Integer Lines
About This Worksheet
This worksheet helps sixth-grade students understand integers by placing positive and negative numbers on a number line. Students first plot several integers, then use number-line clues to identify missing values. The activity makes the idea of numbers being to the left or right of zero much easier to see. It is a good choice for students who are just beginning to work with negative numbers.
What Students Practice
Students plot positive integers, negative integers, and zero on number lines. They also interpret phrases such as spaces to the left of zero, spaces to the right of zero, and halfway between two values. The questions ask students to connect position with numerical value instead of only memorizing signs. This gives them useful practice with both number sense and spatial reasoning.
Why This Matters
Integers are the foundation for later work with rational numbers, coordinate planes, equations, and real-world situations involving gains and losses. Students need to understand that values farther left on a number line are smaller, even when the digits themselves look larger. Working with a number line helps make that relationship visible. This visual understanding can prevent many common mistakes when students begin comparing or operating with negative numbers.
Teaching Tips
Have students locate zero first before plotting any other value. Encourage them to count spaces carefully and point in the correct direction as they move along the line. If a student becomes confused, ask whether the clue is moving left or right from zero. You can also have them say each integer aloud as they move from one tick mark to the next.
Curriculum Standards
This worksheet supports CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.6.NS.C.6, which asks sixth-grade students to understand rational numbers as points on a number line. It also supports CCSS.MATH.CONTENT.6.NS.C.6.A by reinforcing the idea that positive and negative numbers lie on opposite sides of zero. The activity works well as an introduction, guided practice page, or review before students begin comparing integers.