jmc

Segments $\overline{AD}$ and $\overline{BE}$ are drawn perpendicular to $\overline{YZ}$. Segments $\overline{AB}$, $\overline{AC}$ and $\overline{BC}$ divide $△XYZ$ into four congruent triangles. Vertical line segments $\overline{AD}$, $\overline{XC}$ and $\overline{BE}$ divide each of these in half. Three of the eight small triangles are shaded, or $\frac{3}{8}$ of $△XYZ$. The shaded area is $\frac{3}{8}(8)=\boxed{3}$.