Let's analyze the problem step by step.

Part (a) - Identifying the 3D shape:

The given net consists of six squares arranged in a cross pattern, which is a typical net for a cube. Each face of the cube is a square, and there are six faces in total.

Answer: The 3D shape formed by the net is a cube.

Part (b) - Calculating the area of the net:

Each small square in the grid has an area of $1 \, \text{cm}^2$, as given in the question. There are 6 squares in the net, so the total area is:

$\text{Area of net} = 6 \times 1 \, \text{cm}^2 = 6 \, \text{cm}^2$

Answer: The total area of the net is 6 cm².

Would you like further details or clarifications?

Here are 5 related questions to explore the concept further:

1. How do you calculate the surface area of a cube?
2. Can a cube's net be arranged in any other way? If yes, how?
3. What is the volume of a cube if each edge is 1 cm?
4. How many other types of nets can be used to create a cube?
5. What is the relationship between the net and the 3D shape it forms?

Tip: When identifying nets of 3D shapes, count the faces and ensure they match the number of surfaces in the 3D shape!