What Are Inequalities?
Inequalities help us compare numbers!
Just like a seesaw or balance scale, inequalities show us which side has more or less. We use special symbols:
> (greater than),
< (less than), and
= (equal to).
How Addition and Subtraction Affect Inequalities
1️⃣ Adding the same number to both sides keeps the inequality the same
2️⃣ Subtracting the same number from both sides keeps the inequality the same
3️⃣ The inequality flips direction if we multiply or divide by a negative number (but we'll learn that later!)
Let's Explore with Examples!
Example 1: The Balance Scale
Which is greater: 5 + 3 or 4 + 2?
5 + 3 = 8 and 4 + 2 = 6
Since 8 > 6, we write: 5 + 3 > 4 + 2
Example 2: The Number Line Race
Start at 10. If I subtract 3 and you subtract 5, who ends up with the smaller number?
Me: 10 - 3 = 7
You: 10 - 5 = 5
Since 5 < 7, you end up with the smaller number: 10 - 5 < 10 - 3
Parent Tips 🌟
- Use real-life examples: Compare plates of cookies or pieces of fruit to make inequalities tangible.
- Play "Greater or Lesser": Draw two numbers and have your child add/subtract the same amount from both before comparing.
- Visualize with drawings: Encourage your child to draw simple pictures (like apples or blocks) to represent the numbers they're comparing.