Model Integer Sums by Canceling Zero Pairs

Start with Add Integers on a Number Line or Add Integers by Drawing Two-Color Counters so students can see why signs matter. Move to the missing addend sheets, and use Integer Addition Rules and Sign Prediction as a reference.

Write the addition equation for a counter picture, count the zero pairs and find the sum. A zero pair is one positive counter and one negative counter. Together they equal 0. The directions on the page read: Write an addition equation with the top row as the first number. Count the zero pairs. Write the sum. An answer key is included.

Yes, both. We made it for 7th grade integers, and it works the same at home or at school. At home, a student can work through it alone and then go over it with you, which shows quickly what is solid and what needs another look. In class it works as independent practice, homework or a warm-up, and you can print one copy or a full set.

Subtract the smaller absolute value from the greater one and keep the sign of the integer with the greater absolute value. For (-38) + 56, subtract 38 from 56 to get 18, which is positive. Integer Addition Rules and Sign Prediction practices this.

Start at 0, hop right for a positive integer and left for a negative one, then read where you land. Add Integers on a Number Line gives a line from -15 to 15 for each problem.

Draw a plus counter for each +1 and a minus counter for each -1, then cross out each zero pair. The counters left show the sum. Model Integer Sums by Canceling Zero Pairs has students count the zero pairs in each model.

It means the final amount is below zero, such as a balance in debt or a depth below sea level. Number Line Stories With Integer Sums asks students to write a sentence that says what each sum means.