Answer Key for Lesson 2.2 Subtracting Integers with Solutions

Start by applying the rule that when subtracting two numbers with the same sign, you add their absolute values and keep the sign. For example, when calculating -7 – 5, the result is -12. Similarly, for numbers with different signs, subtract the smaller absolute value from the larger one and keep the sign of the number with the larger absolute value. So, for -7 + 5, the result is -2.

When working with negative numbers, always keep in mind that subtracting a negative value is equivalent to adding the positive of that number. Thus, -7 – (-5) becomes -7 + 5, resulting in -2. It’s important to recognize and consistently apply this principle to avoid common mistakes during calculations.

For additional practice, carefully consider the direction of the number line when performing operations. Positive values move right and negative values move left. This visual understanding can make it easier to predict and check the correctness of your results.