Upper School Curriculum Guide

Have you ever wondered how biologists were able to sequence the human genome, create accurate models of the brain, or model biological systems? Would you love to better understand how biologists use big data and programming to solve human problems? Then, this introductory computer science course is for you! Students will be taught the power of pairing computational thinking with answering biological questions. Students will learn to use bioinformatic databases and the programming language Python to implement algorithms for solving simple biological problems. For example, students will use programming and bioinformatic databases to analyze and compare segments of DNA and biodiversity at Rye Nature Center.  (1/2 unit; grades 9, 10, 11, 12,)

This course is for students interested in asking and exploring biological questions using computational thinking and computer programming. Students will use the programming language Python to implement, test, and debug algorithms for solving simple problems. For example, students will use programming to analyze and compare DNA sequences from different species and discover genome variability. Students will be able to conduct an individual computational biology research project during the semester. This course will provide appropriate challenges for experienced programmers. (1/2 unit; grades 10, 11, 12, prerequisite: previous computer science course excluding CS Explorations and Creative Computing or departmental approval)

This course will build students' fundamental skills in designing, constructing, and programming robots. Students will learn principles of electrical and mechanical engineering including building and programming sensors and motors. Students will have hands-on experience constructing their own robot both individually and in teams. Throughout the course students will compete in robotics challenges. Students in this course may attend the VEX Robotics Competitions with the Robotics Club. This course does not fulfill the Computer Science requirement. (1/2 unit; fall and spring; Grades 10,11, 12; no prerequisite)

Want to solve real life problems? Enjoy designing and making? This course will introduce students to various fields of engineering through interdisciplinary problem solving and the completion of student-designed projects. Engineers apply the principles of design, mathematics, science, and computer science to solve real-world problems. Students will plan, design, build, analyze, and stress test a variety of projects of their own designs. Have an interest in designing buildings, ships, or bridges? How about rockets, cars, or playground equipment? Robots, alarms, or digital maps? Renewable energy technologies? If so, Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, Computer, or Chemical Engineering may be in your future! Students will complete several such projects, including a capstone design. This course does not fulfill the Computer Science requirement. (1/2 unit; spring; Grades 10, 11, 12; no prerequisite)

STEAM Apprenticeship (Level I)
This course is an introduction to working in and becoming leaders for the RCDS Makerspace. Through this course, students will have the opportunity to be at the forefront of 21st Century technology by receiving training to develop their skills of rapid prototyping, problem-solving, and invention. This course provides students the know-how to operate and use the equipment, fortify their confidence while removing some of their fear, and allow more time for creativity and exploration. Students will work with teachers to implement innovative projects that support the teachers’ curricula, help students with projects and tools, and teach the RCDS community about the technology in the Makerspace.  (1/2 unit; Grades 9 - 12, prerequisite none, 3 meetings per cycle)

STEAM Apprenticeship (Level 2)
Students will continue on their apprenticeship journey by exploring and using additional tools in the makerspace and/or woodshop. Using an artistic lens that will guide them in developing artifacts with form, function, self-expression, and imagination, students will utilize design thinking and problem-solving to create aesthetically pleasing works that reflect personal choice and personal voice. This course will also provide students with time to design focused passion projects as well as the opportunity to collaborate with other apprentices on advanced projects. Students will create something of their own design, an invention or community project approved by the makerspace director. (1/2 unit)  Pre reqs: STEAM Apprenticeship Level I (approval of instructor). 

STEAM Masterclass (Level 3)
Students will continue on their apprenticeship journey as leaders of the makerspace. They will work alongside the makerspace director to mentor new makerspace apprentices while continuing to develop projects that utilize design thinking and problem-solving to create innovative and meaningful design solutions. This course will also provide students the opportunity to collaborate with each other on advanced projects. Students will develop and create something of their own design, an invention, or community project approved by the makerspace director. (1/2 unit)  Pre reqs:  STEAM Apprenticeship Level II (approval of instructor).

Students in this class will learn all aspects of creating the Rye Country Day School yearbook, from planning the contents to designing the page layouts and keeping records of the production deadlines, orders, distribution, and advertising. Students will learn important elements of layout and design, implementing them with online publishing software as they work collaboratively to meet all production deadlines. Led by a student Editor-in-Chief, all students will have the opportunity to exercise creative leadership and to master their organizational and management skills. Class size will be limited to twelve students with preference given to rising sophomores, juniors, and seniors. (1/2 unit, which applies to the arts credit graduation requirement; Grades 9, 10, 11, 12; no prerequisite)