How to add/subtract positive and negative numbers
Adding Rules: Positive + positive= positive Negative+negative= negative E.g. 8+7= (positive) = (negative) -11 However if it were to be positive and minus the answer would be either + or - : (depending on the question) E.g. -8+5= (negative) = (positive) 3
Subtracting Rules: Positive - positive = negative or positive Negative - negative = positive E.g. 3-7= (positive) 5 5-6= (negative) = (positive) 7 However when subtracting + and - numbers the answer is negative: E.g. -5-7= (negative) -12
Using a number line Use a number line when adding and subtracting to make it easier. Try these questions using the number line. Check your answers on the next slide = = = = = = =
Answers By Sara Tattley