Learn Before
Subtracting and with Counters
Using the two-color counter model, we can visualize subtracting integers when we already have enough counters of the needed sign to take away directly.
- For , we start with 3 positive (blue) counters. We take away 1 positive counter, which leaves exactly 2 positive counters. Therefore, .
- For , we start with 3 negative (red) counters. We take away 1 negative counter, which leaves exactly 2 negative counters. Therefore, .
In both cases, because the starting number and the number being subtracted share the same sign, we can complete the subtraction simply by removing the appropriate number of counters.
0
1
Tags
OpenStax
Intermediate Algebra @ OpenStax
Ch.1 Foundations - Intermediate Algebra @ OpenStax
Algebra
Related
Subtracting $5 - 3-5 - (-3)$ with Counters
Subtracting $7 - 5-7 - (-5)$
An inventory manager uses red chips to represent stock deficits. To solve the problem -7 - (-3) using the 'take-away' model, the manager starts by placing 7 red chips on a desk. According to this specific model, what is the next step to determine the final balance?
A logistics coordinator uses the 'take-away' model to manage freezer inventory. To represent a temperature adjustment of 'subtracting -5 from -12', they start with 12 red counters. According to this specific model, what is the next step and the final result?
A warehouse manager uses red counters to represent backordered items (deficits). To process a cancellation of 4 backordered items from an initial batch of 10 backordered items, the manager uses the expression -10 - (-4). Arrange the steps of the 'take-away' model in the correct order to find the new total of backordered items.
A billing clerk uses the 'take-away' model to visualize account adjustments. To solve the expression -15 - (-6), the clerk starts with 15 red counters (representing the initial deficit) and then removes 6 of those red counters.
A Laboratory Technician uses the 'take-away' model to visualize temperature adjustments relative to a baseline. In this model, blue counters represent positive deviations and red counters represent negative deviations. Match each subtraction expression to the correct initial setup and action used to find the result.
Inventory Adjustments using the Take-Away Model
Inventory Shortage Adjustment
Visualizing Budget Reductions with the Take-Away Model
Subtracting and with Counters
A logistics coordinator uses red counters to represent minutes of delivery delays. To model the expression using the 'take-away' model, the coordinator starts with 14 red counters and removes ____ red counters.
Subtraction Property of Integers
A corporate trainer is using the 'take-away' model to help employees visualize budget changes. When subtracting integers that have the same sign (such as ), what is the primary reason that neutral pairs are not required to find the answer according to this specific model?
Learn After
Subtracting and with Counters
Subtracting and with Counters
In a warehouse inventory training simulation, a trainee uses blue counters to represent surplus items and red counters to represent backordered items (deficits). To model the process of reducing a 3-unit backorder by 1 unit, which corresponds to the expression , what specific action should the trainee perform according to the counter model?
In a corporate logistics center, a 'Visual Inventory Board' uses blue counters to represent a surplus of items (positive) and red counters to represent backordered items (negative). Match each mathematical expression representing a change in inventory with the correct procedure required to model it using the two-color counter method.
In a warehouse inventory simulation, a supervisor uses red counters to represent a shortage of parts. To model the mathematical expression using this system, the supervisor starts with 3 red counters on the tracking board and must remove ____ (number) red counter(s) to find the remaining shortage.
A budget analyst uses a visual dashboard where red counters represent departmental deficits in thousands of dollars. To model the mathematical expression (representing the reduction of a 3-unit deficit by 1 unit), arrange the following steps in the correct order according to the counter model.
In a professional inventory training module where blue counters represent surplus stock, the mathematical expression is correctly modeled by starting with 3 blue counters and removing 1 blue counter from the display.