Negative numbers for primary learners
Introduce numbers below zero using temperature, lifts and number lines.
Quick answer
Negative numbers are numbers that are less than zero. They are used to show temperatures below freezing, floors below ground, and debts. You can think of them as going backwards on a number line.
Learning outcome
By the end of this page, you will understand how negative numbers work and be able to use them in everyday situations like temperature and lifts.
- You can identify negative numbers on a number line
- You can explain what negative numbers mean in real life
- You can compare negative numbers to positive numbers
- You can solve simple problems using negative numbers
Why this matters
Learning about negative numbers helps you understand the world around you. You might see temperatures below zero, or go down in a lift to the basement. Negative numbers help you count and compare things that go below zero. This skill is useful for money, science, maps, and even video games. Understanding negative numbers will help you in maths later on, like when you learn about subtraction and algebra.
How it works
Think of a number line that goes from left to right. Zero is in the middle. Numbers to the right are positive. Numbers to the left are negative.
- Start at zero on the number line
- Move to the right for positive numbers
- Move to the left for negative numbers
- Each step is one number
For example, if you start at zero and go left 3 steps, you land on -3.
Examples you can see
Let’s look at some real examples of negative numbers:
| Real-world Example | Negative Number | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| Temperature | -5°C | Five degrees below zero |
| Lift going down | -2 | Two floors below ground |
| Bank account | -£10 | £10 in debt |
| Sea level | -10m | Ten metres below sea level |
These numbers are all less than zero, so they are negative numbers.
Try it as a mini adventure
Imagine you are going on a treasure hunt in a mountain cave. The cave has different levels:
- Level 0 is the entrance
- Level 1 is the first room
- Level -1 is the underground lake
- Level -2 is the secret tunnel
Let’s go on a journey!
- Start at level 0
- Go down 1 level to -1
- Go down 1 more level to -2
- Go up 1 level to -1
- Go up 1 level to 0
Now you are back at the entrance. You can see how negative numbers work by going down into the cave!
Common mistakes
- Mistake: Thinking -5 is bigger than -2
Why it happens: Children often think the bigger number is always bigger, but negative numbers are different.
Fix: Remember that -5 is further from zero than -2, so -5 is smaller. - Mistake: Confusing positive and negative signs
Why it happens: The minus sign can be confusing when used for subtraction or negative numbers.
Fix: Use a number line to show that -5 is to the left of -2. - Mistake: Not understanding that -0 is the same as 0
Why it happens: The idea of negative zero can be strange.
Fix: Explain that -0 is just 0, and there is no difference.
Parent and carer guide
Helping your child with negative numbers can be fun and easy. Here are 5 simple tips:
- Use a number line to show how numbers go left and right
- Ask questions like, "If it’s -3°C, is it warmer or colder than 0°C?"
- Use everyday examples like going down in a lift or a temperature reading
- Play games where you move forwards and backwards on a number line
- Be patient and let your child make mistakes - they are part of learning!
Remember, negative numbers are a big idea. Don’t worry if it takes time to understand. Keep practicing with real-life examples and games!
Practice questions
- What number is 3 steps to the left of 0 on the number line?
Answer: -3 - Is -7 smaller or bigger than -3?
Answer: Smaller - What is the temperature if it is 5 degrees below zero?
Answer: -5°C - If you go down 4 floors in a lift, what floor are you on?
Answer: -4 - Which is further from zero: -8 or -2?
Answer: -8
FAQ
What are negative numbers?
Negative numbers are numbers that are less than zero. They are written with a minus sign (-) in front.
Can you give more examples of negative numbers?
Yes! Other examples are -10, -15, -100, and -0.5.
How do I know which negative number is bigger?
The number further from zero is bigger. For example, -2 is bigger than -5.
Why do we need negative numbers?
Negative numbers help us measure things that go below zero, like temperatures, depths, and debts.
Are negative numbers used in games?
Yes! In video games, you might see negative scores or go below ground levels.