Distance from Zero: Exploring Absolute Value

Mathematics Grades 7th Grade 2:22 Video
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Lesson Description

Learn about absolute value and how it represents the distance of a number from zero on the number line. This lesson uses examples with integers to build a strong foundation in understanding absolute value.

Video Resource

Absolute value of integers | Negative numbers and absolute value | Pre-Algebra | Khan Academy

Khan Academy

Duration: 2:22
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Key Concepts

  • Absolute Value
  • Distance from Zero
  • Integers
  • Number Line

Learning Objectives

  • Students will be able to define absolute value as the distance of a number from zero.
  • Students will be able to determine the absolute value of integers.
  • Students will be able to represent absolute value on a number line.

Educator Instructions

  • Introduction (5 mins)
    Begin by asking students what they know about absolute value. Briefly discuss the concept of distance. Introduce the idea that absolute value represents a number's distance from zero, regardless of direction.
  • Video Explanation (10 mins)
    Play the Khan Academy video "Absolute value of integers" (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r6hS_8nm1jM). Encourage students to take notes on the definition of absolute value and how it is calculated. Pause the video at key points to allow for clarification and questions.
  • Guided Practice (10 mins)
    Work through example problems similar to those in the video. Start with simple integers (both positive and negative) and gradually increase the complexity. Emphasize the visual representation on a number line.
  • Independent Practice (10 mins)
    Provide students with a worksheet containing a variety of absolute value problems to solve independently. Circulate to provide assistance and answer questions.
  • Review and Wrap-up (5 mins)
    Review the key concepts of absolute value and address any remaining questions. Preview upcoming lessons on related topics.

Interactive Exercises

  • Number Line Activity
    Provide students with a number line and ask them to plot integers and then determine their absolute values by counting the distance from zero.
  • Absolute Value Game
    Create a simple game where students are given an integer and must quickly determine its absolute value. This can be done as a class or in small groups.

Discussion Questions

  • What is the difference between a number and its absolute value?
  • Can absolute value ever be negative? Why or why not?
  • How can a number line help you understand absolute value?
  • Where might you see absolute value used in real-world situations?

Skills Developed

  • Understanding Absolute Value
  • Problem-Solving
  • Number Line Visualization
  • Critical Thinking

Multiple Choice Questions

Question 1:

What does absolute value represent?

Correct Answer: The distance of a number from zero

Question 2:

What is the absolute value of -7?

Correct Answer: 7

Question 3:

What is the absolute value of 12?

Correct Answer: 12

Question 4:

Which of the following is NOT true about absolute value?

Correct Answer: It can be negative

Question 5:

What is the absolute value of 0?

Correct Answer: 0

Question 6:

What is | -15 |?

Correct Answer: 15

Question 7:

What is | 8 |?

Correct Answer: 8

Question 8:

Which number has an absolute value of 5?

Correct Answer: -5

Question 9:

If |x| = 3, what are the possible values of x?

Correct Answer: 3 and -3

Question 10:

The absolute value of a number is always...

Correct Answer: Positive or Zero

Fill in the Blank Questions

Question 1:

Absolute value is the _________ of a number from zero.

Correct Answer: distance

Question 2:

The absolute value of -9 is _________.

Correct Answer: 9

Question 3:

The symbol for absolute value is _________.

Correct Answer: |

Question 4:

The absolute value of 15 is _________.

Correct Answer: 15

Question 5:

The absolute value of any number will always be positive or _________.

Correct Answer: zero

Question 6:

| -20 | = _________

Correct Answer: 20

Question 7:

| 32 | = _________

Correct Answer: 32

Question 8:

If |x| = 7, then x can be 7 or _________.

Correct Answer: -7

Question 9:

The distance of -11 from zero is _________.

Correct Answer: 11

Question 10:

The absolute value of a number is never _________.

Correct Answer: negative

Educational Standards

7.N.1.3:[Objective] Explain the relationship between the absolute value of a rational number and the distance of that number from zero on a number line. Use the symbol for absolute value. Apply the concept of absolute value to model and solve problems. 7.N.1:[Standard] Read, write, represent, and compare rational numbers, expressed as integers, fractions, and decimals. Explain and apply the concept of absolute value.

Teaching Materials

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