Hey there!
96 = -24a
➡️ -24a = 96
DIVIDE -24 to BOTH SIDES
-24a/-24 = 96/-24
CANCEL out: -24/-24 because that gives you 1
KEEP: 96/-24 because it helps get the result of the a-value
a = 96/-24
96/-24 = a
a = -4
Answer: a = -4
Good luck on your assignment and enjoy your day!
~Amphitrite1040:)