Incorporate Halloween in the Classroom
When debating the best time of year to be a teacher, there are many top answers. But it is hard to deny the allure of autumn and the holiday season. Perhaps you find the season of thankfulness to be easy to work into your lessons but you’ve struggled to incorporate Halloween in the classroom. Look no further! This blog post is here to help you incorporate Halloween in the classroom, no matter the subject you teach.
Of course many younger grades use the time to work on skills like color and shape identification, cutting etc, because it’s easy to incorporate festive decor into class projects. But older students deserve to get in on the fun as well! Read on for our ideas.
Halloween in the History / World Studies Classroom
Halloween, with its carved pumpkins and playful costumes, has become a widely loved festivity. But do we know its origins? Tracing back to the ancient Celtic festival of Samhain, it was believed that the spirits of the dead returned to Earth on this day. To ward off any mischievous spirits, the Celts would light bonfires and wear costumes. Learn more here and here.
Yet, while the U.S. is draped in Halloween decor each October, other cultures commemorate their own unique traditions. For instance, Dia de los Muertos, or Day of the Dead, is a vibrant Mexican holiday where families honor their deceased loved ones with beautiful altars, marigolds, and sugar skulls. Unlike the eerie undertones of Halloween, this day is one of celebration and remembrance. Learn more here.
Halloween in the Science Classroom
Bring the thrill of the season into the classroom with spooky science experiments. Imagine students’ delight when they create their own ‘witches’ brew’ using vinegar and baking soda, or explore the magical transformation of making glow-in-the-dark slime. These experiments not only intrigue young minds but also solidify foundational scientific concepts. Gather ideas here and here.
Halloween in the English Language Arts Classroom
There’s nothing quite like gathering around for a ghost story. Storytelling has always been a powerful educational tool. Engage students with age-appropriate ghost stories that not only send shivers down spines but also impart moral lessons or historical contexts. Further, use ghost stories to highlight the power of storytelling. Whether it’s a tale of a haunted house teaching the importance of kindness or a story that explores local myths, these narratives stimulate imaginations and strengthen listening skills. Find sample lessons here and here.
Halloween in the Math Classroom
For math educators, Halloween offers countless themes and ideas that can make even the most complex math problems more relatable and enjoyable. Spooky word problems, candy counting statistics work, and geometry practice using haunted house blueprints. The possibilities are endless! Find ideas here and here.
Conclusion
Incorporating Halloween into the classroom is possible, and easy, no matter the subject you teach! How have you worked Halloween into your lesson plans? Share your ideas in the comments below!
