Bell RingerGroundhog Day Ages K-2, 3-5, 6-8

Groundhog Day Prediction Bell Ringer

A four-minute February 2 warm-up in scientific skepticism: can a groundhog really predict the weather — and why might the tradition exist?

Best time
February
Format
Timed warm-ups students start the moment class begins
Cost
Free — no student accounts

Sign up free (under a minute), pick your plan, and you'll land right inside your own editable copy.

  1. 1 Copy it to your account
  2. 2 Tweak anything (or nothing)
  3. 3 Share your link with students

Try it right here

This is exactly what you and your students see. Click through it, answer, vote. When you're sold, copy it to make it yours.

Live preview
Bell Ringer
1/3

Groundhog Day Prediction Bell Ringer

A four-minute February 2 warm-up in scientific skepticism: can a groundhog really predict the weather — and why might the tradition exist?

What's inside this bell ringer

On Groundhog Day, tradition says that if the groundhog sees its shadow, we get six more weeks of winter. Do you think an animal can actually predict the weather? Why or why not? And why do you think people started this tradition in the first place?

4 minute timer question prompt

Teacher tips

  • Fun follow-up fact: Punxsutawney Phil's accuracy is famously poor — ask students how they would test it scientifically.

Frequently asked questions

How do I use this activity with my class?

Every teacher runs their own copy. Click "Copy & make it yours" and this template is added to your free DailyEd account — you can edit every question, prompt, and setting, then share YOUR link with students. Their responses go only to you.

Is this activity free?

Yes. This template and everything in the DailyEd activity library is free for teachers.