First graders at Winterpock Elementary spent a fall day investigating pumpkins through hands-on learning experiences designed to engage their curiosity and scientific thinking. Students worked in teams to weigh and measure their pumpkins, count the seeds and use their five senses to make detailed observations.

Two students pulling seeds out of a pumpkin

They also put their scientific investigation skills to the test by predicting and experimenting to see whether pumpkins sink or float. It was a fun and educational way to integrate math, science and critical thinking — all while celebrating the fall season.

Two students investigating pumpkins

Two students testing if a pumpkin will float