📖Definition
Area is the measure of the space inside a two-dimensional shape. It tells you how much surface the shape covers and is measured in square units (cm², m², in², ft², etc.). Different shapes have different formulas for calculating their area.
📐Formula
Each shape has a specific formula: rectangles use length times width, triangles use half of base times height, circles use pi times radius squared.
📝Step-by-Step Guide
Identify the Shape
Determine what type of shape you're working with to choose the correct formula.
Identify the Measurements Needed
Rectangle needs length and width; triangle needs base and height; circle needs radius.
Apply the Formula
Substitute the measurements into the appropriate area formula.
Include Square Units
Always write the answer with square units (cm², m², etc.).
⚠️Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Confusing area with perimeter
- Forgetting to use square units
- Using diameter instead of radius for circles
- Using the slant height instead of perpendicular height for triangles
- Not converting units before calculating
✏️Practice Problems
Find the area of a rectangle with length 8 cm and width 5 cm
Answer: 40 cm²
Find the area of a triangle with base 12 m and height 7 m
Answer: 42 m²
Find the area of a circle with radius 6 cm (use π = 3.14)
Answer: 113.04 cm²
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