The Cycle Factory is a hands-on way for you to learn how natural cycles play a crucial part in the world around you. By operating a huge working model of the air, water and nutrient cycles, you enable your ‘tree’ to grow. Using hundreds of coloured balls, you imitate such processes as transpiration, condensation, precipitation, decomposition and photosynthesis as you contribute to the running of each cycle.

Ringing bells and shouted instructions create a fast-moving production line as workers of the conveyer belts play a vital role. You encounter factors such as environmental change or pollution and learn what is needed to keep your tree healthy.

Example learning actions:

• Learn where all plants and animals get their energy from
• Understand the three main cycles of air, water and nutrients
• Understand how the three main cycles are connected to one another
• Visualise how pollution effects the three main cycles and the food web
• Experience food webs and how they link into the cycles
• Appreciate the effect that people can have on the balance of these natural systems