Let’s solve each problem one by one. We’ll go slowly and carefully, especially with the negative numbers.
Remember:
- Adding a positive number means you move right on the number line.
- Adding a negative number is like subtracting — you move left.
- Subtracting a positive number also moves you left.
- Subtracting a negative number is like adding — because two negatives make a positive!
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1. 7 + 2 =
Just add them: 7 + 2 =
9
2. 7 + (-2) =
Adding -2 is the same as subtracting 2: 7 - 2 =
5
3. 7 - 2 =
Straightforward subtraction: 7 - 2 =
5
4. 7 - (-2) =
Subtracting a negative becomes addition: 7 + 2 =
9
5. 7 - (+2) =
Subtracting a positive is just normal subtraction: 7 - 2 =
5
6. -7 + 2 =
Start at -7, then add 2 → move right 2 steps: -7 + 2 =
-5
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Now the second column:
11. 2 + 7 =
Add normally: 2 + 7 =
9
12. 2 + (-7) =
Adding -7 is like subtracting 7: 2 - 7 =
-5
13. 2 - 7 =
Subtracting more than you have: 2 - 7 =
-5
14. 2 - (-7) =
Subtracting a negative becomes addition: 2 + 7 =
9
15. 2 - (+7) =
Same as 2 - 7 =
-5
16. -2 + 7 =
Start at -2, add 7 → move right 7 steps: -2 + 7 =
5
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Final Answer:
1. 9
2. 5
3. 5
4. 9
5. 5
6. -5
11. 9
12. -5
13. -5
14. 9
15. -5
16. 5
Parent Tip: Review the logic above to help your child master the concept of worksheet subtracting negative numbers.
