Negative numbers: what children learn
In this game the number line runs from −10 to 10, with −10, −5, 0, 5 and 10 labeled. Some questions simply ask children to place a number; others give a temperature to mark. Placing negative numbers shows clearly that −7 is further left, and so smaller, than −2.
Supports part of Common Core 6.NS.C.6.c. This focused game does not cover the entire standard.
Common Core connection: 6.NS.C.6.c. This is focused practice for part of the standard.
How to play
Move the marker to the right place on the number line, then press Check. You can drag, tap the line or use the arrow keys. Each game has 8 rounds. After you press Check, a green arrow shows the correct position if you were not quite right.
Step by step
- Zero is the middle. Positive numbers are to the right of zero and negative numbers to the left.
- Negative numbers get smaller as you go left. −8 is less than −3, even though 8 is bigger than 3. On a thermometer, −8 °C is colder than −3 °C.
- Count back through zero. Counting back from 3: 2, 1, 0, −1, −2, −3. Don't skip zero.
- Use the nearest label. To place −7, start at −5 and count two steps to the left.
Worked examples
Example 1: Put −7 on the number line.
Working: From −5, count 2 steps left: −6, −7.
Answer: Two ticks to the left of −5
Example 2: The temperature is −2 °C. Mark it.
Working: Two steps to the left of 0.
Answer: Two ticks to the left of 0
Example 3: It is 3 °C and the temperature falls by 5 degrees. What is it now?
Working: Count back 5 from 3: 2, 1, 0, −1, −2.
Answer: −2 °C
Common mistakes and how to fix them
- Thinking −8 is bigger than −3. Use a thermometer: which is colder? Colder means a smaller number.
- Forgetting to count zero when crossing it. Say each number aloud, including zero, while pointing at the ticks.
- Placing negative numbers to the right of zero. Draw an arrow on the line showing which way is 'more' and which way is 'less'.
Activities to try at home
- Check the weather forecast in winter and compare temperatures below zero.
- Use a lift with basement floors: floor −2 is two floors below ground.
- Talk about bank balances or game scores that go below zero.
Ideas for the classroom
- Use a vertical number line like a thermometer and ask 'it rises by 6 degrees from −4; what is the temperature now?'
- Order a set of world city temperatures in January.
- Find the difference between two temperatures across zero as a further challenge.
Free printable game and worksheet
The free printable starts with a game sheet, such as a color-by-answer picture, an answer maze or a secret-code joke, followed by a worksheet. Both use the same checked questions as the online game, and the answers are on the last page. Print it, or save it as a PDF from your browser’s print menu.
Open the free printable game and worksheet
Frequently asked questions
Is −10 smaller than −1?
Yes. −10 is further left on the number line (and colder on a thermometer).
How do you write negative numbers?
With a minus sign in front, such as −5. You can say 'negative five' or 'minus five'.
How should I choose this game for my learner?
Supports part of Common Core 6.NS.C.6.c. This focused game does not cover the entire standard.
What is the US equivalent?
The Common Core introduces negative numbers in Grade 6 (6.NS.C.5 and 6.NS.C.6.c).