The outside of a pumpkin can be amazing, but do not underestimate what is on the inside.
Pumpkins traditionally conjure up images of carved, illuminated faces. Although the carved faces are interesting to look at, there is much more to a pumpkin than meets the eye. The interior of the pumpkin contains both pulp -- often used in baking products -- and seeds. These seeds can be used in a variety of math, science, art and cooking activities.
Math
Pumpkin seeds can be used for a variety of classroom activities.
Children can practice their estimation skills by devising methods to predict the number of seeds in a pumpkin. One method is to divide a pumpkin into equally cut sections. By counting the seeds in one section, students can extrapolate the number of seeds in the entire pumpkin. Younger students may divide the seeds into equal parts and count them using progression math skills. Students may also use the seeds as "counters" for addition and subtraction exercises.
Science
Growing pumpkin seeds in a classroom is a science activity enjoyed by both younger and older students. To grow the seeds, plant them in small plastic cups and keep the soil moist. A small plant will emerge within eight to ten days. To depict the evolution of the growth of the plant, children can create labels of the plant parts and affix them to a picture or photograph of a pumpkin on a vine.
Art
Pumpkin seeds can be used to make colorful mosaics. In a few short steps, students can create interesting pieces of art. First, students must clean the seeds and paint them the colors of their choice. Dry the seeds on wax paper. Instruct the students to draw an outline of the design they wish to create. Finally, have the children glue the painted pumpkin seeds within the border of their outlined drawing. Display the final projects throughout the classroom.
Cooking
Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc, vitamin K, amino acids and minerals that have important benefits for human eyes. To prepare roasted pumpkin seeds, separate the pumpkin flesh from the seeds. Wash and dry the seeds, drizzle them with melted butter and sprinkle them with sea salt. Bake the seeds for approximately 15 minutes at 275 degrees Fahrenheit or until they are lightly browned. For interesting seed flavor variations, encourage the students to experiment with lemon pepper, garlic salt, Worcestershire sauce, spices or cayenne pepper.
Tags: seeds used, number seeds, Pumpkin seeds, pumpkin seeds, Pumpkin seeds used, seeds used variety
