Last week I purchased a burger at Burger King for $3,58. After the counter girl took my $4,00, I pulled out 8 cents from my pocket and gave it to her. As she stood there holding the nickel and 3 pennies while looking at the screen on her register with a blank stare, I sensed her discomfort. I tried to her to just give me 2 quarters, but she called the manager instead. While he tried to explain the transaction to her, she just stood there and cried.
Why do I tell you this? Because of the evolution in teaching math since the 1950’s.
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 1060: A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is 4/5, 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 $100 and his profit is $20. 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 about this way of making a living? Topic for class discussion after answering the question: How did the birds and squirrels feel as the logger cut down their homes? (There are no wrong answers.)
Teaching math in 2006: Un hachero vende una carretada de maderapara $100. El costs de la produccisn es $80. Cuantas tortillas se pueda comprar?
