1. **State the problem:** We analyze a parabola with vertex at approximately (0, -9), opening upwards, crossing the y-axis at (0, -9), and intersecting the x-axis near -3 and 3. 2. **Determine the direction the parabola opens:** Since the parabola opens upwards, the coefficient of $x^2$ in its equation is positive. 3. **Find the intercepts:** - The y-intercept is where $x=0$, which is given as $(0, -9)$. - The x-intercepts are where $y=0$. From the graph, these are approximately $x = -3$ and $x = 3$, so the x-intercepts are $(-3, 0)$ and $(3, 0)$. 4. **Find the vertex coordinates:** The vertex is given as $(0, -9)$. 5. **Find the equation of the axis of symmetry:** The axis of symmetry is a vertical line passing through the vertex's x-coordinate, so its equation is $x=0$. 6. **Summary:** - (a) Parabola opens upward. - (b) x-intercepts: $-3, 3$; y-intercept: $-9$. - (c) Vertex: $(0, -9)$. - (d) Axis of symmetry: $x=0$. This completes the analysis of the parabola based on the graph description.