How to Graph Integers on a Number Line

Integers are whole numbers that are positive and negative numbers on the number line.

By the numbers. Numbers are everywhere. Three stars in the sky, five cars riding down the road. Numbers are categorized by different titles. One such title is integer. An integer is a whole number that is either negative or positive. For example, 3, 7, 8 and 6 are positive integers. However, -5, -3, -1 and -4 are negative integers. Integers are not expressed in decimals or parts.

Things You'll Need

• Graph paper
• Ruler
• Pencil

Instructions

Number Line Basics

1. Draw a line on a piece of graph paper using the ruler and pencil.

2. Insert hash marks to indicate the integers that will be graphed on the number line. For example, draw a hash mark for 0 in the middle and moving to the left of the zero, write -1, -2, -3, -4, -5 up to -9. Then to the right of the 0, write 1 through 9, all positive numbers, making a hash mark for each number.

3. Provide the students with a series of numbers such as -5, 7, 3 and -2.

4. Mark with a little circle on the number line the integers you gave the students in Step 3. Students should have four darkened circles directly on the number line.

References

• ETAP: Integers
• Mathgoodies: Integers

Resources

• Classroom JC Schools: Integer Activities