B1.3 compare and order integers, decimal numbers, and fractions, separately and in combination, in various contexts
Activity 1: Comparing Whole Numbers with a Number Line
Which two integers are located at :
- 5 units of -2 on a number line?
- 12 units of 4 on a number line?
- 5 units of -8 on a number line?
There is a distance of 16 spaces between two opposite integers on a number line. What are these numbers?
Source: Closing the Performance Gap , Grade 9, p. 12.
Activity 2: Ordering Integers on a Number Line
Ask students to choose eight whole numbers with these criteria in mind:
- 5 negative integers
- 3 whole numbers
- include the number 0
- to locate them on a number line;
- order them from smallest to largest.
Example of a solution
While observing or listening to students, note whether students:
- understand how to place a negative integer on a number line;
- consider all possible distances between negative integers;
- understand how to order whole numbers.
Source: Adapted from Closing the Achievement Gap , Grade 9, p 7-8.
Activity 3: Plot Various Numbers on a Number Line
Invite students to place various numbers on a number line.
Source: Adapted from A Guide to Effective Instruction in Mathematics, Grades 4 to 6, p. 56.
Sample questions to ask the student:
- What strategies did you use to locate the various numbers on the number line?
- Can you justify the location of this number on the right?
- How can you use the number line to place these numbers in ascending or descending order?