When we are graphing an inequality on a number line it is much like graphing any old number. We just need to pay particular attention to the symbols of the inequality. We start by locating the point that is identifiable on the number line. We then draw a solid line and arrow towards the direction of the less than (to the left of number line) or greater than (to the right of number line) value. The last step is to determine if the dot where the line originates is filled in or not. If the inequality involves and equals symbol, the line is solid. If an equals symbol is not present, you do not fill the dot.

How Do You Express Inequalities on a Number Line? The number line is a very useful tool for children to understand basic mathematical operations. From addition, subtraction, to multiplication, the number line also helps in understanding the types of numbers. Another way the students can use the number line is to represent the inequalities. Inequalities are a combination of constants, variables, arithmetic operations, and inequality signs. So, how do you use a number line to express an inequality? To know this, you need to understand the inequality signs. There are five basic signs that you need to develop an understanding of, and these include “greater than,” “less than,” “greater than or equal to,” “less than or equal to,” and “not equal to.” When you have to represent a simple inequality on a number line, you need to follow the following steps. Look for the number on the other side of the inequality sign from the variable on the number line. Once located, draw an open circle around that number. Fill in the circle if and only if the variable can also equal that number. Shade all numbers the variable can be. These worksheets explain how to use number lines in order to graphically represent expressions that contain inequalities. We start them off on the basic procedure by limiting all answers between -5 and 5.