<<<< Fifty Years of Math 1957 - 2009

 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 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 2009

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


And that's just the math.

Forget the rest.