Hello, I can help you!
I will solve this problem by working backwards meaning i will start with the total of $4 and work down.
First you should:
subtract .50 from $4 for the 1st minute of the call.

Next step: divide 3.50 by .15

round 23.33 minutes to 23 minutes
Now we have 23 minutes at .15(15 cents) and 1 minute at .50(50 cents):

Mark and his sister can talk for 24 minutes.
to find out how much he will get charged simply plug in the numbers:
Multiply: Now you have

So Mark will be Charged $3.95.
If you have any questions e-mail me at Southqueensb@yahoo.com
~EVY~