Sixth Grade
ELA
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.
English 6
Curriculum Level: Grade level
State Examination: NY State English Language Arts Assessment
Frequency: Every day
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DESCRIPTION
English 6 centers on common themes such as friendship, acceptance, survival, and tolerance. Writing and grammar instruction are woven throughout the course. Students practice responding to direct prompts using both short paragraphs and multi-paragraph essays, strengthening their critical thinking, organization, and clarity in writing. Daily activities include reading and character analysis, grammar practice, and projects based on a variety of genres each quarter, all leading toward a culminating final project that showcases their growth as readers and writers.
TEXT and OTHER MATERIALS
Texts may include but are not limited to Seedfolks, The Cay, Number the Stars, and Bud, Not Buddy. Students read closely, discuss character development, and explore how each story portrays overcoming challenges and understanding others. An independent project extends this work using Timothy of the Cay, a prequel/sequel to The Cay, allowing students to deepen their understanding of characters, perspectives, and connections across texts.
Math
The purpose of the district mathematics program is to provide young students with experiences that will allow them to develop mathematical reasoning and acquire basic mathematical concepts and skills. The primary curriculum makes widespread use of manipulatives (concrete objects) for deeper understanding.
The curriculum is designed to provide students with growth in competencies essential to mathematical growth. As they progress through their coursework, they will develop increasingly sophisticated problem-solving abilities, a range of mathematical “habits of mind,” and a set of highly developed mathematical reasoning skills. In addition, students will become increasingly proficient in oral and written mathematical expression, as they gain fluency in the language of mathematics and ability to make connections within mathematics.
Math 6
Types of Assessments: End of unit tests, mid-unit quizzes and cumulative quarterlies
Prerequisite: Math 5
Credit: 1
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DESCRIPTION
Students in 6th grade mathematics are moving from an elementary based focus on understanding the idea of a unit and the commonalities between units to a middle school focus on ratios, how numbers relate to each other and can be manipulated.
The major emphasis is on ratios and proportional reasoning and the foundations of algebra with expressions and equations.
- Ratios and Unit Rates
a. Representing and reasoning about ratios
b. Unit Rates
c. Percents - Arithmetic Operations
- Division of fractions
- Multi-digit decimal operations
- Dividing whole numbers and decimals
- Rational Numbers
- Positive and Negative Numbers on a number line
- Rational Numbers and coordinates
- Absolute Value
- Expressions and Equations
- Special Notations
- Expanding, factoring and distribution
- Expressing in algebraic form
- Solving equations
- Applications of equations
- Area, Surface Area and Volume
- Area of triangles and quadrilaterals
- Polygons on a coordinate plane
- Volume
- Nets and Surface area
- Statistics
- Summarizing distributions with symmetry, mean, and mean absolute deviation.
- Skewed data
- Describing distributions
TEXT
- Teacher provided notes and handouts (primary)
- Mathematics Course 2, Holt (mainly reference for home use)
WORK EXPECTATIONS
Be on time for class. Bring the materials you need and be prepared (have the homework that is due and study for any assessments). Be respectful and listen while others are speaking. Raise your hand to be called on. Respect classroom and classmates’ supplies. Be understanding that all students have different learning styles and learn at different speeds.
Math 6 Advanced
Types of Assessments: End of unit tests, mid-unit quizzes and cumulative quarterlies
Prerequisite: Math 5
Credit: 1
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DESCRIPTION
Students in 6th grade advanced mathematics are moving from an elementary based focus on understanding the idea of a unit and the commonalities between units to a middle school focus on ratios, how numbers relate to each other and can be manipulated. Students in this class are invited based on scores, habits of mind and teacher recommendation. The major emphasis is on ratios and proportional reasoning and the foundations of algebra with expressions and equations.
- Ratios and Unit Rates
- Representing and reasoning about ratios
- Unit Rates
- Percent
- Arithmetic Operations
- Division of fractions
- Multi-digit decimal operations
- Dividing whole numbers and decimals
- Rational Numbers
- Positive and Negative Numbers on a number line
- Rational Numbers and coordinates
- Absolute Value
- Expressions and Equations
- Special Notations
- Expanding, factoring and distribution
- Expressing in algebraic form
- Solving equations
- Applications of equations
- Area, Surface Area and Volume
- Area of triangles and quadrilaterals
- Polygons on a coordinate plane
- Volume
- Nets and Surface area
- Statistics
- Summarizing distributions with symmetry, mean, and mean absolute deviation
- Skewed data
- Describing distributions
TEXT
- Teacher provided notes and handouts (primary)
- Mathematics Course 2, Holt (mainly reference for home use)
WORK EXPECTATIONS
Be on time for class. Bring the materials you need and be prepared. Be respectful and listen while others are speaking. Raise your hand to be called on. Respect classroom and classmates’ supplies. Be understanding that all students have different learning styles and learn at different speeds. Students are expected to have the habits of mind that demonstrate they can work above grade level and be successful.
Science
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 the opportunity 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 electives are unique and diverse offering all types of learners an opportunity to experience science in action. The courses offered by the department assist students to become well-rounded, competitive and prepared for their college experiences.
6th Grade Science
Curriculum Level: Grade level
State Examination: No state assessment
Frequency: Every day for the whole school year
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DESCRIPTION
The sixth grade science course is designed to provide students with a basic knowledge of fundamental concepts in life science through a hands-on approach. Topics include measurement, conversions, graphing, matter and atoms, space and gravity, Earth’s history/geologic time scale, cells and cell processes. Emphasis is placed on learning through inquiry and laboratory investigations. Whenever feasible, material will be interdisciplinary in design, providing students with the opportunity to learn science in a meaningful way that parallels its application in real world situations.
- Measurement, Conversions, and Graphing
- Metric System
- Converting Measurements
- Data Collection
- Graphing Data
- Matter and Atoms
- Phases of Matter
- Phase Changes
- Density
- Properties of Matter
- Space
- Scale of the Universe
- Earth’s Movement
- Earth-Moon-Sun System
- Seasons
- Patterns in the Sky
- Shadows
- Equator and Poles
- Gravity
- Our Solar System
- Gravity and Scale
- Earth’s History
- Pangea
- Stratigraphy and rocks
- Sequence of events
- Index Fossils
- Geologic Time Scale
- Life Science
- Trilobites
- Human and Animal Cells
- Photosynthesis and Respiration
- Energy roles and Food Webs
Social Studies
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. Each course 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. For more information regarding the New York State Core Curriculum for Social Studies go to:
https://www.engageny.org/resource/new-york-state-k-12-social-studies-framework
Grade 6
Curriculum Level: Grade level
State Exam: None
Frequency: Every day
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DESCRIPTION
Grade 6 Social Studies is based on the geography and history of the Eastern Hemisphere, including the development of cultures, civilizations, and empires, interactions between societies, and the comparison of trends in government and economics. It also incorporates some elements of other social sciences. The course begins with an examination of the Eastern Hemisphere today using geographic skills. This provides the foundation for making connections between the past and the present throughout the course. The remainder of the course is divided into seven key ideas that cover a time span from prehistory into the 1300s. Students are provided the opportunity to explore belief systems across time and to examine the foundations of democracy.
TEXT AND OTHER MATERIALS
Teacher provided handouts and articles & ebook World Civilizations
Selected readings, fiction and nonfiction
WORK EXPECTATIONS
Participation in class discussions and group activities, daily reading and writing assignments, analysis and synthesis of primary/secondary documents, quizzes, essays, research based projects
COURSE OUTLINE
- Present day Eastern Hemisphere Geography
- The first humans through the Neolithic Revolution in the Eastern Hemisphere
- Early River Valley Civilizations in the Eastern Hemisphere (ca. 3500 B.C.E. - ca. 500 B.C.E.)
- Comparative world religions (ca. 2000 B.C.E – ca. 630 C.E)
- Comparative Classical Civilizations in the Eastern Hemisphere (ca. 600 B.C.E. – ca. 500 C.E.)
- The Mediterranean World: Feudal Western Europe, the Byzantine Empire, and the Islamic Caliphates (ca. 600 C.E. – ca. 1450)
- Interactions across the Eastern Hemisphere (ca. 600 C.E. – ca. 1450)
World Languages
Grade 6 World Languages Information
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 World Languages, 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.
French 6, Italian 6, & Spanish 6
Curriculum Level: Grade 6
State Examination: None
Frequency: Every other day; full year
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DESCRIPTION
In this course, students begin to explore a second language through simple and enjoyable thematic vocabulary topics and basic grammar structures. An entry level of proficiency is taught in the four basic skills of speaking, listening, reading, and writing while also discovering aspects of the culture throughout their journey.
Thematic vocabulary topics may include, but are not limited to:
- Greetings/small talk
- Family
- Classroom/school
- Days, months, & seasons
- Weather
- Numbers
- Nationalities & nations
- Body parts
- Adjectives & colors
- Neighborhood
- Animals
- Clothing
- Adjectives
TEXT and OTHER MATERIALS
French Is Fun
Italian Is Fun
Spanish Is Fun
Specials
Written Out Loud: The Written Out Loud program transforms students’ love of stories into a collaborative, creative writing experience. Through every other day sessions, small student “crews” work together under the guidance of a professional story director to develop and share their own original stories–first out loud, then on the page. The program builds confidence, creativity, and teamwork as students craft a full-length book together. Each session feels like gathering around a campfire, fostering connection, imagination, and purpose and concludes with students becoming published authors of their own professionally designed books.
Executive Functioning: SMARTS is a research-based executive function curriculum that helps students in grades 5–8 develop the strategies they need to manage the increasing demands of middle school. As students navigate new schedules, greater independence, and higher academic expectations—often without being taught how to organize, plan, and self-monitor—SMARTS provides explicit instruction in skills like goal setting, organizing and prioritizing, flexible thinking, memorizing, and self-checking. These strategies benefit all learners by helping them better understand their own strengths and challenges and take more ownership of their learning. SMARTS equips students with practical tools to stay organized, manage their time, think flexibly, and monitor their progress—preparing them not only for success in school, but also for life beyond the classroom.
Coding: This coding class introduces students to computer science using the Scratch platform, where they design interactive projects such as games, animations, and stories. Students will also build their typing skills through regular practice to improve speed and accuracy. Along the way, they’ll explore teacher-curated coding exercises, tutorials, and carefully selected non-fiction articles about technology, digital citizenship, and careers in computing—helping them see how coding connects to the real world. In class, students will engage in daily Scratch practice, working through mini-projects and challenges that develop problem-solving and creativity. They’ll complete regular typing exercises and write weekly reflections or journals about the strategies they used to debug, design, and improve their code. Each quarter, students will create one major Scratch project, and they’ll have opportunities to collaborate through peer code reviews and group activities, building both their technical skills and their ability to work as part of a team.
Math Lab: Math Lab is an extension of the core math curriculum designed to strengthen students’ number sense and build a strong foundation for higher-level problem solving. The class focuses on increasing automaticity with basic skills so that students can approach more complex math with confidence and flexibility. In Math Lab, students engage in teacher-curated investigations, projects, and partner activities that make math more accessible and connected to the real world. Through problem solving, exploration, and collaborative work, students deepen their understanding of key concepts in a supportive, hands-on environment. All work is completed in class.
Research Technology: Research Technology is a class where students build a strong foundation in three key areas: being responsible, respectful, and ethical digital citizens; learning how to find and evaluate authoritative information when “just Googling it” isn’t enough; and practicing self-directed learning by exploring topics and skills they care about most. Through a variety of resources and activities, students learn how to navigate the digital world thoughtfully and expand their knowledge in meaningful ways—while having fun along the journey. All weekly assignments are posted on Google Classroom with both video and visual supports to meet different learning styles. One assignment is posted each week and is typically due the following week. Students meet with Mrs. Costelloe once per cycle and can work independently, with friends, or with her support. While it’s okay if assignments are occasionally turned in late, all work must be completed by the end of each quarter.
Art: Art 6 meets every other day for one trimester and gives students the chance to explore a wide range of artists, art movements, and techniques. Using materials such as drawing tools, paint, sculpture media, and mixed media, students create artworks that focus on the elements and principles of art. They build on skills from previous years while going deeper into different areas of art and experimenting with materials in new ways, such as painting with cardboard or drawing with tape. Project information and assignments are posted on Google Classroom, and Chromebooks are sometimes used for research and idea generation. Videos about specific artists and techniques are also shared to support learning. All work is completed during class—there is no homework, tests, or quizzes. Projects are graded on understanding of concepts and skills, creativity, craftsmanship, effort, and time management. For each project, students are expected to sketch their ideas beforehand and complete a reflection sheet when they finish.
Music: In Music 6, students will have a lot of fun exploring rhythm and sound through world percussion and music technology. Using hand drums such as congas and bongos, they will learn to read and perform rhythmic notation, building a strong foundation in timing, coordination, and ensemble playing. Students will also work with Mixcraft, a multi-track recording program that lets them create and produce their own music. They’ll record from piano keyboards, layer multiple tracks, experiment with virtual instruments, loops, and sound effects, and even record live audio using microphones. Mixcraft also allows students to import and remix audio, giving them lots of creative options. The class is participation and project-based, allowing students of all levels to shine as they compose, perform, and bring their musical ideas to life.
Creative Writing: Creative Writing 6 is a one-trimester elective (ACE/BDF rotation) where students “wade into the water” of writing in a fun, low-pressure way. The class focuses on making writing real and relevant, encouraging creative thinking, and giving students a safe space to take risks and experiment with ideas. Through a series of engaging prompts—such as interviewing the teacher, analyzing a professional interview, writing stories inspired by music, crafting a personal “Genie in a Bottle” essay, and performing a secret character monologue—students strengthen both their writing and speaking skills. All writing is done primarily in class and submitted through Google Classroom. There are no tests or quizzes; instead, grades are based on completed writing projects, class participation, preparation, behavior, and oration skills as students present their work at the podium. Editing is a major focus: students are taught to carefully proofread and revise their work using color-coding for strong vocabulary and figurative language, as well as tools like dictionaries, thesauruses, and spell-check. Students may revise assignments within a week for a higher grade, helping them see writing as a process and grow confidence in their own voice.