Yeti GOBOX Collection

New math

DRAFTSTUD

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The New, New Math

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 1960s:


1. Teaching Math In 1960s (when I started in school)

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 1970s

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 1980s
A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is $80. Did he make a profit ? Yes or No


4. Teaching Math In 1990s

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 2000s

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 2010

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

ANSWER: His profit was $375,000 because his logging business is just a front for his pot farm.
 
I had almost the same experience at a MacDonalds. She punched the wrong amount in the cash register and couldn't make change. She was about to send for the manager to figure it out.
 
We had a greek burger joint in one of the downtown bank bldgs here...it was worth the visit just to listen to the waiter yell the order to the cook...and hear the cook repeat it. The were adept at math though.

....no Coke, Pessi owenlee!
 
When I worked at the Post Office I was amazed at the number of people that couldn't figure out the cost of ten stamps. One kid told me he didn't have to figure it out because he wasn't in school...I don't think his mom knew the answer either. Sure glad I learned the three R's when I had the chance.
 
John, the Burger King story is sooo ironic, trying to make it easier for them. Screws 'em up every time!
It is fun to watch the little wheels turn.
 

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