➕➖✖️➗ In math, we often work with integers. Integers include positive numbers, negative numbers, and zero. Examples of integers: ● −5 ● −2 ● 0 ● 3 ● 8 Learning integer operations means learning how to add, subtract, multiply, and divide these numbers.
Integers are whole numbers and their opposites.
Example set of integers:
… −4, −3, −2, −1, 0, 1, 2, 3, 4 …
They can be shown on a number line.
● Numbers to the right of 0 are positive.
● Numbers to the left of 0 are negative.
When adding integers, there are two main rules.
Rule 1: Same Signs
Add the numbers and keep the same sign.
Example:
3 + 5 = 8
−4 + −6 = −10
Rule 2: Different Signs
Subtract the numbers and keep the sign of the larger number.
Example:
7 + −3 = 4
−8 + 5 = −3
Subtracting integers can be turned into adding the opposite.
a - b = a + (-b)
Example:
6 − 4 = 2
7 − (−3)
Step 1: Change subtraction to addition
7 + 3
Step 2: Add
Answer: 10
When multiplying integers, the signs matter.
Important rule: Same signs → Positive Different signs → Negative
| Rule | Example | Result |
|---|---|---|
| Positive × Positive | 3 × 4 | 12 |
| Negative × Negative | −3 × −4 | 12 |
| Positive × Negative | 5 × −2 | −10 |
| Negative × Positive | −6 × 3 | −18 |
Division follows the same sign rules as multiplication.
Examples:
8 ÷ 2 = 4
−12 ÷ 3 = −4
−16 ÷ −4 = 4
Integer operations appear in everyday situations.
Temperature 🌡️
If the temperature drops 5 degrees from 3°C, we calculate:
3 − 5 = −2°C
Money 💰
If you owe $10 and pay back $4, you calculate:
−10 + 4 = −6
Problem 1
−3 + −4
Answer:
−7
Problem 2
6 + −2
Answer:
4
Problem 3
−5 × 3
Answer:
−15
Problem 4
−12 ÷ −3
Answer:
4
Learning integer operations helps children:
● Understand positive and negative numbers
● Solve real-world problems
● Prepare for algebra and equations
● Build stronger number sense
Integer operations involve adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing positive and negative numbers. By understanding the rules for integer operations, children can confidently solve many types of math problems.