Add Using Negative Numbers

To work out -3 + 5 we start at -3 on a number line and count forward 5 to get to 2

So   -3 + 5 = 2

To work out -9 + 5 we start at -9 on a number line and count forward 5 to get to -4

So   -9 + 5 = -4

Negative numbers can be a bit tricky because we don't often use them in our everyday lives. Using a number line can help us to picture what is happening when we add and subtract them.

Let's have a go at some questions.