Microclimates – Nature’s Secret Weather
Why is one corner of the garden cooler than another? Students investigate temperature, humidity and sunlight across Heligan’s landscapes, mapping microclimates and matching them to plant adaptations. Linking science and geography, this KS1–KS3 workshop shows how tiny shifts in climate matter for gardeners, wildlife and ecosystems
Learning Objective
Students will discover what a microclimate is and how local conditions (shelter, slope, water, vegetation) affect temperature, humidity and plant growth. They will explore how Heligan’s gardeners and wildlife use microclimates to their advantage.
Curriculum Links
KS1 (Ages 5–7)
- Science: Observe weather and seasonal changes; explore how the environment affects living things.
- Geography: Local environment and simple physical features (e.g. hills, valleys).
KS2 (Ages 7–11)
- Science: Investigate how environments affect organisms; explore plant growth needs.
- Geography: Weather patterns; human interaction with the environment (e.g. choosing where to grow).
- Maths: Measuring and recording temperature and time.
KS3 (Ages 11–14)
- Science (Physics/Biology): Energy transfer (sunlight, warmth), plant adaptation and ecosystems.
- Geography: Climate zones, microclimates, environmental change.
- Design & Technology: Planning for landscape or garden design with environmental considerations.