An interval is what is between two values. On a scale, intervals are shown using a small mark or line to show the space between.

Identify and place negative numbers on a number line

Maths

In this unit pupils will  interpret numbers greater than and less than zero. They will read and write negative numbers explain, how the value of a number relates to its position from zero positioning on a number line. In the future unit pupils will estimate the value and position of numbers including negative numbers on unmarked or partially marked number lines and calculate intervals across zero.

In the prior unit pupils compared and ordered 4-digit numbers They learned to round and rounded 4-digit numbers to the nearest 1000, 100 and 10, counted backwards through 0. In this unit pupils will interpret numbers greater than and less than zero. They will read and write negative numbers, explain how the value of a number relates to its position from zero, positioning on a number line.

Negative numbers

It shows both positive and negative values. 

The marked intervals are going up in tens.

The unmarked intervals are going up in ones.

Tick all the statements that are true of this number line. 

Look at the section of the number line. What number is the arrow pointing to? 

Look at the section of the number line. The arrow is pointing to {{ }}.

Tick all the values that could label the intervals on this number line.

There is no number in between −6 and −5.

What number is exactly halfway between −6 and −5? 

Which of the following means 'negative'? Tick all that apply. 

Which of these numbers would appear to the left of zero on a horizontal number line?

Describe the distances of −8 and 7 on a number line. Tick all options that apply. 

Which negative number is the same distance from zero as 8? 

Order the following values as they would appear on a horizontal number line, from right to left.

Look at the section of number line. The number line is going up in steps of {{ }}.

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Identify and place negative numbers on a number line

Lesson outcome

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.