Inequalities for Kids: Symbols, Number Lines and Solving for x (Grade 6 and 7 Math)

Hi, I'm Luna from DoodleBeez. Today we are learning about inequalities. An equation says two sides are equal. An inequality says one side is bigger or smaller, and it can have many answers.

Here are the symbols. These two mean greater than and less than. Add a line underneath, and they mean greater than or equal to, and less than or equal to. The open side faces the bigger amount.

x is greater than three means any number bigger than three, like four or three and a half. On a number line, draw an open circle at three, because three itself is not included. Then shade to the right.

x is less than or equal to two includes two itself. So we draw a closed, filled in circle at two, and shade to the left, toward all the smaller numbers.

We solve inequalities like equations. For x plus four is less than nine, subtract four from both sides, and x is less than five. Check with four: four plus four is eight, and eight is less than nine.

One special rule! When you multiply or divide both sides by a negative number, flip the sign. For negative two x is greater than six, divide both sides by negative two. Then x is less than negative three.

Now it's your turn. Solve three x is greater than or equal to twelve. Pause and try. Divide both sides by three, so x is greater than or equal to four. Draw a closed circle at four and shade right.

Great job! Remember, open circles leave a number out and closed circles include it. Solve inequalities like equations, but flip the sign when you multiply or divide by a negative. Practice inequalities in Middle School Math at doodlebeez.com. See you next time!