Predict the result
A triangle has base four centimeters and height six centimeters. What is its area?
Keep the units in the calculation.

Set up the model
A triangle’s area is one half times its base times its perpendicular height.
The height is perpendicular to the selected base.

Work the example
Multiply one half by four by six.
One half of twenty-four is twelve.
The area is twelve square centimeters.
The square units distinguish area from length.

Check the result
Now use a base of four centimeters and height of four centimeters.
Take eight seconds to think before the answer appears.
[Eight-second silent pause to work; the answer remains hidden.]
One half times four times four equals eight.
The area is eight square centimeters.

Interpret the result
Always pair a base with its perpendicular height.
Use the original task and check that your result fits its meaning.