Number & Operations for Teachers

Copyright David & Cynthia Thomas, 2009

    

 

Chapter/Section

Chapter Two: Whole Numbers & Integers: Addition & Subtraction

2.2  Integers: Modeling the Meaning of Addition and Subtraction

Objective

Use concept models to understand the meaning of addition and subtraction of integers.

Overview

Addition and subtraction of integers {… -4, -3, -2, -1, 0 1, 2, 3, 4 …} is normally introduced at the middle school or junior high school level.  School mathematics and science topics such as elevation (above/below sea level) and bank account balances may be used to motivate the study of integer operations. 

This lesson addresses the questions,

  • What is the meaning of addition of subtraction of integers?
  • What is the logical basis for regrouping?

The Set Model and the Measurement Model are used to represent the ideas.

Readings

Set Model

Measurement Model

Homework

Exercises

Links

Investigate 

  • Number Line Bars, Number Line Bars – Integers, and
  • Color Chips - Addition and Color Chips - Subtraction

at the National Library of Virtual Manipulatives for Interactive Mathematics

http://matti.usu.edu/nlvm/nav/topic_t_1.html