The problem asks how many steps you have taken in total, given that you take 6 steps forward and then 8 steps backward. Let's break this down step by step:
Step 1: Understand the problem
-
Steps forward: Moving forward is considered a positive movement.
-
Steps backward: Moving backward is considered a negative movement.
- The task is to determine the
total number of steps taken, not just the net displacement.
Step 2: Calculate the total number of steps
- You took
6 steps forward.
- You also took
8 steps backward.
- The total number of steps is the sum of the steps forward and the steps backward:
\[
\text{Total steps} = 6 + 8 = 14
\]
Step 3: Determine the net displacement
- Moving 6 steps forward can be represented as \(+6\).
- Moving 8 steps backward can be represented as \(-8\).
- The net displacement is the difference between the steps forward and the steps backward:
\[
\text{Net displacement} = 6 - 8 = -2
\]
This means you ended up 2 steps backward from your starting point.
Step 4: Clarify the question
The problem specifically asks for the
total number of steps taken, not the net displacement. Therefore, we focus on the sum of all steps (forward and backward).
Final Answer
The total number of steps taken is:
\[
\boxed{14}
\]
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of integer word problem worksheet.
