Integers: The World of Positive and Negative Numbers

Integers include all whole numbers, both positive and negative, as well as zero. They're used to show gains, losses, temperatures, elevations, and more.

Getting to Know Integers

• Positive Integers: Numbers greater than zero (\( 1, 2, 3, \ldots \))
• Negative Integers: Numbers less than zero (\( -1, -2, -3, \ldots \))
• Zero: The center point between positives and negatives

Adding and Subtracting Integers

To add a negative number, move to the left on the number line; to add a positive, move right.

Real-World Uses

You see integers when you look at temperatures below and above zero, or when keeping score in a game.

Practice

Try drawing a number line and marking positive and negative numbers to get a feel for how they work.