Grade 8
Memoir, NarrativeWritingThere was a day that made me how I am today. It was a day I will never forget because I learned an important life lesson, and my perspective on this world changed forever. I remember vividly what happened on that day. It has been seared into my mind ever since. It was the day I learned, “Just because you are unique does not mean you are useful or special.”
Two years ago, on a scorching summer day, fluffy snow-white clouds floated listlessly in the soothing blue sky like giant sheep. The blazing sun shone through the sky, giving off a warm and gentle light. It was a normal and peaceful afternoon, just like any other day. Our class was doing social studies, and we were learning about the Segregation Era. The Segregation Era was when Jim Crow laws ruled the land, removing justice and equality for people.
During this era, many races were being discriminated against, especially the African-American race. They were being discriminated against not because they committed crimes or because they were terrorists, but only because their skin color was different. Long before the Segregation Era, Africans were captured as slaves. This caused the African-American race to be thought of as inferior beings. In the Segregation Era, they got old and poor supplies and services. There were barely any differences between the races. The only visible difference was their skin color, and this little difference caused the Segregation Era. I was shocked by this. The humanity that I was once proud of was nothing but a cover. Under the cover was the abhorrent truth where humans pillage each other to fulfill their own greed.
After I learned about the Segregation Era, I also learned the life lesson of “Just because you are unique, it doesn’t mean that you are useful or special.” Before, I thought this world was a peaceful and loving world, but now I realize this world and humans are dreadful. I became pessimistic. I learned the truth, and this life lesson completely changed my perspective on life, on this world, and on humanity.
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by Mya, 826CHI
A piece packed with vivid description about taking risks at an ice rink.
by Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
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A persuasive argument for co-ed teams in the face of gender stereotypes, supported by results from primary research conducted by the author.
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A student searches for answers in their community.
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A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
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by Jason, 826 Valencia
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by Shayne Williams
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A memoir about finding true friendship.
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A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
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A rap song dedicated to the Marvel comic writer Stan Lee and his inspired creations like the Hulk, Deadpool, Iron Man, and The Fantastic Four.
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A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.
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This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
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A compilation of letters written by three students across one city filled with thoughts on books, sports, music, family, and musings on Valentine’s Day.
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An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
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by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
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A teen discovers the power of books to transport him to another world, and shares his excitement about becoming a published author.
by Kiara, 826CHI
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by David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
by Gabriela T., 826 Valencia
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that inclusive leaders take action—they don't wait for others to make a difference.
by Jack, 826 Valencia
An argument against the overconsumption of sugar outlines the ways its effects are anything but sweet.
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
by Christopher, Bryan, & Jahir, 826CHI
In an exchange of letters, three students across one city share stories about where they came from and the places that matter most.
by Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
by Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
by Cayden, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Cora B., Grade 8
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An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Isabel, 826 Boston
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem features a student battling with the voices constricting her freedom.
by Sara Sofia Becerra L., Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love for music with the world.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Piya, 826 Valencia
A demand to the public stop to buying ivory that seeks to explain the devastating effects of poaching on elephant and rhino populations.
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When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
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A poem about wanting more from life.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
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A middle school student firmly protests the flavor and quality of her school’s lunches.
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by Alondra, 826CHI
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by 826NYC students Ash Doliber, Sidney Edelson, Ella Holland, Mavis Lu, Justin Nemeroff, Bird Rzepniewski, and Isabella Wu
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Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
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A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
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Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
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A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Angel, 826CHI
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Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
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A poem about unrequited love.
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An essay shared in English and Spanish discusses the effects of global warming on penguins and their source of nutrients, krill.
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