Pumpkin Math in Kindergarten

Pumpkins can be found everywhere at this time of the year, including inside our kindergarten classroom. In the past week, pumpkins have been the focal point of some fun hands-on math experiences.

The kindergarten mathematicians were asked to challenge themselves to roll a pair of dice, add them together, and then use a key to determine which body part to add to their own pumpkin creation (or friendly monster). in a "Roll a Pumpkin" game.The students were free to work individually or with a partner(s) during this math activity.

This multi-step activity combined several skills across domains, such as adding two numbers, recognizing numerals, reading a key, and using imaginations and fine motor skills to create an individual piece of art. Taking turns, sharing materials and problem solving were  major components for those working with a partner or small group.  Literacy was also integrated into the activity as students dictated creative stories inspired by their imaginary characters!

                                                                                 

 Moving from creative and imaginary pumpkins, the class has begun to explore the real thing. Using different measurement tools the mathematicians will discover:

What can be used to measure?
How tall is the pumpkin?                                 
How wide?
How heavy is it? 
Which tool is the easiest to use? Why?
The hardest? Why?
       

New vocabulary (height, width, weight, non-standard units of measurement, standard units of measurement) will be learned and used during measurement activities in small groups. Counting pumpkin seeds (before we roast them to eat) will be the perfect opportunity for children to use estimation skills and problem solve ways to count large numbers of an item. Hands on math activities in kindergarten create opportunities to facilitate problem solving with peers as well as support and practice new measurement skills and concepts.

Next to measure? Our human bodies!