Let’s explore inequalities in a way that’s easy to understand so you can get started using them in your everyday life! 

1. What is an Inequality?

   – An inequality is like symbol (> , <, ≥, or ≤) that shows how two things compare in size.

   – For example, 5 > 3 means 5 is greater than 3.

2. The Alligator Method:

   – Think of the inequality sign as an alligator mouth that always wants to eat the bigger number.

   – The open side of the mouth always faces the larger number! 

3. Solving Inequalities:

   – When you solve an inequality, you’re finding out which values make it true.

   – If you have x + 4 > 7, you want to find what ‘x’ is.

4. Adding and Subtracting:

   – If you add or subtract from one side, do the same to the other side to keep it fair.

   – So let’s look at the equation from step 3: x + 4 > 7, we need to subtract 4 from both sides of the equation. 4-4=0 and 7-4=3, which leaves us with x > 3. This tells us that ‘x’ is greater than 3.

5. Multiplying and Dividing:

   – Here’s another rule to remember! If you multiply or divide by a negative number, flip the inequality sign.

   – For instance, if z > 6 and you multiply both sides by -1, it becomes z < -6.

Example:

   – Inequality: 2a + 3 > 11

   – To solve, subtract 3 from both sides: 2a > 8.

   – Then, divide both sides by 2: a > 4.

Inequalities help us describe situations where things are not necessarily equal, like when you have more than or less than a certain amount. Keep practicing, and soon you’ll be a master at taming the inequality alligator!