Small Bead Frame Addition

The Bead Frame moves children from manipulating individual beads to using an abacus-like tool, representing the next step toward paper algorithms.

• Framework: Montessori
• Unit: Mathematics
• Learning area: Operations
• Level: Ages 5-6

Objectives

• Perform addition on the bead frame
• Bridge concrete to abstract notation
• Practice with larger numbers

Materials

• Small Bead Frame (4 rows: units, tens, hundreds, thousands)
• Recording paper
• Problem cards

Instructions

1. Present Bead Frame. Identify rows: green=units, blue=tens, red=hundreds, green=thousands. 2. Set first addend by sliding beads right. 3. Add second addend: slide more beads. 4. Exchange when 10 beads are in one row. 5. Read result. 6. Record equation on paper.

Educator tip

The Bead Frame is the bridge between Golden Beads and written math. Encourage recording every step on paper.

Assessment

Child adds on the Bead Frame and records equations on paper.

More from Mathematics

• Small Bead Frame Subtraction
• Dot Game (Addition Practice)
• Stamp Game Multiplication
• Stamp Game Division
• Quantity Matching with Loose Objects
• Bead Bar Addition (Concrete)
• Bead Stair Subtraction
• Number Scroll (1-1000)