Numbers and comparisons – multi-step inequalities easy Math test
How to compare multi step inequalities
Comparisons are used to compare two or more numbers or values to see which is larger, smaller or equal. In math, we use symbols such as > (greater than), < (less than), ≥ (greater than or equal to), and ≤ (less than or equal to) to make comparisons.
When we make comparisons, we are trying to figure out which number or value is larger or smaller. For example, if we have the comparison 3 > 2, we can see that 3 is larger than 2.
When we use inequalities, we are also making comparisons but with multiple steps. Multi-step inequalities are inequalities that require more than one step to solve.
A common way to solve multi-step inequalities is by first isolating the variable, which means moving all the numbers and constants to one side of the inequality and the variable to the other side.
After isolating the variable, we can then use the properties of inequalities to simplify the expression. Properties of inequalities include adding or subtracting the same value on both sides of the inequality, multiplying or dividing both sides by the same value, or flipping the inequality sign when multiplying or dividing both sides by a negative value.
For kids, it can be helpful to use real-life examples, word problems and concrete models like number lines to make inequalities and their solutions more relatable and familiar. for instance, you could use comparisons like ” My allowance is greater than five dollars” or ” your sister’s age is less than ten”
It’s important to note that solving multi-step inequalities is an important step in understanding algebra and solving more complex mathematical problems. It’s also helpful for understanding concepts like range and domain and in solving mathematical word problems. Understanding the process of solving inequalities and the properties of inequalities can be a valuable tool for kids in their math education and in many real-world situations.
Overall, practicing solving inequalities can help children develop important problem-solving and logical reasoning skills, as well as understanding the relation between numbers and the use of mathematical symbols.