Learning cycle is described as a tool for scientific planning and teaching (Lorsbach 2007). It is an established planning method in science education. Learning cycle is consistent with contemporary theories about how individuals learn. Learning cycle is also seen as a research supported method for education particularly in science. It has five parts or phases.

The first stage of learning cycle is called engagement step. The teacher creates interest and generates curiosity in the topic of study, raises questions and elicits responses from the students. This stage also give the teacher an idea of what the students already know. Thus, students’ interests are captured in this stage and possible misconceptions in their understanding identified. Moreover, this stage motivates the students to learn. It is also in this phase that topics are established.

The second phase is called the exploration phase. The students are given opportunity to construct knowledge in the topic through facilitated questions and observations. During this phase, the students should be given opportunities to work together without direct instruction from the teacher. The teacher plays a facilitatory role, helping the students to frame questions by asking them questions and by observing them. This stage gives students oppournity to test hypothesis and form new ones, try alternatives and discuss them with peers, record observations and idea etc.

The third phase is called the explanation phase. In this stage, students should be encouraged by the teacher to explain concepts in their own words. The teacher should ask for evidence and clarification of their explanation. The students listen carefully and critically to one another’s explanation and those of the teacher. It is in this stage that the teacher will correct the misconception discovered in the engagement step.

The fourth stage is called extension or practical stage. In this stage, students are asked by the teacher to apply what they have learned in different but similar situations. The teacher guides the students towards the next topic of discussion. It is this stage that makes learning cycle more of scientific process step than theoretical approach to learning.

The last stage is called evaluation stage. In this stage, the teacher observes each student’s knowledge and understanding. The teacher also leads students to assess whether what they have learned is true. Evaluation should take place throughout the cycle and not within its own set phase.

Teacher interactions with students take this cyclic form before full understanding takes place in the mind of the student. Cyclic learning method determines to large extent how students comprehend a particular lesson; if a stage is not fully appreciated by the student it may affect his understanding of the lesson. Teachers should endeavor to use this scientific tool in teaching student. Cyclic method as a tool of learning draw the gap between the teacher and student close thereby makes learning interesting and retentive.