 Fifty Years of Math
Fifty Years of Math
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. While
he tried to explain the transaction to her, she stood there and
cried. 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 okay.)
6. Teaching Math In 2009
Un hachero vende una carretada de maderapara $100. El costo de la
producciones es $80. Cuanto dinero ha hecho?
__________________ ''Life's tough........it's even tougher if you're stupid.'' -John Wayne
"The main difference between the wise man and a fool is that a fool's mistakes never teach him anything." -Unknown
"With age comes the realization of mortality" -Tom Woods
| 
Linear Mode
