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Activities for the Al Abacus Help! Newbie

I have 2 daughters that are older and we are trying to figure out how to use this math. My daughters did Professor B Math to Multiplication.
On p.17 it says to ask them to build the stairs. Give them blank worksheets (2-6) with nine rows. They are to add 1 to the quantity on each wire (except the last wire) and record the result. We are just trying to figure out how to use the abacus. They already know simple addition well but I want to know how to use it.
I don't understand at all what they are saying. I don't have the worksheets. Someone told me that we didn't need them. That it is already in the book on the side.
I tried to look at the example on the right and figure out the 2-6 with nine rows. I see the 9 rows going down on the right of abacus but I don't understand the 2-6.
Mrs. Cotter said that since my girls were older, it would be best they do this book and then go onto Level E.
Math was NOT my subject in school at all. I barely passed basic math in 9th grade with no algebra whatsoever and yes...they were graduating us in CA. I can merely divide and multiply simple problems and figure out a percentage at the store.
Thank you for your help.

Re: Activities for the Al Abacus Help! Newbie

Hi, Cyndi.

Looking at the Adding 1 lesson on page 17, I see the section you are struggling with. You will have your child build the stairs on the abacus (1 bead on the first line, 2 beads on the second line, 3 beads on the third line, etc.) Once that has been completed, pull out a blank sheet of paper (or create a graph-like page as shown on page 17. Have your child write, '1 + 1 =' and then have your child move one bead over on the top line currently with one bead on it. (Once the bead has been moved over the top line should now have 2 beads on the left side). Now your child has the answer to the question '1 + 1 = 2'.

Then you will move onto the second row of beads. Your child will write the equation '2 + 1 =' then have your child move a bead over on the second line which will put 3 beads on the left. Your child can then complete the equation, '2 + 1 = 3'. Continue writing equations for each of the rows on the abacus up through '9 + 1 = 10'.

If you still have questions regarding this lesson or any other lesson, do not hesitate to ask here or call the RightStart help desk at (888)272-3291 or email RightStart at info@alabacus.com.

Have a wonderful day!
Rachel