2.2.1.3 - Subtraction of Integers (Keep-Change-Opposite Rule)

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Understanding Subtraction Through the Keep-Change-Opposite Rule

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0:00
Teacher
Teacher

Today, we're going to learn how to subtract integers using the Keep-Change-Opposite Rule. Can anyone tell me what subtraction means?

Student 1
Student 1

It means finding the difference between two numbers.

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! Now, things can get a bit complex when we're subtracting negative numbers. Let's say we have 5 - 3. It's easy because both are positive. But how do we subtract when one is negative?

Student 2
Student 2

We might confuse it!

Teacher
Teacher

Right! That's where the Keep-Change-Opposite Rule comes in handy. Let's break it down: First, we 'Keep' the first number, which is 5. Next, we 'Change' the minus sign to a plus sign. Finally, we 'Opposite' the second number. So, instead of subtracting 3, we add -3. What would that look like?

Student 3
Student 3

It would be 5 + (-3)!

Teacher
Teacher

Great! And what does that equal?

Student 4
Student 4

Thatโ€™s 2!

Teacher
Teacher

Well done! So, remember, when you see subtraction, think Keep-Change-Opposite. Let's summarize this rule: Keep the first number, Change the sign to addition, and Opposite the second number!

Applying the Keep-Change-Opposite Rule

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Teacher
Teacher

Now, let's practice! What is 7 - 4?

Student 1
Student 1

That's just 3.

Teacher
Teacher

Correct! But how about 7 - (-4)? Whatโ€™s our first step?

Student 2
Student 2

We Keep 7!

Student 3
Student 3

Change it to addition!

Student 4
Student 4

And Opposite the -4 to +4!

Teacher
Teacher

Excellent! So now we have 7 + 4, which equals what?

Student 1
Student 1

11!

Teacher
Teacher

Great! Remember, when subtracting, particularly with negative numbers, Always Keep, Change, and Opposite. Let's try one more: What about -2 - 5?

Student 2
Student 2

That's -2 + (-5), which is -7!

Teacher
Teacher

Exactly! Remember, the Keep-Change-Opposite rule helps make our calculations simpler. Excellent work everyone!

Real-Life Applications and Challenges

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Teacher
Teacher

Can anyone think of a real-life situation where weโ€™d need to subtract integers?

Student 3
Student 3

Like when keeping score in a game!

Student 1
Student 1

Or when calculating temperatures below zero!

Teacher
Teacher

Excellent examples! In games, scores can sometimes be negative, and in temperatures, we often deal with both positive and negative values. Let's do a quick calculation together involving temperatures. If the temperature is -3 degrees and it decreases by 5 degrees, how do we calculate that using our rule?

Student 2
Student 2

It becomes -3 - 5, which we can use Keep-Change-Opposite!

Student 4
Student 4

So, it becomes -3 + (-5), which is -8 degrees!

Teacher
Teacher

Perfect application! Remember, subtraction in real life often aligns with our Keep-Change-Opposite strategy, helping us stay clear about calculations.

Introduction & Overview

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Quick Overview

This section covers the 'Keep-Change-Opposite' rule for subtracting integers, providing a systematic approach to handle the operation effectively.

Standard

The 'Keep-Change-Opposite' rule is essential for subtracting integers, particularly when dealing with negative numbers. This section provides clarity on how to apply this rule while performing subtraction on integers, using various practical examples.

Detailed

Subtraction of Integers (Keep-Change-Opposite Rule)

Subtraction of integers can be tricky, particularly when negative numbers are involved. However, the 'Keep-Change-Opposite' rule makes this process more straightforward. This rule consists of three simple steps to align the operation with the properties of addition:
- Keep the first number as it is.
- Change the subtraction sign to addition.
- Opposite the second number (if itโ€™s positive, make it negative, and vice versa).

This method allows us to convert a subtraction problem into an addition problem, making it easier to visualize and calculate. Understanding this rule is crucial for fluency in operations with integers, which sets the foundation for more complex mathematical concepts encountered later in the chapter.

Definitions & Key Concepts

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Key Concepts

  • Keep-Change-Opposite: The method of transforming a subtraction problem into an addition problem by keeping the first integer, changing the sign, and taking the opposite of the second integer.

  • Opposite Numbers: The concept of changing the sign of a number which aids in operations involving integers.

Examples & Real-Life Applications

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Examples

  • 7 - (-3) = 7 + 3 = 10 (Using the Keep-Change-Opposite rule)

  • -5 - 4 = -5 + (-4) = -9 (Changing to addition with opposite)

Memory Aids

Use mnemonics, acronyms, or visual cues to help remember key information more easily.

๐ŸŽต Rhymes Time

  • Keep the first, change your sign, opposite the second, everything will be fine!

๐Ÿ“– Fascinating Stories

  • Imagine you have a bank account. You have $5 and you want to withdraw $3. Now, if someone says you owe $4 instead, just remember: Keep your 5, change to giving, and opposite the demand!

๐Ÿง  Other Memory Gems

  • KCO - Keep-Change-Opposite, helps you when numbers become negative.

๐ŸŽฏ Super Acronyms

K-C-O is the way, to subtract and save your day!

Flash Cards

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Glossary of Terms

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  • Term: Subtraction

    Definition:

    The operation of finding the difference between two numbers.

  • Term: KeepChangeOpposite Rule

    Definition:

    A technique for subtracting integers that involves keeping the first number, changing the operation to addition, and taking the opposite of the second number.

  • Term: Opposite Number

    Definition:

    The additive inverse of a number; changing its sign (from positive to negative or vice versa).