Fifty-Four Years of Math 1957 - 2011 In America

Last week I purchased a burger at Burger King
for $1.58. The counter girl took my $2 and I was
digging for my change when I pulled 8 cents from
my pocket and gave it to her. She stood there,
holding the nickel and 3 pennies, while looking at
the screen on her register. I sensed her discomfort
and tried to tell her to just give me two quarters,
but she hailed the manager for help.

Why do I tell you this?
Because of the evolution in teaching math since
the 1950s:

1. Teaching Math In 1950s
A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100.
His cost of production is 4/5 of the price.
What is his profit ?

2. Teaching Math In 1960s
A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100.
His cost of production is 4/5 of the price, or $80.
What is his profit?

3. Teaching Math In 1970s
A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100.
His cost of production is $80.
Did he make a profit?

4. Teaching Math In 1980s
A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100.
His cost of production is $80 and his profit is $20.
Your assignment: Underline the number 20 ...

5. Teaching Math In 1990s
A logger cuts down a beautiful forest because
he is selfish and inconsiderate and cares nothing
for the habitat of animals or the preservation of
our woodlands. He does this so he can make a
profit of $20. What do you think of this way of
making a living?

Topic for class participation after answering the
question: How did the birds and squirrels feel
as the logger cut down their homes?

(There are no wrong answers, and if you feel
like crying, it's ok.)

6. Teaching Math In 2000s
If you have special needs or just feel you need
assistance because of race, color, religion, sex,
sexual orientation, age, childhood memories,
criminal background, then don't answer and the
correct answer will be provided for you.
There are no wrong answers.

7. Teaching Math In 2011
Un hachero vende una carrtada de maderapara
100 pesos. El costo de la producciones es 80 pesos.
Cuanto dinero ha hecho?



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