How to Solve and Graph One-Step Inequalities with Rational Numbers?

How to Solve and Graph One-Step Inequalities with Rational Numbers?
Tutor-style math help

Rational Number Operations and One-Step Inequalities: what to notice and how to work it

Inequalities skill
Inequalities describe a set of possible values. Solve the boundary like an equation, then decide which side of the boundary makes the statement true.

What to notice first

Watch the comparison sign from the first line to the last. Multiplying or dividing by a negative reverses the direction.

Common student mistake

Do not forget open and closed endpoints. Strict signs use open circles; signs with equals use closed circles.

Key formulas and cues

\(a<b\)
\(a\le b\)
\(\text{multiply/divide by a negative} \Rightarrow \text{reverse the sign}\)
\(|x-a|<b \Rightarrow a-b<x<a+b\)

A reliable path

  1. Solve the boundaryTemporarily treat the inequality like an equation.
  2. Choose the sideUse the sign or test a number if the direction is not obvious.
  3. Graph the solutionUse the correct endpoint and shade the values that work.

Worked examples

Flip the sign

Example: \(-3x>12\)
  1. Divide both sides by -3.
  2. Reverse the inequality sign.
  3. Simplify 12 divided by -3.
Answer: \(x<-4\)

Keep the sign

Example: \(x+5\le9\)
  1. Subtract 5 from both sides.
  2. No negative multiplication or division happened.
  3. Keep the sign direction.
Answer: \(x\le4\)
Try one before moving on
Try: Solve \(-2x\le10\).
Answer: \(x\ge-5\). Divide by -2 and flip the sign.
Next step: do the matching worksheet or quiz while the method is still fresh, then come back and explain the first step in your own words.

Solving and Graphing One-Step Inequalities with Rational Numbers – Examples 1

Solving and Graphing One-Step Inequalities with Rational Numbers – Examples 2

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