Pumpkin Investigations

It is pumpkin time!  We have been studying the pumpkin life cycle and other interesting characteristics.  Thank you for donating pumpkins to our science center.  We ended up with nine  different looking pumpkins.  We worked in groups to pick a pumpkin and do several different investigations.  First, the scientists counted and recorded the number of lines on the pumpkins.

 Next, the scientists measured.  They had to measure the height in cubes and the circumference.  To find the circumference, the children cut a piece of yarn to fit around the pumpkin then measured the length of the ribbon.  There were a few surprises!

Last, we did a sink and float test.  Even though we had read that pumpkins could float, many of the students predicted the pumpkins would sink.  Some of the pumpkins were very heavy!  To their amazement, all the pumpkins floated!  Even if the students tried to hold the pumpkin down, it would still float to the top!  The experiment was a catalyst for a really interesting discussion.  These six and seven year old's were on the verge of some huge science concepts and I just LOVE their curiosity.  Have I told you before, I just think these kiddos are amazing! Thank you again for donating to our learning!