To calculate the area of the given shape, we need to break it into simpler parts. The figure is a combination of a rectangle and a trapezium. Let's solve it step by step:

1. Dimensions:

• Rectangle: Width = $15 \, \text{m}$, Height = $8 \, \text{m}$.
• Trapezium:
  • Top base = $8 \, \text{m}$ (remaining width: $23 - 15 \, \text{m}$),
  • Bottom base = $15 \, \text{m}$,
  • Height = $8 \, \text{m}$.

2. Area Calculation:

Rectangle:

$\text{Area of rectangle} = \text{Width} \times \text{Height} = 15 \times 8 = 120 \, \text{m}^2$

Trapezium:

$\text{Area of trapezium} = \frac{1}{2} \times (\text{Top base} + \text{Bottom base}) \times \text{Height}$ $\text{Area of trapezium} = \frac{1}{2} \times (8 + 15) \times 8 = \frac{1}{2} \times 23 \times 8 = 92 \, \text{m}^2$

3. Total Area:

$\text{Total Area} = \text{Area of rectangle} + \text{Area of trapezium} = 120 + 92 = 212 \, \text{m}^2$

Final Answer:

$\boxed{212 \, \text{m}^2}$

Let me know if you'd like further explanation or have any questions!

Expanding Questions:

1. How can you find the area of other composite shapes?
2. What is the formula for the area of a trapezium, and when is it used?
3. How would the total area change if the trapezium height doubled?
4. Can we calculate the perimeter of this shape? If so, how?
5. What real-world applications involve breaking down composite shapes into simpler ones?

Tip:

When solving area problems, always label and break down the figure into simpler geometric shapes for clarity.