The Legend of Spookley The Square Pumpkin | Lesson Plans and Craft
In the book The Legend of Spookley the Square Pumpkin by Joe Troiano, we meet a small pumpkin who doesn’t look like the others in the field! While all of the other pumpkins grow round, Spookley grows square. This is an excellent book to enjoy with children to not only enjoy the fall season, but to learn more about celebrating our differences. Check out The Legend of Spookley with your child, then give these simple enrichment activities a try!
Lesson #1: Exploring 3D Shapes
Use this text to introduce children to the wonderful world of geometry. See how Spookley is the perfect book for helping children understand and identify 3D shapes found in nature and all around them.
Supplies needed:
- book
- pencil
- markers
Directions:
- First, enjoy the book with your child. Talk about the shape of Spookley. His 3D shape is that of a cube, while the other pumpkins were spheres.
- Discuss various 3D shapes found in nature including cubes, spheres, cylinders, etc.
- Give each child a notepad and markers. Have them find 5-7 other 3D shapes in nature or in their home. If they can’t write a worded list yet, they can use the markers to draw a picture. Some examples may include a book, a baseball or tennis ball, a soup can, a pumpkin, etc.
Lesson #2: Celebrating our Differences Writing Prompt
What makes us different? Instead of trying to always fit in, let’s discuss the things that make us stick out. This writing prompt is a great way to do just that!
Supplies needed:
- book
- pencil or pens
- notebook paper
Directions:
- Begin by reading the book. Make a list of how Spookley is different from the other pumpkins. How does this make him feel? How does this make the reader feel? Discuss.
- Set the timer for 15 minutes. You will then use this 15 minutes to write about the things that make you different and unique. This can be done in paragraph or list form. Younger children can draw pictures if they wish.
- When time is up, come together and share your writings.
Lesson #3: DIY Spookley
What could be more fun than making your own Spookley? For this activity you will use some basic supplies to craft your own square pumpkin!
Supplies needed:
- orange craft paper
- scissors
- craft glue
- googly eyes
- green craft paper or pipe cleaner
- markers
Directions:
Begin by cutting the orange paper into 3 inch wide strips. You will need two of these orange strips.
You are going to use the orange strips to create a paper box. To do this, fold the strip into four segments. Repeat with the second strip.
The four segments of each strip will come together as shown to create a paper box shape. Use glue to secure the ends and edges together.
Add a dab of glue to the googly eyes and press to the front of the square. Add a piece of green pipe cleaner or paper to the top of the box for a stem.
Use markers to finish the facial features of Spookley.
Read the book The Legend of Spookley with your child, then see how much educational fun you can have when done!
Katie Reed is a passionate writer and mother of four vivacious boys from Salt Lake City, Utah. Drawing from her own journey through TTC, pregnancy, and the joys of raising children, she offers a wealth of insight into the world of motherhood. Beyond her heartfelt tales, Katie delights her readers with family-friendly recipes, engaging crafts, and a curated library of printables for both kids and adults. When she’s not penning her experiences, you’ll find her crafting memories with her husband and sons—Dexter, Daniel, Chester, and Wilder.
One Comment