Mastering Integers: A Guide to Subtracting Integers for Grade 7 Students
Integer subtraction is a fundamental concept in mathematics, and it’s essential for Grade 7 students to grasp this concept to excel in their math studies. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive guide on subtracting integers, along with examples, worksheets, and FAQs to help students and teachers alike.
What are Integers?
Integers are whole numbers, either positive, negative, or zero, without a fractional part. Examples of integers include:
- Positive integers: 1, 2, 3,…
- Negative integers: -1, -2, -3,…
- Zero: 0
How to Subtract Integers
Subtracting integers involves finding the difference between two numbers. To subtract integers, follow these steps:
- Identify the signs: Determine the signs of the numbers involved in the subtraction. If both numbers have the same sign (both positive or both negative), the result will have the same sign.
- Change the sign: If the numbers have different signs, change the sign of the second number to its opposite.
- Add or subtract: Add or subtract the numbers as you normally would.
- Keep the sign: Keep the sign of the result.
Examples:
- 5 - 3 =?
- Identify the signs: Both numbers are positive.
- Change the sign: None
- Add or subtract: 5 - 3 = 2
- Keep the sign: 2 (positive)
- -2 - 4 =?
- Identify the signs: Both numbers are negative.
- Change the sign: None
- Add or subtract: -2 - 4 = -6
- Keep the sign: -6 (negative)
- 7 - (-3) =?
- Identify the signs: Different signs
- Change the sign: Change the sign of -3 to +3
- Add or subtract: 7 + 3 = 10
- Keep the sign: 10 (positive)
📝 Note: When subtracting a negative number, it's equivalent to adding a positive number.
Subtracting Integers with Different Signs
When subtracting integers with different signs, follow these additional steps:
- Change the sign: Change the sign of the second number to its opposite.
- Add the numbers: Add the numbers as you normally would.
Examples:
- 8 - (-2) =?
- Identify the signs: Different signs
- Change the sign: Change the sign of -2 to +2
- Add the numbers: 8 + 2 = 10
- Keep the sign: 10 (positive)
- -5 - 9 =?
- Identify the signs: Different signs
- Change the sign: Change the sign of 9 to -9
- Add the numbers: -5 - 9 = -14
- Keep the sign: -14 (negative)
Worksheets and Exercises
Practice makes perfect! Here’s a sample worksheet with 10 exercises to help Grade 7 students master integer subtraction:
| Exercise | Answer |
|---|---|
| 1. 9 - 4 | 5 |
| 2. -3 - (-2) | -1 |
| 3. 7 - (-1) | 8 |
| 4. -9 - 5 | -14 |
| 5. 2 - 9 | -7 |
| 6. -6 - (-8) | 2 |
| 7. 4 - 2 | 2 |
| 8. -1 - 9 | -10 |
| 9. 8 - (-3) | 11 |
| 10. -4 - (-6) | 2 |
Conclusion
Subtracting integers is a fundamental math concept that requires understanding the signs and rules of integer subtraction. With practice and patience, Grade 7 students can master this concept and excel in their math studies. Remember to follow the steps outlined in this article, and don’t hesitate to ask for help if you need it.
What is the difference between adding and subtracting integers?
+Adding integers involves combining numbers with the same sign, while subtracting integers involves finding the difference between two numbers, which may have different signs.
Why do I need to change the sign when subtracting integers with different signs?
+Changing the sign helps you to add the numbers correctly, which is the equivalent of subtracting a negative number.
How do I know if I should add or subtract when subtracting integers?
+Follow the steps outlined in this article: identify the signs, change the sign if necessary, and add or subtract the numbers as you normally would.
Related Terms:
- Subtracting Integers Worksheet PDF
- Integers Worksheet grade 7 pdf
- Subtracting integers rules
