Tips for working with integers

As part of working on Dead Bunny’s Guide to Algebra, I’m trying to develop tips and tricks for handling a variety of situations. While it’s helpful to understand why these work, sometimes it’s much more useful to know the tips themselves.

This week,I was working on tips for working with integers, since those often stump my students. I’m asking them for feedback, and I’m asking you to tell me what you think, too.

Adding Integers

• When adding numbers with the same sign, add the numbers together and put the sign in front of the answer.
• When adding number with different signs, subtract the numbers and put the sign of the larger number in front of the answer.

Subtracting Integers

• When subtracting integers with the same sign, subtract the integers and put the sign of the larger integer in front of the answer.
• When subtracting integers with different signs, add the integers together and put the sign of the larger number in front of the answer.

Multiplying and Dividing Integers

• When the numbers being multiplied or divided have the same sign, the answer is positive.
• When the numbers being multiplied or divided have different signs, the answer is negative.

An announcement and some math puzzles

I’ve done something terrifying. I’ve finally found a bit of time to start working on the book. I’m learning some interesting lessons along the way, rethinking how I’m presenting certain topics. I may be posting bits and pieces of the book as I work through things, so expect a reposting of certain topics, hopfully with better explanations. Don’t be afraid to leave me comments and tell me what you think.

For today, however, I leave with a link to a treasure trove of math puzzles. Who says learning math can’t be fun?

A fun way to drill

A while back, someone pointed me to Arcademic Skill Builders‘ website.  The site has several cute little games to help students drill on math and reading skills. I spent a bit of time (probably too much) playing Division Demolition, which was quite fun and would probably challenge anyone not strong in their division facts.

Hello, all! Happy 2008!

I didn’t realize just how lost this site had become under everything else.

Unfortunately, right now it’s not going to get much better.

For now, though, I do have some links to share with you guys. Maybe I’ll even dig out some quotes I’ve been hoarding.

Today’s link is pretty interesting. I think a lot of my students would benefit from it, and I hope you find it useful, too.

How to develop a mindset for math