Contact:
Kelly Misch
Director of Communications
Chardon Local Schools
440.286.0409
Co-Writer/ Co-Photographer:
Rebecca Fullerman, CHS '24
Content Development Specialist
A Gourd Time for Lessons Review
Data Predictions, Measurements & Time Efficiency
October 16, 2023 — Students in Mrs. Force’s and Mrs. Whiting’s third-grade classes at Park Elementary carved out some fall fun on Oct. 12 using parent-donated pumpkins for an applied learning review of first grading quarter skills, including data predictions, measurements, and time efficiency.
The hands-on event, held in the school gymnasium, was made possible not only by the generous donation of pumpkins but by the contribution of time by parent volunteers working in small groups with students.
Parent volunteers included Danielle Baird, Trisha Broyles, Lacey Day, Mindy Haines, James Midyette, Catie Montagna, Melonie Mottice, Casey Paterniti, Alexa Pircio, Gabriela Coria Quintana, Melissa Ricco and Nate Stansberry.
To begin, each student group estimated measurements of their assigned pumpkin, including the number of seeds, weight and size; and predicted if the pumpkin would sink or float. The young Hilltoppers were highly efficient, counting by tens rather than ones as they carved out the gourd and added up the total number of seeds.
Later, the students created impressive arrays of the seeds.
Third-grade student Stella Pircio (pictured with her mom in back row below) stated that the counting of the seeds was her favorite part of the assignment.
The teams went on to weigh their pumpkins and measure the sizes. Through critical thinking, students subtracted the real results from their initial estimates and were able to compare the two data points.
The event was well aligned with one of the District’s core beliefs — that high-quality learning experiences are essential for all students — and exemplified many of the Portrait of a Hilltopper traits: Collaborator and Contributor, Commitment, Critical Thinker, Communicator, Continuous Learner and Creator.
Much gratitude to the parent volunteers for helping to execute the activity and a big thank you to the families who generously donated pumpkins. Parents are our partners in education.
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