Math Anxiety

I got this little email yesterday and it made me laugh. I figured I would share it seeing as that we're on a little liberal vs. conservative social commentary kick.

God Bless,
-Patrick

Yesterday I purchased double, non fat, decaf, extra hot latte at
Starbucks for $4.58.

The counter girl took my $5.00 & 8 cents. She stood there, holding the nickel & 3 pennies. While looking at the screen on her register, I sensed her discomfort & 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 began to cry.

Why do I tell you this? Because of the evolution in teaching math since the 1950s:

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

Teaching Math In 1960:
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?

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

Teaching Math In 1980:
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.

Teaching Math In 1990: A logger cuts down a beautiful forest because he is selfish, inconsiderate & 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 & squirrels feel as the logger cut down their homes? (There are no wrong answers.)

Teaching Math In 2006:
Un ranchero vende una carretera de Madera Para $100. El cuesto de la produccion era $80. Cuantos tortillas se puede comprar?

*sigh...*