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Academic Standards

Learning Objective: 
 

Children will sequence the steps of growing a square pumpkin.

 

Science Skills Focus:
 

plant life cycle


 

Page 4 skill:
 

make a graph

 


Vocabulary:

sprout, mold

 

CCSS (and states that have similar standards): 

RI.K.1 key details, RI.K.2 retell, RI.K.4 vocabulary, RI.K.3 sequencing, RL.K.1 key details (literature), SL.K.1 collaborative discussions, SL.K.2 confirm understanding by answering questions

Download TEKS Standards
Download CCSS Standards

Watch the video

Build background knowledge about the pumpkin life cycle by watching “La calabaza crece.” When you’re done watching, ask the following question: ¿Cómo cambia la calazaba según crece?

Preview new vocabulary words

Project the online vocabulary slideshow and introduce this issue’s featured word.

Set a purpose for reading

  • Have students do a picture walk through the issue. Then read and discuss the cover.
  • Then, before turning to page 2, say, “Mientras leemos el artículo, piensen cómo cambia la calabaza a medida que crece.”
  • Read the issue once through. Then do a second reading. Pause after each step to ask “¿Qué pasa a continuación?” Let children use the photo to retell and describe how the pumpkin will change.
  • When you get to the sidebar (“Extrañas calabazas de miedo”), have a class vote on which pumpkin is the spookiest!
  • Complete the page 4 activity as a group or individually.
  • When you’re done reading, do the ¡BAILA BAILA!

Play the online game: Construye tu propia calabaza

(skill: vocabulary)

Complete a hands-on activity: Haz una linterna de calabaza cuadrada

Kids use precut paper shapes to make a square jack-o’-lantern. (skills: art, fine motor)

Read a paired text: The Legend of Spookley the Square Pumpkin

In The Legend of Spookley the Square Pumpkin by Joe Troiano, a little square pumpkin wishes he were round—until his shape saves the day! The book doesn’t exist in Spanish, but there are several read-aloud videos in Spanish online.