Adding Rational Numbers

Introduction

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As a hook, ask students why adding rational numbers is important in everyday life. For example, how might adding negative integers be useful when keeping track of your spending? In this lesson, we will explore the concept of adding rational numbers, including negative fractions, decimals, and integers. We will also see how adding rational numbers can be used in real-life situations, such as budgeting for travel expenses and balancing accounts.

Follow the guided notes to introduce the following: What are rational numbers, how are the rules for rational numbers related to the properties of integers, signs for rational number addition, steps to add rational numbers, and key example (pg. 1 of guided notes).

Walk through the key points of each topic and refer to the FAQ below for a walkthrough on this, as well as ideas on how to respond to common student questions. On the following page, students will have the opportunity to practice with different types of rational numbers, including fractions, integers, and decimals (pg. 2 of guided notes). Call on students to talk through their answers, potentially on the whiteboard or projector. Based on student responses, reteach concepts that students need extra help with.

Practice

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Have students practice adding rational numbers using the Integers Decimals Fractions Sheet. Walk around to answer student questions.

Fast finishers can dive into the practice sheet with problems instead of individual bubbles (pg. 3 of guided notes) or color by number (pg. 4 of guided notes) for extra practice. You can assign it as homework for the remainder of the class.

Real-Life Application

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Bring the class back together, and introduce the concept of budgeting for travel expenses. Explain how adding rational numbers can be used to calculate expenses and keep track of spending. Ask students to brainstorm other real-life situations where adding rational numbers might be useful, such as balancing a checkbook or calculating the total cost of items in a shopping cart. Refer to the FAQ for more ideas on how to teach it!” Stop after writing this section and do not generate the rest of the document.

Additional self-checking digital practice

If you're looking for digital practice for adding and subtracting rational numbers, try these Pixel Art activities in Google Sheets. Every answer is automatically checked, and correct answers unlock parts of a mystery picture. It's incredibly fun, and a powerful tool for differentiation.

Here are 2 activities to explore:

• Add and Subtract Integers Using Number Lines Pixel Art
• Fall Adding and Subtracting Rational Numbers 2 Self-Checking Pixel Art

Additional print practice

A fun, no-prep way to practice adding and subtracting rational numbers is Doodle & Color by Number — they’re a fresh take on color by number or color by code. It includes multiple levels levels of practice, perfect for a review day or sub plan.

Try this:

• Adding and Subtracting Rational Numbers Doodle Math