The formula for area of a trapezoid is a = 1/2h (b1 + b2), where h represents height and b1 and b2 represent the two bases. Let's plug in the dimensions we know (from the picture.)
a = 1/2(12)(11 + 14)
Now we evaluate the equation in order to find a, or area
1) Find half of 12
a = 6 (8 + 14)
2) Add 8 and 14
a = 6 (22)
3) Multiply 6 by 22
a = 132
Therefore, the area of the trapezoid is 132 squared inches.
