Glossary

Y'all — a slang expression used in the American South that means the plural of "you"; a short, slang form of the standard form "you all"

Barbecue — an outdoor social event at which people eat food that has been cooked on an open fire

Dogs — slang for '"hot dogs" (Eating real dogs is taboo in the United States.)

Potluck — a type of social event to which each guest brings something to eat or drink

Dorm — abbreviation for dormitory (slang)

Off-campus — property near a college or university that is not owned by the college; literally, off the university campus

Caf — abbreviation for cafeteria (slang)

Junk food — food that is not very good for you, usually containing a lot of sugar, salt or fat

Junkie — an addict; originally someone addicted to heroin

Nut — a slang term for a crazy person, or someone overly enthusiastic about something

Habits — customs; the usual way of doing something

Post-reading

Discuss the following questions:

1. Why do you think Elsa was surprised that her professor invited the class to a party at his house? Would you be surprised if this happened to you?

2. What are two reasons that might explain why Rick chose to bring potato chips to the party?

3. Do you think that Rick and Jeanette like the same kind of food for dinner? Explain.

4. Have you ever been to a potluck party? What do you think about the custom?