Taking an Order
Waiting for Tips

For many of Ms. Pruitt and Mr. Goode's 7th grade Math students, they got a glimpse into the future with a recent activity.  Half of the class pretended to be waiters/waitresses, complete with an apron. The other half were customers.  The customers perused actual menus from local restaurants and “ordered” a meal.  The waiters/waitresses took down the order, then calculated the total meal amount, added 8.6% for taxes and then another 18% for a tip.  After calculating, they went back to their customers and presented the final total.  The entire table had to verify it was the correct amount.  Once it was verified, the class switched roles. 
Besides reviewing, this activity showed students real-world Math.  In fact, one student said, “Finally! Math I can actually use!”  With this new generation of students, teachers must emphasize the practical, real-world reasons why they should learn specific material.  Ms. Pruitt and Mr. Goode were able to do just that with their students.   

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