Pumpkins at the Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkins have a variety of appearance features. Color, shape, size, warts, stems, vines, and the depth of the ribs can all be varied, some present or not. Genetic and environmental factors both play a role in determining the appearance of a pumpkin.

What causes pumpkins to look different?

• What differences do you notice in the appearance of these pumpkins?
• What causes might have led to these differences?
• How do you think we could explore the many differences in the appearances of pumpkins?

Students could:

• Record observations of pumpkins, noting differences and similarities. Then they can ask questions about pumpkins.
• See how pumpkins are different from other vegetables and how they grow differently.
• Explore the pumpkins with our five senses: How do they feel, smell, taste, look, sound? 
• Students can investigate pumpkins based on whether it can float or sink, the weight, circumference, weight etc.

• Early Learning Ideas | Lesson Plans: A variety of engaging activities related to pumpkins. Activities range from looking at pumpkins to seeing what’s on the inside of pumpkins to looking and feeling the texture of pumpkins inside and outside. 
• Early Learning Ideas | Life Cycle of Pumpkins: A variety of activities that focus on the 6 stages of the life cycle for pumpkins.
• San Diego Family | Background Information on Pumpkins: This provides different facts on pumpkins that would be helpful to learn about before we dive further into exploring pumpkins.