Progressive Math

***bigcountrysg*** · #1 (**permalink**) 08-14-2007, 03:48 AM

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 1950 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 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?

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

4. 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.

5. 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 feel as the logger cut down their homes?

( There are no wrong answers )

6. Teaching Math In 2007 Un hachero vende una carretada de madera por
$100. El costo de la producciones es $80. Cuanto dinero ha hecho?