Using a Number Line – Negative and Positive Integer Operations

When students enter your math class, they may have a general understanding of positive and negative numbers, but then again…they may not. They may have experience with these numbers in relation to temperature, scores in golf, or elevations. A math vocabulary term they may not know is “integer.” They may also lack the background knowledge that integers can be added and subtracted like whole numbers. That’s where we come in!

Teach Starter has created a set of 24 task cards that your students can use to explore the concept of addition and subtraction of integers on a number line.

Through this activity, students will add and subtract integers on a number line, write equations shown by diagrams of number lines, and identify the locations of sums and differences on a number line.

Differentiate Your Positive and Negative Number Line Lessons

A team of dedicated, experienced educators created this resource to support your math lessons.

In addition to individual student work time, use this set of task cards to enhance learning through guided math groups, whole class lessons, or remote learning assignments. 

If you have a mixture of above and below-level learners, check out these suggestions for keeping students on track with the concepts: 

🆘 Support Struggling Students

For students who need additional support, complete these activities in small groups. Students can also use counters or drawings to show the movement of the number in either direction.

➕ Challenge Fast Finishers

If students need an additional challenge, encourage them to solve different problems that would result in a positive or negative number.

🛴 Scoot Activity 

Place the cards around the room in numerical order and give each student a recording sheet. Assign students or pairs to a starting point card. Give students time to review the card and record their answers in the corresponding space on their paper. Students will rotate to the next card when you say, “SCOOT!” Continue in this manner until students return to their starting point. 

👋 Exit Ticket 

Use these cards as a formative assessment after your lesson. Pick a random assortment of cards and project them on the board for the whole class to see. Students can record their answers on paper, sticky notes, or notebook. 

Plan lessons for all ability levels with our 10 Best Scaffolding Strategies! 

Easily Prepare This Integer Activity for Your Students

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or editable Google Slides version of this resource. A recording sheet and answer key are also included with this download. 

Print on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

To keep the task cards out of pockets or under desks, punch a hole in each corner to place them on a binder ring. 

This resource was created by Cassandra Friesen, a teacher in Colorado and Teach Starter Collaborator. 

Don’t stop there! We’ve got more activities and resources that cut down on lesson planning time:  

teaching resource

Understanding Positive & Negative Numbers – Worksheet

Explore positive and negative numbers by plotting integers on a number line and identifying opposites with this worksheet.

teaching resource

Printable Number Line - Negative and Positive Numbers -25-25

Use a negative and positive number line when working with integers.