Final answer:
The statement that knowledge of comparing and ordering whole numbers can be used to compare and order integers is true. Understanding and applying the order and signs of whole numbers is essential when working with integers, as this builds a foundation for working with positive and negative values.
Step-by-step explanation:
Comparing and Ordering Integers
The statement that students can extend and build upon their knowledge of comparing and ordering whole numbers in order to compare and order integers is true. When we compare and order whole numbers, the larger the number, the greater its value. This concept applies to integers as well, although we must consider negative values.
For example, with whole numbers, we know that 5 is greater than 3 because we count up to 5 from 3. Similarly, with integers, -3 is greater than -5 because when we move from -5 to -3, we are moving up in value towards zero. The commutative property, A + B = B + A, applies to both whole numbers and integers and helps in performing addition regardless of the order of numbers.
When it comes to ordering integers, we must pay attention to their sign. Positive integers are always greater than negative integers, and among negative integers, those with smaller absolute values are greater. This knowledge builds upon the fundamental understanding of addition and subtraction, where we pay attention to the magnitude and signs of whole numbers to determine their sum or difference.