Mastering Discounts: A Key Skill for the CAASPP Math Exam

When gearing up for the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP), mastering the nuances of math problems—like discounts—can really give you an edge. You know what? Grasping how to solve percentage problems might just be one of the most practical skills you can have in your back pocket for the math section.

So, let’s jump into the example at hand: Why do you need to know what the original price of a pair of shoes is if the discount is already a done deal? To answer that, let’s unravel what a 20% discount really means.

If those shoes are priced at $60 after that deal, you might think that’s a sweet spot—hey, it is! But, here’s the kicker: that means you’re paying 80% of the original price since you’ve saved 20%. I know what you’re thinking: “How do I even find the original price?” It’s simpler than you might think.

Let’s break this down step by step! First, we define the original price as ( P ). Since the shoes now cost $60 after the 20% discount, we establish this equation:

[ 0.80P = 60 ]

Looking at it this way, the expression shows us we’re only paying 80% of the original price. To find ( P ), we just need to rearrange the equation:

[ P = \frac{60}{0.80} ]

Now, a quick division reveals that:

[ P = 75 ]

And voilà! The original price of those shoes was $75! Easy enough, right? This calculation not only helps you answer potential questions in the CAASPP Math Exam but also embeds a foundational skill in percentage calculations and discount reasoning.

This skill is particularly significant because questions about discounts pop up all the time, whether it’s shopping for back-to-school supplies, or just browsing through cool sales at your favorite stores. You can literally apply math in real-life scenarios, and let me tell you—it feels satisfying to know you've nailed it.

So, as you prep for the CAASPP Math Exam, dedicate some time to practicing problems like this. Engage with the numbers, understand the principles behind percentages and discounts, and watch your confidence soar! By honing these skills, you’re not just preparing for a test—you’re prepping for everyday life! Whether you’re calculating sale prices or figuring out tips, math is a trusty companion.

Now that you’ve got this down, it’s time to tackle more problems, connect these principles to different scenarios, and solidify your math skills. Just remember: Math isn’t just an exam; it’s a toolkit for life!