Students who are sensory learners rely on their sense of logic. If a learning concept is not practical or cannot be applied, they have a difficult time understanding. Some sensory learners may refuse to believe the concept entirely. Intuitive learners are the exact opposite. They enjoy learning about abstract ideas and exploring the application of the idea.
Visual learners rely completely on their sense of sight to learn. They must see an idea demonstrated to understand. Verbal learners can understand concepts with thorough explanations and no examples. Teachers must be prepared to use a variety of explanations and demonstrations for visual and verbal learners based on their age and level of understanding.
Active learners must be kept busy in order to fully motivate them to learn. Activities which move the student out of their chair and allows them to interact with people or objects are the best teaching methods for this learning style. Reflective learners tend to shy away from activity and interaction. They enjoy listening and taking the time to process the information at their own speed.
Sequential learners like to be taught about new ideas using a step-by-step approach. Teaching these students requires the teacher to break down each task in order to form the big picture. Global learners like to know why the information is important before they take the time to learn the ins and outs of the idea.
The manipulative method of teaching integers involves the use of two different colored objects such as chips or tiles. One color is used to demonstrate positive numbers while the other is used to demonstrate negative numbers. Children can work through word problems or number problems using the objects to find the answer. This method works well for sensory, visual, active and sequential learners.
The logical method of teaching integers involves the use of a number line. The line is a horizontal line with a "0" in the middle. The positive numbers increase as the line moves toward the right and the negative numbers increase as the line moves toward the left. Students can work through the problems by following the number line. This method works well for students who are intuitive, verbal, reflective and global learners.