NumberDeep Dive

Higher Level: Powers with Negatives

Part of Negative Numbers — GCSE Mathematics

This deep dive covers Higher Level: Powers with Negatives within Negative Numbers for GCSE Mathematics. Revise Negative Numbers in Number for GCSE Mathematics with 12 exam-style questions and 22 flashcards. This topic appears less often, but it can still be a useful differentiator on mixed-topic papers. It is section 11 of 13 in this topic. Use this deep dive to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.

Topic position

Section 11 of 13

Practice

12 questions

Recall

22 flashcards

Higher Level: Powers with Negatives

Expression	Meaning	Calculation	Answer
(−3)²	Square the negative number	(−3) × (−3)	+9
−3²	Make 3² negative	−(3 × 3) = −(9)	−9

Key Point: Brackets make all the difference! (−3)² ≠ −3²

Keep building this topic

Read this section alongside the surrounding pages in Negative Numbers. That gives you the full topic sequence instead of a single isolated revision point.

Higher Level: BIDMAS with Negatives Common Mistakes to Avoid Below Zero What Are Negative Numbers?

Practice Questions for Negative Numbers

Which of these statements is true?

A. -8 > -3
B. -3 > -8
C. -3 < -8
D. -8 = -3

1 markfoundation

Aisha's bank account shows a balance of -45 pounds. She deposits 70 pounds. Explain what her new balance is and what the negative sign meant originally.

2 marksstandard

Quick Recall Flashcards

Using a number line

Draw a horizontal line with 0 in the middle. Negative numbers go LEFT, positive RIGHT. Moving right = adding, moving left = subtracting.

Double Negative Rule

Subtracting a negative = Adding. Two minuses make a plus: 5 − (−3) = 5 + 3 = 8

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Higher Level: BIDMAS with Negatives

Common Mistakes to Avoid