MATH & SCIENCE

Bronx Letters students all take four years of math in order to prepare them for success in college—in subjects ranging from biology to economics. All math courses meet daily, and our one-hour class periods allow students to engage in a variety of learning activities. In the ninth and tenth grades, students study algebra and geometry and take the Math A Regents exam. Students continue their study of geometry, developing an understanding of proof, and explore more advanced topics in algebra, functions, and trigonometry in the tenth and eleventh grades. In their senior year, Bronx Letters students may take the project-based Senior Math Topics course (which emphasizes in-depth independent study), complete the Math B curriculum, or continue to a precalculus course.

Bronx Letters math courses use student-centered instruction, emphasizing conceptual understanding and connection of mathematical concepts as well as fluency with procedures. Courses incorporate problem-solving, mathematical communication, and student projects. The math department meets weekly to analyze course and student progress, discuss and improve teaching practice, and ensure articulation among courses. Teachers frequently collaborate on planning, delivery, and analysis of lessons.

Science pushes students with its own unique challenges. On top of the reading, writing, and 'rithmatic that they get in their other classes, students design experiments and get their hands dirty in several laboratory activities each year. Our students take a Regents-level science course each year starting with Living Environment, a course that focuses on biology and ecology. From there they take chemistry, learning college-level lab techniques in our newly outfitted chemistry lab. Junior year they study physics through measurement, calculation, and discussion. Be careful entering a physics lab: There will always be something flying, falling, zapping, charging, or, on occasion, exploding. Senior year brings the study of Earth Science covering topics from weather to plate tectonics. Students who wish an extra challenge may elect to take AP level courses to glean a few college credits and a very distinguished transcript.