To calculate the area of this compound shape, we divide it into simpler geometric parts. From the image:

1. Top rectangle:

   • Dimensions: 12 cm (width) × 10 cm (height).
   • Area of rectangle: $\text{Area} = 12 \times 10 = 120 \, \text{cm}^2$.

2. Bottom triangle:

   • This is an isosceles triangle with a base of 12 cm and a height of 8 cm.
   • Area of triangle: $\text{Area} = \frac{1}{2} \times \text{base} \times \text{height} = \frac{1}{2} \times 12 \times 8 = 48 \, \text{cm}^2$.

3. Total area:

   • Add the areas of the rectangle and the triangle: $\text{Total Area} = 120 + 48 = 168 \, \text{cm}^2$

Final Answer:

The area of the compound shape is 168 cm².

Would you like further clarification or additional examples?

Here are 5 related questions to consider:

1. How is the formula for the area of a triangle derived?
2. What are other methods to divide compound shapes into simpler parts?
3. How would you find the perimeter of this shape?
4. What if the bottom triangle was equilateral instead—how would the calculation change?
5. Can this method be applied to a compound shape with a circular section?

Tip: When working with compound shapes, always label and calculate each section separately for clarity and accuracy.