How do you model a problem in which you have two or more variables that
must total less than a specific amount?
For example, how can you find how many of each type of stamp you need on a package that requires an exact
amount of postage?
In this lesson you will learn how to represent solutions and
constraints to linear inequalities by graphing.
Let’s Review
You can graph an inequality in two variables.
5x + 6y ≤ 30
A Common Mistake
Not accounting for a constraint
Can’t I just keep adding stamps
until I have enough money?
If you only have certain kinds of
stamps, you might pay too
much!
Core Lesson
You need $1.00 worth of postage to mail a package.
Entire book of $0.03 stamps but only four $0.32 stamps
How many of each type can you use?
Core Lesson
(amount of money using
$0.03 stamps)
(amount of money using
$0.32 stamps)
$0.03(x) + $0.32(y) ≥ $1.00
+ ≥ $1.00
Core Lesson
2. Whole numbers
Constraints:1. Positive
numbers only
You will need at least 12 $0.03 stamps and 2 $0.32 stamps.
$0.03(x) + $0.32(y) ≥ $1.00
In this lesson you have learned how to represent solutions and
constraints to linear inequalities by graphing.
Guided Practice
Your school needs at least 35 students to help volunteer at a shelter downtown. Seven students can ride to the shelter in each van, and five students can ride in each car. Draw a graph showing all of the combinations of vans and cars possible for the problem.
Guided Practice
Extension Activities
Choose two types of fruit, such as strawberries and watermelon. Write an equation for and graph a linear inequality to show how much of each fruit you could buy without spending more than $10 total.
Extension Activities
Draw a polygon on a coordinate plane. Write a series of linear inequalities that, graphed and shaded correctly, would result in the given polygon.
Quick Quiz
An air cargo plane can transport as many as 15 regular shipping containers. One super-sized container takes up the space of 3 regular containers. Write and graph a linear inequality to show this situation, and find two solutions to this problem.
Quick Quiz
Your school needs at least 35 students to help volunteer at a shelter downtown. Seven students can ride to the shelter in each van, and five students can ride in each car. Find the minimum number of cars needed if three vans are available.