Answer:
To find the area of the trapezoid, we can use the following formula:
```
Area = (1/2) * (base1 + base2) * (height)
```
where base1 and base2 are the lengths of the two bases of the trapezoid and height is the distance between the two bases.
In this case, base1 = 10 cm, base2 = 8 cm, and height = 6 cm.
```
Area = (1/2) * (10 cm + 8 cm) * (6 cm)
Area = 54 cm^2
```
Therefore, the area of the trapezoid is 54 square centimeters.
**Connexus Diagnostics 6th grade:**
To solve this problem in a 6th grade Connexus Diagnostics way, we can use the following steps:
1. Draw the trapezoid and label the bases and height.
2. Write down the formula for the area of a trapezoid.
3. Substitute the values for the bases and height into the formula.
4. Simplify the expression to find the area.
**Solution:**
```
Area = (1/2) * (base1 + base2) * (height)
Area = (1/2) * (10 cm + 8 cm) * (6 cm)
Area = (1/2) * 18 cm * 6 cm
Area = 54 cm^2
```
Therefore, the area of the trapezoid is 54 square centimeters.
Explanation: