Negative numbers can make adding and subtracting really tricky for 8th graders. This often leads to confusion and mistakes.

Problems with Adding:

1. Understanding Sign Changes:

   • Many students find it hard to grasp that adding a negative number is like subtracting.
   • For example, in the problem $5 + (-3)$, some students might think it means $5 + 3$, which gives the wrong answer of $8$ instead of the right answer, $2$.

2. Number Line Challenges:

   • Using a number line can also be confusing.
   • When students need to move left for negative numbers, it can feel strange and make things harder to understand.

Problems with Subtracting:

1. Double Negatives:

   • The idea that subtracting a negative number is the same as adding can stump students.
   • For example, $5 - (-3)$ means the same thing as $5 + 3$, which is $8$. This can confuse them.

2. Order of Operations:

   • Students might not follow the order of operations correctly when negative numbers are involved.
   • This can create mistakes in problems with multiple steps.

Ways to Help Overcome These Issues:

• Visual Aids:

  • Using number lines and counters can help students see what happens when they work with negative numbers.

• Practice Exercises:

  • Doing regular practice with clear explanations can boost understanding and confidence.

• Real-Life Context:

  • Connecting numbers to real-life examples, like temperature or money owed, can make learning about integers easier and more relatable.