Changes in teaching Math

I just got this from a friend…and thought I would share it with my blogging friends:

Fifty Years of Math 1957 - 2007 (in the USA )

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 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:

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 2009

Un hachero vende una carretada de maderapara

$100. El costo de la producciones es $80.

Cuanto dinero ha hecho.