Archive for the ‘Humor’ Category
BP: Brown… It’s the New Green
A funny but sad video from the Second City Network about our favorite oil company: British Petroleum. By the way, regarding the mess in the Gulf… it’s payback for America seceding from the British empire.
Evolution of Teaching Math in America
Last week I purchased a cheeseburger at McDonalds for $1.58. I handed $2.08 to the young woman behind the counter. She stood there, holding the nickel and 3 pennies, while staring blankly at her register. I sensed her discomfort and tried to tell her to just give me back two quarters, but she hailed the manager for help. While he tried to explain the transaction to her, she started crying in frustration. Why do I tell you this? Because of the evolution in teaching math in the United States over the past six decades:
Teaching Math in 1959
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 1969
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 1979
A logger sells a truckload of lumber for $100. His cost of production is $80. Did he make a profit?
Teaching Math in 1989
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 1999
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 his way of making a living? Topic for class participation after answering the question: How did the birds and squirrels feel as the logger destroyed their homes? (There are no wrong answers, and if you feel like crying, it’s OK.)
Teaching Math in 2009
Un maderero vende un camiĂłn cargado de madera por $100. Su coste de producciĂłn es de $80. ÂżSe obtienen beneficios?
Alternative Energy Revolution
From xkcd: A webcomic of romance, sarcasm, math, and language
Clean Coal Air Freshener
Now with new and improved labeling! But in reality, there is no such thing as clean coal. Learn more.
How Green is Your Love?
Valentine’s Day is coming soon, and love is in the air! Or, is that global warming?
Either way, Sierra Club is hosting a “How Green is My Love Life?” quiz to help you find ways to spread your love and shrink your carbon footprint at the same time.
If you don’t do well on the quiz, you can follow this advice to woo your sweetheart on Valentine’s Day with these green date ideas:

