Pre-Algebra Lesson #20 How to Subtract Integers

In this lesson, we will learn how to subtract integers. In order to subtract integers, we will convert our subtraction problem into addition of the opposite. We will also think about why this works using a number line and go into an explanation as to why subtracting away a negative is adding a positive.

00:00 Introduction
00:11 Subtracting Integers Procedure
00:53 Subtracting Integers Problems a - b
05:55 Subtracting Integers Problems -a - b
7:54 Subtracting Integers a - (-b)
10:52 Subtracting more than Two Integers
14:47 Showing a - (-b) as the distance between two points

[carriedurgin]

I'm confused. Why change the equation from - to + if you are going to subtract anyway?

[carriedurgin]

I am confused. Why change the equations from subtraction to addition if you are going to subtract anyway?