Negative Numbers

Study Sheet

Negative Numbers

Numbers below zero

Both Sides of Zero

Concept
The Big Idea
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Negative numbers continue the number line to the left of zero. Adding still means moving right, and subtracting means moving left — the rule never changes.

Example
Finding −6+4-6 + 4

Start at −6-6 and move 44 to the right, landing on −2-2.

In Plain Terms & More Examples

Concept
In plain terms

Negatives are the numbers left of zero. Adding still moves right on the number line; subtracting still moves left.

Example
Finding −3+7-3 + 7

Start at −3-3 and move 77 right, landing on 44.

Example
Finding 2−52 - 5

Start at 22 and move 55 left, landing on −3-3.