Unless you’re a mathematician, chances are you don’t use percentages much in your daily life.
An exception is eating out, figuring the tip for your meal. Sashabaw Middle School sixth graders figured that out at Green Machine Cafe, a large-group-instruction room converted to a breakfast diner for the day.
“It’s fun. We’ve never gotten to eat breakfast while doing math before,” said student Erin Lazoen at her class’ session, April 1.
Students ordered breakfast items such as pancakes, bagels, and cereal off a menu, and figured how much to pay, with 6-percent state tax, 18 percent tip, and a coupon discount for extra credit.
“I calculate six percent of the bill for the tax, then calculate the tip on the total amount plus tax,” said Dillon Ross, sixth grader. “I’m a good tipper. I usually just leave whatever I have left.”
Parents and teachers donated all food and supplies, and parents volunteered as servers. Money exchanges were imaginery, but the food was real.
“It’s a test for our students that matches our state and district curriculum,” said Stephanie Jensen, sixth-grade math teacher who organized the activity. “Our students, parents and teachers are extremely excited about it.”
“It’s fun. It’s great they get to use math in a real world way,” said parent volunteer Jill Leek. “Teachers work hard to make learning interesting, and kids loved being served by parents.”
? Phil Custodio