Stage 1
Beginner
Abacus Levels 16 to 9
An introduction to the abacus and basic calculations that build the foundation.
Abacus Classes
In-person classes at our NW Portland school, with online classes for families who live farther away.
In person or online
We recommend in-person classes whenever possible. Online classes are available for families who live 30 miles or more from JAMS.
What to expect in online classes
- Students receive their materials and books by mail, for a fee.
- Students need a computer (preferably a laptop) with a working camera and microphone.
- Online classes are small groups of 3 to 6 students per teacher.
How your child progresses
JAMS is a year-round program. Classes meet as a group, but every child moves at their own pace, and teachers track each student's progress every week.
Progress also depends on practice at home. Along with weekly class, we recommend 10 to 15 minutes of abacus practice a day, 5 days a week.
Beginner class schedule
In-person beginner classes
Online beginner classes
For families 30 miles or more from JAMS.
Tuesday to Friday
- 3:30 to 4:30 PM
- 4:30 to 5:30 PM
- 5:30 to 6:30 PM
Saturday
- 9:30 to 10:30 AM
- 10:30 to 11:30 AM
- 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM
Tuesday to Friday
- 2:00 to 2:45 PM
- 3:00 to 3:45 PM
Wednesday and Friday
- 3:45 to 4:30 PM
Saturday
- 9:30 to 10:30 AM
All times are Pacific Time.
The JAMS path
31 levels. Every one of them earned.
Students begin at Abacus Level 16 and work their way up, then continue into the Dan (master) ranks. Mental math training, called Anzan, builds alongside.
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Stage 2
Bridge
Abacus Level 8
Multi-digit calculations and the first steps into mental math.
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Stage 3
Intermediate
Abacus Levels 7 and 6
Mastering complex operations and building speed through steady practice.
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Stage 4
Pre-Advanced
Abacus Levels 5 and 4
Expert-level accuracy and speed, and readiness for competition.
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Stage 5
Advanced
Abacus Level 3 and up, including Dan ranks
The long climb toward mastery.
How JAMS compares
| Typical tutoring or worksheet programs | JAMS | |
|---|---|---|
| Goal | Help with homework, grades, or the next test | Train the mind through mental math |
| Method | Worksheets, repetition, and memorization | Hands-on abacus training, then mental calculation |
| Progress | Often ends when the grade improves | A 31-level path with milestones earned over years |
| Beyond math | Varies | Focus, discipline, problem solving, time management, confidence |
| Standards | Varies | Certified by the League for Soroban Education of America, with regional and national tests |
A partnership
Great results take both of us
Our part
- Patient, expert teaching in a structured class
- A clear 31-level path with progress you can see
- Weekly attention to each student's progress
- Progress reports and parent-teacher meetings
- All core materials included with registration
Your part
- Regular attendance
- 10 to 15 minutes of practice, 5 days a week
- A quiet place to practice at home
- Praise effort, not just speed
- Talk with us before you stop. Plateaus are normal, and we know how to help kids push through them.
