Introduction
In Year 7 maths, children begin working more confidently with negative numbers. This skill is important for tackling algebra, graphs, and real-life maths problems later on. As a homeschooling parent, you can help your child understand negative numbers with simple explanations, practical examples, and fun activities that make learning at home feel less intimidating.
Understanding the Concept
Negative numbers are numbers less than zero. They are often shown on a number line extending to the left of zero. Children may already know negatives from everyday life—like temperatures below zero or owing money.
Key points for Year 7 maths:
- Negative numbers are smaller than zero.
- They can be added, subtracted, multiplied, and divided like positive numbers (with some rules).
- Number lines help visualise how negatives work.
Step-by-Step Guidance
Step 1 – Visualising Negative Numbers
Start with a number line that stretches below zero. Explain:
- 0 is the middle.
- Numbers increase going right (+1, +2, +3…).
- Numbers decrease going left (–1, –2, –3…).
👉 Example: “If today is 2°C and tomorrow is –3°C, has the temperature gone up or down?”
Step 2 – Adding and Subtracting Negatives
Rule of thumb:
- Adding a negative = moving left.
- Subtracting a negative = moving right.
👉 Example:
- 5 + (–3) = 2
- –4 – (–2) = –2
Use a number line so your child can “walk” the steps.
Step 3 – Multiplying and Dividing Negatives
Teach the rules clearly:
- Positive × Positive = Positive
- Positive × Negative = Negative
- Negative × Positive = Negative
- Negative × Negative = Positive
👉 Example:
- (–3) × (–4) = +12
- (–8) ÷ (–2) = +4
A good way to remember: “Two negatives make a positive.”
Step 4 – Practice with Real-Life Examples
- Bank balance: “If you have –£10 and earn £15, what’s your balance?”
- Temperatures: “If it’s –2°C in the morning and rises by 6°C, what’s the new temperature?”
Hands-On Activities
1. Temperature Tracker
Check the daily weather and write down temperatures. Ask:
- “What’s the difference between –4°C and +3°C?”
- “If the temperature drops by 5 degrees from –2°C, what will it be?”
Sibling adaptation: Younger children can just say which temperature is colder/warmer. Older ones can calculate the exact changes.
2. Number Line Game
Draw a big number line on paper (or chalk it outside).
- Start your child at 0.
- Call out problems like “Move 5 steps left” (–5) or “Add –3.”
- This makes abstract maths physical and fun.
3. Debt and Credit Game
Pretend you’re running a shop:
- Use play money.
- If a child “owes” £4, they write it as –4.
- Paying it off shows how negatives and positives balance each other.
Real-Life Connections
Negative numbers are everywhere in daily life:
- Bank accounts (overdrafts and debts).
- Temperatures (below freezing).
- Lifts (basement levels like –1 or –2).
Linking maths to real-life examples makes the concept more meaningful.
Common Mistakes
- Forgetting the rule that subtracting a negative is the same as adding.
- Thinking –6 is larger than –2 (it’s actually smaller).
- Mixing up signs when multiplying or dividing.
Don’t worry if this happens—it’s part of learning and practice will help.
Free Online Resources
- BBC Bitesize – Negative Numbers – Clear explanations and practice questions.
- Topmarks – Negative Numbers Games – Interactive and free to use.
- Maths Is Fun – Simple, parent-friendly explanations.
Closing Encouragement
Negative numbers can feel confusing at first, but with plenty of visuals, number lines, and real-life practice, your child will gain confidence. If they continue to struggle, a maths tutor can provide step-by-step support to strengthen their foundation.
Extra Support with Battersea House
At Battersea House, we know every child learns differently, and sometimes a little extra guidance can make all the difference. Alongside our free homeschooling resources, we also offer personalised online tutoring to help children grow in confidence and achieve their full potential. If you’d like tailored support in maths, English, or beyond, visit batterseahouse.co.uk to learn more.