This is pretty much spot on:

Math BlackboardLast 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 1960's...

Teaching Math In 1970: 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 1980: 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 1990: A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is $80. Did he make a profit?

Teaching Math In 2000: 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 2009: 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.)

 
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3 Comments on The Evolution of Math in the United States

MAY
29

Thanks for the comment Jim...I'm glad you liked it!!

2:58pm • #3
JUN
23
464,052 Points 13 Featured Posts Localism Sponsor Outside Blog

Dan I think you nailed it.  Coming from a family with many mathematicians I found this interesting.

Yes today math is more fluff than concepts and people or lost without electronic devices to do the calculations.

7:22pm • #4
JUN
24

Thanks Jennifer...the best is when your total @ McDonald's is 5.56 and you hand them 21.06 - The blank stares I've gotten are truly sad.

9:30am • #5

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Dan Magstadt

Lake City, FL

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Mortgage blog written by Dan Magstadt to help give some insight into the mortgage market as well as let everyone know what's going on at Meridian Financial & my personal life!
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