Worked Example 1
Adding a Negative and a Positive
−8 + 5
- 1Start at −8 on a number line and move 5 to the right.
- 2You stop at −3.
- 3−8 + 5 = −3
Answer: −3
Florida Grade 6 Math · Number Sense and Operations
MA.6.NSO.4.1: Adding and Subtracting Integers
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.4.1?
Students add and subtract integers (positive and negative whole numbers) with procedural fluency, starting with number lines and models.
Subtracting a number is the same as adding its opposite: p − q = p + (−q). So 4 − (−6) = 4 + 6 = 10.
Official benchmarkApply and extend previous understandings of operations with whole numbers to add and subtract integers with procedural fluency.
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
Subtracting a Negative
4 − (−6)
- 1Subtracting −6 is the same as adding 6.
- 24 − (−6) = 4 + 6 = 10
Answer: 10
Common Mistakes to Watch For
Ignoring the sign of a negative number
Wrong:−3 − 5 = 2
Start at −3 and move 5 more to the left: −3 − 5 = −8.
Subtracting a negative as if it were positive
Wrong:7 − (−2) = 5
Subtracting a negative means adding its opposite: 7 − (−2) = 7 + 2 = 9.
Helpful Math Tip
Use a thermometer or elevator picture: adding a positive goes up, adding a negative goes down, and subtracting a negative goes up.
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.