By: Natalee Tygard
Do you ever ponder the past? Have you ever wondered how societies, civilizations, and life itself has
changed? Perhaps you have thought about what life would be like without the technology we now
have at our fingertips. Well, then Word History is definitely the class for you! This course helps to
answer one big question. How did we get to where we are today?
have at our fingertips. Well, then Word History is definitely the class for you! This course helps to
answer one big question. How did we get to where we are today?
This course will allow you to examine and study a large array of topics as you work your way through
the timeline of the world. One of these topics is the study of ancient civilizations, such as the Aztec
and the Romans. The course will also cover the astounding amount of reforms that have shaped and
developed our world. These include the Industrial Revolution and the Enlightenment. Another large
topic that will be discussed are the causes and outcomes of the many wars that have scourged the
Earth. Some of these wars are, The Revolutionary War, the World Wars, and The Cold War.
Throughout these topics different cultures and religions will also be explored. The class will not only
analyze the history of our world but also its future and how history will impact it.
I took World History during my Freshman year and it was easily one of my favorites! I really enjoyed
learning about the different parts of the world and how they are all connected throughout history.
Learning about all of the wars was also an extremely interesting topic for me. I like to think about
what life would be like without these large checkpoints in history. One of my favorite things about
this class was my amazing teacher, Mrs. Raquel Manzanet! She was extremely helpful and made the
class even more exciting! I interviewed Mrs. Manzanet to understand the class a little better and how
she feels about teaching it.
The Interview:
she feels about teaching it.
The Interview:
Q #1: Why did you teach this course?
A: “This was the first course I was offered to teach when I was hired at ASUPD, so I didn’t have too
much of a choice at the start. We had plenty of US History teachers so the department needed some
more World History help!”
Q #2: How did you feel about teaching this course?
A: “At first, I was nervous because there is a lot to cover in World History. Now, I LOVE teaching
World History because I get to hear the excitement from younger students when they learn about
different cultures and histories of the world.”
Q #3: What was your favorite part about teaching this particular subject?
A: “Most students have a “mind-blown” moment that I’m lucky enough to hear in DBAs! Such as
different religions—I think 99% of students understand the importance of learning about other
beliefs. Additionally, it is so important to be a global learner, and of course World History is the best
class for that.”
Q #4: What was the biggest challenge of teaching this subject?
A: “The biggest challenge is having to teach about dark topics that may make students feel upset such
as the slave trade and colonization. It’s important of course because it teaches what we call historical
empathy. History is very dark at times. I just hope that these topics don’t turn anyone away from
learning about history!”
Q #5: Any advice for students beginning (or considering) this course?
A: “I would advise new students to learn a good note-taking strategy right away! There is a TON of
information in World History and without notes it is challenging to remember each lesson from the
next. Learn to take good notes and pay attention on the big why. Details such as dates are not
required for history, but what you should focus on is why we care and how this impacts us today!”
