Fifty Years of Math

Last week I purchased a burger at Burger King for $1.58. The counter girl took my $2.00 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:

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


• 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?


• 1970s -- A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is $80. Did he make a profit?


• 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.


• 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. )


• 2009 -- Un hachero vende una carretada de maderapara $100. El costo de la producciones es $80. Cuanto dinero ha hecho?