Teaching math 1958-2008

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1958 - 2008 / 50 years of math:

Last week I purchased a burger 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 1958:

1. Teaching math In 1958

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 1968

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 1978

A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100.

His cost of production is $80.

Did he make a profit?

4. Teaching Math In 1988

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 1998

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 2008
Un hachero vende una carretada de maderapara $100.

El costo de la producciones es $80.

Cuanto dinero ha hecho?