Fifty Years of Math 1957 - 2007

Last week an emailer purchased a burger at Burger King for $1.58. The
counter girl took his $2 and he pulled 8 cents from his pocket and gave it to her. She stood there, holding the nickel and 3 pennies, while looking at the screen on her register. Sensing her discomfort he tried to tell her to just give him two quarters, but instead she hailed the manager for help. While he tried to explain the transaction to
her, she stood there and cried.

What has gone on here? Study if you will, 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 2007

Un hachero vende una carretada de maderapara $100. El costo
de la producciones es $80. Cuanto dinero ha hecho