7th Grade · Geometry
Composite Figure
7.G.B.6
Definition
A shape made up of two or more basic geometric shapes. Find the total area by decomposing (breaking apart) and adding the areas of the individual shapes.
Examples
- Two rectangles, 5m×6m = 30m2 and 3m×4m = 12m2, total 42m2.
- Subtract method: full rectangle 8 × 6 = 48, minus missing 3 × 2 = 6, gives 42m2 — same answer.
Key rule
Decompose the figure, find each area separately, then add them together.
Memory hook
Break the shape into pieces you already know how to measure.