How do forests change over time? Objective Students will be able to: 1. extract relevant information from reference materials on biology, ecology and succession 2. prepare and produce a drama showing succession in one of three forest types Background Forests change over time. Different kinds of plants and animals have different needs. Some grow well only in sunny openings; some grow well almost anywhere as long as they can get water. The forest architecture and the species composition of a forest change over time, a process called succession. But many things interrupt succession. A forest is a Duration: 60 Minutes.