Learn to add and subtract integers using visual models
ð Understanding Integer Chips
What are Integer Chips?
Integer chips (or tiles) are a visual tool to help understand positive and negative numbers:
+
Positive chip = +1
â
Negative chip = â1
⥠Zero Pairs - The Key Concept!
When a positive chip and a negative chip combine, they form a zero pair and cancel each other out:
+
â
=0
This is like having $1 and owing $1 â they cancel out to zero!
ðŪ Interactive Practice
+
â
Click on any example to see how it works:
3 + 4
Adding two positive numbers
â3 + (â4)
Adding two negative numbers
5 + (â3)
Adding positive and negative
â2 + 6
Negative plus positive
5 â 2
Subtracting a positive
3 â 5
Subtracting a larger number
â4 â 2
Subtracting from negative
2 â (â3)
Subtracting a negative
ð How It Works
Adding Integers
1
Represent each number with chips (positive chips for positive numbers, negative chips for negative numbers)
2
Place all chips together in the workspace
3
Find and remove zero pairs (one positive and one negative chip)
4
Count the remaining chips â that's your answer!
Subtracting Integers
1
Start with chips representing the first number
2
To subtract, try to remove that many chips of that type
3
If you don't have enough chips to remove, add zero pairs (equal positive and negative chips) until you do
4
Remove the chips you're subtracting
5
Count what's left â that's your answer!
ðĻ Free Play Mode
Build Your Own Problem!
Add or remove chips to see the result update in real-time. Experiment and explore!
Click the buttons above to add chips!
Current Value: 0
Why Use Integer Chips to Master Addition and Subtraction?
Learning to add and subtract integers can be challenging for students, especially when dealing with negative numbers. This interactive tool transforms abstract concepts into concrete, visual experiences that make integer operations intuitive and engaging.
For Students:
This hands-on approach lets you see exactly what happens when numbers combine. Green chips represent positive numbers, while red chips represent negative numbers. Instead of memorizing confusing rules like "subtracting a negative means adding a positive," you'll understand WHY operations work the way they do. The interactive visualizations show each step of the process, from placing initial chips to identifying zero pairs (where positive and negative chips cancel out) to arriving at the final answer. You can experiment freely in the practice mode, building problems at your own pace and immediately seeing results. This builds confidence and deep understanding that goes far beyond rote memorization.
For Teachers:
This tool addresses a critical pain point in mathematics education: helping students develop number sense with integers. The step-by-step animations make your instruction more effective by providing consistent, clear visual models that reinforce your teaching. Students can practice independently while you work with small groups, and the immediate feedback helps them self-correct without waiting for teacher intervention. The guided examples cover all essential scenarios, from adding same-sign integers to the trickier concept of subtracting negatives. Use it for whole-class demonstrations on a projector, assign it for homework practice, or incorporate it into learning stations.