Integer Sense and Number Lines
A free Pre-Algebra lesson from the “Number Foundations” unit, with a worked example and practice problems including step-by-step solutions.
Integers include whole numbers, their opposites, and zero. On a number line, values farther right are greater. Absolute value measures distance from zero, so it is always zero or positive. In Number Foundations, the goal is not just to get an answer but to recognize the structure of the problem, choose a reliable strategy, and explain why the result is reasonable. The practice set now includes targeted skill work, transfer questions, and mixed review so students build fluency and retention.
What you'll learn
- Compare positive and negative numbers
- Use absolute value as distance from zero
- Model integer movement on a number line
Worked example
Problem. Order -4, 2, -9, and 0 from least to greatest.
- Least means farthest left on the number line.
- -9 is left of -4, and both are left of 0.
- 2 is to the right of 0, so the order is -9, -4, 0, 2.
- Connect the calculation back to Integer Sense and Number Lines so the method, not just the arithmetic, is clear.
Answer: -9, -4, 0, 2
Lesson preview: this page shows 5 practice items. The interactive activity contains 28 practice items and 15 quiz items (multiple choice and typed response). Counts include repeated prompts and variants.
Practice problems
1. Which number is greatest?
Choices: -12 · -3 · 0 · -1
Show solution
- The greatest number is farthest right on the number line.
- 0 is to the right of every negative option.
Answer: 0
2. Which number is least?
Choices: -8 · -2 · 1 · 4
Show solution
- The least number is farthest left.
- -8 is left of -2, 1, and 4.
Answer: -8
3. What is the absolute value of -11?
Show solution
- Absolute value means distance from zero.
- -11 is 11 units from zero.
Answer: 11
4. Which comparison is true?
Choices: -6 > -2 · -3 < -10 · 5 > -1 · 0 < -7
Show solution
- Positive numbers are greater than negative numbers.
- 5 is to the right of -1.
Answer: 5 > -1
5. How many units apart are -7 and 2 on a number line?
Show solution
- Count the distance from -7 to 0, then 0 to 2.
- 7 + 2 = 9.
Answer: 9
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