Chisanbop Finger Math: A Fun Way for Students to Learn Numbers and Mental Addition
May 2, 2025
Chisanbop: The Finger Math Method That Builds Mental Math Confidence
Finger Maths has always fascinated students because it turns numbers into something you can see and feel. One such fun method is Chisanbop, also known as Finger Math. It’s a simple and effective Korean way of using fingers like an abacus to learn numbers and perform quick mental addition.
Let’s explore how Chisanbop works and why it’s such a great tool for students!
What is Chisanbop Finger Math?
Chisanbop is a finger-based math system developed in Korea in the 1940s. In this method, your fingers represent numbers, helping you count, add, and even do some basic subtraction, all without using pen and paper!
It’s especially useful for young children and students who learn better through hands-on activities.
How Does Chisanbop Work?
Finger Values:
Right hand: Each finger (except the thumb) = 1; Right thumb = 5.
Left hand: Each finger (except the thumb) = 10; Left thumb = 50.
Counting Numbers:
0–9: Use the right hand.
10–99: Combine both hands.
Example: 37 is shown by three fingers on the left hand (30) and seven fingers on the right hand (7).
Doing Addition:
Press fingers to show the first number.
Add by pressing more fingers.
If the right hand reaches more than 9, reset it and add 10 to the left hand (the tens place).
Example:
To add 28 + 7:
Show 28: Two left fingers (20) and eight right fingers (8).
Add 7: You’ll need to roll over because the right hand can’t go past 9.
Reset right hand and add 10 to the left hand.
Final answer: 35 (three left fingers for 30 and five right fingers for 5).
Why is Chisanbop So Effective?
Visual and Hands-On: Students see and feel numbers, helping them understand better.
Builds Confidence: It strengthens number sense and develops self-belief in math skills.
Fun and Engaging: Learning math becomes a game rather than a chore.
Instant Feedback: Students can easily spot and fix mistakes.
Great for All Learners: It’s very helpful for young kids and those who struggle with math anxiety or learning differences.
Research-Backed Benefits of Chisanbop
Studies show that students using Chisanbop:
Develop stronger number sense and fluency.
Feel less anxious and more excited about math.
Solve basic problems faster and more accurately.
How to Add Chisanbop to a Regular Math Curriculum
Chisanbop can fit easily into daily math lessons. Here’s how:
Use it as a supplement: It should support, not replace, regular math teaching.
Daily Practice: Spend 15–30 minutes practicing finger math daily.
Progress Slowly: Start with simple counting, then move to addition and subtraction.
Connect it with Speaking: Let students count aloud while using fingers.
Guided and Independent Practice: First practice together, then let students try alone.
Curriculum Match: Link Chisanbop activities to lessons on place value, addition, and subtraction.
Teacher Training: Teachers should learn the method first to guide students effectively.
Step
What to Do
Supplement, not replace
Use Chisanbop alongside traditional methods
Daily practice
Short sessions to build fluency
Oral counting
Combine finger math with verbal counting
Guided to independent
Move from teacher-led to solo practice
Align with lessons
Tie it with place value and operations
Train teachers
Ensure they can teach it properly
Chisanbop vs Vedic Math: How Are They Different?
Feature
Chisanbop
Vedic Math
Origin
Korea (1940s)
India (Ancient system)
Method
Finger-based calculation
Mental math techniques
Scope
Addition, subtraction, up to 99
Arithmetic, squares, roots, algebra, more
Tools Needed
Just fingers
No tools, pure mind
Learning Curve
Very easy for young kids
Takes time to master (8–12 months)
Speed
Quick for basic sums
World's fastest system for all types of math
Best for
Early learners, beginners
Competitive exams, advanced learners
Chisanbop is perfect for beginners who need a hands-on way to start loving math.
Vedic Math is better for older students who want speed, accuracy, and can handle more advanced calculations.
About Vedic Math
If you want your child to do fast mental calculations, Vedic Maths is a fantastic option. It’s based on ancient Indian techniques that make math super simple, fast, and fun.
Thinking about other math tools? The Abacus is another great method where kids move beads to solve problems. It’s very tactile, just like Chisanbop. But how does it stack up against Vedic Math?
Mental Math means solving math problems in your head without paper. Chisanbop is a stepping stone for students learning to think about numbers quickly and confidently.
As students move forward, they can also explore the Mental Abacus Method, which helps kids visualize an abacus in their mind to do fast calculations. It’s a powerful tool for improving memory, focus, and math skills!
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Frequently Asked Questions
Children as young as 5 or 6 years old can start learning Chisanbop since it uses simple finger movements.
Yes! Chisanbop gives immediate feedback and builds number confidence, making math less scary.
No, once students master addition, they can use Chisanbop for subtraction, and some even use variations for multiplication and division.
Most students pick it up within a few weeks with regular 15–30 minute practice sessions.
Absolutely! Start with Chisanbop for basics, and move to Vedic Math when ready for faster and more advanced techniques.
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