Find each sum or difference. -6 - 5

Key Concepts

Integer Operations

Integer operations involve the basic arithmetic functions of addition and subtraction applied to whole numbers, both positive and negative. Understanding how to manipulate integers is crucial, as it lays the foundation for more complex mathematical concepts. For example, subtracting a positive integer from a negative integer results in a more negative value.

Subtraction as Addition of Opposites

Subtraction can be understood as the addition of the opposite value. This means that when you subtract a number, you can instead add its negative. For instance, the expression -6 - 5 can be rewritten as -6 + (-5), which simplifies the process of finding the result by focusing on addition.

Number Line Visualization

Using a number line is a helpful visual tool for understanding operations with integers. It allows students to see the relative positions of numbers and how they change with addition or subtraction. For example, starting at -6 and moving 5 units to the left on the number line illustrates the result of the operation clearly.