10-30-06

Pumpkin Math

Connected read-aloud: __How Many Seeds in a Pumpkin?__

__Goal of Day 1:__ Make some estimates of how many seeds Empty out the pumpkins of gunk Separate all seeds from gunk so we can put it in the compost Think about how to count the seeds and start counting Share some of the counting methods and think about which ways are efficient and accurate __Divide into 5 groups of 4__

__Prep:__ Bucket of water for rinsing hands Bin for each group to put gunk in Cookie sheet for each group, labeled, for seeds Lots of small paper cups Label pumpkins and cut tops Cut trash bags to cover tables Markers in table colors for each table Packing tape for making groups of 100 Make a poster for each group for estimates and results

__Directions:__


 * 1) Begin by making an estimate of how many seeds you think will be in your pumpkin (they get to see inside one pumpkin on the rug to help them make the estimate) -- pass an open pumpkin around and have each group member make an estimate. Record estimates on their poster.
 * 2) After all at the table have done so, they decide who will start scooping out insides and who will sort seeds onto the trays
 * 3) Then they get their pumpkin and begin scooping/sorting
 * 4) When they have finished, they may revisit their estimates and change them. They also must talk about and decide how to count the seeds. Make groups? Of how many? Or count by ones?

__Rules:__ Keep mess on trash bags (not in the air or on bodies EVER) Stay calm or we have to stop

If students make groups of 10, teachers can tape 10 tens together in two arrays of 5 cups each. Show the rest of the class how you made 100s?? Or have kids discover this themselves?