Thread: FIFTY YEARS OF MATH

Fifty Years of Math 1959 – 2009

Last week I purchased a burger at Burger King for $1.58. The counter girl took my $2.00 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 confusion and tried to tell her to just give me two quarters, but she hailed the manager for help. Why do I tell you this? Because of the evolution in teaching m ath since the1950s:

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 okay.)

6. Teaching Math In 2000s:
If you have special needs or just feel you need assistance because of religion, sex, sexual orientation, age, childhood memories, criminal background, then don't answer and the correct answer will be provided for you. There are no wrong answers.

7. Teaching Math In 2009:
Un hachero vende una carrtada de madera para 100 pesos. El costo de la producciones es 80 pesos. Cuanto dinero ha hecho? Avast!

And we are to have patience, be nice, and wait on the stupid manager that hired the illegal.

I found this on a website, but the math lessons stopped in the 1980s. These additions are priceless! Thanks!

Sad but very true,and its getting worse.

Moving to "other topic's"...no illegal immigrants here!!

I like the story about the guy who goes into a fast food place and asks for a half dozen chicken nuggets only to be informed that they don't sell them that way, so he asks how they sell them and is told they come either six or twelve. They guy say's "If I can't get a half dozen I'll take six then."
The counter guy had no clue!

The dumbing down of Americans!