Create and determine the area of composite figures

In this lesson, students solve problems involving the areas of composite figures. (For example, "Emma's rectangular bedroom is 11 feet long and 12 feet wide with an attached closet that is 4 feet by 5 feet. How many square feet of carpet does Emma need to cover both the bedroom and closet?") For each problem, they draw a diagram of the situation, calculate a solution using the area formula, and compare solutions with their classmates.