Subtraction of positive and negative integers
I can use the mathematical structures that underpin subtraction to add and subtract positive and negative integers.
Subtraction of positive and negative integers
I can use the mathematical structures that underpin subtraction to add and subtract positive and negative integers.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- Any subtraction can be re-written as an equivalent addition.
- Subtracting a postive number is the same as adding a negative number.
- Subtracting a negative number is the same as adding a positive number.
Keywords
Additive inverse - The additive inverse of a number is a number that, when added to the original number, gives the sum of 0.
Absolute value - The absolute value of a number is its distance from zero. E.g. 5 and (−5) are both 5 away from zero and so both have an absolute value of 5.
Common misconception
Minus and a minus make a plus, 2 negatives make a positive, double negative makes a positive, etc.
The use of additive inverses should avoid this common misconception. Be aware that pupils maybe already be familiar with this statement.
Equipment
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Lesson video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
6 + (-4)
4 + (-6)
6 + 4
(-4) + (-6)
2
(-2)
10
(-10)
