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Florida Grade 6 Math · Number Sense and Operations

MA.6.NSO.1.2: Positive and Negative Numbers in Context

What this Grade 6 benchmark means, worked examples, common mistakes, and a free printable worksheet.

Created by a Florida mom · Published by Tropical Learning LLC

Download Free Worksheet (PDF)See worked examples

What Is Benchmark MA.6.NSO.1.2?

Positive and negative numbers describe quantities in opposite directions: above or below sea level, warmer or colder than zero degrees, money earned or owed.

Zero is the reference point and its meaning depends on the situation: sea level, 0 degrees, or owing nothing. Students compare these numbers on horizontal and vertical number lines using words like lower, warmer, or more in debt.

Official benchmarkGiven a mathematical or real-world context, represent quantities that have opposite direction using rational numbers. Compare them on a number line and explain the meaning of zero within its context.

On the FAST test: part of the Grade 6 reporting category Number Sense and Operations, which is about 33–42% of the test.

Worked Examples

Worked Example 1

Above and Below Sea Level

A bird flies 15 feet above sea level. A fish swims 6 feet below sea level. Write each as a number and compare.
  1. 1Above sea level is positive: 15. Below sea level is negative: −6.
  2. 20 means sea level.
  3. 3On a vertical number line, −6 is below 15, so −6 < 15.
Answer: 15 and −6; the fish is lower (−6 < 15)

Worked Example 2

Comparing Debts

Maria owes $25 and Leo owes $40. Write each as a number. Who is more in debt?
  1. 1Money owed is negative: −25 and −40.
  2. 20 means owing nothing.
  3. 3−40 is farther below 0 than −25, so −40 < −25.
Answer: Leo is more in debt

Common Mistakes to Watch For

Using the wrong sign

Wrong:A debt of $30 is written as +30.

Money owed is below zero: −30.

Thinking a bigger debt is a greater number

Wrong:−40 > −25 because Leo owes more.

Leo owes more, but his balance is lower: −40 < −25.

Helpful Math Tip

Use a thermometer or a bank statement to talk about what 0 means and what "below zero" looks like.

Related Grade 6 Skills

MA.6.NSO.1.1

Rational Numbers: Plot, Order, and Compare

MA.6.NSO.1.3

Absolute Value

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Independent Educational Platform. FastChomp is published by Tropical Learning LLC and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by the Florida Department of Education. FAST and Star assessment names are referenced for informational purposes only. FastChomp practice questions are original educational materials, not official Florida FAST assessment questions.