Quipus

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Learners create an Incan counting device called a quipu (pronounced kee-poo). Similar to an abacus, a quipu is a series of strings tied together, with a complex set of knots tied in each string to represent different numbers. Learners create their own system of representation, choosing different colors of string to represent different things important in their lives. For example, they could use knots in the string to indicate how old the different people in their family are, or how many years they lived in each of the places they have been in their life. A decimal system can be used to represent numbers larger than 10. [Activity is publicly available through a web crawler capture on Archive.org.]

Quick Guide

Preparation Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Learning Time:
10 to 30 minutes
Estimated Materials Cost:
1 cent - $1 per student
Age Range:
Ages 6 - 14
Resource Types:
Activity, Lesson/Lesson Plan
Language:
English

Materials List (per student)

  • yarn in 6-8 colors, including black. 1 yard of each color
  • scissors
  • ruler
  • Optional: masking tape

Keywords

Subjects

  • Engineering and Technology
    • Computing
      • Information Systems
    • Technology
      • Information and Communication
  • Mathematics
    • Data Analysis and Probability
      • Data Representation
    • Measurement
      • Units of Measurement
    • Number and Operations
      • Number Systems
    • Representation
  • The Nature of Technology
    • Technology and Society
      • Technology and History
    • The Design Process
      • Invention and Innovation

Audience

To use this activity, learners need to:

  • touch

Learning styles supported:

  • Links STEM to other topics of interest such as arts and humanities
  • Involves hands-on or lab activities

Other

Includes alignment to state and/or national standards:

Access Rights:

  • Free access

By:

Rights:

Funding Source:

  • National Science Foundation ESI, 0206403