Still Image 01-05

Parallel Universe Video

Sliding Doors (1998)

This movie was about a woman named Helen who comes across a parallel universe. From an incident at the subway she becomes two different lives. In one she finds her fiance cheating on her, leaves him and finds another guy, James. When in her other world she goes home and never knows that her fiance is cheating on her. Eventually the two worlds collide and her new life dies. While in the other life she leaves her fiance and finds James again. This movie was the perfect example of parallel worlds.

"Parallel Worlds, Parallel Lives"

The following movie was a documentary done by Mark Everett, the son of the famous Hugh Everett. Hugh Everett came up with the idea of parallel universe in quantam mechanics, however his idea was never recognized because no one believed this was possible. In this documentary Mark goes on a journey to find more information about his father, his idea, and what his life was about. At 19 his father passed away and during his childhood his family was always distant, so growing up wasn't particularly easy. As going to the college he attended and finding more and more facts about his father he is fascinated that he understands his theory and will continue to pursue what his father's dream was.
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/nova/manyworlds/

"Many Lives in Many Worlds"

In the article, "Many Lives in Many Worlds" it described the idea of Hugh Everett's "Parallel Universe." Max Tegmark believe however that once you believe in Quantam Mechanics then you must believe in parallel universe as well. Parallel Universe is the idea that you your in two places at one time, two worlds. A very interesting yet complicated idea to grasp.

Final Personal-18 & Counting

Still Image 05

Still Image 04

Still Image 03

Still Image 02

Still Image 01

Norms Individual Video

Still Image 04-08

Still Image 01-05

Group Video-Norms

Norms Student Video Examples

Example#1: So...What are your rituals? by Christina B, Amanda I, Kevin T
The first video example was about different cultures and the different rituals they have. For example, in Jewish cultures they have the Bah-Mitzvah and so forth. This video explained each of the rituals and that even though they don't seem important to many they actually hold a great importance in their cultures.
Example#2: Television: then & now by Amber D, Travis G, Hayley H
The second video example is about a compare and contrast between today's TV shows and the past TV shows. How different they have become over the years and how they have lost a lot of value. For us who are older and remember all the old shows we don't seem to show an interest in the popular "Hannah Montana" when its compared to "Saved by the Bell."
Example#3: Skin by Amber D
Skin is a video by Amanda Dupre and she basically talked about herself and how different her view is on the world. Her norms and how they differ from society. For example, the first she had ever heard and was stereotyped against the term; white-washed. Herself and the stereotypes she has come up against growing up.
Example#4: Transcending Stereotypes by Kevin T
The last video example was based on stereotypes that people make on the narrator, Kevin. He is asian so automatically people stereotype him as being a smart and an A+ student. However he states that he is far from that. Stereotypes are all labels and fake. We get a glimpse into his non-stereotypical world and what its like.

Mr.Debt by Errol Moriss' First Person

The following video was about the narrator sharing his experience for his job. He is a lawyer for his job and explains that he represents people who go into debt. He is highly against credit card companies and explains how it is a trap for them to take your money and put you into debt. For example you get a credit card, go into debt, yet they send you a notice that you qualify for the 'platinum' card. It's ironic and described in this dark humor for all viewers to understand.

Frontline: Growing up Online

The following video discussed today's generation of kids and how important the internet is to this generation. Social network cites help you connect and get any information possible from anywhere and anybody. The video stressed the way internet makes it easier for teenagers to self-disclose information about themselves rather than in person, and on the internet they can be whoever they want to be. From sexual predators to eating disorders and all the way to cyber bullying, this video segment goes over it all. A glimpse into the lives of teenagers and their world in the web.
http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/pages/frontline/kidsonline/

Kids and Money by Lauren Greenfield

The following video by Lauren Greenfield was based on a group of different kids and what money means to each of them. Some were very well off, spoiled girls with an attitude. And others were middle class families with kids who had to work for what they got, and the importance of what money meant when they had it. Money can make the world go around, you just have to have it.
http://laurengreenfield.com
www.kidsandmoney.tv

Ritual

First Tooth

When I was one years old I can’t say I remember much, actually I don’t think many will remember their childhood years if it wasn’t for video tapes and pictures to capture those memories. Being in the Armenian culture there is one ritual that we participate in that is traditional to us. It’s called “Atam hatik” or in English translation, “Piece of tooth.” When I was about one years old, or to be more correct whenever my first tooth came out, my family got together and I was set on the table of my grandparents backyard table and I’m sure I watched with curious eyes as they gathered around me. Then I bet I was even more puzzled as they poured this food over my head. Laughing in those pictures, I reflect on my innocence of the world. This traditional ritual happens whenever a baby gets their first tooth. Family gets together and they celebrate by pouring this rice-like thing called hatik and cesar and to top it off with cinnamon to be sweet. Then there is typically candy all around the table for ones sweet tooth. With the main ingredients the mix can vary and it just depends on the families preferences. This is edible and the baby can basically eat it while it is being poured. It sounds like a strange thing but in our culture it’s meaningful. In the Armenian culture it is our norm and it may seem strange to other cultures but this is how we celebrate the coming of the first tooth.

"Bikinis & Tiaras: Quinceaneras" in Girls on the Verge: Debutante Dips, Drive-bys, and Other Initiations by Vendela Vida

The following is a chapter from Girls on the Verge by Vendela Vida. In this chapter she talks about how she traveled to Miami to observe the fifteen year old girls and how they celebrate their Quinceaneras today. How the tradition has changed and it isn't what it used to be. It is viewed more as a party to them and a huge tradition to their mothers. This is a definite ritual in America and has turned into competition for young girls and a milestone for mothers.

Versus

Something to Value

Throughout my life there has been one single thing that has literally always been there, my family. Through fights, through pain, through happiness, and memories they were always there. And one thing that I’ve definitely learned over the years is that they always will be. Being raised in the Armenian culture, one thing that is very important is your family. When I went to Armenia over the summer I observed so many different things besides the beauty of my country, I witnessed the families. When I visited an aunt that lived in a more lower class area, the money and one-bedroom apartment didn’t mean anything. She turned on music and we danced, danced in that small area, ate, laughed, and talked for hours, and although it wasn’t as big, there was one definite thing-HAPPINESS. In our society today I notice so many families getting divorces, kids who aren’t as close to their family, families that are separated by countries, and families that are small; all these different types that don’t get the advantage I do. So at times I’m judged if I go out to have dinner with my parents or spending nights at my grandparent’s house is a crime; some people just don’t understand that bond. It makes me sad to think that so many think that that’s “lame” and they would rather spend time going out with friends. There is always time to hang out with friends, but family is precious, valuable, something that should be cherished. Like they say, “Friends come and go, but family is forever.” I’m a true believer to that quote and have been through so many friends that I have experienced it. I always see people getting into fights with their friends for ridiculous reasons and I’m thankful to know that I’ve learned to let those types of people go. I have one best friend that I can always turn to and she has been that one person that agrees with me in that sense of mind. My best friend and I are so close I consider her more of a sister than a friend; she has become part of my family. So the conflict between my mindset is that family come first then friends. In another perspective my family is like my everlasting friends. Every time I’m with my family I get this overwhelming feeling of comfort and love that is indescribable, and at the end of the day I’m glad I have a huge family that I can rely on.

American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang

This comic strip was about a american-chinese boy named Jin who has a crush on a girl named Amelia. He feels that she doesn't even know he exists. With his friend Wei-Chen always there to back him up he pushes him to talk to her and ask her out. With given time and help from Wei-Chen, Jin gets the courage to ask Amelia out, she accepts and he couldn't be happier.

Persepolis: The Story of a Childhood by Marjane Satarpi

This was a comic strip based on a girl during the Islamic Revolution. She basically tells her stories about when it became mandatory to wear the veil and also the constant clash between the people that were for the revolution and against it. She tells her story and her struggles and she wants the revolution to end and how it changed their lives.

My Stereotype Wordle

My Stereotype Mind Map

Sterotype Photo

Fired Up

Different

Going out, partying, underage drinking, smoking, I must be a teen right? You can stereotype us all you want, but unless you are one in today’s generation, you can never figure us out. I’m not your stereotypical teen and I do things differently, my way. I cannot say I haven’t done any of the things teens do now because that would be a lie, but I’m definitely smarter than most when it comes to trying “cool” things out. It wasn’t until a recent group lunch with my friends (which we recently started doing) made me think about this. So on our third and latest lunch date to sushi, I sat and looked around and thought about this. I thought about how I would never smoke, never do things that a lot of people at my school do. I guess it made me appreciate my friends. I’m not saying they are perfect, we are nowhere near, but I came to the realization that these are people I should keep around. As my own person I have my own insecurities; I’ll admit that I am self conscious of the way I look and sometimes think that what I do may not be “fitting in.” As teens we are extremely pressured and are constantly put into different situations that make it difficult for us to feel accepted. I have come a long way in my 18 years of life; I’ve been made fun of, brought down, but also brought back up. Family and friends are a core part of my life. Family has always been there, especially my older sister who I share a room with. I could call her my other best friend because she knows everything and anything about me. She knows how to make me laugh and when to back off when I get mad and also when to comfort me when I am sad. I have an incredible best friend that has been there for me so much over the years and I appreciate her so much for that. So I guess that this sushi date made me think how thankful I should be that even though I may not be your most “popular” person, I am my own individual and extremely happy at that. All of these things in life have only made me a stronger person. I may love to shop and gossip with my friends, but I also love to spend time with my family and plan my future goals. I’m prepared for what is to come and plan on enjoying the ride along the way.

By: Sara Cheek

"My Brown Eyes" by Alexander Amador in Entering New Territories: Dreams for a New Los Angeles written by students of Roosevelt High School

The following excerpt was from "Entering New Territory" written by Alexander Amador, a Mexican-American born and raised in Boyle Heights. With a mother that can't speak english and him and his brother in a gang, the struggle was hard. Alexander describes how its funny that we come to America for success and end up getting lost along the way. He helped his mother out as much as he could and they try to make the most out of the life they have.

"The Border" by Cindy Morand in Red edited by Amy Goldwasser

The following excerpt was from"Red The Next Generation of American Writers-Teenage Girls-On What Fires Up Their Lives Today" called "The Border" by 17 year old Cindy Morand. Born in American she moved to Mexico at two. Growing up she was never fully accepted because of where she came from but only until her wealth was mentioned was she respected. She excelled and achieved in school and knew what she wanted to do with her life. At thirteen they moved back to New York and her world around her collapsed. Her grandfather passed away, her father was diagnosed with cancer, and she didn't know how to speak english. Finally two years later she realized she can't waste time with her life so she decided to go back to the purpose of her life and get back on track.

"No Laughing Matter" by Chris Shmader in Our Boys Speak edited by John Nikkah

The following excerpt was from "Our Boys Speak" by John Nikkah. Seventeen year old Chris Shmader writes about his friend Abe who has strong morals and is very religious, which is rare for a teenager. He writes how at a group dinner with friends, one tells a story of the time he almost got arrested for underage drinking. While the whole group is laughing, including Chris, he wonders if he should have as he glanced to see Abe shaking his head in disagreement to what his friend had done. It was quite different to see someone so young actually disagree with morals like that as they are the "norms" for teens.

"Introduction: A War With Ourselves" by John Nikkah in Our Boys Speak: Adolescent Boys write about their inner lives Edited by John Nikkah

In the introduction by John Nikkah he is basically describing the book that he has put together called "Our Boys Speak" and the intent behind it. Nikkah feels that boys aren't being heard and that because of the stereotypes we aren't listening. So he put this book together to prove everyone wrong that boys can speak up and write about their lives. With the willingness of our society we can break down those stereotypes created for boys and get a better understanding for how they feel.

"Curve" by Alison Smith in Red edited by Amy Goldwasser

The following excerpt called "Curve" is from the book, "Red The Next Generation of American Writers-Teenage Girls-On What Fires Up Their Lives Today." Written by 16 year old Alison Smith, she describes her struggle all through life-being too skinny. To her friends they envy her and wish they would decrease in pounds, while Alison wishes she could put some on. The single thing she loves about her body; her hips-her curve. She loves that they are perfect and most importantly hers.

"Introduction" by Amy Goldwasser in Red: The Next Generation of American Writers-Teenage Girls-On What Fires Up Their Lives Today edited by Amy Goldwa

The following excerpt was the introduction of the book "Red The Next Generation of American Writers-Teenage Girls-On What Fires Up Their Lives Today," which is edited by Amy Goldwasser. She wrote the introduction and it is a basic summary of what we as readers should be prepared for and what he will see in the chapters to come. All experiences and stories written by teenage girls. This introduction gives readers the want and need to read more and gain more knowledge of the generation of teenage girls today.
(http://redthebook.com)

What are Norms?

Still Image05

Still Image04

Still Image03

Still Image02

Still Image01

Personal Narrative Video

"It Might Get Loud"

In the short movie "It Might Get Loud" staring 3 different guys; Jack White, Jimmy, and The Edge. All three guys have one thing in common-the guitar. However they also have their differences. Each like a different aspect of the guitar. One acoustic, another electric, and the other the bass. This movie showed that on January 23rd, 2008 all three met up to discuss the guitar. Each share a deep passion in the guitar and music.

"It Might Get Loud" (2008)

(http://www.sonyclassics.com/itmightloud/)

"This American Life: My Way"

This show was based on 4 different people who have been through something in their lives. The first was an elderly man who had lost his wife of 50 years from stomach cancer, a man who likes do it his own way and set his own rules. The next was a boy from junior high who is very ambitious and can already envision his life at 25 years old. Another was a man named Brad Blanton who is of the Independent party and ran in an election before; also a man who has tried drugs, carries two STD's, and is a nude therapist. Lastly was a man who was a photographer, and took pictures as he noticed a lady drown in the ocean. Since the incident bothered him so much he took a turn and now his photography is based on happy situations. All these situations are different occurrences that can happen in anyones life.

"My Way," This American Life (2007)

(http://www.thisamericanlife.org/TV_Season.aspx/)

"The O.C. : The Road Warrior"

This short 4 minute clip from the O.C. was about character, Summer Roberts, using voiceover to start off her day. She had recorded herself talking about "choosing" and was playing it in her stereo when character, Marissa Cooper, walks in. She is a little surprised that Summer was actually playing voiceover and how or why she would want to make her life more dramatic. Either way this is the way Summer is expressing herself and how "choosing" isn't as easy as it may seem.

"The Road Warrior," The O.C. (2006)

(http://www.the-oc.com/)

"High School Confidential: Cate, Beth, and Lauren B."

In the following show called "High School Confidential" we catch an inside look on the four years of high school for 3 different girls; Cate, Beth, and Lauren. Each of the girls go through their own problems; both good and bad. Cate and Beth happen to stepsisters, but very different ones. Cate struggled with the death of her mom in the 5th grade, then with a new family so soon after she begins to have problems like eating disorders and cutting herself. Beth has trouble adapting with her new family and develops problems with them and she decides to move out and live with her real father. Lastly, Lauren is a high school student who strives to achieve the very best. She pushes herself with tough classes and applies to many colleges. With her family's support she knows she can achieve whatever she puts her mind to. All of these problems are very real and occur all the time with high school students everywhere.

"Cate, Beth, & Lauren B." High School Confidential (2008)

(http://highschool.wetv.com/)

"My So Called Life: Pilot Episode"

This show was based on a teenager in high school named Angela. We see a glimpse into her everyday experience of trying to discover herself. She makes friends with the wrong crowd and gets influenced to do rebellious things, and ends up regretting it. But in the end she stays strong and true to herself. "Pilot" (Episode), My So Called Life (1994)
(http://www.mscl.com/episodes/)

"Wings for Wheels: The Making of Born to Run"

The video "Wings for Wheels: The Making of Born to Run" was a documentary personal narrative based on the making of Bruce Springstein's 3rd album, Born to Run. In this video he describes his music and what lead to this album. He plays guitar in some scenes and also clips of previous concerts were shown. I learned that Springstein is very passionate towards his music and it took alot of hard work and effort to get to where he was, and in the end all of it paid off for him.

"Wings for Wheels: The Making of Born to Run" (2005)

Mixed CD Poem

18 & Counting

In my 18 years of life I've been through a lot

But these life experiences have only made me stronger

Everybody gets weak and in the end

And I guess I left my world in somebody's hands

Someone to rely on is what I really need

Throughout my years I've lost friends and gained them

Tell me why? No one can

In the end I was strong, like a woman

I just wanted to be happy

Then I suddenly remembered that nobody's perfect

And yet I catch myself day dreaming

When I realize I got it, happiness

Nothing you can compare to any material items

And all this time I thought my happiness lied within that

I proved myself wrong last night

I felt all numb, but with excitement

I am who I am, Sara

That's my name, that's my name

I believe in my own opinions, make my own decisions

I am my own person, not shaken my others

So if you want something, go get it

Don't stop or be stopped

You make it happen

And as the wind blows a breeze I know

That if I stand my ground

I made it to the place I want to be

Mixed CD Story

18 & Counting

Growing up music never meant much to me. It wasn’t until 5th grade when my taste for music sweetened, when a fellow classmate got me interested in 50 Cent’s “In Da Club.” After that day my love for the radio grew immensely. I made my parents go to Circuit City and buy me a stereo that weekend. The radio stations were my escape. I used to be interested in Hip-Hop, and even mild Rap, then my taste changed to Alternative, but no one can ever forget my first love for Pop! (And I think I speak for a lot of people on that last statement). It’s funny how I went through so many stages and ended up now with a passion for dance music, for the simple reason that it can always get me in the mood for anything. I appreciate artists over the country as well such as Inna and Akcent, from Romania. There up-tempo songs can always make me move. Reflecting upon all this, it’s funny because with different stages of music also came different chapters in my life as well. And given my birthday was right around the corner a special mix for turning the big one-eight seemed like the perfect gift for me. Looking back upon everything I never do regret my tastes in music during each stage and still do enjoy listening to those old songs that have meaning to me from time to time. I look at it as another chapter in life, that with music there also comes life, and it continues going on – 18 & counting.

"Play"

In the following story, it was a chapter called Play that was written by Olive Panter, a 16 year old teenage girl and her passion for music. Growing up her parents had immersed her in music and different kinds of genres. Her taste is extremely different and she doesn't mind that and expresses herself freely. Panter encourages people to share their music and not be ashamed. I am sure her pursuit in a music career will soon be reached.

"Play" by Olive Panter in Red: The Next Generation of American Writers-Teenage Girls- on What Fires Up Their Lives Today, edited by Amy Goldwasser

"My Impression Now"

In this first chapter of the book, "Perfect From Now On-How Indie Rock Saved my Life," written by John Sellers was based on his experiences and encounters through music. He describes how iTunes changed his perspective on music, not only organizing it-but also making it more convenient to listen to. Throughout all of this he found his love for Indie music and his favorite band.

"My Impression Now" in Perfect From Now On: How Indie Rock Saved My Life by John Sellers

"Indie Film Q & A with Heidi Van Lier: I'm in high school, what should I be doing right now?"

"Indie Film Q & A with Heidi Van Lier: I'm in High School, What should I Be Doing Right Now?" from Film Independent's website (http://filmindependent.org/content/indie-film-q-heidi-van-lier-i%E2%80%99m-high-school-what-should-i-be-doing-right-now)

The following article is by Heidi Van Lier, a Indie Filmmaker. Her goal of this article was to describe the different list of things for those interested in film and how to make their work better. Her list started with Research and went all the way to Rinse and Repeat. It is an interesting article with hints of humor in it. You can tell that she really enjoys her work as a Filmmaker and loves helping others out. Lier has made a book, gives out her email, and even meets with people to discuss any questions interested people may have in Indie Films. If you are interested, below is the title of her book, and websites where you can possible connect with Lier:

The Indie Film Rule Book: Film Festival Rules (www.lulu.com/indiefilmrulebook)

heidi@indiefilmrulebook.com

www.twitter.com/heidivanlier

"Types of Mixes"

"Types of Mixes" is a list of different ways on how to create mix tapes and the different kinds there are, and which you should stay away from. From Crush tapes all the way to Themed tapes there is a wide variety to choose from. This is a great guide to creating a mix and creating one that means a lot to you.

"Types of Mixes" in Cassette From My Ex: Stories and Soundtracks of Lost Loves, edited by Jason Bitner

"Barely a Mixtape"

The short story, "Cassette from my Ex: Stories and Soundtracks of Lost Loves" is written by Katie Krentz. In this story she describes her summer after her first year of college. Krentz describes her short relationship she had with her best friend, Luke. Also the time when he gave her a mix tape. She reminisces over that time and songs also during the time as she remembers her summer of '99.

"Barely a Mixtape," by Katie Krentz in Cassette From My Ex: Stories and Soundtracks of Lost Loves, edited by Jason Bitner

"Roller Boogie"

The excerpt from the story "Love is a Mixed Tape" is written by Rob Sheffield. It is based on his junior high school years and his taste of music during the time. Sheffield describes his taste and how it had changed so much up until now. Sheffield's music is progressed and he tells the story of how he would always volunteer to be in charge of creating mix tapes for the school dances. Also how he would specifically choose songs that the girls would enjoy. In this excerpt he reflects on this and laughs at what he could have possibly been thinking and shows on how he has grown up and changed over time.

"Roller Boogie" in Love is a Mixed Tape: Life and Loss, One Song at a Time by Rob Sheffield