1. **State the problem:** We need to find the area of a trapezoid with one pair of parallel sides. 2. **Identify the bases and height:** The trapezoid has a bottom base divided into segments 8, 2, and 6 units long. The heights at the ends of the trapezoid are 3 units and 5 units respectively. 3. **Understand the shape:** The trapezoid's parallel sides are the top and bottom. The bottom base length is $8 + 2 + 6 = 16$ units. 4. **Calculate the top base length:** Since the heights differ, the top base length is the middle segment of length 2 units. 5. **Use the trapezoid area formula:** $$\text{Area} = \frac{(\text{base}_1 + \text{base}_2)}{2} \times \text{height}$$ 6. **Calculate the height:** The height is the average of the two heights given, so $$\text{height} = \frac{3 + 5}{2} = 4$$ 7. **Calculate the area:** $$\text{Area} = \frac{(16 + 2)}{2} \times 4 = \frac{18}{2} \times 4 = 9 \times 4 = 36$$ 8. **Final answer:** The area of the trapezoid is **36 units²**.