Subtracting Integers Game

Subtracting Integers Game
This game focus on the mental “Keep, Change, Change” algorithm. The player is presented with a subtraction problem and must first transform it into an addition problem before they can submit the final solution. Scroll down for a detailed explanation.
 

 

The “Keep-Change-Change” Rule
Subtracting an integer is mathematically identical to adding its opposite. This transformation using the keep-change-change rule is a reliable way to avoid mistakes with negative signs.

How to Play the Subtracting Integers Game
Getting Started

1. Choose Your Mode: From the Main Menu, select how you want to play:
   Guided Mode: The game fills in the first number for you. You use a dropdown to change the sign and type in the “opposite” of the second number.
   Expert Mode: You have to manually type the entire new equation (Keep the first, Change the sign, Change the second).
   
2. The Goal: Earn a perfect score by completing both the transformation and the final answer correctly on your first try.
   

Step 1: The Transformation (Keep-Change-Change)
When you see a problem like 5 - (-3), you must transform it before solving:

1. KEEP: Look at the first number. Don’t touch it! Just rewrite it exactly as it is.
   
2. CHANGE: Change the subtraction sign (-) into an addition sign (+).
   
3. CHANGE: Change the second number to its opposite.
   If it was positive, make it negative.
   If it was negative, make it positive.
   Example: 5 - (-3) becomes 5 + 3.
   

Step 2: Solve It
Once you’ve successfully transformed the problem, the game will reveal the Result box.
Now, add the two numbers together using standard integer addition rules.
Same Signs? Add the numbers and keep the sign.
Different Signs? Subtract the smaller absolute value from the larger and keep the sign of the “bigger” number.

Scoring & Feedback
Score: Displayed as Number Correct / Number Attempted. To get a “Correct” point, you must get the transformation and the answer right without making a mistake.
Sound & Color:
Green / High Note: You got it right.
Red / Low Note: Something is wrong. Check your signs and try again.

This video gives a clear, step-by-step approach to subtracting integers by adding the opposite.

• Show Video

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