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?