Absolute value

Target: Interpret absolute value as distance from zero.

Language target: Say “distance from zero.”

Likely miss: Students keep the negative sign in the absolute value.

Ask: How many units from zero?

If you see it: Ask for the distance from zero, which is never negative.

Evidence to listen for: The student reports a non-negative distance.

Next: Return to the number line and count spaces.

Homework mark for this device

Until a teacher sets it here, family practice is optional. Stars are an incentive, not a grade. This setting is local. It is not a district roster.

unset optional required incentive

Observable student moves: names both quantities, uses the represented relationship, and revises after feedback. This companion is not a score.