Adding negative whole numbers

You might find a number line useful when answering questions involving negative numbers.

• When you add a number go up the number line.
• When you subtract a number go down the number line.

Example 1

• 6 - 3
• = 6 + (- 3)
• = 3

• 

Example 2

• 4 - 5
• = 4 + (- 5)
• = -1

• 

Example 3

• -2 + 5
• = 3

• 

Now try these questions:

Remember the number line!

If you got these correct, well done.