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- October 20, 2024
- October 20, 2024
It’s the time of year where children and adults alike dig out their scoopers, sharpen their tools, and find the best, most interesting pumpkins out there! This annual custom of getting your hands dirty and putting your imagination to work is unmatched. Whether you carve a traditionally spooky face or something more intricate in your hollowed-out gourd, who doesn’t love adding some flickering, candlelit flair to a front porch?
Pumpkin carving is a beloved tradition, but how much do you and your students know about where that tradition comes from?
Test your knowledge with our fun Halloween-themed quiz. And, explore Britannica School’s resources to learn more (if you dare!).
Test your knowledge!
1. How big does the largest pumpkin variety, C. maxima, usually get?
The largest pumpkin variety, C. maxima, can reach 34 kg (75 pounds) or more.
2. What vegetable was originally used in jack-o’-lanterns instead of a pumpkin?
The custom of creating jack-o’-lanterns originated in the British Isles using a large turnip or other vegetable rather than a pumpkin.
Score: 0
3. Which mythical Irish figure may jack-o’-lanterns have been originally intended to scare away?
In Ireland, people may have started to carve demonic faces out of turnips to frighten away the wandering soul of Stingy Jack, an alleged trickster figure.
4. How heavy have the most massive pumpkins ever weighed?
The most massive pumpkins ever have weighed upwards of 907 kg (2,000 pounds).
5. Where did the custom of carving jack-o’-lanterns come from?
The custom of creating jack-o’-lanterns originated in the British Isles.
Score: 0
Final Score: 0/5
Learn more about pumpkins and Halloween lore using Britannica School!
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About The Author
Lori Lynch
Vice President of Professional Development
Lori has a mission to bring effective and engaging learning to educators in all settings and styles. A former early childhood educator and school leader, Lori took a leap of faith into the world of professional learning after 11 years working in classrooms and schools. Since then, and for the past nearly 20 years, her mission for professional learning is to provide relevant and effective learning and coaching opportunities for the 21st century educator.
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