Max Maths, Year 4, Learn together, Using negative numbers

In the Max Maths Year 4 curriculum, students are introduced to the concept of using negative numbers, particularly in the context of temperatures around the world. The lesson illustrates temperatures ranging from the warm climes of Bangkok at a cosy 25°C to the icy extremes of the North Pole at a chilling −25°C. Through a series of thermometer graphics, students can visualise temperatures as they rise above and fall below zero, learning to read and interpret degrees Celsius. The thermometers are labelled with increments of 10 degrees, descending into negative values to represent sub-zero temperatures.

By comparing different global locations, the lesson provides a practical application for understanding negative numbers. For instance, Moscow's winter chill is captured at −5°C, while New York enjoys a slightly milder 5°C. In Alaska, the mercury drops to −10°C. Students are encouraged to arrange these places in order from the coldest to the warmest, using a number line as a visual aid. This activity not only helps them grasp the concept of negative numbers but also teaches them how to calculate temperature differences. For example, they can determine that New York is 10 degrees warmer than Moscow by observing the number line. Such comparisons serve to enhance their comprehension of negative numbers and their real-world significance, particularly in understanding weather patterns and geographical climate differences.