Worked example
26 October 2026
Understanding how to read and order negative numbers is an important skill for the 11+ maths exam. Children can find it tricky at first, but with a clear example, it soon makes sense.
Worked example
Order these numbers from smallest to largest:
-8, -3, 0, 4, -5
Step 1: Start with the most negative number. That is -8.
Step 2: Next is -5. It is bigger than -8 but still negative.
Step 3: Then comes -3. It is closer to zero.
Step 4: After -3 comes 0.
Step 5: The largest number is 4.
So, the numbers in order are:
-8, -5, -3, 0, 4.
Click or tap on the number line to answer
After seeing this worked example, your child will be able to spot which negative number is smallest and place all the numbers in order. The next step is to practise more questions like this to build confidence.
