Worked Example 1
Finding Absolute Values
Find |−7| and |4.5|.
- 1−7 is 7 units from 0, so |−7| = 7.
- 24.5 is 4.5 units from 0, so |4.5| = 4.5.
Answer: 7 and 4.5
Florida Grade 6 Math · Number Sense and Operations
MA.6.NSO.1.3: Absolute Value
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
What Is Benchmark MA.6.NSO.1.3?
The absolute value of a number is its distance from 0 on a number line. It is written with bars: |−7| = 7 and |7| = 7.
Because distance is never negative, absolute value is never negative. A number and its opposite are mirror images across 0, so they have the same absolute value.
Official benchmarkGiven a mathematical or real-world context, interpret the absolute value of a number as the distance from zero on a number line. Find the absolute value of rational numbers.
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 2
Absolute Value in Context
A diver is at an elevation of −30 feet. How far below sea level is she?
- 1Distance from sea level (0) is the absolute value.
- 2|−30| = 30
Answer: 30 feet below sea level
Common Mistakes to Watch For
Making the absolute value negative
Wrong:|8| = −8
Absolute value is a distance, so it is never negative: |8| = 8.
Using absolute value to compare numbers
Wrong:−9 > 4 because |−9| > |4|
−9 is farther from 0, but it is to the left of 4. −9 < 4.
Helpful Math Tip
Ask, "How many steps from zero?" for any number. The answer is its absolute value, no matter which direction.
Related Grade 6 Skills
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Start Practicing FreeIndependent 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.