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