Bubbling Pumpkin Science Experiment | Halloween STEM Activity | Grades 1–3
🎃 Make Halloween science magical with the Bubbling Pumpkin Science Lab!
Bring hands-on science and a little autumn magic into your classroom with this engaging Bubbling Pumpkin Science Experiment! Designed for students in grades 1–3, this Halloween STEM activity encourages young scientists to predict, observe, investigate, and explain a fun, fizzing chemical reaction.
Using simple classroom materials such as baking soda, vinegar, and a small pumpkin, students will watch an exciting bubbly reaction while developing important scientific thinking and observation skills.
With charming woodland-inspired visuals, an adorable owl scientist, and ready-to-use instructional materials, this resource makes Halloween science both educational and memorable!
🍂 WHAT'S INCLUDED
Teacher Instructions: Materials list, preparation, safety guidelines, and step-by-step experiment directions
Student Lab Printables: Prediction, observation, drawing, and science explanation activities
Classroom PowerPoint: Student-friendly presentation with visual instructions and science discussion questions
PowerPoint PDF: Convenient version for displaying without PowerPoint
Teacher Notes: Instructional guidance and discussion prompts included in the PowerPoint Speaker Notes
Answer Key: Suggested responses, scientific explanations, and assessment guidance
Optional Extension: Compare the reaction with and without dish soap to explore changes in foam production
🧪 SCIENCE SKILLS COVERED
Students will practice:
Making predictions before an investigation
Following scientific procedures
Observing and describing changes
Recording observations through pictures and writing
Recognizing evidence of a chemical reaction
Learning how carbon dioxide gas creates bubbles
Comparing results and communicating scientific explanations
🍁 PERFECT FOR
Halloween science lessons
October STEM activities
Fall classroom investigations
Elementary science centers
Whole-group science demonstrations
Small-group experiments
Seasonal enrichment activities
Grades 1–3 science instruction
🎃 SIMPLE MATERIALS NEEDED
Small hollowed pumpkin (or a cup placed inside a pumpkin)
Baking soda
White vinegar
Tray, measuring cup, and spoon
Optional dish soap or food coloring
Teacher supervision is required. The experiment should be conducted in an open container, and students should never taste the ingredients.
💚 WHY TEACHERS WILL LOVE IT
This resource combines hands-on learning, accessible materials, and beautiful woodland-inspired design to make science engaging for young learners.
With printable student activities, presentation slides, embedded teacher notes, and a separate answer key, teachers have the materials needed to guide students through the investigation from beginning to end.
Students won't just watch a pumpkin bubble — they'll practice thinking, observing, and explaining like real scientists!
Bring a little spooky science magic into your classroom this fall!
Created by Live Oak Learning 🌿
Thoughtfully designed resources to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love of learning.
