Create a number line using positive and negative integers if they appear in the number sentence.
Look at the first number in the number sentence. Place a dot on the line above the number. The first number is always your starting point. For example, if the mathematical expression is 5-(-2)=, you can place the dot over the 5.
Look at the operational symbol. If the operation is addition, you will jump to the right; If the operation is subtraction, you will jump to the left. For example, if the mathematical expression is 5-(-2)=, you should prepare to jump to the left because the operation is subtraction.
Look at the last number. If the number is positive, you can begin to jump the number of spaces indicated by the value of that number. If the number is negative, you must change the direction in which you anticipated moving. For example, if the mathematical expression is 5-(-2)=, you should reverse directions and head in the positive directions because when a minus and a negative symbol are paired, this represents a positive move because you are taking away the negative.
Look at the last number and move the number of spaces indicated by the (absolute value of) numeral, now that you have established what direction to move in. For example, if the mathematical expression is 5-(-2)=, you should move two spaces in the positive direction and land on 7.
Complete the statement to make the mathematical expression into a number sentence. For example, 5-(-2)=7.