Doc Meek

Posts Tagged ‘teaching math’

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Tuesday, February 15, 2011. Today I am grateful for humorists who lighten our day, with maybe grains of truth even. 😮

“Fifty Years of Math 1957 – 2007 In the U.S.” – Anonymous Humorist

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. Why do I tell you this?

Because of the evolution in teaching math since the 1950s:

1. Teaching Math in the 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 the 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 the 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 the 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 the 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 the 2000s
If you have special needs or just feel you
need assistance because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual
orientation, age, childhood memories, etc., then don’t
answer and the correct answer will be provided for you.
There are no wrong answers. ……………………………………………………………………………….

Thank you, “Anonymous,” for making our day!

I think I would want to be anonymous on this one too. 😮

Doc Meek, Tue, Feb 15, 2011, Sherwood Park, Alberta, CANADA