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Summaries · Grade 7 Maths › Integers
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Integers

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

Integers are the numbers …, −3, −2, −1, 0, 1, 2, 3, …: the whole numbers (0, 1, 2, 3, …) and their negatives. Negative numbers are less than 0, like temperatures below freezing.

  • On a number line left is always smaller: −7 < −3.
  • The opposite of 5 is −5; their sum is 0.
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Calculating with integers

RuleExample
plus a negative = minus5 + (−3) = 2
minus a negative = plus5 − (−3) = 8
same signs × or ÷ → positive(−4) × (−3) = 12
different signs × or ÷ → negative(−4) × 3 = −12
  • 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.
  • Same signs with × and ÷ give a positive answer.

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

Memory trick

For × and ÷: friends (same signs) give positive; enemies (different signs) give negative.

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.

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For parents
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