Bring autumn learning to life with this practical pumpkin science investigation pack for KS1 and EYFS. Children explore real pumpkins through observing, predicting, measuring, comparing and testing, then record their discoveries using clear printable worksheets.

Ideal for Year 1 science, autumn topic lessons and adult-led investigation stations, this Little Learning Lane resource combines hands-on science with meaningful maths, talk and early writing.

WHAT’S INCLUDED?

• Seven black-and-white activity sheets
• Eight practical investigation cards with real-photo prompts
• A teacher guide with equipment, activity instructions, support and extension ideas
• Pumpkin story and teaching slides to introduce the investigations and encourage questions

SEVEN PUMPKIN INVESTIGATIONS

1. Look closely – observe, draw and describe a pumpkin’s colour, shape and texture.
2. Measure your pumpkin – estimate and measure its height and distance around using cubes and string.
3. Which pumpkin is heavier? – predict and compare two pumpkins using balance scales.
4. Float or sink? – make a prediction, test a whole pumpkin in water and record the result.
5. Inside a pumpkin – explore the flesh, fibres and seeds.
6. Estimate and count – estimate a small collection of seeds, count carefully and compare.
7. Write about your pumpkin – rehearse sentences aloud and write using a picture word bank and sentence starters.

SUPPORT FOR YOUNG LEARNERS

The worksheets include “Want help?” prompts, drawing spaces and simple recording tasks. The writing sheet provides a picture word bank, sentence starters and a checklist for capital letters, finger spaces and full stops.

Use the pack across several short sessions or choose individual activities to suit your class. Children can discuss, draw or write their findings, with adult support where needed.

PERFECT FOR

• KS1 science investigations and working scientifically
• Year 1 autumn activities
• EYFS pumpkin exploration
• Practical maths and measurement
• Autumn writing and sentence composition
• Small-group learning and investigation stations

You will need real pumpkins and practical equipment; the teacher guide provides the full list. Adults prepare opened pumpkins and supervise water and seed activities.

A hands-on way to turn an ordinary pumpkin into a memorable learning experience!

Explore more EYFS and KS1 teaching resources in the Little Learning Lane TES shop.