To solve this, let's analyze the transformation and graphs.

The transformation from $f(x) = x^2$ to $g(x) = (x + 2)^2$ represents a horizontal translation.

Step-by-step analysis:

1. The given function $f(x) = x^2$ is a basic parabola with its vertex at $(0, 0)$.
2. The function $g(x) = (x + 2)^2$ shifts the graph of $f(x)$ 2 units to the left, since adding 2 inside the parentheses translates the graph left by 2 units.

So, the answer to the sentence would be:

• The graph of g is a translation 2 units to the left of the graph of f.

Identifying the graphs:

• In the top graph (option 1), the red graph is shifted to the right, which is incorrect because $g(x)$ should be shifted left.
• In the bottom graph (option 2), the red graph (labeled $g$) is shifted 2 units left compared to the blue graph (labeled $f$), which is correct.

Thus, the correct graph is the second option (bottom graph), where the red parabola represents $g(x)$ and the blue one represents $f(x)$.

Would you like a further breakdown or clarification on any part of this?

Here are some follow-up questions to deepen your understanding:

1. What happens if the equation changes to $g(x) = (x - 2)^2$?
2. How would the graph change if we modify $g(x) = x^2 + 2$?
3. Can you describe the effect of a vertical stretch or compression on $f(x)$?
4. How would the graph change for $g(x) = -(x + 2)^2$?
5. What if $g(x) = (x + 2)^2 + 3$? What combined transformations occur?

Tip: Remember that translations inside parentheses affect the horizontal shift, while additions or subtractions outside parentheses affect vertical movement.