Worked example 1
Plot -4, 0, and 3 on a number line, then list them from least to greatest.
On the line, -4 is 4 units left of 0, and 3 is 3 units right of 0. Left-to-right order is the increasing order.
Answer: -4 < 0 < 3
Grade 6 Math · Topic 26
Integers on a Number Line
A number line arranges integers in order from least to greatest, with zero in the middle. Negative numbers are to the left of zero and positives to the right. The further right you go, the bigger the number — even when that number is negative.
Lesson alignment: 6.NS.C.6 · Take your time. You can return to this lesson whenever you need it.
Explore visually
Place and order integers on a number line
Plot three integers, then read their positions from left to right. The location of zero separates the negative and positive values.
Think first: Where do A = −4, B = 0, and C = 3 fall? Predict their left-to-right order before you reveal the line.
Ready? Reveal the model and try your prediction
Swipe horizontally to see the full diagram.
Turn on JavaScript to adjust this model. The examples and practice below work without it.
Follow the worked examples
Read each step, then cover the explanation and see if you can explain why it works.
Worked example 2
Compare -8 and -3 using < or >.
On the number line, -8 is to the left of -3. The number farther left is smaller. So -8 < -3.
Answer: -8 < -3
Try a few on your own
Work these on paper first. Open “Check” when you are ready to compare your answer.
- -4 □ -1
Check
<
- 0 □ -5
Check
>
- -7 □ -9
Check
>
- 6 □ -6
Check
>
- -10 □ -2
Check
<
- -3 □ 3
Check
<
- -15 □ -20
Check
>
- 8 □ -8
Check
>
Try this situation 1
At 6 a.m. the temperature was -5°C. By noon it was 3°C. Which temperature is colder, and how can you tell?
Show a worked solution
Answer: -5°C is colder.
Start by writing the calculation clearly: -5 is to the left of 3 on the number line, so -5 < 3.
Try this situation 2
List the integers between -3 and 4 in order from least to greatest.
Show a worked solution
Answer: -2, -1, 0, 1, 2, 3.
“Between” excludes the endpoints. Reading left to right on the number line gives ascending order.
Fresh questions · saved on this device
Practice this skill
Try a fresh set each time. Answer one question, check your thinking, and read the explanation. If you miss one, return to the visual model and try another round.
Question 1 of 50 correct so far
Session complete
Check what you learned
Answer these five questions on your own. You can review the explanations after you submit and try again whenever you like. This short check is for practice, not a grade.
Practice and finish
Try the linked topic quiz for more practice. If something is tricky, return to the example and look for the step that changes the numbers or representation.
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More Grade 6 resources
Use these free materials if you want another explanation, extra paper practice, or a broader review.