1. The problem is to understand the inequality $y < -8$ and its graphical representation on a number line. 2. The inequality $y < -8$ means that $y$ takes values less than $-8$, but not equal to $-8$. 3. On a number line, this is shown by an open circle at $-8$ (indicating $-8$ is not included) and a shaded arrow extending to the left (towards smaller numbers). 4. The open circle is used because the inequality is strict (less than, not less than or equal to). 5. Among the four graphs described: - Top-left: $y > -8$ (open circle at $-8$, arrow right) - Top-right: $y < -8$ (open circle at $-8$, arrow left) - Bottom-left: $y \leq -8$ (closed circle at $-8$, arrow left) - Bottom-right: $y \geq -8$ (closed circle at $-8$, arrow right) 6. Therefore, the correct graph for $y < -8$ is the top-right graph with an open circle at $-8$ and an arrow extending left. Final answer: The inequality $y < -8$ is represented by an open circle at $-8$ and shading to the left on the number line.