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The Revenoor, a most discerning and astute gentleman from way out west, sent this
one on the evolution of math for the past 50 years or so...

Last week I purchased a burger at a fast food restaurant 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 In1970s
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?

7. Teaching Math In 2013
Who cares? Just steal the lumber from your rich neighbor's property. He won't have a gun
to stop you, and it's OK anyway cuz it's just redistributing the wealth.
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