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:
Teaching Math In 1950 ************************ A logger sells a
truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is
4/5 of the price. What is his profit?
Teaching Math In 1960 ************************ 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?
Teaching Math In 1970 ************************ A logger sells a
truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is
$80. Did he make a profit?
Teaching Math In 1980 *********************** 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.
Teaching Math In 1990 ************************ 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 felt as the logger cut down the
homes? (There are no wrong answers.)
Teaching Math In 2005 ************************ El hachero vende un
camion carga por $100. La cuesta de production
es.....
_________________________
My Opinions Only