Math Example: Language of Math--Numerical Expressions--Addition--Example 34

Topic

Numerical Expressions

Description

This example explains converting "Negative twenty added to negative eleven" into a numerical expression. The image uses color coding for emphasis, demonstrating how this statement is expressed as -11 + (-20). The term "added to" indicates addition.

Understanding how to interpret phrases like "added to" in the context of negative numbers is crucial for students' mathematical development. It helps them grasp that the order of numbers in an expression can differ from their order in a verbal statement.

Exposure to various examples helps students become comfortable with these concepts, reinforcing their understanding and improving their ability to apply these ideas in diverse mathematical situations.

Teacher Script: Let's examine this example closely. Notice how the phrase "added to" affects the order of the numbers in our expression. Why do you think -11 comes before -20? How might this change if we reversed the order?

For a complete collection of math examples related to Numerical Expressions click on this link: Math Examples: Numerical Expressions: Addition Collection.