1. **Problem:** Find the x-intercepts and axis of symmetry of the function $y = (x - 1)(x + 3)$. 2. **Formula and rules:** - The x-intercepts are the values of $x$ where $y=0$. Set each factor equal to zero: $x - 1 = 0$ and $x + 3 = 0$. - The axis of symmetry for a quadratic in intercept form $y = a(x - p)(x - q)$ is the vertical line $x = \frac{p + q}{2}$. 3. **Find x-intercepts:** - Solve $x - 1 = 0 \Rightarrow x = 1$. - Solve $x + 3 = 0 \Rightarrow x = -3$. 4. **Find axis of symmetry:** - Calculate $x = \frac{1 + (-3)}{2} = \frac{-2}{2} = -1$. 5. **Answer:** - The x-intercepts are $x = 1$ and $x = -3$. - The axis of symmetry is the line $x = -1$.