Positive numbers are greater than zero, negative numbers are less than zero. Opposite numbers are the same distance from zero but in opposite directions. Integers include all whole numbers and their opposites on a number line. When adding positive and negative numbers, if the signs are the same you add the numbers and keep the sign, if the signs are different you subtract the smaller number and use the sign of the larger number. Adding numbers on a number line involves counting right for positive numbers and left for negative numbers.
11. Hint: If you don’t see a sign in front of a number, don’t panic! No sign means it is a positive number!
12. Addition Rules If the signs are the same, cross them out and pretend they are not there and add as you normally would. After adding the numbers together, place the sign in front of the answer.
14. Rule # 2: If the signs are different, pretend they are the same and subtract the smallest number and add the sign of the largest number to your answer.
15. For Example: Subtract the numbers normally and add the sign of the largest number: 5-3=2 add sign =-2
