The verb SER means "to be" as does the verb ESTAR.

Question

This if for a Spanish final in 9th grade. 

Answer 1

When thinking of the difference between ser and estar, it helps me to think about a chronic illness and the flu. A chronic illness does not go away. It will be there forever. Think of the verb ser when you think of the chronic illness. Now think about the flu. The flu typically lasts about a week and is not permanent. Use Estar when you think of the flu. Overall, when something is always going to be some way, use ser. If it is temporary or will change over time, use estar.

Answer 2

Ser is used to describe permanent conditions. Estar is used to describe temporary conditions. For example, when you asked someone "Como esta, Usted?," you are asking how they are doing (at the moment). This is subject to change. However, if you state, "Soy de Mexico," that means that you are from Mexico (i.e., you were born in Mexico). That condition cannot change.