1960 - 2010 / 50 years of math
Last week I purchased a sandwich at Burger King for $2.58.
The counter-girl took my $3 & I was digging for my change
when I pulled 8 cents from my pocket & gave it to her.
She stood there, holding the nickel & 3 pennies, while
looking at the screen on her register. I sensed her dis-
comfort & 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 & cried.
Why do I tell you this? Because of the evolution in
teaching math since 1960
1. Teaching math In 1960
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 1970
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 1980
A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100.
His cost of production is $80.
Did he make a profit?
4. Teaching Math In 1990
A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100.
His cost of production is $80 & his profit is $20.
Your assignment: Underline the number 20.
5. Teaching Math In 2000
A logger cuts down a beautiful forest because he
is selfish & inconsiderate & cares nothing for the
habitat of
animals or the preservation of our wood-
lands. 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 & squirrels feel as the
logger cut down their homes? (There are no wrong
answers, & if you feel like crying, it's okay.)
6. Teaching Math In 2010
Un hachero vende una carretada de maderapara $100.
El costo de la producciones es $80.
Cuanto dinero ha hecho?
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