Observe, Draw, & Discuss

Observe, Draw & Discuss: Winter Squash [Lesson Courtesy of Vermont Harvest of the Month]

Materials

• Several winter squashes (choose either different varieties or multiple specimens of the same type)
• Paper and writing utensils for drawing and recording observations
• Knife and cutting board (optional, for revealing the squash interior)

Preparation

1. Position the squashes where all students can easily see, touch, and smell them.
2. Consider two setup options: divide students into small groups with one squash per group, or arrange students in a circle around a central display of squashes.
3. Cut one squash open beforehand. This allows students to examine the bright orange flesh and the seed-filled central cavity.

Procedure

Observation

• Ask students to observe the squash silently

Drawing & Writing

• Ask students to draw what they observe, and record descriptive words about the appearance, texture, and smell

*If you’ve provided multiple varieties, prompt students to consider the differences between them. Ask them to compare and contrast the interior and exterior features.

Share

Invite students to share their discoveries. Create a collaborative class chart documenting the information and descriptive language they’ve gathered about the squash. This provides an excellent opportunity to introduce new vocabulary and practice detailed description skills.

Guide the discussion with thoughtful questions:

• Is the exterior smooth or bumpy?
• Does the scent seem sweet or sour?
• What other words capture the smell?
• What associations does it bring to mind?

Following the class discussion, give students a few additional minutes to enhance their drawings and add to their written observations based on ideas shared by their peers.