Scope and Contents note American pop culture plays a large role in reflecting American folklore and defining us as a people. Some of the most memorable and influential examples of pop culture are Disney, Star Wars, Indiana Jones, and John Wayne. Discusses how American heroes represent the ideals and characteristics of America. Explains how people will carry on significant parts of pop culture to future generations. Created by Laura Butler while enrolled in Jill Terry Rudy's American Folklore class during winter...

Scope and Contents note Nordstrom explores the interesting aspects and traditions of a group of Mormon kids living in Spokane, Washington. Referred to by Nordstrom as "real Mormons," this group's main goal is to achieve distinction and individuality within the Mormon society that they view as restrictive. Discusses the signature traits, musical expression, and random behavior that characterize "real Mormons." Created by Natalie Jane Nordstrom while enrolled in Jill Terry Rudy's English 391 class during fall...

Scope and Contents note Green discusses his family folklore, which reveals a common theme of animals. The family unites under this topic because they have each had experiences with animals. All of the stories are told with humor, which shows that each person has overcome the negative emotions they experienced at the time. The animal theme points to the family's heritage and ancestry of farmers and pioneers. Created by Freeman Green while enrolled in Kristi A. Bell's English 391 class during winter semester of 2004...

Scope and Contents note When Moore came to Brigham Young University from Iowa, she had to adjust to a new vocabulary. She explores the different slang terms and usages that exist in Utah and Iowa. Discusses how slang terms for fashion, dating, and food differ between the two states. Explains the purposes of slang, which are to show standing or acceptance, exclude outsiders, and become distinguished from older generations. Created by Kristelle Moore while enrolled in Kristi Bell's English 391 class during winter...

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Barker explains how quoteboards are a part of culture. Describes her experiences with quoteboards. Explains how quoteboards are an expression of the values of those who create them, how quoteboards are created, the trends they reveal, and the functions they serve. Describes the conditions that are necessary in an apartment to have a successful quoteboard. Created by Carolyn Barker while enrolled in Kristi Bell's English 391 class during winter semester of 2004 at Brigham Young University.

Scope and Contents note Thorstrom explores home disaster stories, focusing on stories that do not involve irreparable damage. Explains how different people telling the same story emphasize different points. Discusses how the more time passes, the more the narrator is able to find a story humorous. Explains how people talk about life threatening situations and how they express relief about the outcome. Discusses how many stories are told as a reaction to someone else's story. Created by Maija C. Thorstrom while...

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Haleck explores the traditions of birthdays. Discusses the food of birthday celebrations, including cake, special meals, and eating at restaurants. Describes common types of parties and the importance of the birthday song. Explains the gift traditions that are commonly practiced. Explores the importance of tradition and amusement as parts of life. Created by Emily Haleck while enrolled in Kristi Bell's English 391 class during winter semester of 2004 at Brigham Young University.

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ones explores why surfers seem to be drawn to dangerous situations, using examples of professional surfers and her friends. Explains how taking risks gives surfers a complete experience because they thrive on the adrenaline that comes from danger. The common dangers include sharks, big waves, and rocks and reefs. Created by Kayt Jones while enrolled in Kristi Bell's English 391 class during winter semester of 2004 at Brigham Young University.

Scope and Contents note Higley explores blind date stories, looking for patterns to explain why so many blind dates go badly and why people go on them. Some of the major problems in blind dates are people wanting to be too friendly, lack of good qualities in the other person, and having nothing in common. Discusses some cases where blind dates led to a second date, and rare cases that led to friendship or marriage. Created by Jacquelyn Higley while enrolled in Kristi A. Bell's English 391 class during winter...

Scope and Contents note Shaw explores why some families turn to alternative medicines instead of going to the drugstore, and how herbal remedies are passed down through families. Some of the common reasons for using alternative medicine are avoiding side effects and failure of conventional medicine. Gives some examples of natural cures for common illnesses. Discusses what motivates people to strive for healthier living. Created by Anna Shaw while enrolled in Eric Eliason's English 391 class during fall semester of...