Structure in expressions 1

The  exercise appears under the Algebra I Math Mission. This exercise interprets inequalities by using real-world contexts.

Types of Problems
There are two types of problems in this exercise:


 * 1) Determine the greater or lesser quantity: This problem provides information in the form of a short story problem with variables. The student is asked to determine which (if either) of the variables is greater or smaller.Sie1-1.png
 * 2) Determine if the inequality is accurate: This problem provides a situational problem and an inequality. The student is asked to determine if the inequality is accurate to the situation or not.Sie1-2.png

Strategies
Knowledge of inequalities and an ability to translate between math and words will ensure success on this exercise.
 * 1) It is possible to do the first type of problem by "plugging in" some appropriate values for the variable.
 * 2) The answer to the first type of problem could be either of the variables, or they might be equal, or there may be not enough information to tell. Be careful.

Real-life Applications

 * 1) Inequalities are much more useful then equation in real-life because of the imprecise nature of the world. Good estimates become more powerful than exact answers.
 * 2) This type of understanding of inequalities is popular for problems on the SAT and other standardized tests.