Math Today

[frisco-kid]

Last week I purchased a burger and fries at McDonalds for $3.58.

The counter girl took my $4.00 and 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......



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 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?



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 $80 and his profit is $20 Your assignment: 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 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.)



Teaching Math In 2006

Un ranchero vende una carretera de maderapara $100. El cuesto de la produccion era $80. Cuantos tortillas se puede comprar?

[39mto39g]

Tom
Any time I confront someone that doesn't speek english worth a darn, I try to explain one time in very slow , plane, english, (maybe they are trying to learn) when I get a Huh? I just take the money back and leave whatever it was I was buying in front of that person,
Reality strikes home for them (maybe not) but it does for the manager.
People in this country stop being helpful to someone that doesn't speek english, maybe they would learn and speek english? Also stop hireing "bi-lingo"
Having spanish shouldn't be a help in the United States, It should be a help if you go to Mexico.
Having French shouldn't be of any help in the United States, It should help you if you go to France.

Ron

[St. Michael's]

Cuantos tortillas??? No Hablo Espanol... As a "Tree Hugger" I do embrace the "Teaching Math in 1990" philosophy though... Have a nice day (and don't eat at Taco Bell)!