The Bronx High School of Science

Valerie Reidy – Principal

Incoming Student Guide

for

The Class of 2009

www.bxscience.edu

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Table of Contents

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL ...................................................................................3 A MESSAGE FROM THE PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION............................................................4

CHECKING YOUR COURSE REQUEST FORM ....................................................................5

A TYPICAL FRESHMAN PROGRAM......................................................................................6

A TYPICAL INCOMING SOPHOMORE PROGRAM...............................................................6

THE ENGLISH DEPARTMENT ...............................................................................................7

THE SUMMER READING LIST...............................................................................................7

THE SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT .................................................................................8

FRESHMAN ADVANCED PLACEMENT WORLD HISTORY..................................................8

FRESHMAN SUMMER SKILLS PROGRAM FOR A.P. HISTORY..........................................8

SOCIAL STUDIES A.P. COURSES FOR UPPER CLASSMEN ..............................................8

THE MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT...................................................................................10

THE ART, MUSIC AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT......................................................12

THE ART & MUSIC GRADUATION REQUIREMENT ...........................................................12

AUDITIONS FOR PERFORMING MUSIC CLASSES ...........................................................12

THE FOREIGN LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT........................................................................13

THE HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT .............................................14

TEAM SPORTS – COACHES AND START DATES .............................................................14

IMMUNIZATIONS..................................................................................................................15

REQUIRED MEDICAL EXAMINATION FOR PARTICIPATION IN SPORTS ACTIVITIES....16

THE BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT - SUMMER ASSIGNMENT.................................................17

THE RESEARCH LITERACY CLASS - SUMMER ASSIGMNENT........................................18

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES............................................................................................19

THE ATTENDANCE OFFICE ................................................................................................19

THE BRONX HIGH SCHOOL OF SCIENCE PARENT COORDINATOR..............................21

FRESHMAN COURSE CODES & DESCRIPTIONS .............................................................22

SPECIAL SERVICES UNDER SECTION 504.......................................................................23

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

The Bronx High School of Science 75 WEST 205TH STREET BRONX, N. Y. 10468

VALERIE REIDY

PRINCIPAL

TELEPHONE www.bxscience.edu (718) 817-7700

April 2005 Dear Member of the Class of 2009: Welcome to The Bronx High School of Science. You have been accepted as a student in a world-renowned center for educational excellence because you are excellent students and special young people. We are eager to make you a member of our school community by making sure that your transition into this new environment goes smoothly. There is much we want you to learn about the school (including how to find your classes on the first day). We also want to make sure that your program and course selections are appropriate and meet your needs. In order to ensure that your first days of school are orderly and stress free, we are asking that all incoming freshmen attend “CAMP SCIENCE,” a two day orientation program to be held in early September. Check the Bronx Science website for the dates. While some of you may have already made summer plans, I do feel that participation in the events of these two days, although not mandatory, will reduce your period of adjustment to your new school and allow you to quickly become a full-fledged “Science-ite.” I look forward to meeting and working with you. We are the best school in the world because we educate the best students in the world --- YOU!! Sincerely,

Valerie J. Reidy Principal

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A MESSAGE FROM THE PARENTS’ ASSOCIATION

April, 2005 Dear Parents: Congratulations on your child’s admission to The Bronx High School of Science! Welcome to our school community. For more than 60 years, Bronx Science has been a symbol of excellence in secondary school education. The Parents’ Association has played an integral role in the history of our school by supporting programs and initiatives that make us one of the finest educational institutions in the world. Please join us at the New Student Orientation as we welcome you to the Bronx High School of Science family. Come meet the current Parents’ Association officers, as well as many of the parents who work closely with the school administration and staff to make this a special place. Your children are embarking on a journey of educational opportunities that will prepare them for a successful future. Please join them on this journey by becoming an active member of the Parents’ Association. We welcome your participation, contribution, and ideas. We currently meet the first Wednesday of every month. Please watch The Bronx Science website for the date of the first meeting of the fall term in September. Sincerely, Amy Alleluia and Wade Hooker Parents’ Association President

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CHECKING YOUR COURSE REQUEST FORM In this packet you will find a Course Request Form indicating the classes for which your child will be scheduled in September. Please review the classes carefully. The typical programs on the following page and descriptions of courses which follow may be helpful analyze your course selections for the fall. If you find a problem or if a change is necessary, please indicate the change directly on the form and bring it to Bronx Science when you come to the New Parent/New Student Orientation Night on April 12th or April 14th from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. If you did not receive a course request sheet, we did not receive the Entering Student Biographical Form in time for us to prepare a program. Please return that form immediately (it is available on the Bronx Science website (www.bxscience.edu)). When you come to orientation, we will have a generic program for you to check and update. On that night, you will have the opportunity to speak with representatives of each department and have your questions answered. The departmental assistant principals or their representatives will make corrections to course requests if necessary. You might want to make a copy of the course request form for yourself prior to coming to orientation. There will be a table in the cafeteria where all forms can be deposited at the end of the night. We realize you may not be able to return the required Medical Forms on the evening of orientation. Please return them to the address below as soon as possible. If you cannot attend the meeting all forms should be returned to:

Ms. Rosemary VonOhlen, Office of Admissions The Bronx High School of Science 75 West 205th Street Bronx, New York 10468

You may address questions to the appropriate assistant principal listed below via e-mail or by telephone. Art - Mr. Levy, A.P (718) 817 – 7700 ext. 701 levy@bxscience.edu Biology - Dr. Donahue, Coordinator (718) 817 – 7700 ext. 529 donahue@bxscience.edu English - Ms. Fernandez, A.P. (718) 817 – 7700 ext. 270 fernandez@bxscience.edu Foreign Language - Ms. Rocchio, A.P. (718) 817 – 7700 ext. 273 rocchio@bxscience.edu Mathematics - Mr. Rattien, A.P. I.A. (718) 817 – 7700 ext. 170 rattien@bxscience.edu Music - Mr. Levy, A.P (718) 817 – 7700 ext. 701 levy@bxscience.edu Physical Education - Ms. Taudel, A.P. (718) 817 – 7700 ext. 400 ataudel@bxscience.edu Physical Science - Ms. Falzone, A.P.I.A. (718) 817 – 7700 ext. 535 falzone@bxscience.edu Social Studies -Mr. Colchamiro, Coordinator (718) 817 – 7700 ext. 508 colchami@bxscience.edu Technology - Mr. Levy, A.P (718) 817 – 7700 ext. 701 levy@bxscience.edu Check the website www.bxscience.edu for updates and more information.

http://www.bxscience.edu/

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A TYPICAL FRESHMAN PROGRAM 1. English -5 periods a week for a full year 2. Social Studies – 5 periods a week for a full year 3. Biology or Chemistry – 7 periods a week for a full year

Note: Honors Biology and Honors Chemistry occupy 10 periods / week – Students who take honors science are excused from Research Literacy and Writing workshop

4. Mathematics - 5 days a week for a full year 5. Foreign Language - 5 days a week for a full year 6. Research Literacy - 5 days a week for one term either Spring or Fall flips with Writing

Workshop 7. Writing Workshop - 5 days a week for one term either Spring or Fall flips with Research

Literacy 8. Music Appreciation - 5 days a week for one term either Spring or Fall flips with Art

Appreciation Note: Performing Music (Band Orchestra Chorus) is a full year and postpones Art to the Junior year

9. Art Appreciation - 5 days a week for one term either Spring or Fall flips with Music Appreciation

10. Physical Education – 3 days/week (usually meshes with science lab which is 2 days a week)

11. Lunch -5 periods a week for a full year – Math Team may be taken in lieu of lunch (eat lunch there)

Though it appears that a typical freshman program has 11 periods, it is in fact. only 9 periods per day because Art, Music, Research Literacy and Writing Workshop are one term courses.

A TYPICAL INCOMING SOPHOMORE PROGRAM

1. English -5 periods a week for a full year 2. Social Studies – 5 periods a week for a full year 3. Chemistry – 7 periods a week for a full year 4. Mathematics -5 periods a week for a full year 5. Foreign Language -5 periods a week for a full year 6. Technical Drawing -5 periods a week for a full year 7. Art - 5 days a week for one term either Spring or Fall flips with Music Appreciation 8. Music - 5 days a week for one term either Spring or Fall flips with Art Appreciation 9. Physical Education -3 days/week (usually meshes with science lab which is 2 days a

week) 10. Lunch -5 periods a week for a full year – Math Team replaces lunch (eat lunch there)

NOTE: Research Literacy and Writing Workshop are waived for incoming sophomores Music and Art are New York City requirements and must be passed by all NYC High School students

Though it appears that a typical entering sophomore program has 10 periods, it is, in fact, only 9 periods per day because Art Appreciation and Music Appreciation are one term courses. Descriptions of the courses listed above (an all Bronx Science course offerings are available at http://www.bxscience.edu/pdf/2004_course_guide.pdf or go to www.bxscience.edu and click on Publications then on Course Guide.

http://www.bxscience.edu/pdf/2004_course_guide.pdfhttp://www.bxscience.edu/

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THE ENGLISH DEPARTMENT

Cultivating strong reading habits lies at the heart of learning to become a successful student in all subject areas. Reading provides an opportunity to practice an essential skill that will not only increase your general knowledge, but also expand your knowledge of people and the world in which you live.

Please select at least two of the works from the special summer reading list on the next page to read before returning to school in September.

THE SUMMER READING LIST TITLE AUTHOR TITLE AUTHOR The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy Adams Les Miserables Hugo Tuesdays with Morrie Albom The Hunchback of Notre Dame Hugo Undaunted Courage Ambrose Into the Wild Krakauer I Know Why The Caged Bird Sing Angelou Into Thin Air Krakauer The Foundation Trilogy Asimov The Spy Who Came in From the Cold LeCarre The Long Walk Bachman China Boy Lee Go Tell It On the Mountain Baldwin The Green Mile King The Adventures of Augie March Bellow Elmer Gantry Lewis Dandelion Wine Bradbury The Sea Wolf London Fahrenheit 451 Bradbury The Natural Malamud Room At The Top Braine Angela’s Ashes McCourt Andorra Cameron The Heart is a Lonely Hunter McCullers Death Comes For The Archbishop Cather Tar Baby Morrison Life and Death in Shanghai Cheng A Book of Memories Nadas Year of Impossible Goodbyes Choi Portrait of Jenny Nathan And Then There Were None Christie The Last Hurrah O’Connor The Great Santini Conroy Coming Up for Air Orwell Fade Cormier The Street Petry The Great Train Robbery Crichton Davita’s Harp Potok Jurassic Park Crichton The Fortunate Pilgrim Puzo Beyond This Place Cronin A Country of Strangers Richter Child of Our Times Del Castillo Blue Heron Ross Three By Annie Dillard Dillard The God of Small Things Roy World’s Fair Doctorow Scaramouche Sabatini Billy Bathgate Doctorow The Last of the Just Schwarz-Bart A Yellow Raft in Blue Water Dorris Lord Valentine’s Castle Silverberg Rebecca DuMaurier Bronx Primitive Simon Time and Again Finney The Cage Sender The Finishing School Godwin Utopia Parkway Solomon Memoirs of a Geisha Golden The Prime of Miss Jean Brodie Spark I Never Promised You a Rose Garden Greenberg The Confessions of Nat Turner Styron Brighton Rock Greene The Other Tryon Death Be Not Proud Gunther A Saturday Life Hall The Maltese Falcon Hammett The Number of the Beast Heinlein Stranger in a Strange Land Heinlein

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THE SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT The traditionally mandated social studies courses include:

• 9th grade Global History 1/2 which is world history from the beginning of time to 1815. • 10th grade Global History 3/4 covers from 1815 to the present day. • 11th grade includes American History from the Revolution to the present. • 12th grade social studies includes:

o one term of Participation in Government o one term of Economics Students who take our traditional Economics/Participation in Government course in the 12th grade, may take the course with a six-week selective unit. These “selective” courses include Principles of Economics, Constitutional Law, and Psychology.

FRESHMAN ADVANCED PLACEMENT WORLD HISTORY

The Social Studies department offers a wide range of Advanced Placement courses and electives beginning in the freshman year. Ninth graders have the opportunity to apply for Advanced Placement (A. P.) World History in lieu of the traditional 9th grade course. Those 9th graders who are accepted into the A. P. World History course will take the second half in the 10th grade. Admission to this course is based on an essay examination that will be administered in June and August.

FRESHMAN SUMMER SKILLS PROGRAM FOR A.P. HISTORY It is our intent to offer a skills preparation course for those students who will enter 9th grade in September and who are interested in studying Advanced Placement World History. It is our hope that we will be able to offer it during the time that summer school is in session, July 1 to August 15. However, because the allotment for summer school funds is uncertain right now, we cannot give complete information. If we are able to offer this course, students will take an essay examination at its completion in order to determine proper placement in either A.P. World History or Global Studies. If your child is unable to attend this course or if the course is not offered, an essay examination will be administered in June on the same day as the math placement examination. Students who apply for A.P. World History are strongly advised to attend the summer skills course if it is offered. The examination will be a 3-5 paragraph essay that requires a thesis statement, and demonstrates the student’s ability to analyze primary and secondary sources in proper essay format.

SOCIAL STUDIES A.P. COURSES FOR UPPER CLASSMEN

• 10th graders may opt for Advanced Placement European History in lieu of Global History3/ 4. • 11th graders may choose the following in lieu of the traditional course: Advanced Placement

U. S. History-one year, Advanced Placement U. S. History-two year, and Mock Trial. • 12th graders may opt for Advanced Placement U. S. Government, Macroeconomics, or

Microeconomics in place of the standard 12th grade course. We expect to offer the following courses for those who wish to take an additional social studies course: INTEL Social Science Research, Law, Introduction to Film, A. P. World History for juniors and seniors, A. P. European History for juniors and seniors, and Introduction to Social Science Problem Solving.

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BIOLOGY AND PHYSICAL SCIENCE COURSES FOR FRESHMEN By the end of their junior year all students must have completed one year of biology, chemistry and physics. In the senior year (and sometimes their junior year as well) students may elect to take an additional course in science. Students have some choice as to the sequence of these courses. 1. Regents Biology - Incoming freshman students will automatically be programmed for

Regents Biology except as noted below. Regents Biology meets for 7 periods per week which includes two periods of laboratory work. The course culminates in the Biology Regents examination in June.

2. Honors Freshman Regents Chemistry or Biology – Students are selected based on Entrance Exam scores. These are one-year courses that These classes meet 10 periods per week which includes two periods of laboratory work as well as additional enrichment labs and activities.

3. Students who have completed Regents Biology and passed the Regents exam before entering Bronx Science will be automatically placed in Regents Chemistry class which meets 7 periods a week, including 2 periods of laboratory, unless they apply for Honors Regents Chemistry and are accepted. In their junior year they must take an elective Biology laboratory course instead of the Regents Biology that was already taken in their intermediate school.

4. Research Literacy – A required course for all freshmen, except those taking an honors science course. This is a one-term course where students learn how to follow the scientific method, to use computers as a tool for research and to write scientifically. Students will be scheduled for this course in either the Fall or Spring Term.

**PLEASE NOTE - Regents Earth Science does not fulfill the science requirements at Bronx Science.

All incoming freshmen have been selected to attend The Bronx High School of Science because of their demonstrated abilities. However, expect that there will be an adjustment period during which our new students will learn to adapt to their new environment. We will do all we can to help make this a successful process. The entire staff of both the Physical Science and Biology Departments is available to help with this adjustment. • Homework should be expected every day. (Budget your time wisely.) • Each week students are required to submit a written lab report based on the laboratory exercise completed.

This is a requirement for the Regents exam given in June. • Tutoring is available throughout the year for students. Both teachers and peer students will be scheduled to

provide assistance. • Parents will be informed of their child’s progress on a regular basis, through report cards and letters. • Students are welcome to stop into the department offices in any time in order to obtain information The

Physical Science Department office is in room 231D. The Biology Department office is 329D. . • Throughout the year, students will be informed of science contests, programs, courses and summer

opportunities available to them. Participation in contests and competitions build the student’s resume. • Reading skills are extremely important. Reading scientific journals and magazines, such as “Science

News” and the New York Times Science Section, is an excellent means by which to read about current events in science

• In early spring, students will be invited to apply for honor science classes available to them in their sophomore year.

• Parents are encouraged to call either their child’s teacher or the department coordinator or assistant principal if there are questions or concerns.

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THE MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT 1. A TYPICAL FRESHMAN MATH PROGRAMStudents who have NOT taken a Math A Regents exam before entering Bronx Science this September MUST take our Placement Test. (Please See ”3, 1, a” on the next page, Math Placement Exam, for details.) Those students who will have taken and passed the Math A Regents exam by this September DO NOT have to take the Placement Test. Note: Acceleration credit is awarded based upon either the Regents exam or our placement test. Students who do not take the Math A Regents exam prior to coming to Bronx Science are not at any disadvantage if they do well on our placement exam.

A. Most incoming students will not yet have taken the Mathematics A Regents Exam. If you are scheduled to take the exam on June 16th, report to your school for your exam as scheduled. If you are not scheduled to take the Mathematics A Regents Exam on June 16th you must take our Mathematics Placement Exam here on Thursday, June 16th. Students should arrive at Bronx Science at 12:30 p.m. for the 1:00 p.m. test. (See “3, 1, a” on the next page for more details.) Based on the results of this exam, students will likely be placed in one of the following courses:

• M$1 Algebra 1 • M$3 Geometry • M$3H Geometry Honors

B. If a student passes the Mathematics A Regents exam in June 2005, then s/he will be placed in M$3A (Geometry) or M$3H (Geometry Honors), and does NOT need to take the Placement Exam.

C. If a student passed the Mathematics A Regents exam prior to June 2005, then s/he will likely be placed in M$5 (Algebra/Trigonometry) or M$5H (Algebra/Trigonometry Honors), and does NOT need to take the Placement Exam.

2. SPECIAL CLASSES

A. Honors Mathematics Classes 1. Students eligible for Geometry, as determined by the Placement Exam, may be placed in honors if

they meet the minimum additional criteria of a Math Entrance Exam score of at least 292, and a reported midyear grade of at least 90 in the course they are currently taking.

2. Students eligible for M$5 (Algebra/Trigonometry) will be placed in honors if they meet the additional criteria of a Math Entrance Exam score of at least 310, and a reported midyear grade of at least 90 in the course they are currently taking.

3. Since the vast majority of our students tend to perform well on Regents exams, a high Regents exam grade is NOT, by itself, an indication of potential success in an honors class.

4. A student who is not selected for honors as a freshman may be accepted into honors at a later date by performing exceptionally well in the non-honors class and receiving a teacher recommendation.

5. Future acceptance into honors and AP courses requires that a student’s record reflect a consistent pattern of 95+ grades in math course work and math Regents exams.

6. Students in honor classes are required to write an investigative term paper, which is more than simply a report on a topic. Teachers provide advice and guidance on how to write an investigative paper.

B. Math Team

1. Students who enjoy solving unusual math problems and participating in math competitions should request Math Team.

2. Students must take and pass a qualifying exam on either June 16th or June 22nd. It will be given on June 16th at 2:15 p.m. and on June 20th at 1:00 p.m. A level 2 exam will be given after the start of classes in September 2005. A make-up will be given in September (Check the Math Department website for the date and time). For the make-up, you must register in advance. Send an e-mail to rattien@bxscience.edu AFTER July 1 and write “Math Team” in the “subject” and list the student’s name in the body.

mailto:rattien@bxscience.edu

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3. Math Team meets every day during a student’s lunch period. Students eat in the Math Team room.

C. Math Projects

1. Students interested in doing independent mathematical research should request Math Projects, MER1.

2. Students explore interesting topics in mathematics that are outside the usual high school curriculum. They receive guidance in selecting a topic and completing their project.

3. Students may start/continue with Math Projects in their sophomore, junior, and senior year. Completed projects may be entered in competitions that include the New York Math Fair, New York Academy of Sciences Expo and the Intel Science Talent Search.

4. Math Team and Math Projects may be taken concurrently. 3. EXAMINATIONS

A. The Mathematics Placement Exam 1. A sample of the Mathematics Placement Exam can be found on the Bronx Science Website.

a) Go to: www.bxscience.edu b) Click on: Departments c) Click on: Mathematics d) Select: Visit the Department Homepage e) Select: Document Manager f) Select: Practice Qualifying Exams g) Select: Mathematics Placement Exam

2. Students should bring several #2 pencils as the exam answer sheet will be machine scored. 3. CALCULATORS ARE NOT ALLOWED! 4. The time allocated for the exam is ONE HOUR. 5. If you are unable to take the Placement Exam in June, you can register, after July 1, for the

make up exam that will be scheduled in early September. Check the Math Department website for the date and time.

6. To register, e-mail rattien@bxscience.edu and write “Placement Exam Make-Up” in the subject box and the student’s name in the body.

7. Students who never take the Placement Exam, and are not exempt by virtue of having passed the Math A Regents exam, will be programmed for Algebra I (M$1).

B. The Mathematics A Regents Exam1. Many students who have NOT completed Math A have tried to learn the additional topics

either by working with a tutor or self-study. Although they have passed the Math A Regents exam, we have found that their grades on the exam are weak. In addition, the depth of understanding is so limited that students have had difficulty with subsequent math courses. We therefore strongly suggest that students who have not completed the coursework NOT sit for the exam.

2. Students who have completed all of Mathematics A, but are not able to take the Regents exam at their home school, may take the exam at Bronx Science on Thursday, June 16th at 1:00 p.m. If you wish to take the Math A Regents exam here, e-mail the request to rattien@bxscience.edu. Please be certain to include the NAME of the student and his/her present school. This must be done in advance!

4. Mathematics Department websiteThe Mathematics Department section of the Bronx High School of Science website is continually updated. Check the website often. Dates and times of pertinent events are posted as they become available. Go to www.bxscience.edu, departments, Mathematics and you are there.

http://www.bxscience.edu/mailto:rattien@bxscience.edumailto:rattien@bxscience.eduhttp://www.bxscience.edu/

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THE ART, MUSIC AND TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT

THE ART & MUSIC GRADUATION REQUIREMENT

• New York City High School graduation requirements include at least one term of

Art and one term of Music, usually taken during the freshman year. • Students are scheduled for both Art Appreciation and Music Appreciation during

the freshman year, unless they take a performing music course such as Orchestra, Stage Band, Concert Band or Chorus. These full year courses fill the music requirement and the Art Appreciation is postponed until the sophomore or junior year.

AUDITIONS FOR PERFORMING MUSIC CLASSES

• Students who have prior musical training in an instrument are invited to join one of

the Bronx Science Performing Music classes. • Students who would like to participate in the Bronx Science Chorus class may

apply for admission. Students who have prior experience in choral are encouraged to apply.

• The Performing Music classes which are open to freshmen include:

• The Orchestra • The Stage Band • The Concert Band • The Chorus

• In early June, students who expressed an interest in participating in the performing

music program will receive an audition appointment by mail.

• Auditions will be scheduled for late June.

• Every attempt will be made to avoid conflicts with Regents examinations, graduations and other school commitments. In the event that there is a conflict, please e-mail Mr. Morgan, morgan@bxscience.edu or call Mr. Levy, Assistant Principal/Supervision – Art, Music and Technology at 718-817-7701.

• You will have an opportunity to discuss the music program and placement in

Orchestra, Stage Band, Concert Band, or Chorus during orientation.

• If you need more information please contact Mr. Levy, Assistant Principal/Supervision – Art, Music and Technology at 718-817-7701

mailto:morgan@bxscience.edu

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THE FOREIGN LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT

Language and communication are at the heart of the human experience. It is our goal to educate our students linguistically and culturally in foreign and classical languages so that they will be equipped to excel in a pluralistic American society and abroad. The New York State Standards for Foreign Language Learning help us to remember that, as a goal, all students will “develop and maintain proficiency in English and at least one other language, modern or classical”. During your Bronx High School of Science career you must complete at least a three year sequence in Foreign Language of which at least two years must be taken at Bronx Science. You are free to take a second foreign language or advance to a fourth or fifth year of foreigh language if you so desire.

The following notes will help you to understand and decode our programming system:

If the code on your Curse Request Form reads: FS3 The F indicates foreign language, the S indicates Spanish, and the 3 corresponds to the 3rd term of study. Our years (high school levels) of language are broken up into terms, therefore, First Year classes of a language are F 1&2, Second Year classes are F 3&4, and Third Year classes are F 5&6. (Advanced Classes are generally coded with C (conversation) or 7/8 (advanced).

The typical freshman has been placed in a first or second year language class such as FS1, FT1, FC1 or FS3, FT3, FC3, etc., based on individual preferences and past language history and should be just fine in September. Some students may have been assigned their Second Choices if enrollment was higher than anticipated. If your preliminary program seems to be incorrect, you will be able to make changes on Orientation Night and at other times before September, so don’t worry! We look forward to your participation in our many language-related clubs, contests and activities. We compete in dozens of national, local and regional competitions and examinations and offer students the opportunity to take Advanced Placement courses in Spanish, French, Italian and Latin. Our Multimedia Resource Laboratory and Distance Learning Center will also be available for your language classes to visit, where you will be able to use audio, video and computer capabilities. Wittgenstein wrote: “The limits of my language mean the limits of my world”. In the Foreign Language Department, we look forward to introducing you to a cultural and linguistic world full of endless possibilities! We’ll see you at Orientation!

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THE HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

Welcome to what we hope shall be a successful school year. In an effort to ensure a good beginning in Physical Education, we want you to be aware of some important items. 1. Students must pass one term of Health Instruction and every term of Physical Education. If either

of these subjects is failed, they must be repeated. 2. The accepted uniform of Physical Education consists of a T-shirt, sweat shirt (when needed),

appropriate gym shorts, socks and sneakers. Sweat pants will only be permitted for religious or medical reasons, when accompanied by a written letter from the clergy or medical doctor. Pupils who are unprepared shall not be permitted to participate. (tank tops, cut-offs, jean shorts, short shorts, shorts below the knees, capris or hats of any kind are not permitted).

3. Street clothing, books and valuables are to be stored in a locked locker in the appropriate locker room during the period. A combination heavy duty Master lock is to be used and can be purchased in the S.O. store. Books, bags, coats, hats, beverages and or food are not permitted in the gymnasium

4. Students who need to be excused from activity for an extended period of time must present to their teacher the appropriate form signed by their doctor. The form entitled “PHYSICIANS RECOMMENDATION FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ADJUSTMENT” may be obtained in room 048D.

5. Whenever a pupil is absent from class a note explaining the absence must be presented within one week following the pupil’s return to class; tardy notes will not be accepted. Absences will count as days of non-participation towards students’ grades.

6. Safety is of major concern in order to conduct an effective program. No student shall be permitted in any area without appropriate supervision. Students must leave the gymnasium area when the class is dismissed to the locker room.

7. It is recommended that students to obtain their own medical insurance as the Department of Education only provides medical insurance for students of PSAL athletic teams.

8. Students who go outdoors for physical education activities should dress appropriately. Sweat shirts and sweat pants are recommended (but only for outside classes).

9. A student’s grade is determined using the following criteria: Performance: 50% Participation (in uniform) 50% Since this is a participation and performance class Make-Ups will Not be allowed, unless approved by teacher.

10. In order for a student to try-out and participate on an athletic team, he/she must bring in a completed DOE medical consent form and a completed DOE parent’s consent form. The required forms may be obtained from the medical office (049) and the Health and Physical Education Department Offices (040, 048 & 048D).

We offer the following sports (JV teams contingent upon DOE Budget.) Each team, along with the season of participation and the present coach is listed below.

TEAM SPORTS – COACHES AND START DATES

Team Coach Start DateBaseball-Boys-J.V. Deneroff 1-MarBaseball-Boys-Varsity Lajara 1-MarBasketball-Boys-Varsity Bacote 17-OctBasketball-Boys-J.V. Vereb 17-OctBasketball-Girls-Varsity Gregory 17-OctBasketball-Girls-J.V. Rattien Harry 17-OctBowling Co-ed Frankl 12-SepCross Country-Boys Gracia 12-Sep

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Boy’s Cross County Assist. Liu John Cross Country-Girls Miller 12-Sep Girls Cross County Assist. Davis Fencing Co-ed Vereb 12-SepGolf-Boys Bodenheimer 1-MarGolf-Girls Drury 12-SepGymnastics-Boys Gracia 1-NovGymnastics-Girls Dietrich 1-NovHandball-Boys Miretello 1-MarHandball-Girls Nation 1-MarIndoor Track-Boys-Varsity Davis 17-OctBoys' Indoor Assist. Liu, J. Indoor Track -Girls-Varsity Drury 17-OctGirls' Indoor Assist. Miller Outdoor Track-Boys-Varsity Gracia 1-MarBoys' Outdoor Assist. Liu, John Outdoor Track-Girls-Varsity Drury 1-MarGirls' Outdoor Assist. Miller Soccer-Boys-Varsity Zuckerman 22-AugSoccer-Girls-Varsity Zuckerman 1-MarSoftball-Varsity Rattien, Harry 1-MarSoftball-J.V. Vereb 1-MarSwimming-Boys Brown 1-NovSwimming-Girls Brown 12-SepTennis-Boys Bacote 1-MarTennis-Girls Gregory 1-MarVolleyball-Boys-Varsity Dietrich 1-MarVolleyball-Girls-Varsity Ramos 12-SepVolleyball-Girls-J.V. Zaffiro 12-SepCrew Co-ed Brewster 1-MarTeams generally begin practice on the first day of classes. (Soccer begins August 22, 2005) In order to try out, ALL students must have a current and valid D.O.E. medical, Athletic parental consent form and a valid S.O. card.

IMMUNIZATIONS

The New York City Health Code requires every student entering a New York City school for the first time to have a record of a medical examination. The enclosed health examination form (211S) is the basis of your child’s school medical record. Please ask your child’s health care provider to fill out the form. In order to be considered fully immunized the form must include proof of the following immunizations: 1.) 3 DTaP, DTP, DT, or Td (tetanus-diphtheria) 2.) 3 OPV or IPV 3.) 2 MMR

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4.) 2 or 3 Hepatitis B (2 Merck HB adult vaccine or 3 pediatric hepatitis series) If your child is new to New York City schools, the form should also include proof of the above immunizations. Any child who does not meet the following provisional requirements will be excluded from school as mandated by New York City: 1.) 1 DTaP, DT, or Td 2.) 1 IPV 3.) 1 MMR 4.) 1 Hepatitis B 5.) 1 Mantoux Tuberculosis Skin Test (also known as a PPD) within one year prior to admission to school Please return all completed forms to the Medical Office, Room 049, as soon as possible. If you have any questions, please call (718) 817-7700, ext. 746 or ext. 449 and ask for Nurse Felix or Ms. Frederick, our School Health Aide. Form 211 S was enclosed in your enrollment package and is available from the Medical Office listed above.

REQUIRED MEDICAL EXAMINATION FOR PARTICIPATION IN SPORTS ACTIVITIES

New York State Commissioner of Education Regulations require every student to have a

physical examination before participating in senior high school interscholastic sports activities. The physical examination and the Department of Health/ Department of Education Sports

Examination form may be completed by the Department of Health physician at no cost to you, or, by your personal physician.

The Sports Examination form is very comprehensive. The purpose of this new form is to ensure that your child receives a complete physical examination prior to participating in interscholastic sports.

The American Academy of Pediatrics, the New York City Department of Health and the Board of Education strongly recommend that every student have a complete physical examination including the Maturation Index prior to competing in interscholastic athletics. The Maturation Index* notes the stage of pubertal development and should be included for the protection of the student. The Index is one indicator of a child’s bone development, and is helpful to the physician in assessing the total development of the child and his or her fitness for sports participation. However, as inclusion of the Maturation Index is optional, the parent/guardian decides whether or not the physician includes the rating. (If you do not want the physician to make an entry for the Maturation Index, write “No Maturation Index” to the left of your signature.)

The term “clinician” appears on the Sports Examination form and refers to physicians, nurse-practitioners and physicians’ assistants. The physical examination may be performed by any of these medical personnel.

As the Sports Examination form indicates, the student’s medical record is strictly confidential and is on file in the school medical office. The student’s medical record is not part of his or her academic record, and is not subject to examination by anyone except authorized personnel.

* For more detailed information about the Maturation Index, please consult your physician. NOTE: All students should receive regularly scheduled complete physical examinations by a physician of the parent/guardian’s choice.

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THE BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT - SUMMER ASSIGNMENT Most students will be starting your Bronx Science career with biology in the fall. To stimulate your interest in science, we are assigning the reading of three articles related to the biological sciences. You can find exciting articles in: The New York Times Tuesday Science section, Newsday Science section, Science News, Discover, Popular Science, Natural History, Scientific American, Scholastic Science magazine. Legitimate sources are also available on the web (www.nih.gov) (www.medline.com).

Make three copies of this page and/or use separate sheets of paper to answer the questions listed below. Attach a copy or the original article to this assignment sheet. You may use extra paper if necessary. Please bring this stapled material on the first day of school. Student Name ________________________________ SELECTION #_______ Title of Article___________________________________________________ Author _________________________________________________________ Name of Magazine_______________________________________________ Date of Magazine________________________________________________ 1. Write a paragraph describing what you learned from reading this material. 2. Below, write 2 or 3 questions related to basic biology that reading the article brought to mind.

Frequently how or why questions lead to future fundamental explorations.

a. b. c.

http://www.nih.gov/http://www.medline.com/

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THE RESEARCH LITERACY CLASS - SUMMER ASSIGMNENT

As a freshman at Bronx Science, most of you will be taking Research Literacy (the only freshmen not taking Research Literacy are those scheduled for Honors Biology and Honors Chemistry, which contain their own research component). Research Literacy is a special one-semester course divided into three interconnected sections. You will learn how to follow the scientific method, to use computers as a tool for research, and to write scientifically. Teachers from four different departments and the librarians collaborate in teaching the course. If Research Literacy appears on your program now, you will be scheduled for it in the fall. Otherwise, unless you are in an Honors science course, you will be scheduled for it in the spring semester, starting in February 2005. We are assigning Never Cry Wolf by Farley Mowat as reading over the summer. After you read this book, find an example of Mowat’s use of the scientific method. On a separate sheet of paper, answer the questions listed below. Bring this in when your teacher asks for it during your first week of Research Literacy, which will be in the fall for half of you and in the spring for the other half. ***************************************************************************************************** Name: __________________________

Scientific Method Example from Never Cry Wolf by Farley Mowat 1. Problem (the scientific question being investigated): 1. Hypothesis (the guessed answer to the problem): 2. Materials and Methods (how the experiment was done): 3. Results (data, measurements, observations): 4. Conclusions:

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STUDENT RESPONSIBILITIES Department of Education policy states: Students may not wear any hats or headgear in the building. (Religious observance and health-related headwear are exempt with appropriate documentation submitted to your guidance counselor.) Chancellor’s Regulations state: Students may not play games of chance on school property. Building-wide Policies:

1) Students may chew gum and use headphones in the cafeteria and courtyard only. 2) Appropriate dress is required for all students.

a) Clothing should not be distracting or offensive to other members of the Bronx Science community.

b) Clothing that degrades religion, race, or sexuality is prohibited. c) Clothing that promotes drug use or offensive language is not allowed in the building or on

school grounds. d) Undergarments must not be visible and tops and bottoms of outer garments must meet or

overlap. 3) All students must carry their ID cards at all times.

The Cafeteria: The Student Cafeteria is shared by the entire student population over several periods. It is important that all students enjoy a clean, healthy and safe environment where they can relax and socialize. Toward that end, the following guidelines must be observed:

1) Students must report to the cafeteria during their lunch period. 2) Students who have a free period are to report

(a) To the Student Hall (Auditorium) (b) May serve on a squad and earn service credit, or (c) The Library.

3) Students may eat in the cafeteria or the courtyard, but may not take food out of the cafeteria to other parts of the building.

4) Students, who are part of special programs that require eating lunch elsewhere in the building, must obtain a special pass from their faculty advisor (for a cold lunch only.)

5) Wherever students eat, all garbage must be placed in appropriate containers. Tables must be cleaned and the area surrounding your lunch table must be litter-free.

Additional Questions: All additional questions including those about MetroCards, lunchbooks and lockers will be addressed at “Camp Science.”

THE ATTENDANCE OFFICE STUDENT ATTENDANCE

Students are expected to attend school every day and attend every scheduled class. When questions arise about attendance you may contact the Attendance Office or the student’s

Guidance Counselor. When students are expecting a program correction, they must follow their current program until

they receive the official notice of change. BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION DATA

Each September, two (2) “Blue Emergency Contact Cards” will be sent to you. Please complete them immediately and return them. These complete a “back-up” database, which enables us to contact you in the event of an emergency.

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Whenever there is a change in this information, please inform the school immediately. An address change request is included in the freshman package. When a change is requested

you will be sent a “Blue Emergency Contact Card” to complete. Note that some changes require documentation.

ABSENCESWhen a student is absent, an absence note signed by the parent/guardian must be brought to

school on the day of return. The Bronx Science Absence Note can be printed from the Bronx Science website (www.bxscience.edu.) by clicking on Attendance and then on Absence note.

If a doctor treats the student’s illness, a doctor’s note should be attached to the absence note. Part A (top portion) of the absence note must be brought into the Attendance Office (Room 029)

immediately upon return to school. Part B (bottom portion) should be signed by student’s teachers and retained by student for future reference.

Absences are reported to parents by computer generated phone calls on the day of the occurrence. If parents are unaware of the absence, they should call the Attendance Office at 718-817-7762.

Whenever a student is absent, an absence postcard is mailed home. Please write an explanation on the back of this card, sign and return it to the Attendance Office. This card is retained in the Attendance Office as a back-up absence note.

CUTTING Students are expected to attend every class for which they are scheduled. When a student is present in school and absent from class a “cut” is generated. If you receive a “cut card” in the mail, please contact the teacher and/or the Guidance Counselor.

Cutting is often an early indication of a developing problem. LATENESS

Students are expected to arrive at school at least 10 minutes before their first period begins. Since ID Cards are checked for all entering students, it is wise to arrive by 7:50 AM

Students who arrive after the beginning of their first class must procure a “ Late Pass. ” Late Passes are available in the student cafeteria until 10 A.M. Students who arrive at school after Period 3 must procure a “Late Pass”. in the Dean’s Office

(Room 047) before going to class. Please note that a LATE PASS DOES NOT EXCUSE LATENESS, it merely records it. Lateness,

which causes a student to miss an entire class, is considered a “cut.” Excessive lateness may result in disciplinary action such as detention.

OUT OF BUILDING PROCEDURES – EARLY RELEASE FROM SCHOOL Occasionally it is necessary for a student to leave the building for an appointment. Students may leave early only after obtaining an Out of Building Pass. (OB Pass) . (Students

who leave without permission are subject to cutting penalties, and possibly detention.) Students who will be absent for an entire day may not be issued an Out of Building Pass.

(Students must be present in at least one (1) class in order to be marked present for the day.) How an Out of Building Pass is Processed:

OB Passes are issued in the Dean’s Office, Room 047. Students must present a parental note explaining the reason for the early excuse and a

phone number where their parent/guardian can be reached. The secretary or dean calls the parent to verify the validity of the note. An Out of Building Pass is generated. The student receives the OB Pass and leaves the building. The next day, the student shows the OB Pass to his/her teachers. The teachers sign the

OB Pass and mark the Delaney Card “excused” (OB) denoting that the student was not in the classroom, but the absence was excused.

http://www./

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THE BRONX HIGH SCHOOL OF SCIENCE PARENT COORDINATOR

The Parent Coordinator works on-site at the Bronx High School of Science and is responsible for encouraging and promoting active involvement by the families in their children’s education and making school more welcoming to the families. In addition to the Principal and the staff, the Parent Coordinator is an important point of contact for families of the school. Unlike parent volunteers working in a school, the Parent Coordinator is on staff and can work within the school to direct the families to the appropriate places where they can find the information they are seeking. Who is the Parent Coordinator at Bronx High School of Science? Cynthia Golan How can Ms. Golan be contacted? You can contact Ms. Golan in the following ways:

E-mail: golan@bxscience.edu

Department of Education cell phone: 347-563-4846

Office phone number:

718-817-7705 (Parent Coordinator office is located in the back of room 315D)

Bronx Science Switchboard 718-817-7700 Ext. 705

Please note: If you are unable to reach the Parent Coordinator directly, please leave a

message and Ms. Golan will get back to you as soon as possible, usually within 24-48 hours.

mailto:golan@bxscience.edu

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FRESHMAN COURSE CODES & DESCRIPTIONS

A10 ART APPRECIATION E1 ENGLISH 1 EWS FRESHMAN WRITING WORKSHOP FC1 CHINESE 1 FE1 GREEK 1 FE3 GREEK 3 FE5 GREEK 5 FE7 GREEK 7 FF1 FRENCH 1 FF3 FRENCH 3 FL1 LATIN 1 FL3 LATIN 3 FR1 RUSSIAN 1 FR3 RUSSIAN 3 FS1 SPANISH 1 FS3 SPANISH 3 FXXX MISSING LANGUAGE CHOICE GUP RESEARCH LITERACY H1$ GLOBAL STUDIES H1X ADVANCED PLACEMENT SOCIAL STUDIES M$1 MATH A M$3A MATH B M$3H MATH B HONORS M$5 ALGEBRA/TRIG M$5H ALGEBRA / TRIG HONORS MNTA MATH TEAM PA91 PHYSICAL EDUCATION SB1 REGENTS BIOLOGY SB1I REGENTS BIOLOGY HONORS SC1I REGENTS CHEMISTRY HONORS U1R MUSIC UDC1 CONCERT BAND UVE1 CHORUS UDT1 STAGE BAND UMN1 SMALL ENSEMBLE ZLUN LUNCH

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SPECIAL SERVICES UNDER SECTION 504 Dear Parent or Guardian: Your child may be entitled to special services in the school under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act and various State and City laws. These laws protect the rights of students with special health needs who might have difficulty attending school or participating in regular school activities without support services or reasonable services being provided. For example, students with a medical condition may required the administration of medication; students with vision or hearing impairments might be seated near the blackboard and students with vision impairments might be provided with enlarged photocopies of hand-outs if their schools’ photocopiers have an enlarging capability. How to Find Out if Your Child Qualifies for Section 504 Services

1. Contact Assistant Principal of Pupil Personnel Services (718)-817-7700 X 139, or the New York City Department of Education at (212) 374-6097. Give your child’s name, school and class. Describe your child’s special needs, the type of help he or she needs and how often.

2. The steps you must take to apply for services for your child will be explained to you.

3. Once you provide the necessary information, an evaluation of your request for services is completed by the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene and the Department of Education. A decision will be made as to whether your child qualifies for a Section 504 services. You will be informed of the decision within 30 days.

A notice with more information will be available soon. When it arrives, it will be sent to you through the mail. If you have any questions about such services, call the Department of Education at (212) 374 – 6097. Sincerely, Valerie Reidy Principal

The Bronx High School of Science Valerie Reidy – Principal

75 West 205 Street Bronx, NY 10468

Tel - 718.817.7700 www.bxscience.edu

SJK2005 kalins@bxscience,edu

sk

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http://www.bxscience.edu/

A MESSAGE FROM THE PARENTS’ ASSOCIATIONCHECKING YOUR COURSE REQUEST FORMA TYPICAL FRESHMAN PROGRAMA TYPICAL INCOMING SOPHOMORE PROGRAMTHE ENGLISH DEPARTMENTTHE SUMMER READING LISTTHE SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENTFRESHMAN ADVANCED PLACEMENT WORLD HISTORYFRESHMAN SUMMER SKILLS PROGRAM FOR A.P. HISTORYSOCIAL STUDIES A.P. COURSES FOR UPPER CLASSMENTHE MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENTTHE ART & MUSIC GRADUATION REQUIREMENTAUDITIONS FOR PERFORMING MUSIC CLASSESTHE FOREIGN LANGUAGE DEPARTMENTTHE HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENTTEAM SPORTS – COACHES AND START DATESIMMUNIZATIONSREQUIRED MEDICAL EXAMINATION FOR PARTICIPATION IN SPORTS ACTTHE BIOLOGY DEPARTMENT - SUMMER ASSIGNMENTStudent Name ________________________________ SELECTION #___Title of Article____________________________________________Author _____________________________________________________Name of Magazine____________________________________________Date of Magazine____________________________________________

THE RESEARCH LITERACY CLASS - SUMMER ASSIGMNENTSTUDENT RESPONSIBILITIESTHE ATTENDANCE OFFICEBIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION DATACUTTINGLATENESSOUT OF BUILDING PROCEDURES – EARLY RELEASE FROM SCHOOL

THE BRONX HIGH SCHOOL OF SCIENCE PARENT COORDINATORCynthia Golan

FRESHMAN COURSE CODES & DESCRIPTIONSSPECIAL SERVICES UNDER SECTION 504