Academic Departments

       The English curriculum at Rye Neck integrates the close, critical reading of a variety of literary genres with the development of reflective, analytical written work.  While four years of English are required for graduation, Rye Neck’s English department offers a broad program of exciting core courses and electives rendering it possible for students to complete more than five years of credit in English.  
       Each course in the four-year sequence incorporates reading, writing, listening, speaking, presenting and viewing skills as outlined in the New York State Next Generation English Language Arts Learning Standards. In addition, students are required to develop facility with a variety of research formats employing both traditional print and modern technological media sources.  
       English courses 9-11 are Regents courses.  Each grade level emphasizes selected parallels to social studies topics and also incorporates focused themes.   All students take the Regents Comprehensive Examination in English in either June of sophomore year, or January of the junior year.  
       An Honors program is offered for students in grades 9 and 10.  These courses are designed for students who have demonstrated outstanding interest, aptitude and performance; the work is demanding and our expectations are high.   While the essential curriculum of the honors program is the same as the Regents program, the scope of understanding is broadened in the honors program. Students engage in more independent work, and writing projects are expanded to accommodate a greater breadth and depth of understanding.   These courses are viewed as preparation for the Advanced Placement English program, offered in place of honors in grades 11 and 12.

       Mathematics is important to every student. The Mathematics faculty encourages all students to become literate and competent with concepts they encounter during their mathematics studies. Students encounter numerous and varied problems that encourage them to value and develop mathematical habits of mind and to understand and appreciate the role of mathematics in their daily lives. Teachers strive to create and maintain classroom environments that encourage students to become responsible for their own learning and that instill the skills necessary for the 21 st century.
       Students utilize technology in data collection, analysis, representation, conjecturing and prediction. Graphing calculators and computer dynamic software is used through the program to facilitate critical thinking and problem solving.
       In addition to course offerings, opportunities are available for students to engage in mathematically oriented extracurricular activities, such as tutoring, competitions and mathematics clubs.

       One of the main goals of the Science Department is to help students become better critical thinkers. The courses offered by the department are diverse and provide students with opportunities to broaden their content knowledge. A wide variety of project-based learning experiences are provided for students through scientific research opportunities and other content-related work. Advanced Placement courses are offered in every possible subject area.
       Our unique and diverse electives offer all types of learners chances to experience science in action. The courses offered by the department assist students to become well-rounded, competitive and prepared for their college experiences.

       The department seeks to prepare students to be independent, forward-thinking participants, actively involved in the 21st century. Inclusion of technology and evidence-based learning are paramount to the curriculum which is designed to motivate each student to think for himself/herself, to analyze, and to draw conclusions from a variety of primary and secondary sources. At least one research paper is required at each level.
       The curriculum is supplemented with works of historical non- fiction and/or other works of literature in the content area. Four years of Social Studies are required for graduation. Each course in the four-year sequence integrates the social, political, economic and historical elements of culture, nations and governments as outlined in the NYS Syllabi for Social Studies as well as the NYS learning standards. Social Studies courses in grades 9-11 are Regents courses, culminating in a Regents exam in grades 10 and 11. College Board Advanced Placement courses are offered in grades 10, 11, and 12

       One of the essential hallmarks of a well-rounded and complete education is the pursuit of the ability to communicate – to do business, to socialize, to conduct research, to live fully – in a language other than one’s own. This can only be a tremendous asset to any individual in our ever-shrinking and increasingly interdependent global society. The study of another language gives students an understanding and appreciation of a different culture which enables the student to see the connection between the culture that is lived and the language that is spoken.
       Each course is developed in alignment with the NYS learning standards for languages other than English, such that students will study vocabulary and grammar topics, thereby developing the ability to communicate effectively. The World Languages Department immerses language learners in the target language and culture through various means of communication, technology and media. Students will be assessed on their ability to pronounce, speak, write, and understand the target language. Successful completion of the level III course and the Comprehensive Level III examination (along with requirements specific to other disciplines) may entitle students to a Regents diploma with Advanced Designation.