacus, what should you do on the ones rod?
Lift 4 beads
Leave all beads down
Lift 2 beads
Lift 1 bead
Each lifted bead adds one unit. Lifting two beads builds the number 2.
You already have 4 beads up and must build the number 6. How many more beads should you lift?
3
4
2
1
To go from 4 to 6 you add two more. The abacus shows this by lifting two extra beads.
You need to build the number 1 on the abacus. Which choice shows the correct action?
Lift 5 beads
Lift 3 beads
Lift 10 beads
Lift 1 bead
The first counting number uses a single bead. Lifting one bead builds the number 1.
A friend asks you to make the number 8. How many beads will be at the top of the ones rod when you finish?
8
7
9
6
Making 8 means eight beads are lifted. Any other bead count would show a different number.
You are building the number 3, but you have only 1 bead up. How many more beads must you lift?
3
4
1
2
From 1 to 3 is a jump of two. Lifting two more beads gives a total of three beads up.
To build the number 9, what total bead count should be at the top of the ones rod?
7
9
5
8
Nine is one more than eight so it needs nine beads up. This fully builds the number 9.
You finish building and see 2 beads up. Which number have you made on the ones rod?
1
2
6
4
Two beads up directly show the number 2. The bead count and number are equal.
You are told to build the smallest counting number on the abacus. How many beads should you lift?
0
2
3
1
The smallest counting number is 1. Lifting one bead builds this number on the ones rod.
After building the number 7 you decide to check your work. How many beads should you count at the top?
7
5
6
10
Correctly building 7 means seven beads up. Counting them confirms the number you made.
Starter
Great start with abacus beads; keep practising simple counting to grow your speed.
Solid
You understand level 1 abacus counting; a little more practice will make your moves smoother.
Expert!
Your level 1 abacus skills are excellent; you are ready for faster sums and new challenges.
