Students will explore a nearby historical site related to the California missions to spark curiosity and formulate meaningful questions about the cultural and ecological transformations caused by the mission system, preparing them to investigate open-ended inquiries in subsequent phases.

Students will engage in research by visiting digital archives, interviewing community historians, and analyzing geographical maps to gather varied perspectives and information on the Spanish missions’ impact, preparing them for creating accurate and informed models during the next phase.

Students will synthesize their research findings to construct detailed models of missions and surrounding ecosystems, focusing on ecological changes and sustainable strategies, and documenting their process in reflection journals to prepare for their upcoming presentations.

Students will present their mission models and surrounding ecosystems to their peers, parents, and community members in a gallery walk, facilitating a discussion on ecological impacts, receiving feedback, and engaging in interactive dialogues that enhance their understanding of the Spanish mission system's effects.

Students will engage in reflection journals to analyze their journey through the project, discussing what they learned from constructing and presenting their dioramas, considering feedback received, and identifying new questions for further exploration.

Students will apply their insights from previous phases by crafting and presenting actionable proposals to preserve and honor California's indigenous cultures and environments, addressing complex questions through collaborative decision-making and effective communication with community stakeholders.