Saturday, August 4, 2007

Great, Clean Joke

I heard this awesome joke today!  You'll love it!  Even though it's a little long, it's definitely worth it!

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Fifty Years of Math 1957-2007

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 three 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 1950's:

Teaching Math in 1957

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

Teaching Math in 1967

A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is 4/5. or $80.  What is his profit?

Teaching Math in 1977

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

Teaching Math in 1987

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

Teaching Math in 1997

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.)

Teaching Math in 2007

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

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Besides being a good joke, that has a point to it.  Don't get me wrong, I care for my environment - I'm a Boy Scout and innately care for animals and plants anyway.  I think some people are definitely taking it a little too far though.  The value of education is rapidly declining as well.  That beginning part was a true story with the Burger King employee as well.  It's a sad state.
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1 comment:

Anonymous said...

Hilarious--I got that in an email once