Fossil Ridge High School – Sociology

Apr 2026 · 2nd Semester

Sociology is the study of the groups and societies in which people live. In this introductory course, we examine and analyze how social structures and cultures are created, maintained, and most importantly, how they affect behavior. Students learn about such issues as culture, socialization, social inequality, race and ethnicity, family, deviance, and social change. This course is a survey of the evolution of rock styles and contributions of important performers and musical techniques involved in the creation and performance of rock music. Students will be introduced to the history of rock and roll music as it evolved in the United States and spread throughout the world. In addition to the historical perspective class discussions will also focus on aesthetic and sociological issues that have influenced the various developments within the genre. At FRHS: This course will include an emphasis on collaborative research projects, multi-media presentations, guest speakers, and live performances. One of the benchmarks for recognition (see below) is to complete 20 credits of coursework that is aligned to the students area of concentration within STEM. There is a lot of flexibility with this and some suggested courses for each concentration are listed below. See the FRHS Course Guide for descriptions of each of these courses. In order to be recognized at graduation, students must complete the following benchmarks. These are all accomplished in the courses and experiences outlined in the STEM Academy Overview (see above). 1. Generate an idea for a capstone project 2. Write a technical proposal outlining the project 3. Complete a capstone project 4. Create an electronic portfolio that describes their experience 5. Complete 20 credits of aligned coursework in their area of concentration (see above) 6. OPTIONAL: Complete an internship experience and add it to the portfolio In addition to being recognized by FRHS, students may also earn a STEM endorsement on their diploma from the state of Colorado. The requirements are essentially the same as the benchmark with a few additions. [https://www.cde.state.co.us/stem/stem-diploma-endorsement](https://www.cde.state.co.us/stem/stem-diploma-endorsement) 1. Students need to demonstrate proficiency in mathematics ( $^ { 2 8 + }$ on ACT math, ${ \\tt6 0 0 + }$ on SAT math, $^ { 4 + }$ on AP Mathematics) 2. Student has an overall GPA of 3.0 or higher 3. Average GPA in aligned coursework is 3.5 or higher (most relevant courses) STEM Survey (Science, Technology, Engineering & Mathematics) will introduce students to various theoretical and reallife aspects of STEM content. Career overviews, 21st century skills required for success in STEM fields, technical writing, project design and implementation, and capstone project idea development will all be explored. Learning units include CAD, electronics/Arduino, 3D printing, coding and biotechnology. This course is intended for students who may be interested in enrolling in the STEM Academy.