History Department

History Department


Jacques-Louis David | The Oath of the Horatii | 1784 | Musée du Louvre | Image and original data provided by Réunion des Musées Nationaux / Art Resource, N.Y.; artres.com

Rachel Dunston

Welcome to my class!

I have degrees in Social Sciences, History, Liberal Arts and Anthropology.

I approach history from an anthropological and archeological background. I think it is important to give the context and the effects of historical moments, not just memorize names and dates.

I include history from the perspective of people of color, women and other marginalized groups.

I have three kids and have spent the last few years running a bakery. Food, family, learning and history are my passions. I look forward to seeing you in class!


Classroom Expectations

CLASS EXPECTATIONS

  • Respect yourself, the teacher & others. 
  • Put forth your best effort at all times.
  • Be prepared for class each day.
  • Follow directions when given.
  • Pay attention, participate and ask questions.
  • Preserve a positive learning environment.
  • Take responsibility for your actions.

“To be ignorant of what occurred before you were born is to remain always a child. For what is the worth of human life, unless it is woven into the life of our ancestors by the records of history?” 
― Marcus Tullius Cicero

World History & Geography

Grade 10

This history/social science course examines the major turning points of the modern world from approximately 1750 to the present. Components of this class include: Historical Linkage, the French Revolution, the Industrial Revolution, the Rise of Imperialism and Colonialism, World War I, Totalitarianism, World War II and Nationalism. Students should develop an understanding of the historic as well as the contemporary geographic, social, political and economic consequences of the various areas and problems they review.

US History

Grade 11

The year begins with a review of the settlement of the colonies and the American Revolution, to westward expansion, the Civil War and Reconstruction. This should provide the students with a connection to their past learnings. Students will then examine the major turning points in American History from the Industrial Revolution through the twentieth century. Emphasis should be placed on the expanding role of the federal government and the federal courts; the balance of power between the right of the individual and states rights; and the continuing struggle between minority rights and majority power. Importance should also be placed on the emergence of a modern corporate economy, the impact of technology on American society and culture, the movements toward equal rights for racial minorities and women, and the role of the United States as a major world power.

AP World History

Grade 11

AP World History: Modern is an introductory college-level modern world history course. Students cultivate their understanding of world history from c. 1200 CE to the present through analyzing historical sources and learning to make connections and craft historical arguments as they explore concepts like humans and the environment, cultural developments and interactions, governance, economic systems, social interactions and organization, and technology and innovation.