A Mathematical Conundrum

1. Teaching Maths In 1970. A logger sells a truckload of timber for £100.His cost of production is 4/5 of the price.What is his profit?

2. Teaching Maths In 1980. A logger sells a truckload of timber for £100.His cost of production is 4/5 of the price, or £80.What is his profit?

3. Teaching Maths In 1990: A logger sells a truckload of timber for £100.His cost of production is £80.Did he make a profit?

4. Teaching Maths In 2000: A logger sells a truck load of timber for £100.His cost of production is £80 and his profit is £20. Your assignment: Underline the number 20.

5. Teaching Maths In 2008. 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.)