A bean seed is planted in the ground and begins to germinate as it receives heat, light, water and nutrients from the soil and sun. The seed swells and its hard outer shell falls off as the bean plant develops a stem, roots and leaves, with the stem growing up towards the light and the roots growing down into the ground. The plant continues growing, developing flowers with male and female parts that become pollinated and lead to new beans growing on the plant.

2. A bean is planted in the ground. It is dry and has a tough outer shell. It only takes a few things to make changes happen.

3. The sun provides heat and light . The plant also needs water and nutrients from the soil to help it grow.

4. The bean begins to sprout and grow. This stage is called germination.

5. The seed is swelling and getting bigger as the plant develops. The hard casing drops off, into the soil.

6. The bean plant begins to develop a stem , roots and leaves . The stem grows upwards, towards the light, while the roots are beneath the ground.

7. The leaves open as the bean plant keeps growing.

8. The bean plant now develops flowers . The flowers have male and female parts so that the plant will pollinate .

9. The flowers on the plant are fertilized and new beans grow.

10. Images and Presentation ©Bev Evans, 2009 www.communication4all.co.uk (Edited for content)