Anzan
What is Soroban-based Mental Calculation (Anzan)?
Soroban-based mental calculation, known as Anzan (暗算) in Japanese, is a unique method of mental math where students visualize an abacus in their minds to perform arithmetic. After learning how to use the physical soroban, students gradually transition to doing calculations mentally by picturing the bead movements in their imagination. This technique enhances both calculation speed and concentration, and helps develop memory, visualization skills, and mental focus.
Unlike traditional mental math which relies heavily on rote memorization, soroban-based Anzan leverages visual-spatial processing, making it especially effective for children.
Flash Anzan
What is Flash Anzan?
Flash Anzan is a modern and dynamic method of mental calculation that uses rapidly displayed numbers on a screen. Students mentally add the numbers by visualizing an abacus (soroban) in their mind, without using any physical tool. This technique is built on the foundations of soroban-based mental math, and it trains the brain to process information at high speed with focus and precision.
In a typical Flash Anzan session, a series of numbers flash on the screen in quick succession—sometimes just fractions of a second apart. Students must instantly calculate the total, relying on their trained mental image of the abacus. As they progress, the speed and difficulty increase, providing a fun and challenging environment that strengthens concentration, working memory, and mental agility.
Why is Flash Anzan Effective?
Enhances concentration and memory
Develops lightning-fast calculation ability
Trains the brain to react quickly and accurately
Builds confidence and a strong mental focus
Fun and highly engaging for children of all ages
Flash Anzan is not only a fun activity, but also a powerful brain-training tool. It’s one of the most exciting ways our students improve their mental calculation speed and accuracy—skills that benefit them far beyond math class!
Oral Dictation
What is Oral Dictation?
Oral Dictation is a traditional and powerful training method in abacus learning where numbers are read aloud—without being written down—and students must listen carefully, calculate mentally (or on the abacus), and respond with the correct answer. It’s essentially mental math through listening, which trains both calculation ability and auditory processing skills.
During a Yomiage-zan session, the instructor (or audio recording) reads out a series of numbers at a steady rhythm. Students must keep up with the pace, stay focused, and perform calculations in real time. This exercise is excellent for enhancing mental agility, listening skills, and concentration under pressure.
Why is Yomiage-zan important?
Trains active listening and auditory memory
Improves mental calculation speed and accuracy
Helps students develop focus and mental discipline
Encourages quick thinking under time pressure
Builds confidence in real-time problem-solving
Yomiage-zan is often used in competitions and advanced training sessions. It challenges students to stay sharp, respond quickly, and trust their mental calculation ability—all while listening carefully. It's an essential part of our abacus curriculum, helping students become confident and well-rounded in their math skills.
Class Content
Individualized instruction tailored to each student’s level of understanding. When students encounter difficulties, we provide repeated practice and guidance until they fully understand the material.
We divide students into groups within the classroom and provide individualized instruction tailored to each student's abilities.
Introductory Group
Students who are new to our program or have recently advanced to a higher level are seated near the instructor to ensure they receive close guidance and support as they learn new techniques.
Timed Practice Group
Once students have mastered the fundamentals, they join this group to practice with timed exercises. Through repeated drills, they prepare for certification exams and develop speed and accuracy.
Courses
We offer both in-person classes at our Bellevue location and online classes for families who prefer learning from home.
Our flexible class options help meet your child’s needs and schedule.
📍 In-Person Classes
Held in small groups at our Bellevue classroom. Students work with real abacuses and get direct instruction.
We also offer twice-weekly courses.
💻 Online Classes
Interactive lessons via Zoom with a real teacher. Students use their own abacus and worksheets at home.
Feel free to contact us for availability and trial options!
Certification Exams
All classrooms are certified by the North American Abacus Association, so students can take certification exams in classrooms they are familiar with. Students will acquire comprehensive skills with the goal of passing certification exams in abacus, mental arithmetic, reading and mental arithmetic, and readnig and arithmetic.
Abacus Competitions & Annual Events
At the Seattle Abacus School we believe that learning goes beyond the classroom. Throughout the year, we offer a variety of events and opportunities for students to grow, challenge themselves, and connect with others.
🏆 Abacus Competitions
Our students are encouraged to participate in local, national, and international abacus competitions. These events help boost confidence, motivation, and mental agility.
Northwestern Regional Abacus Contest(NWR online Contest)
An annual event with participants from across the U.S., Canada, and beyond.International Abacus Classic (IAC)
A global competition where students compete and connect with peers around the world.In-House & Regional Events
Smaller local contests and mock tests to help students prepare and gain experience.All-American Correspondence Abacus Contest
A national-level, mail-in competition where students can participate without traveling. It's a great way to gain experience and recognition in a more relaxed setting.
Challenge Cup
A prestigious correspondence-style competition hosted in Japan. Participating in this international event gives students the chance to challenge themselves against top-level soroban learners from Japan and around the world.
Competitions are not just about winning—they are a chance for each child to set goals, stay motivated, and grow.
