Bead Strings for Mental Math

People have long used an abacus to do calculations.  Some time ago, Jackie Ratkovic suggested the use of beads for students to quickly do addition/subtraction.  Not every student requires a manipulative to do these operations and others prefer to use number lines, etc.  However, I have found that some kids like to be able to see the numbers using the beads.

Students have found these to be beneficial when doing Math Squares Bricks, etc. We have used them for both whole numbers and decimals. We have also been able to look at equality with fractions, decimals, etc.

To make a manipulative for using 10, it is possible to use pipe cleaners to slide the beads on.

To make them, you can use wooden or pony beads and elastic cord.  To make it less time consuming for me, students made the majority of  the bead strings one day as this became one of the math centers students circulated through. This would likely not be an option for younger students, but it is always a possibility to recruit some older students for this job.

String of 100 Beads

A basket of beads is at the front
of the room for kids to use as needed.