What Are Decimal Inequalities?
Inequalities help us compare numbers and expressions!
When working with decimals, we can use inequality symbols (<, >, =) to show which side is greater or if they're equal. Adding and subtracting decimals follows the same rules as whole numbers, but we need to pay extra attention to decimal places.
How to Solve Decimal Inequalities
1️⃣ Line up the decimals - Make sure all numbers have the same number of decimal places
2️⃣ Add or subtract carefully - Remember to carry over when needed
3️⃣ Compare the results - Use < (less than), > (greater than), or = (equal)
Let's Practice Together!
Example 1: Which is greater?
First, let's solve both sides:
Left side: 3.45 + 1.20 = (remember to add 0 to 1.2 to make 1.20)
Right side: 4.85 - 0.30 =
Left side: 3.45 + 1.20 = 4.65
Right side: 4.85 - 0.30 = 4.55
Now compare: 4.65 > 4.55, so 3.45 + 1.2 > 4.85 - 0.3
Example 2: Fill in the correct symbol (<, >, =)
7.6 - 2.35 3.25 + 2.1
Left side: 7.60 - 2.35 = 5.25
Right side: 3.25 + 2.10 = 5.35
Now compare: 5.25 < 5.35, so 7.6 - 2.35 < 3.25 + 2.1
Parent Tips 🌟
- Money makes it real: Use grocery receipts or online shopping to practice comparing decimal totals and discounts.
- Visualize with number lines: Draw number lines to help your child see where decimal sums and differences fall in relation to each other.
- Make it a game: Create "greater than/less than" challenge cards with decimal problems and race to solve them.