trouble solving liner equations

Question

The sum of 12 times the larger number and 11 times the smaller is −36. The difference of 12 times the larger and 7 times the smaller is 36. Find the numbers.

Answer 1

12L +11S = -36

12L-7S = 36

subtract

12L-12L + 11S-(-7S) = -36-36

18S = -72

S = -72/18 = -4 = the Smaller number

L= (36+7(-4))/12 =8/12 = 2/3 = the Larger Number

check the answers

12(2/3) + 11-(4) =8-44=-36

12(2/3)-7(-4) = 8+28= 36

Answer 2

Translate the English into math:

12L + 11S = -36

12L-7S=36

Now subtract....but WATCH your signs!!