SOLUTION: If the idea of negative is taken as the opposite of positive, the number line could be used to explain taking away a negative. The idea of negative means change direction. Consider

Question 717332: If the idea of negative is taken as the opposite of positive, the number line could be used to explain taking away a negative. The idea of negative means change direction. Consider the following:
4+7-3-(-4)- -7
Starting at zero, proceed from there to the right by 4 units. Now add (go in the same direction) seven more units and end up at 11 on the line. At this point, change directions because of the - sign and go to the left 3 units and end up on the eight on the line. Now continue to go left but wait, the second negative tells you to change directions. Go to the right 4 units and end up on the twelce on the number line. Start to the lefr again but the second negative sign in a row te,ls you to change directions so proceed to the right again but end on the nineteen spot on the number line.
Using a car as an example and the idea of go forward (go straight) and reversd (turn around) write the procedures for the car to follow:
a) -3+4-(-5)+(-7)+2
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If the car is to return home, state the number that would get it there.
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b) 9-(-7)+(+5)-3+(-8)+(-4)
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If the car is to return home, state the number that would get it there.
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Answer by lynnlo(4176) (Show Source): You can put this solution on YOUR website!

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