Area of Parallelograms & Trapeziums

MathematicsAQAEdexcelGCSEUnit: Geometry & Measures
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The basics

Shapes with Parallel Sides

Shapes with Parallel Sides

A parallelogram is like a "pushed over" rectangle - imagine pushing the top of a rectangle sideways. A trapezium has just ONE pair of parallel sides. Both are common in real life - roof sections, road signs, and sloped surfaces!

Visual: Parallelogram & Trapezium Areas

Diagram showing parallelogram area formula (base × height) and trapezium area formula (½(a+b) × height), with perpendicular heights clearly marked at 90°
Spotlight
The Key Formulas

Remember: Height is ALWAYS perpendicular (90°) - never the slanted side!

Now try it yourself

Quiz · Question 1 of 11

A parallelogram has base b and perpendicular height h. Which formula gives its area?

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Area of Rectangles & Triangles

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