Math is Fun at Pumpkin Prediction Day

Can you tell how many seeds are in a pumpkin by looking at it?

Pumpkin Prediction Day, is a fun way to use learned math and science skills at Del Mar Pines School. Our second and fourth grade students love this collaborative real-world application of abstract mathematical concepts such as estimation, measurement, and data analysis. 

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This fun, hands-on activity includes working as a team, in small groups, to hypothesize about expected results, take measurements, and check predictions. Our students estimate a pumpkin’s weight, height, and seed count.This STEM activity helps students collect and organize data and provide practice working with larger numbers in meaningful ways.

Through this prediction exercise, our students apply critical thinking skills by comparing their predictions to actual results and reasoning why the outcomes might be different. They also benefit from using tools such as scales, string and rulers and attempting to accurately measure a real world, squishy, messy object. It’s a fun way to apply math and science skills with tangible outcomes.