Fifty Years of Math 1958 - 2008: Interesting read.

[MasterWolf1]

Fifty Years of Math 1958 - 2008


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 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 1950s



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 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?




3. Teaching Math In 1970s



A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100.  His cost of production


is $80.  Did he make a profit?








4. Teaching Math In 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.



5. Teaching Math In 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. )


6. Teaching Math In 2008

Un hachero vende una carretada de maderapara $100. El costo de l

a producciones es $80. Cuanto dinero ha hecho?

[Rubystars]

This is a great post! I have noticed that many people can't do simple calculations.

[Ari]

This is a great post! I have noticed that many people can't do simple calculations.

Me included sometimes, lol.

[eb22]

   
  Excellent thread.     

  The worst part of this is what the question could like 2018,  2028,   and 2038 if Western Civilization stays on it's current course.     

[HiWarp]

The way we are going there wont be any math in the near future.

There may be math but there won't be any profits.  Only income and taxes.

[nessuno]

I can't tell you how many times in the past few months people have said to me - the other day while I was shopping at (fill in the blank) the kid behind the counter couldn't make change.
It is really sad.