Let’s face it, teaching math on Halloween is like trying to keep a room full of excited kids focused when there are costumes and candy involved. It takes more than just chalk dust, you need some serious teacher magic! But don’t worry! I’ve got the perfect trick (or treat) for you: Estimation with Pumpkins!
Here’s what you need to do:
- Head over to your local grocery store or any place where pumpkins are for sale and scales are available. Grab your phone or camera because we’re going on a mission.
- Choose three pumpkins that vary in size – think “Goldilocks” style, with one too big, one too small and one just right! These will be the stars of our show.
- Take pictures of your chosen pumpkins on the scale. Don’t worry about the funny looks from other shoppers, just keep smiling and think of all the learning fun ahead!
- Back in class, create a slide show or a visual presentation with these pictures and bring the pumpkins along for an even more immersive experience!
- Pass around the pumpkins, one at a time, and let your students chat away as they guess each one’s weight. Encourage discussions about units and reasonable estimates. After revealing the actual weight of the first pumpkin with a dramatic flourish (“Ta-da!”), repeat the process for the remaining two. The anticipation will keep your students on their toes!
- Estimating the weight of these pumpkins is just an example. You can use the circumference, diameter, volume, surface area or whatever content fits your curriculum.
Why It Works
Using real-life experiences and current events makes math relatable and exciting! Pumpkin estimations get kids talking about math on a day when they’d rather be thinking about trick-or-treating. I think that’s a win-win for both teachers and students!
