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. -
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.
How did you stack up?
You correctly identified 0/0 answers.Learn more about pumpkins and Halloween lore using Britannica School!
Not a subscriber? Contact us to learn more about our comprehensive resources.
About the Author
Christopher Heintz
Customer Experience Director
Chris began his career in education as a high school social studies teacher in Chicago. Since then, he’s served in various roles in education management helping teachers navigate the complex world of assessments, data, curriculum, and instruction. Throughout it all, he’s been dedicated to one thing—providing teachers with the tools they need to create positive outcomes for the students in their care!
Recent Posts
Veterans Day Resources for Your Classroom
Read More: Veterans Day Resources for Your Classroom
Celebrate National Native American Heritage Month with Britannica Education
Read More: Celebrate National Native American Heritage Month with Britannica Education
Turning AI Into a Learning Ally: 3 Ways to Build Student Confidence and Curiosity
Read More: Turning AI Into a Learning Ally: 3 Ways to Build Student Confidence and Curiosity
Join Our Newsletter
From tips and tricks to engaging activities, find
attention-grabbing content for tomorrow’s lesson.