Standing Pumpkin Halloween STEM Challenge With The Free Lesson Plan & Printable PDF

Standing Pumpkin Halloween STEM Challenge

Welcome to the Standing Pumpkin STEM Challenge, where imagination and creativity come together with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics! In this engaging activity, kids will embark on a journey to create their very own standing pumpkin using simple materials and their innovative nature. Get ready to explore the realms of engineering, mathematics, and science while enhancing the artistic skills of kids. This challenge not only encourages teamwork and problem-solving but also integrates various STEM concepts in a fun and exciting way. So, grab your construction paper, markers, and scissors, and let’s dive into the world of STEM-inspired pumpkin creativity!

Standing Pumpkin Halloween STEM Challenge with the free lesson plan and printable PDF

First and foremost give a brief introduction to this Standing Pumpkin STEM Challenge.

Introduction:

Greetings, young scientists, engineers, and artists! Get ready to unleash your creativity and delve into the fascinating world of STEM with our Standing Pumpkin Challenge. This exciting activity combines science, technology, engineering, and mathematics, inviting you to explore the principles of balance, stability, geometry, and artistic expression. Using basic materials like construction paper, a toilet paper roll, and your imagination, you will embark on a journey to build a standing pumpkin masterpiece. Not only will you enhance your STEM skills, but you'll also unleash your artistic talents. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, grab our markers and construction paper, and start crafting your very own STEM-inspired pumpkin creation! Get ready to stand tall in the face of this thrilling challenge!

Materials Needed:

Orange construction paper strips (pre-cut or cut into thin strips)
Large toilet paper roll
hard cardboard circle shape,
templet (for base, leaves and stem, eyes and mouth)
Scissors
Glue or tape
Markers or crayons

Directions:

Prepare the Base:

Start by creating a base for the pumpkin, using construction paper on a hard cardboard circle shape,

Place a large toilet paper roll vertically in the center of the base, creating a cylinder-like structure.

Assemble the Pumpkin:

Take the thin construction paper strips and, following the template, stick them onto the base like sun rays, covering the entire surface. Ensure the strips are securely attached. This will form the spherical shape of the pumpkin. Gather all the strips at the upper portion and create a stem by twisting or rolling some strips together. Secure the stem in place.

Add Facial Features:

Cut out eyes, arms, and a mouth from white or black construction paper. Attach these features onto the pumpkin using glue or tape. Add details to the facial features using markers to make the pumpkin look spooky or funny, depending on the preference.

Download free templet from the bottom

Embellish with Leaves and Stem:

Cut leaves and a stem from the template given at the bottom and color it green. Attach the leaves around the base of the pumpkin, and attach the stem at the top of the pumpkin, covering the joint where the strips are gathered. This will give the pumpkin a more realistic appearance.

STEM Integration:

Engineering:

Building the pumpkin structure using thin paper strips and a toilet paper roll involves engineering principles such as stability, balance, and structure.

Mathematics:

Children can learn about measurements and geometry while cutting and arranging the paper strips to form the pumpkin shape.

Science:

Understanding the concept of balance and weight distribution as the pumpkin stands on the base.

Technology:

Utilizing markers and other art supplies to decorate the pumpkin involves basic technology use.

Creativity:

Encourages creative thinking and problem-solving as children design and decorate their pumpkins.

Learning Outcomes:

Enhanced Engineering Skills: Kids learn about stability, balance, and structure by building a standing pumpkin.

Mathematical Understanding:

Practice measurements and geometry concepts through cutting and arranging paper strips.

Scientific Concepts:

Learn about balance and weight distribution in a hands-on manner.

Technological Use:

Utilize markers and art supplies for creative expression, enhancing basic technological skills.

Creative Thinking:

Encourages creativity, imagination, and problem-solving as children design and decorate their pumpkins.

This STEM challenge not only promotes engineering and mathematical skills but also enhances scientific understanding and encourages creative expression among children.