Oct. 10, 2007 - Math Problems

This was not written by me.  It was an e-mail that was getting passed around.  It's funny, but sad because it's true.

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 1950:
A logger sells a truck load of lumber for $100. His cost of production is
4/5 of the price. What is his profit?

2. Teaching Math In 1960:
A logger sells a truck load of lumber for $100. His cost of production is
4/5 of the price, or $80. What is his profit?

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

4. Teaching Math In 1980:
A logger sells a truck load 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 1990:
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 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 and squirrels
feel as the logger cut down their homes? (There are no wrong answers.)

6. Teaching Math In 2007:
Un hachero vende una carretad a de madera por $100. El costo de la
producciones es $80. Cuanto dinero ha hecho?

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Comments

Oct. 17, 2007 - Untitled Comment

Posted by mykidsmatter2

I totally agree with this post... We are "dumbing down" our children and it is so unfair to them and their futures...
Have a great week..

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Nov. 1, 2007 - Untitled Comment

Posted by fallinglikerain

Sigh. This is so true where I live I don't even know what to say. Thank God we can homeschool.
Sandy

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