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Summaries · Grade 6 Maths › Extension: negative numbers (Grade 7 work)
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Extension: negative numbers (Grade 7 work)

Numbers below zero: comparing, on the number line, and calculating with signs. Read one part at a time and tap “I know this”. Then test yourself in the quiz.

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Positive and negative

Negative numbers are less than 0: −1, −2, −3, …, like temperatures below freezing. In Grade 7 all the numbers …, −3, −2, −1, 0, 1, 2, 3, … are called integers; in Grades 4 to 6, 0, 1, 2, 3, … are called whole numbers.

  • On a number line left is always smaller: −7 < −3.
  • The opposite of 5 is −5; their sum is 0.
Tap when you could tell someone without looking.

On a thermometer

From −4 °C to 3 °C is a rise of 7 degrees: count 4 up to 0, then 3 more.

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Adding and subtracting negative numbers

RuleExample
plus a negative = minus5 + (−3) = 2
minus a negative = plus5 − (−3) = 8
  • On the number line: adding a positive number moves you right; subtracting a positive number moves you left.
  • −3 + (−4) = −7: start at −3 and move 4 to the left.
  • −2 − 5 = −7: start at −2 and move 5 to the left.
  • −6 + 9 = 3: start at −6 and move 9 to the right.
Meerkat tip

Think of money: −3 is a debt of R3. If someone takes your debt away, you are better off: −(−3) = +3.

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Remember this and test yourself

Remember this: your summary
  • Negative numbers are less than 0.
  • Left on the number line is smaller.
  • Minus a negative = plus.
  • Plus a negative = minus: 5 + (−3) = 2.

Write these points in your book. Read them again the night before the test.

Memory trick

The further left of 0, the smaller the number: −7 is less than −3.

Flash cards · Tap to turn over

Important words

First say the answer yourself, then turn the card over.

Now the real quiz!

The quiz has many more questions on this topic. Every question shows straight away whether you are right and explains why.

Take the quiz: Extension: negative numbers (Grade 7 work)
Practise it step by step: Extra Maths ClassAll Grade 6 Maths summaries
For parents
  • Let your child work the examples on paper and explain them to you.
  • The ticks (“I know this”) are saved on this device only. We never ask for names or emails.

Follows CAPS for Grade 6 Mathematics. Always check your teacher’s notes and textbook too.

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