Seeing negative numbers on a number line
Separate the size of a digit from the position of a signed number. Values increase as you move right on a number line. Use several examples to make this clear to the left of zero.
Try it yourself first.
Mark −6, −2, 0 and 3 on a number line. Find the distance between −6 and −2, then say which negative number is greater.
View the solution or example answer
−2 is greater because it is to the right of −6. Their distance is four units. Distance and the sign of a number are different concepts; this distance is not negative.
Your next step.
Place the points before comparing numbers. Keep this visual model when learning operation rules so signs do not depend entirely on memorisation.
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