All four methods presented for finding the percent of 15 out of 25 have merit and are mathematically valid, albeit with varying degrees of clarity and efficiency. Let’s briefly break down each method:
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Shelia's Method:
- She computes \(15 ÷ 25 = 0.6\) and then erroneously states that \(0.6\) is equivalent to \(10o\), which seems to be a typographical error and possibly means \(60\). The way she describes this is confusing and lacks clarity.
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Jason's Method:
- He correctly identifies that 15 out of 25 is equivalent to 60 out of 100. This is a valid method based on the concept of setting a proportion, where you scale the fraction to find out what it would be out of 100%.
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Jamarla's Method:
- She uses a proportional method effectively by setting up the equation \(x = \frac{15}{25} \times 100\). This gives her \(x = 60\), which directly solves for the percent and is clear in its calculations.
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Shaka's Method:
- Similar to Shelia’s, Shaka rightly calculates \(15 ÷ 25 = 0.6\) and then multiplies by 100 to convert it into percent. This is a straightforward method that is mathematically sound.
Conclusion
Does it make sense mathematically?
- Yes, the methods used by Jason, Jamarla, and Shaka are direct and yield the same correct answer of 60%. Shelia's method had an unclear conclusion regarding the representation of 0.6, but her initial step of dividing to find the decimal is a valid approach.
Overall, the most efficient and clear methods are those of Jason and Jamarla, as they eliminate potential confusion present in Shelia's description and present straightforward calculations. Shaka's method also works but could be seen as redundant compared to Jamarla's and Jason's approaches.
2 answers