The sign of a number tells direction on a number line. Positive numbers represent moves to the right and negative numbers represent moves to the left. The subtraction 5 - 3 means start at 5 and remove a distance of positive 3. Removing a number is the same as adding its opposite. The result is positive 2, so 5 - 3 = 2. Subtracting 5 - (-3) means remove a distance of negative 3 from a distance of positive 5. Removing negative 3 is the same as adding its opposite, positive 3. The result is positive 8, so 5 - (-3) = 8.
Subtracting Integers using the Brainingcamp Number Line virtual manipulative.
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Brainingcamp virtual manipulatives can be used anywhere with no setup, cleanup, or lost parts. They are highly effective at engaging today’s digital learners and helping them bringing abstract math concepts to life.
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