Monodomain nematic networks, formed by cross-linking polymer liquid cr
ystals in ordered states, retain a memory of their anisotropic cross-l
inking conditions and thereby show novel elasticity and strain-induced
nematic transitions. Up to a certain critical strain the nematic dire
ctor can experience a barrier to its rotation. Orientational transitio
ns can result, and these are investigated using a simple model of nema
tic elastomers that allows both the direction and the magnitude of ord
er to respond to applied strains. We find two temperature dependent re
gimes. At low temperatures where nematic effects are strong, the direc
tor rotates the switches with the nematic order largely intact. At hig
her temperatures near the thermodynamic phase transition elastic effec
ts dominate and applied strain destroys the nematic order before it re
-forms in the new direction. This corresponds to the two regimes found
experimentally.