Negative numbers are just steps to the left. Walk the number line, cancel zero pairs, and see why absolute value is distance from zero.
Dads Got Middle School • Math
Adding & Subtracting Integers
Follow the numbers step by step along the line. To subtract move left, to add move right.
Number Line Simulator (Unit-by-Unit Steps)
3−(−4)=?
Walker is at 3. Step him unit by unit with Step Left or Step Right, then click Check My Landing!At: 3 (0 steps)
Solve Presets:
Adding & Subtracting Integers & Absolute Value: a guide for parents
Grades 6 & 7 • Math • Free, no login
Walk the number line step by step, cancel zero pairs, and see absolute value as distance from zero.
Kitchen Table Prompt
Ask: if it is 3 degrees outside and the temperature drops 5 degrees, what is it now? Walk it on the number line: start at 3, take 5 steps left, land on −2. Then ask how far −2 is from zero.
Standards this lesson covers
Common Core: 6.NS.C.5, 6.NS.C.7 & 7.NS.A.1 (Add and subtract rational numbers; represent addition and subtraction on a horizontal number line; interpret absolute value as distance from zero)
Texas (TEKS): TEKS 6.2B, 6.3C & 6.3D (Identify a number, its opposite, and its absolute value; represent integer operations with concrete models, connecting the physical movements to algorithms)
Florida (NGSSS): B.E.S.T. MA.6.NSO.1.2 & MA.7.NSO.2.1 (Given an integer, determine its opposite and absolute value; solve mathematical and real-world problems involving integer addition and subtraction)
Virginia (SOL): VA SOL 6.6.a & 7.2 (Add, subtract, multiply, and divide integers; investigate and describe absolute value as distance from zero on a number line)
North Carolina (SCOS): NC SCOS 6.NS.7 & 7.NS.1 (Understand absolute value as a number's distance from zero on the number line; apply properties of operations to add and subtract integers using models and counters)
