ES Faculty: Fouard, Amber
Pumpkin Fun!
by Amber Fouard
November 20, 2009
October was filled with lots of experiences around the topic of Pumpkins. The month started with lots of books, both fiction and non-fiction, about pumpkins. We discussed the growing cycle of pumpkins, then took a field trip to Sunny Side Pumpkin Patch. A lesson was given on the types of pumpkins, as well as the growing cycle. Then the students had the opportunity to pick their own pumpkin or squash to take home. Once the perfect souvenir was found, we had time to play and explore.
Next, the class did an experiment with a class pumpkin. We estimated how heavy it was, how many "ribs" it had, how long it was around, and if it would sink or float. Lots of fun and learning took place as we discovered who had good estimations. The biggest surprise was when Mrs. Fouard put both the large pumpkin and a small grape into a bucket of water. Not one student guess correctly that the grape would sink and the pumpkin float. Once we discussed that the pumpkin had air in it, and the grape was full of liquid--it all started clicking.
Finally, we cooked the pumpkin. With the pumpkin meat, we became cooks and made pumpkin muffins. The kitchen staff was very kind to let us invade their kitchen and teach us about the ingredients and process. In the afternoon, a yummy treat was delivered. The pumpkin muffins were fantastic and we even had enough for each student to take some home to share.
