6th Grade Math Worksheet: Absolute Value Word Problems

6th Grade Math Worksheet: Absolute Value Word Problems

Total Time: 45 minutes

Introduction: Understanding Absolute Value

Time: 5 minutes

Absolute value represents the distance of a number from zero on the number line, regardless of direction. For example, both -3 and 3 have an absolute value of 3, as they are three units away from zero.

Let's recall what we know:

• What is the absolute value of -5?

• What is the absolute value of 7?

Think-Pair-Share: Discuss with a partner why absolute values are important in real-life situations (e.g., measuring distance, comparing temperatures).

Core Sections: Word Problems

Time: 30 minutes

Part A: Solve the following absolute value word problems. Show your work!

1. Temperature Change: The temperature dropped from 5 degrees Celsius to -3 degrees Celsius. What is the absolute value of the temperature change?

2. Elevation: A mountain is 2,000 feet high and a valley is 1,200 feet below sea level. What is the absolute value of the elevation difference between the mountain and the valley?

3. Banking: Sam has a bank account balance of -$150. What is the absolute value of Sam's debt?

4. Distance: A cat wandered 6 yards to the left and then 4 yards to the right. What is the absolute value of the net distance the cat moved from its starting point?

5. Football Game Scores: In a football game, Team A scored 25 points, while Team B scored -10 points (note: negative points indicate a penalty). What is the absolute value of the difference in scores between Team A and Team B?

Interactive Hands-On Activity: Absolute Value Number Line

Time: 10 minutes

Materials Needed: String, paperclips, and markers (or a written number line on the board).

1. Create a number line on the string with paperclips marking integers from -10 to 10.

2. Pick a few absolute value problems to solve as a class (e.g., Find the absolute value of -7, or determine the distance from -5 to 6).

3. Use this number line to visually represent the absolute values and distance.

Creative Challenge: The Absolute Value Adventure

Time: 10 minutes

Task:

• Write a short story (4-5 sentences) involving a character that encounters absolute value in their adventures.

• For example, they could be a treasure hunter who has to travel absolute distance north and south. Include how they use absolute value to find their treasure!

Share your story with at least one classmate and discuss how absolute value plays a role in their tale!