Pumpkin Science {Physical Science Investigation}
This resource is an engaging and effective way to integrate a fun fall twist into your Science curriculum. I created this resource to use in my 4th Grade classroom during our Physical Science Unit. We used pumpkins to discover, study, and discuss physical properties of matter. We then continued our study into physical vs. chemical changes. This investigation can last between 1-10 days (or more), depending on how you structure the activities.
We used small pumpkins to investigate the physical properties of the pumpkin. Students worked in groups of 2-4 to investigate size, mass, color, shape, texture, hardness, and density of the pumpkin.
We used a large class pumpkin to investigate physical vs. chemical changes. We also used the large pumpkin to discuss the physical properties of the inside of the pumpkin, such as smell.
What is included?
*The Physical Properties of Matter {Notebook Chart}
*Physical Properties of a Pumpkin {Notebook Recording Chart}
*Physical vs. Chemical Changes {Notebook Chart}
*Physical vs. Chemical Changes {Notebook Recording Chart}
*See Think Wonder {Notebook Recording Page}
*Rotting Pumpkin Observation Pages
Please see the preview for photos of how this might look in the classroom.
You might also LOVE these other 3rd-4th Grade Resources:
→Math Word Wall {Grades 3-4}
→Good Morning, Sunshine! Math Morning Work for the Year! 3rd Grade {The Bundle}
→Good Morning, Sunshine! Math Morning Work for the Year! 4th Grade {The Bundle}
→ELA Morning Work 3rd Grade {Growing Bundle}
→Math + ELA Morning Work 3rd Grade {Growing Bundle}
→ELA Morning Work 4th Grade {Growing Bundle}
→Math + ELA Morning Work 4th Grade {Growing Bundle}
→Text Structure Task Cards {Scientific Concepts}
🛑 Are you a member of the TLL Membership? These materials are already included. If you are not a member, click here to learn more. The TLL Membership gives you an all-access pass to hundreds of ELA resources for teachers in Grades 3-5.
If you find that any words you need are NOT included, please email me at help@theliteracyloft.com. I would be happy to add these words for you! :)
-Jessica
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Key Words:
Science, Physical Science, Pumpkin Science, Physical Properties, Physical Changes, Chemical Changes, Rotting Pumpkin, Observations
Rocks and Minerals Task Cards
This resource contains 36 task cards for Rocks, Minerals, & Earth's Resources. The questions are aligned to the 4th grade Science standards:
SC.4.E.6.1 Identify the three categories of rocks. (Metamorphic, Sedimentary, & Igneous)
SC.4.E.6.2 Identify the physical properties of common earth-forming minerals.
SC.4.E.6.3 Recognize that humans need resources found on Earth and that these are either renewable or nonrenewable.
SC.4.E.6.4 Describe the basic differences between physical weathering and erosion.
The task cards can be used individually, in partnerships, small groups, or whole group. Each card has a question or fill in the blank statement. Most of the problems are multiple choice, but some are require students to fill in the blank using a vocabulary word.
This product includes…
*36 Task Cards
*Answer Sheet (2 pages for Front and Back)
*Answer Key with the Question and the Answer
Teacher Directions:
To use these in the classroom, you can print the cards in color or grayscale on cardstock or regular printer paper. I highly recommend laminating the cards so they can last longer for you. Copy an answer sheet for each student (front and back). Students will record the answer in each box. Then, you have options for how you want students to work with these task cards. I have tried several different ways using task cards.
*As a review before a test
*Put 4-5 task cards in different areas of the classroom or in student groups. Give students 7 minutes or so to answer the questions, then switch groups.
*Place cards in a bucket or basket and have students grab a few cards at a time when they finish another assignment.
*Review for 5th Grade Science Assessment
We hope you find success with these in your classroom! If you have any questions or concerns, please let us know!
🛑 Are you a member of the TLL Membership? These materials are already included. If you are not a member, click here to learn more. The TLL Membership gives you an all-access pass to hundreds of ELA resources for teachers in Grades 3-5.
Let’s connect!
The Literacy Loft Blog
The Literacy Loft on Instagram
The Literacy Loft on Pinterest
The Literacy Loft on Facebook
Email: help@theliteracyloft.com
