This weekend I took the family out to supper, and my four year-old son wanted to go to McDonalds. So off we went… where would kids be these days without happy meals?

After ordering our food, the total bill came to $12.73. So, I gave the casher $22.75, and he looked at me like I had handed him Chinese Yen. Not knowing whether to scratch or wind his watch, he laid the money beside the register proceeded to give me change of $10.02 in the following way… one $5, two $1, the two $1 I had just given him, $1.00 in quarters (three of which I gave him), and two pennies. Walking away laughing, I remembered this email I got from my grandfather… I offer it to you as a public service…

The evolution in teaching math since the 1950s

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

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?

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

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.

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 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).

2005: Un hachero vende una carretada de madera para $100. “La cuesta de la producción es $80”.