TV on a Rolling Cart

Why are pumpkins orange?

From Mystery Doug

Why are pumpkins orange?
5 minK1st2nd3rd4th5thScience
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Summary

Mystery Doug takes on a real kid's question -- "Why are pumpkins orange?" -- and follows the clues. As a pumpkin ripens, its green color fades and an orange pigment takes over -- the same kind that makes carrots orange. A quick five-minute watch to spark curiosity and kick off a conversation.

Viewer safety

All ages
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Teaching resources

Discussion questions

Discussion

Doug investigates a question kids really asked: "Why are pumpkins orange?"

  1. What was Doug's answer to today's question, in your own words?
  2. What surprised you most about pumpkin, or what did you already know?
  3. What's one thing this makes you want to find out more about?

Quick work-a-long

Words to know: pumpkin, ripen, pigment.

Try it: Explain the answer to "Why are pumpkins orange?" to someone at home using these three words, then write down one new question it made you wonder.