Adding and Subtracting Integers Practice Problems & Conceptual Mastery
Integers include whole numbers and their negatives. When adding or subtracting, thinking of temperature, debt, or number line hops helps build intuitive mental models.
📝 Worked Step-by-Step Example
1. Double negative: −15 − (−9) = −15 + 9. 2. Different signs: 15 − 9 = 6. 3. Larger magnitude is negative: −6.
🧠 Core Problem-Solving Strategies
1. Same Signs: Add and Keep
When both numbers are negative, add their magnitudes and attach a negative sign.
2. Different Signs: Subtract and Take Larger Sign
Find the difference between their absolute values and keep the sign of whichever number is farther from zero.
3. Double Negative Rule
Subtracting a negative number is equivalent to adding: a − (−b) = a + b.
📖 Key Mathematical Terms & Vocabulary
Integer
A whole number that can be positive, negative, or zero.
Absolute Value
The distance of a number from zero on the number line, always non-negative.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Why does subtracting a negative become positive?
Removing debt from an account increases its value; taking away a negative direction means moving in the positive direction.
How does the number line help?
Adding means moving right; subtracting means moving left. A negative reverses direction.
What is −0?
Zero has no sign; −0 is simply 0.
🗺️ Pedagogical Learning Roadmap
2-Digit Addition without Regrouping→
Master core 2-Digit Addition without Regrouping concepts to build computational fluency.
Prerequisite2-Digit Addition with Regrouping→
Master core 2-Digit Addition with Regrouping concepts to build computational fluency.
Next Step2-Digit Subtraction without Borrowing→
Advance to 2-Digit Subtraction without Borrowing practice drills and timed challenges.
Next Step2-Digit Subtraction with Borrowing→
Advance to 2-Digit Subtraction with Borrowing practice drills and timed challenges.
Explore More Math Resources for Adding and Subtracting Integers
Browse printable worksheets, curriculum guides, and interactive math games across our learning platform: