What Is Absolute Value?

Is this a question your students have been asking or struggling with in your math class? Whether this is your first time teaching this concept, or perhaps you need a refresher, let’s look at what this term means.

The absolute value of a number is its distance from zero on the number line, regardless of its sign. It is shown by two vertical bars on either side of the number. For example, the absolute value of 5 is written as |5| and is equal to 5, since five units away from zero. Similarly, the absolute value of -5 is also 5 because it is also 5 units away from zero, just in the opposite direction.

If you are looking for an activity to help your students with this 6th-grade math skill, look no further! Teach Starter has created a self-checking interactive game to help your students strengthen their understanding of absolute value. Students will work their way through 24 problems that use whole numbers, decimals and fractions.

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding 

A team of dedicated, experienced educators created this resource to support your math lessons.

In addition to individual student work time, use this activity to enhance learning through guided math groups, whole class lessons or remote learning assignments. 

If you have a mixture of above and below-level learners, we have a few suggestions for keeping students on track with these concepts: 

🆘 Support Struggling Students

For students that may require additional support, consider using a number line to show how far away a given number is from zero. Additionally, invite students to reference posters or anchor charts to use when completing the activity.

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

This resource is only available on Google Slides. Please be sure to open it in presentation mode. All the slides are linked to providing a self-checking experience for your students.

This resource was created by Cassandra Friesen, a teacher in Colorado and a Teach Starter Collaborator. 

While you’re here, check out more activities and teaching resources that fill your lesson plans and students’ brains:

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Absolute Value – Bump! Games

Find the absolute value of whole numbers, decimals, and fractions with this set of Bump! games.

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Absolute Value Poster

Use this math reference sheet with your students when learning about absolute value.