1. **Problem:** Determine the equation of the axis of symmetry for the parabola passing through points (8, -11) and (-3, -11). 2. **Understanding the axis of symmetry:** The axis of symmetry of a parabola is a vertical line that passes through the vertex and divides the parabola into two mirror images. 3. **Key fact:** If two points on a parabola have the same y-value, the axis of symmetry lies exactly halfway between their x-values. 4. **Calculate the midpoint of the x-coordinates:** $$\text{Midpoint} = \frac{8 + (-3)}{2} = \frac{5}{2} = 2.5$$ 5. **Equation of the axis of symmetry:** Since the axis is vertical and passes through $x=2.5$, the equation is: $$x = 2.5$$ **Final answer:** The equation of the axis of symmetry is $x = 2.5$.