To calculate the area of the given shape, we can break it down into smaller, more manageable rectangular sections, and then sum their areas.

Steps to Calculate the Area:

1. Identify smaller rectangles: The step-like pattern of the shape suggests it can be broken down into smaller rectangles. Each step in the shape represents a rectangle.

2. Calculate the area of each rectangle: Use the formula for the area of a rectangle: $\text{Area} = \text{Length} \times \text{Width}$ Since the lengths are given by the segments marked as 3 cm, and these marks are consistent throughout the shape.

3. Sum the areas of all rectangles: Since the entire shape can be considered a collection of these smaller rectangles, add up the areas of each to get the total area.

Breakdown:

Given the structure:

• Each rectangle has a length or width of $3 \, \text{cm}$.

Let’s count the number of rectangles:

1. Bottom Left Rectangle: $3 \, \text{cm} \times 3 \, \text{cm} = 9 \, \text{cm}^2$
2. Next Rectangle up: $3 \, \text{cm} \times 3 \, \text{cm} = 9 \, \text{cm}^2$
3. Next Rectangle up: $3 \, \text{cm} \times 3 \, \text{cm} = 9 \, \text{cm}^2$
4. Next Rectangle up: $3 \, \text{cm} \times 3 \, \text{cm} = 9 \, \text{cm}^2$

Each segment we calculated above is 3 cm by 3 cm, and there are four such rectangles.

Total Area Calculation:

$\text{Total Area} = 9 \, \text{cm}^2 + 9 \, \text{cm}^2 + 9 \, \text{cm}^2 + 9 \, \text{cm}^2 = 36 \, \text{cm}^2$

Final Answer:

The area of the shape is 36 cm².

Would you like to see a diagram illustrating the breakdown of the shape into rectangles, or need further details?

Related Questions:

1. How does the area change if the side lengths are doubled?
2. How do you calculate the area of irregular shapes?
3. What is the relationship between area and perimeter?
4. Can you calculate the area of this shape using a different method?
5. How does understanding area help in practical situations like tiling a floor?

Tip: Breaking down complex shapes into simpler parts, like rectangles, can make calculating area much easier.