In this lesson, students will engage in a creative activity to design and decorate Thanksgiving-themed pumpkins using markers. This lesson is important as it encourages creativity, fine motor skills, and an understanding of Thanksgiving traditions. It also provides an opportunity for students to express gratitude and share their creations with peers.
Audience
7-8 year olds
Time
1 hour
Approach
Active Learning
Materials
Markers, Pumpkins (real or paper cutouts), and Video: Caillou’s Kind Party
Step 1
Introduction
10 mins
Begin with a brief discussion about Thanksgiving and its significance.
Introduce the activity: creating Thanksgiving-themed pumpkins.
Show the video Caillou’s Kind Party to set the mood and discuss emotions and decision-making.
Step 2
Pumpkin Creation Activity
35 mins
Provide each student with a pumpkin (real or paper cutout) and markers.
Encourage students to think about what they are thankful for and incorporate these ideas into their pumpkin designs.
Walk around to assist and encourage creativity, asking questions about their designs and the meanings behind them.
Step 3
Sharing and Reflection
10 mins
Allow students to share their pumpkin creations with the class.
Facilitate a discussion on what they are thankful for and how they expressed it in their designs.
Encourage students to reflect on the emotions they felt during the activity.
Step 4
Closure
5 mins
Recap the lesson by highlighting the importance of creativity and gratitude.
Thank the students for their participation and creativity.
Discussion
Thanksgiving Pumpkin Discussion
A discussion to explore students' understanding of Thanksgiving and their creative process in designing their pumpkins.
What is Thanksgiving and why do we celebrate it?
Discuss the history and significance of Thanksgiving, focusing on themes of gratitude and togetherness.
What did you decide to include in your pumpkin design and why?
Encourage students to share their creative choices and the meanings behind them.
How did you feel while creating your pumpkin?
Explore the emotions experienced during the creative process and relate them to the video watched.
