Question

Question was provided via image upload.

Explanation:

Step1: Analyze the relationship between practice hours and points scored

As practice hours increase, points scored also increase. For example, when practice hours go from \(1\) to \(3\) (increase), points scored go from \(16\) to \(18\) (increase). When practice hours go from \(4\) to \(6\) (increase), points scored go from \(20\) to \(26\) (increase).

Step2: Determine the slope type

In a linear relationship \(y = mx + b\), if as \(x\) (practice hours) increases, \(y\) (points scored) increases, the slope \(m>0\). A positive - slope indicates that the two variables have a positive association.

Answer:

positive