Grades 4–5
Informational, Narrative, Poetry, STEMWritingLives with: Ginko tree & Penicillium
Latin name: Sciurus carolinesis
Description
They weigh around a pound and are just under a foot tall. They have gray, sometimes brown, fur with white bellies.
Lifespan
They live between two and six years.
Temperature
They live year-round, but in the winter they use their fat to stay warm.
Diet
They are omnivores, so they eat a lot of foods, like frogs, tree bark, berries, walnuts, and acorns.
Habitat
Eastern gray squirrels live in dense wooded areas in eastern North America. They build nests called “dreys” made of leaves and twigs.
Predators
Eastern gray squirrels are eaten by raccoons, owls, snakes, and hawks.
Interesting Facts
Their eyes are positioned on their heads so they can see upward to watch for bird predators.
My animal is a gray squirrel
It is brownish and grayish
It has a gray tail
It’s cute
If I were a gray squirrel,
I would collect nuts for winter
And help my family
No materials available for download.
by Rebecca Darugar, 826NYC
by Rebecca Darugar, 826NYC
Students investigate the plant life that grows within their community and then select a specific species to learn about in-depth…
Through the eyes of 826NYC's young scientists and writers, explore New York City's myriad habitats and inhabitants. From the tiniest microbes in the waters of Coney Island to the tallest trees in Central Park, every organism has its role. Unlike those in other guidebooks, these species often take on lives of their own, writing about the torture of getting detention as a daddy longlegs to the excitement of trick-or-treating as a northern mockingbird. Life is vibrant within these pages.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
by Alongkorn, 826 New Orleans
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that unlike wasabi gummies, there is no expiration date for making amends.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Benny, 826 Boston
Inspired by Jeff Kinney's Diary of a Wimpy Kid, this piece contains a series of journal entries and rules for a new sport by fictitious NASA operative Agent Smitty.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Johny, 826 LA
A riveting interview with Godzilla, Superman, and Dragonbolt—a cast of characters that will try to outdo one another before this TV special is up.
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Zaid Rodriguez, 826 Valencia
This story immerses the reader in sensory details to tell the tale of what lies behind a mysterious door.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Matthew, 826CHI
Originally written and recorded as a podcast, these two unlikely heroes and the technological crisis of year 3016 will have you gripping the edge of your seat!
by Vanessa, 826CHI
A story about a mermaid named Luna and the epic battle to save Benzo, a rainbow-colored kingdom, using the power of love.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
by Alyssa, Kevin, Gustavo, Jocelyn, and Gabriel, 826LA
In science class, Victoria the Manticore makes fun of Carla the Witch for using magic, and a few bystanders step in to take a stand against bullying.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Yaretzi, 826LA
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn how a thoughtful surprise can brighten a friend's day.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
by Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Levi, 826NYC
An origin story for healthy food, involving an epic battle between purveyor of high-fructose corn syrup, Ronald McDonald, and a heroic band of chefs.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Ramatoulie, 826DC
A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
Nasir Farmer, Age 8, 826 Boston
Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
by Clara, 826 Valencia
A detailed design for a new school that students would love, complete with outdoor spaces for tennis and ice-skating!
by Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Ana, 826DC
A student learns an important lesson about staying calm while recounting a trip to Olive Garden that spiraled out of control!
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Noel, 826 Valencia
The creation story of a new school, reimagined to improve learning. (Paid for by Taylor Swift with free water bottles, an Italian restaurant, a movie theater, and a comfortable and safe environment.)
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Maribel O.G., Grade 4, 826 Valencia
In this story, a student gets to know a new teacher and discovers that things are not always as they seem.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by L.M., 826CHI
The story of a lonely ghost named Annabeth, a plan to kidnap children on Halloween, and an unlikely encounter that reveals the true nature of friendship.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Brayan Luna, 826michigan
In this poem, a student vividly recounts watching The Undertaker perform a signature chokeslam on WrestleMania. Written in Spanish and English.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Natalie, 826CHI
A spirit named Janet haunts a dance studio as five young dancers arm themselves with a vacuum, a bottle, and the internet.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Faisa, age 9, 826 MSP
This poem writes from the perspective of a Prairie Shooting Star flower, detailing a day in its life.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Stefany Moreira, Vivi Small, Ana Rosas, Eugenia Rosas, and Jason Carrillo, 826NYC
This poem describes a warmer, tastier world run by young people.
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
by Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
by Muawiye, 826 Boston
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that the act of inclusion begins with feeling empathy.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Abdikabir, age 8, 826 MSP
This poem uses the 1st person point-of-view to show what life looks like for a timber rattlesnake.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Kelis, 826michigan
This student describes what it would be like to become the first female president, campaigning on education for all, friendlier attitudes, more food and housing, and snow days!
Ms. Lowe’s Fourth Grade Class at Roberto Clemente Learning Academy in Detroit, Michigan
An example of a "Neighborhood Poem" created as a class as part of 826Michigan's Rare Air/Aire Raro Young Authors' Book Project.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Selene Freudenberg, 826michigan
This hero’s journey leads an unlikely suspect into a land of books with a plot-disrupting villain who must be destroyed in order to save a multitude of characters, including Harry Potter!
by Yanni, 826NYC
This poem is written in the style of William Carlos Williams’ “This is Just to Say” and celebrates small acts of unapologetic joy.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
bookmark
download
Share
