Rational Number Addition and Subtraction

Apply and extend previous understandings of addition and subtraction to add and subtract rational numbers; represent addition and subtraction on a horizontal or vertical number line diagram.

7.NS.1.a  Describe situations in which opposite quantities combine to make 0. For example, a hydrogen atom has 0 charge because its two constituents are oppositely charged.

7.NS.1.b  Understand p + q as the number located on a distance |q| from p, in the positive or negative direction depending on whether q is positive or negative. Show that a number and its opposite have a sum of 0 (are additive inverses). Interpret sums of rational numbers by describing real-world contexts.

7.NS.1.c  Understand subtraction of rational numbers as adding the additive inverse, p – q = p + (–q). Show that the distance between two rational numbers on the number line is the absolute value of their difference, and apply this principal in real-world contexts.

7.NS.1.d  Apply properties of operations as strategies to add and subtract rational numbers.

Target skill

Prerequisite
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Indirect path

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Resources for this Map

Learning Map Information

An overview of the standards, the learning map section, and the nodes addressed in this unit.

Teacher Notes

A brief discussion describing the progression depicted in the learning map section document with research-based recommendations for focusing instruction to foster student learning and an introduction to the unit’s lessons.

Lesson 1

In this lesson, students will be introduced to integer operations through a credit and debit activity where negative numbers and addition and subtraction of integers surface as a result of familiar operations.

Lesson 2

In this lesson, students will review the number line and its symmetry, plot values on the number line, and answer questions pertaining to distance and opposite values (additive inverses) regarding the values plotted on the number line.

Lesson 3

In this lesson, students will extend their understanding of integer addition and subtraction, making connections with the number line and the concepts of credits and debits.

Lesson 4

In this lesson, students will extend their understanding of integer addition and subtraction to addition and subtraction of rational numbers.

Student Activity & Solution Guide – Lessons 1–4

A work-alone activity combining content covered in Lessons 1 through 4. A solution guide for the work-alone activity with example errors, misconceptions, and links to the learning map section is provided.