2.2 Equations and inequalities

Inequalities on number lines and graphs

Everything on inequalities on number lines and graphs that can come up in the WJEC GCSE Mathematics and Numeracy, in Unit 2 and Unit 3. Each skill below has the method, the mistake that costs the most marks, a worked example, and free practice marked the way WJEC marks it.

Practise inequalities on number lines and graphs free

The exam skills (3)

Inequalities on a number line

  1. A filled circle means the number is included (≤ or ≥).
  2. An empty circle means it is not included (< or >).
  3. The arrow points the way the values go.

Watch out: Using ≤ for an empty circle.

Inequalities

  1. Integers are whole numbers, including negatives and zero.
  2. Include the end numbers only if their circles are filled.
  3. List every integer in between.

Watch out: Including an end number with an empty circle.

Regions on a graph

  1. Find the equation of each boundary line.
  2. Test a point inside the region in each line to choose < or >.
  3. Solid line: ≤ or ≥. Dashed line: < or >.

Watch out: Choosing the inequality sign the wrong way. Test a point.

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