.png) .png) For more information contact us: 01277 696049
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What
is a soroban?
The soroban is a Japanese abacus which has been used
for many centuries. It is a flat frame which has a bar
running through it. The version used by Smart Brain
has 17 columns, each with 5 beads on. There are 4 beads
below the bar, and one bead above the bar.
Click
here for an example image. |
Would
my child need soroban to calculate?
During the first three months the child uses the soroban
and says numbers out loud. They then stop reciting numbers
but continue moving the beads. By the end of level 3
the child is taught to use only an imagined picture
to solve problems, totally eliminating the physical
use of soroban. |
How
does Smart Brain compare with conventional methods of
mental maths training?
Mental visualisation is the key to the success of the
Smart Brain technique. This mental process helps to
improve both speed and accuracy. The teaching method
devised by Smart Brain is easier and more efficient
than conventional mental maths training, making the
process of learning more satisfying for the child, further
helping to build their confidence. |
Does
this programme complement mathematics taught in schools?
Yes. The programme had been designed to complement the
national syllabus. Children will excel in mathematics,
and the increase in concentration and sharpening of
the mind will improve learning in all
other subjects. But it should not to be confused with
tutoring, our programme has been proven to help in the
development of your child's brain. You just cannot tutor
your way to better eduction and a better way of life.
It comes from stimulating their mental maths capability
and right brain development. |
How
long is the program?
Three years (depending on age and ability). This comprises
10 terms of 12 weeks each. |
Smart
Brain was devised in Singapore and Thailand, how is
it suitable for western countries?
In 2002, about 140 schools in the US used Singapore’s
approach to teaching and learning Mathematics. Singapore’s
strength in Maths and Science received worldwide recognition
after ranking No. 1 amongst 38 countries in International
Mathematics and Science Studies (in both 1995 and 1998).
The soroban, which is used throughout primary schools
in Singapore aids in promoting the development of mental
calculation and has stimulated interest in the learning
of mental maths in the western countries. |
How
does this programme benefit the child’s overall
performance?
Children find it easier to understand numeric relationships
if they are able to visualise objects. In this case
the objects are the soroban and the movement of its
beads. Being able to visualise an object whilst working
on a problem is beneficial to a child not only for mathematical
problems, but for any kind of thought process, especially
memory and association. This skill will benefit the
child in many aspects of their life, both academic and
social. |
Do you have a demonstration video?
"Please Click here to watch a demonstration of students performing the
calculations on the abacus and mentally"
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How
does Smart Brain differ from any other Mental Maths
based on the soroban?
Smart Brain teaches the child to use only one hand on
the soroban. This ensure that confusion is avoided during
complex mental calculations. Other providers use formulae
in their teaching method. Advanced levels of Smart Brain
teaching use "magic words” which are easy
to assimilate and quick to recall.
Smart Brain encourages children to participate in national
and international maths competitions where their methods
can be tested on problems set by other examiners. Instructors
are accessible to parents and children alike and it
is in their best interest to provide the best possible
support to the child. Ultimately, the child will develop
the self-confidence that will enable them to progress
to higher maths levels in secondary school and to many
other successes. |
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