Seed, Sprout, Pumpkin, Pie (Picture the Seasons)
Picture the Seasons Series
on Goodreads (210)
What’s inside...
This book provides a detailed journey of a pumpkin's life cycle, from the beginning as a seed to its final use in a Thanksgiving pie. It includes full-color photographs capturing each stage of growth and development, along with informational text aimed at helping young readers from Pre-K to 2nd grade understand and remember key details. The book is part of the 'Picture the Seasons' series and uses vibrant images and engaging text to bring the spirit of the fall season to life, highlighting the pumpkin as a quintessential symbol of fall.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
3-6
Length
16 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What changes did you notice happening from a seed to a pumpkin pie?
Why do you think pumpkins are important in the story?
How do you think the farmer feels about growing pumpkins?
Can you think of any other foods that start as seeds?
What’s your favorite part of the pumpkin growing process?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading, ask your child what they know about pumpkins and where they come from to activate prior knowledge.
While reading, point to the illustrations depicting the growth stages and discuss what is happening at each stage.
After reading, encourage your child to draw or describe their own garden with their favorite fruits or vegetables.
Relate the book to personal experiences, such as a visit to a pumpkin patch or cooking a family recipe that includes pumpkins.
Ask your child to explain the process of how a seed becomes a pumpkin pie in their own words to enhance comprehension and retention.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding the plant life cycle
Explanation: Through vivid seasonal imagery, the book shares the journey of a pumpkin from a small seed to a sprout, and finally a full-grown pumpkin.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this knowledge by engaging in gardening projects at home or school, fostering a connection with nature and understanding of where food comes from.
Example Lesson: Seasonal awareness and changes
Explanation: The book illustrates the changes in the environment as it transitions from season to season, focusing on the growth stages of a pumpkin.
Real-World Application: This helps children recognize and appreciate the differences between seasons and the unique aspects each one brings to their surroundings.
Example Lesson: Patience and care in growth processes
Explanation: The story highlights the time and care required for a pumpkin to grow from seed to pie, showcasing the gradual development with each passing season.
Real-World Application: Children learn the value of patience and the importance of nurturing something consistently, which can be applied to personal goals or caring for a pet.
Example Lesson: Nutritional values of vegetables
Explanation: As the book culminates in the making of a pumpkin pie, it subtly teaches about the health benefits of pumpkins and other vegetables.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore cooking with vegetables, leading to healthier eating habits and an interest in cooking.