➕➖ Sign of a Number 📚 Grade 4-5 ⏱ 6 min
Positive and Negative Numbers: Full Comparison
After getting to know the thermometer, it helps to lock in the general understanding of positive and negative numbers with more examples.
Positive numbers — greater than zero
Regular numbers a child already works with: 1, 5, 100 — all positive. The "plus" sign is often left off.
💡 Anchor: an elevator — floors above ground are positive, basement floors are negative.
Negative numbers — less than zero
Debt, temperature below zero, a basement floor — all real-life examples of negative numbers.
FAQ
Where else do negative numbers show up besides temperature?
Debts, elevations below sea level, scores in a game with penalty points.