The slope (m) for a line that passes through two points (x_1, y_1) and (x_2, y_2) can be calculated using
m = (y_2 - y_1) / (x_2 - x_1)
The points are (5,7) and (-1, 9). Substitute into the equation.
m = (7 - 9) / (5 - (-1))
= (-2) / 6 = -1/3
The slope is -1/3.