Stefania Cilloniz

Reflective Statement for History / Social Science

History is a sequence of events of political, social and cultural achievements of

civilization. Having historical knowledge will help widen a deeper understanding of the
relationship between basic facts of history and larger concept. A prepared teacher in historysocial science means having content knowledge about the history of California, the rancho
mission periods, as well as the first Spanish explorers and other social sciences. Teachers are
encouraged to add topics that they feel are important and engaged students with current events in
the classroom. I want to help my students achieve an understanding of historical exploration by
asking questions, examine primary and secondary sources, as well as, understanding cause and
effects and spatial thinking. History is learning about the great discoveries, conflicts and ideas of
the human past that have shaped who we are and what is happening today.
In all my history classes, I learned how to become an effective historian. I evaluate and
analyze documents of past generations and use this knowledge to understand and interpret the
present. My History 301 class has helped me to understand how to teach history from the bottom
up. In addition, my LBS 375 class taught me how to teach the Spanish mission and Native
Americans in an exciting way. I learned many activities that will engage my students to want to
learn more about history. Students will develop strong research, writing, analytical thinking and
communication skills in my classroom in a fun way.
In my LBS 375: The California Experience class, I went on a journey through the
development of California. During my journey, I came across the Spanish Missions Systems
impact on Natives Americas in California. My artifact is an essay presentation of a historical
mission site. The essay help me to do historical investigate of a mission and learn about the
Native Americans living conditions. In addition, I had to organize an activity for students to be

Stefania Cilloniz

engaged during their visit to the mission. This essay puts me in the teachers role and
demonstrates my ability to conduct a well- organized lesson. Also the presentation connects to
the Grade 3, 4, and 5 Common Core Standards that I will be teaching in my classroom. Overall,
this is a great and fun way for students to learn about the California Missions by taking them on
a journey. By visiting the grounds and learning about the Natives, students develop strong
research skill, and be critical thinkers in history.