S1 and S2 topic guide

Negative Numbers

Negative numbers describe values below zero, such as a temperature below freezing or a balance below zero. They are a core part of S1 and S2 maths practice based on Scotland’s Curriculum for Excellence.

Worked example

Calculate −5 + 8. Starting at −5 and moving 8 steps right reaches 3.

Common mistakes

Adding a positive number moves right on a number line; subtracting a positive number moves left. Keep the sign with each number.

Helpful hints appear after incorrect answers, then you can retry the question. This is practice support, not a formal assessment.

Use this in S1 maths practice or S2 maths practice, then start practice or create an account.