NY Next Generation Math NY-6.NS.6.a
The Standard
Recognize opposite signs of numbers as indicating locations on opposite sides of 0 on the number line. Recognize that the opposite of the opposite of a number is the number itself, and that 0 is its own opposite.
New York State Next Generation Mathematics Learning Standards
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students recognize numbers with opposite signs as locations on opposite sides of zero. They understand that taking the opposite twice returns the original number and that zero is its own opposite.
What Mastery Looks Like
- The student places 4 and -4 equally far from zero on opposite sides. The student explains that the opposite of -4 is 4 and the opposite of 0 is 0.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may think every negative number is the opposite of every positive number. They may read the opposite of -3 as -3 instead of 3.
How to Assess It
- Ask students to plot -5, 0, and 5, then evaluate the opposite of -5, the opposite of that result, and the opposite of zero.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Fold a number line at zero to pair points that are equal distances on opposite sides.
Ask students why the opposite of the opposite of -7 returns -7.
Play opposite-pair memory with positive, negative, and zero cards linked to number-line positions.
Represent equal elevations above and below sea level as opposite signed values.
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Printable NY-6.NS.6.a Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to NY-6.NS.6.a, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
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