Subtracting: Error Analysis & Misconceptions
Mathematics
GCSE Foundation
13 questions
~26 mins
1 views0 downloads
About This Worksheet
A worksheet focusing on subtracting with negative numbers, highlighting common errors and misconceptions for GCSE Foundation students.
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Subtracting: Error Analysis & Misconceptions
Subject: MathematicsGrade: GCSE Foundation
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Untitled Worksheet
Grade GCSE Foundation
A
Introduction
1.
Subtracting negative numbers often causes confusion. Remember, subtracting a negative is equivalent to adding the positive. The key formula is: a - (-b) = a + b.
[2 marks]B
Fluency & Practice
Solve the following. Show your working in the grid spaces provided.
1.
Calculate: 7 - (-3).
[2 marks]2.
Evaluate: -5 - (-8).
[2 marks]3.
Calculate: -4 - 6.
[2 marks]4.
Evaluate: 0 - (-7).
[2 marks]C
Problem Solving & Reasoning
Solve these multi-step problems and explain your reasoning.
1.
A submarine is at a depth of 50 metres below sea level. It ascends 20 metres, then descends 35 metres. What is its final depth? Explain your steps.
[4 marks]2.
A bank account shows a balance of -£150. If a deposit of £200 is made, what is the new balance? Show your working.
[3 marks]D
Real-world Applications
Apply subtraction to real-life scenarios.
1.
A temperature was -3°C in the morning. During the day, it dropped by 5°C. What is the temperature now?
[3 marks]2.
A hiker starts at an altitude of 1500 metres. They descend 300 metres, then ascend 200 metres. What is their final altitude?
[3 marks]E
Challenge & Extension
Tackle these more advanced problems involving subtracting negative numbers.
1.
Simplify: - ( - ( - ( -5 ) ) ).
[3 marks]2.
Express as a single number: 10 - ( 20 - ( -15 ) ).
[3 marks]F
Mixed Review & Error Analysis
Identify and correct the mistakes in the following student responses.
1.
Student's answer: 6 - (-4) = 2. Identify the mistake and correct it.
[3 marks]2.
Student's answer: -3 - (-7) = 4. What's wrong, and what's the correct answer?
[3 marks]Quick Actions
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Details
- Created
- 1/1/2026
- Updated
- 1/1/2026
- Type
- worksheet