Math explorers

Equations and Inequalities

Grade 6Algebra

Learn with worked examples, then try the questions below.

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1Keep equations balanced

An equation states that two expressions are equal. Apply the same operation to both sides to keep the balance.

Worked examplex + 7 = 19 → x = 19 − 7 = 12

Check by substituting: 12 + 7 = 19. For y − 9 = 14, add 9 to both sides: y = 23.

2Undo multiplication and division

Use inverse operations to isolate the variable. Divide to undo multiplication; multiply to undo division.

Worked example6m = 42 → m = 42 ÷ 6 = 7

n ÷ 5 = 8 → n = 8 × 5 = 40. Check: 40 ÷ 5 = 8.

3Solve inequalities

Inequalities describe a range of values. Add or subtract the same amount on both sides. Multiplying or dividing by a negative reverses the inequality sign.

Worked examplex + 4 > 10 → x > 6

y − 3 ≤ 5 → y ≤ 8. Use an open circle for < or > and a filled circle for ≤ or ≥ on a number line.

4Independent and dependent variables

An independent variable is the input you choose. A dependent variable changes according to that input.

Worked examplec = 8t: t tickets cost c ringgit

The number of tickets t is independent; total cost c is dependent. For t = 3, c = 24.

⭐ Try it yourself!

Question 1 of 5

Solve x + 8 = 21.

Need a hint?

Subtract 8 from both sides.