Graph h(x) = 0.5(x + 2)^2 − 4 by following these steps: | Steps: Step 1: Identify a, h, and k. | Step 1: | Step 2: Plot the vertex at (−2, −4). | Step 2: | Step 3: The axis of symmetry is the line | Step 3: | Step 4: Evaluate the function at two other x-values: | Step 4: | Step 5: Plot the points (−4, −2) and (−6, 4). | Step 5: | Step 6: Use the property of symmetry to plot two more corresponding points on the right side of the vertical line. | Step 6: | Step 7: The smooth curve through these points shows the graph of the function. | Step 7: | [(−4) =]
Substitute x = −4 into h(x) = 0.5(x + 2)² − 4: h(−4) = 0.5(−4 + 2)² − 4 = 0.5(4) − 4 = −2. Therefore, the correct choice is −2.
AI-written and checked against the verified answer.