In this activity, we will learn how to put integers in ascending order, placing the smallest number first.

Don't be put off by the word integer - it simply means a whole number, not a fraction or a decimal.

Example

Arrange the following integers in ascending order, putting the smallest number first.

48,  56, 14, -35, -2

Answer

-35, -2, 14, 48, 56

The smallest negative number is -35, then -2.  The smallest positive number is 14.

Let's try another one:

Arrange the following integers in ascending order:

12, 0, -3, -15, 5

Answer

-15, -3, 0, 5, 12

Let's move on to some questions now.