Larry graphs the inequality x less-than negative 5 using the steps below. Step 1: Draw a number line, and place an open circle at –5.
A number line going from negative 10 to 0. An open circle is at negative 5.

Step 2: Shade to the left of –5 to represent less than –5.
A number line going from negative 10 to 0. An open circle is at negative 5. Everything to the left of the circle is shaded.

Step 3: Check work by substitution.
x = negative 5
Negative 5 less-than negative 5 False

Larry concludes that he must have shaded the number line in the wrong direction. Which best describes the situation?
Larry’s graph is incorrect. He should have used a closed circle at –5.
Larry’s graph is incorrect. He should have shaded to the right of –5 because the numbers less than –5 are to the right of –5.
Larry’s graph is correct. He should have checked his work using a number to the left of –5.
Larry’s graph is correct. He should have checked his work using a number to the right of –5.
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