Logic Masters · Ages 11 to 12
Directed Number Line Operations
Add and subtract integers using a directed number line from −10 to +10. A Grade 6–7 directed numbers worksheet with answer keys.
The learning journey
Every activity is one step. Here is where this one fits.
- PlayLearn the idea in a game
- Practise(you are here)Lock it in on paper
- ReviewCome back and keep it sharp
- MasterTake on a harder challenge
- AchieveEarn a certificate
About Directed Number Line Operations
Directed Number Line Operations gives Grade 6 and 7 learners a clear, visual way to add and subtract integers, including negatives. Each question starts at a value on a number line running from negative ten to positive ten and asks the student to add or subtract an amount, following the jump along the line to see where they land. Working with directed numbers is a major step in lower-secondary mathematics across the US, UK, Canada and Australia, and one that many students find confusing when it is taught only as a set of sign rules. Seeing the operation as movement along a line, to the right for adding and to the left for subtracting, builds genuine understanding of why the answers come out as they do, especially when crossing zero into negative territory. The line is fully labelled so students always have clear reference points, and each question shows the starting point and the jump. The five levels vary the starting values and steps so the worksheet stays fresh and reusable. Each page prints cleanly on a standard A4 sheet, and every level downloads with its own answer key giving the landing value for each question. There is no advertising and no sign-up. Use it to build confidence with negatives or alongside our number games.
Common questions
- Does this include negative numbers?
- Yes, the line runs from −10 to +10 so jumps cross into negative values.
- What grade is this for?
- Grade 6 to Grade 7 learners aged 11 to 12.
- Is an answer key included?
- Yes, every level gives the landing value for each question.
A hand for grown-ups
- Before you start
- Have something countable nearby. Being able to check "3 and 2 really is 5" by counting builds trust in the maths.
- While they work
- If a sum is hard, suggest counting on from the bigger number rather than counting both from one. It is a real strategy, not a crutch.
- Afterwards
- Try one together out loud, talking through how you worked it out. Hearing an adult think aloud is genuinely useful.
- Watch out for
- Counting both numbers from one every time. Nudge gently towards "start at the bigger one and count on".
- Away from the screen
- Add up small shopping items, or dots on two dice. Board games with dice are addition practice in disguise.
Where to go next
Chosen by the skills this activity practises.