To calculate the area of the given figure, let's break it into two parts:

1. Top Rectangle:

   • Length = 4 ft
   • Width = 2 ft
   • Area = $4 \times 2 = 8$ square feet

2. Bottom Trapezoid:

   • Bases = 3 ft and 5 ft
   • Height = 2 ft
   • Area = $\frac{1}{2} \times (3 + 5) \times 2 = 8$ square feet

Total Area: $8 + 8 = 16$ square feet

Answer: C. 16 square feet

Would you like further breakdowns or clarifications?

Here are 5 related questions to explore:

1. How do you calculate the area of a trapezoid?
2. Why is the rectangle and trapezoid method effective for composite shapes?
3. Can you solve for the perimeter of this figure?
4. How do we apply similar steps to irregular polygons?
5. How can these concepts apply to real-world measurements?

Tip: Always verify dimensions and labels carefully to avoid errors in area calculations!