Numbers on a number line
Understand the absolute value of a rational number as its distance from zero on the number line; interpret absolute value as magnitude in real-world contexts; distinguish absolute value comparisons from ordering statements
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“Can your child tell you that the absolute value of −7 is 7 — because it's 7 steps from zero on a number line regardless of direction — and use this idea to compare distances?”
Full guide and materials
- Activity. Understand the absolute value of a rational number as its distance from zero on the number line; interpret absolute value as magnitude in real-world contexts; distinguish absolute value comparisons from ordering statements
What to notice. Define absolute value as distance from zero on a number line • Calculate the absolute value of positive and negative rational numbers • Distinguish between comparing absolute values and comparing signed numbers in real-world contexts
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Can your child tell you that the absolute value of −7 is 7 — because it's 7 steps from zero on a number line regardless of direction — and use this idea to compare distances?
Understand the absolute value of a rational number as its distance from zero on the number line; interpret absolute value as magnitude in real-world contexts; distinguish absolute value comparisons from ordering statements
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Check understanding
- Define absolute value as distance from zero on a number line
- Calculate the absolute value of positive and negative rational numbers
- Distinguish between comparing absolute values and comparing signed numbers in real-world contexts
“Can your child tell you that the absolute value of −7 is 7 — because it's 7 steps from zero on a number line regardless of direction — and use this idea to compare distances?”
Curriculum record
- Type
- Conceptual
- Subject
- Mathematics
- Domain
- Number Representation & Place Value
- Age range
- Ages 11–12
Standards