Hey there! 
The word “sum” simply means “to add” or “addition” in mathematical terms 
So, we have to ADD -12 from 8 from each other. 
Positives are on the RIGHT side of the number line whereas negatives are on the LEFT side of the number line 
Start at -12 and go UP 8 spaces to the right. 
-12 + 8 
= -4 
Answer: -4 
Good luck on your assignment and enjoy your day! 
~Amphitrite1040:)