Mississippi Math A3.A.17
The Standard
Solve polynomial and rational inequalities. Relate results to the behavior of the graphs.
2025 Mississippi College- and Career-Readiness Standards for Mathematics · Perform Operations on Expressions, Equations, Inequalities, and Polynomials
Teacher's field guide
What This Standard Means
What Students Need to Do
- Students put zero on one side of a polynomial or rational inequality. They find zeros and values that make the expression undefined, then test intervals to see where the graph is above or below the x-axis.
What Mastery Looks Like
- A student marks zeros and excluded values on a number line, tests each interval, and writes the solution in interval notation. They can explain why a zero may be included but an undefined value cannot.
Common Misconceptions
- Students may include a value that makes the denominator zero. They may assume the sign changes at every zero, even when the graph only touches the x-axis. Some multiply by an expression with an unknown sign without checking whether to reverse the inequality.
How to Assess It
- Exit ticket: Solve (x−2)/(x+1) ≤ 0 in interval notation. Mark where its graph is at or below the x-axis and explain both endpoints.
Lesson moves
Ways to Teach It
Place cards at −1 and 2 on a taped floor number line; have pairs test intervals for (x−2)/(x+1) ≤ 0.
Ask students to write why −1 is excluded but 2 is included in the solution to (x−2)/(x+1) ≤ 0.
Teams race to complete sign charts for (x+3)(x−1) > 0 and (x−2)/(x+1) ≤ 0, checking each interval with a test value.
For a bus costing $120 plus $5 per rider, solve (120+5n)/n ≤ 15 for whole-number riders, then check the graph.
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Printable A3.A.17 Worksheet
A ready-to-print activity worksheet aligned to A3.A.17, with an answer key for the teacher on its own page. No account needed.
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- ATM.EE.26
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