Finding the Area of a Triangle

So, you're wondering how to find the are if a triangle? Well, you're in luck because that's what I'm about to show you!

There are 2 ways to finding the area of a triangle (as with most polygons):

1. This first way works for any polygon, or strange shape:

OK, let's say that this is our triangle that we have to find the area of.

So, you're probably looking at that and freaking out, huh? Well don't be.

The first thing you have to do is count all the full squares, which will be highlighted in pink.

After we count all of those, they add up to 56. Which means: 56cm2. Now we have to add on the half squares, which will be highlighted in purple and light blue.

I highlighted them in 2 different colours so I only had to count the purple, or light blue half squares. Each of which added up to 8. 8cm2, then we add on the full 56 squares which equals 64cm2. So there you have it. The area of this triangle.

2. Now, that may sound a little complicated, so there is another way to find the area of this triangle. Also, you may not always have graph paper to do the fist one on.

So, all you need is a ruler...and a brain. It's simple really, you just measure the base and the height, then multiply them by each other, then you divide it by 2 to get your answer.

Sorry that it's a little blury. Anyways, for this triangle the height was 8cm, and the length was 16cm, so multiply that to get 128cm2. Divided by 2, equals 64cm2. See? Easy! Now you try, make up your own triangle and try to find the area of it.

PS I did all the pictures on paint, it may take a while to make the graph paper, though.

Still not understanding your math problems? Go to www.6bdmath.blogspot.com.