Pistes d'exploration

Make a timeline to show the decomposition of the pumpkin.

Draw and label a flow chart that explains the key points of the pumpkin’s decomposition process. Use the appropriate vocabulary as outlined in the glossary.

In small groups, create a drama skit that illustrates the process of the pumpkin’s decomposition.

Talk about nature’s food chain using the pictures in the book.

Sort the names of animals, insects and moulds into a graphic organizer and use reference tools to find unknown words.

Make a timeline to show the decomposition and the rebirth of the pumpkin.

Green Gardening and Composting, Going Green at School, I Stink!

Mots-clés

Non-fiction , decomposition , first-person narration , life cycles , mould , multiple narrators , pumpkins

Commentaire descriptif

A proud Jack-o'-lantern is put into the garden after Halloween night; then his real adventures begin. This book on natural science uses the language and methods of storytelling to convey its facts. Everyone has a small part to play in the pumpkin’s demise. The squirrel says, “Oh, I see a seed. So I’ll grab it and head for my favorite tree.” Then there’s “Call me slug, the eating machine . . . look closely and you’ll see marks on the pumpkin ...” and “the famous penicillium ... I’d rather not share my food with other molds or bacteria ... I make chemicals that kill them off.” Every animal, insect, fuzz, spore and cell is illustrated with close-up photographs of the pumpkin as it rots. Young aficionados of all things gross, slimy and decaying will love it. The illustrations offer opportunities for children to share their own encounters with nature. Children will benefit from the book’s concrete approach in portraying the complex interdependence of nature and natural processes. When a pumpkin seed, nourished by the rich earth, breaks through to the sun, readers will appreciate the symmetry as well as the science behind the cycle of life. Back material offers a glossary and suggested classroom activities.