Grades 8–12
NarrativeWritingIt is the first day of summer vacation going into my senior year. I find myself waking around 10 in the morning as usual, but this year’s summer vacation is going to be different.
The smell of turkey bacon and buttery pancakes transports me from the comfort of my bed to the stools in my kitchen. My dad asks me about what I have planned for the day, but I completely disregard what he says as my head is buried in my phone.
My dad slaps the top of my head which grabs my attention. He says, “Here is a challenge for you Mr. Shang Lee: Why don’t you put down your phone for a couple of days and enjoy life for once?”
I decide to take him up on his offer, and shut down my phone hesitantly, and give the phone to him. And so, the challenge begins.
I start off moving around because I have nothing to do, but in reality I do have things to do. I clean my filthy room up, which takes me a good hour to clean. I sit back and admire my cleaning masterpiece.
Then I start to read my summer reading, 1984. But I ACTUALLY get interested in the book. I read on for hours in the comfort of my bed.
Three o’clock hits and I can hear the pitter pattering of my baby brother’s little feet running towards the front door. I dash down our steps as I meet my baby brother at the front door. I ask him if he wants to play kickball outside. He seems puzzled, but excited to try out this “kickball” game.
I take him outside and demonstrate slowly how the game is played. We start to play, and my inner-child bursts out of me as I actually am having fun, bringing back memories of the days of not knowing about cell phones.
Ever since that day, I intentionally take breaks from my phone and spend time either being productive or spending time with my family. Now my goal is to get my own family away from burying their heads in their phones.
by Rebecca Darugar, Liz Levine, and Brancey Mora, 826NYC and 826 National
by Rebecca Darugar, Liz Levine, and Brancey Mora, 826NYC and 826 National
Invite students to write about their personal experiences with social media and online platforms with this lesson from 826NYC.
PRESENTED BY 826 NATIONAL AND COMMON SENSE MEDIA True Connections features young writers from around the country exploring their relationship with the internet, with social media, and with the digital world in general. From essays about internet addiction to explorations of digital disconnections, True Connections gives young writers the chance to ask big questions about what it means to strike a balance between real life and online life, and to remain true to oneself in both.
by Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Andy, 826CHI
In this memoir, a few friends bond over a rare Pokémon Go catch.
by Sabrin, Grade 9, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 9th grader Sabrin discusses how she feels both happy and sad, and thanks nurses nationwide for bringing her peace through their work.
by Salome Maldonando, 826CHI
A poem about unrequited love.
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by Ryan, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student illustrates the hardships his uncle has faced to argue for a path to citizenship.
by Maria, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student makes the case for creating community change by building youth centers in her neighborhood.
by Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
by Pia, 826NYC
A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.
by Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
by Jabari, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
A poem about wanting more from life.
by Raheem, 826 New Orleans
A student compares themself to the place they live, New Orleans, as both evolve through great obstacles.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Gisel J., 826LA
The power of public speaking shines through this student's memoir.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem from the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student reflects on identity.
by Savannah, 826NYC
Using dialogue and detailed description, this poet investigates whose voices are heard and whose voices are left behind when injustice occurs.
by Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
by Helen, Grade 12, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a senior at South High School in Minneapolis offers words of support to healthcare workers across the country, including her own mom.
by Terry Velasquez, Grade 12, The Bronx, NY
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares gratitude for the dedication of nurses and gives “credit where credit is due.”
by Corazón, 826 New Orleans
In this essay, a student threads their identity across cultures, histories, and places, engaging with legacies of violence and the movement of people.
by Emmanuel J., 826NYC
An avid basketball fan discusses the rise of the Golden State Warriors through its individual players.
by Crystal Colorado, Age 12, 826 Valencia
This poem will take you to the beach and make you wonder if it was all a dream.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Isabella C., Age 13, 826 Valencia
The misadventures of finding a missing wallet.
by Vivian, 826CHI
A narrative about loving to run—and learning to never quit!
by Henry, Matthew, & Santiago, 826CHI
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.
by Violet Roberts, Grade 8, 826DC
This personal narrative explores the connection between music, place, and self-reflection. We recommend reading it while listening to the included playlist.
by Alanis T., Age 17, 826 Boston
A student reflects on how her relationship's with her parents has influenced her life.
by Luke, 826 Valencia
An essay shared in English and Spanish discusses the effects of global warming on penguins and their source of nutrients, krill.
by Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Rockelle Rodd, Grade 11, 826NYC
This poem uses analogies to describe all of the pieces of the writer's personal history.
by Ella, 826 Valencia
A persuasive argument for co-ed teams in the face of gender stereotypes, supported by results from primary research conducted by the author.
Virginia Walker, age 18, 826 Boston
A student writes to a grandmother she never met.
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Junaynah R., Grade 11, 826NYC
Full of exquisite imagery, this poem explores the idea of second chances.
by Arianny, 826 Boston
A poem that celebrates being Latino
by Keyshana, Grade 11, 826CHI
Black strength, beauty, and pride soar in this poem as a student discusses overcoming brutality and discrimination.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Julianna Cruz, 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A middle school student firmly protests the flavor and quality of her school’s lunches.
by Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Victor, 826CHI
An epic memoir about an epic volleyball match! Who will win: the teachers or the students?
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
by Jana C., 826LA
A celebration of self and exploration of core values.
by Sharon, 826CHI
A memoir about finding true friendship.
by Mya, 826CHI
A piece packed with vivid description about taking risks at an ice rink.
by Arielle B., Grade 8
This poem invites readers to remember that people are often going through more than choose to show.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
A trans student reflects on their desire to be male.
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
by Mercury, 826CHI
A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.
by Sarah X. Age 18, 826Boston
A rousing public narrative from an author coming to terms with their identity as a young Chinese American woman and what they represent: the community of Boston's Chinatown.
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
by Jack, 826 Valencia
An argument against the overconsumption of sugar outlines the ways its effects are anything but sweet.
by Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
Rosman A., age 18, 826CHI
Smells swirl about a student walking around an ice cream shop.
by Arianna R., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A beautiful ode to home and self.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Sara Sofia Becerra L., Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love for music with the world.
by Jeff, 826CHI
In this piece, a student describes Christmas as a holiday best spent together.
by Jahruwach Hamilton, Grade 10, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
by Gilbert, 826LA
One teen writes a letter to his 14-year-old self, citing his past fears but looking towards his present, a brighter future.
by Emmerson Todd, Grade 11, Novato High School, Novato, CA
This list poem shares tips to manage the anxiety that can come along with making a phone call.
by Itzel Medina Luna, 826 Valencia
In this poem from the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student walks through her neighborhood searching for hidden stories.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
by Iliana, 826CHI
A student searches for answers in their community.
by Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
by Sarah X., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student shares how they've uplifted their community.
by Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
by Lola, 826 Valencia
A poem that portrays the arc of a love story told through the gift of a cigarette lighter.
by William, 826LA
A teen discovers the power of books to transport him to another world, and shares his excitement about becoming a published author.
by Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
by Rowan Yordy, Grade 11, 826michigan
This poem uses imagery to describe a small moment of joy.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
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.
by David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
by Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
Annasian Walters, Grade 11-12, 826NYC
A student explores gratitude and love through sharing food.
by Reuben & Giselle, 826CHI
Two students write to each other about where they came from, what they love, and a few mishaps along the way in an exchange of letters.
by Rafael, 826CHI
A student remembers an afternoon adventure around town and explores what Chicago and community mean to him.
by Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
by George S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A writer implores people to get outside and touch grass because you never know what you might find!
by Elizabeth W., 826 Valencia
A persuasive piece for women and girls to unite and cultivate a culture of body image positivity.
by V.G., 826LA
A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
by Joanne H, 826 Valencia
In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Evelyn Escamilla, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Elsy M.E., Grade 11, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines a better and more harmonious world.
by Quran Samad, age 15, 826 Valencia
A young Black student's perspective on how it feels to grow up Black in the United States.
by Jiaxi, 826CHI
A student’s worldview is forever altered after a lesson on the Segregation Era and Jim Crow.
by Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
by Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
by 826NYC students Ash Doliber, Sidney Edelson, Ella Holland, Mavis Lu, Justin Nemeroff, Bird Rzepniewski, and Isabella Wu
This collaborative poem explores the many sides and senses of laughter.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
by Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A laugh-out-loud personal narrative about a crush. Has your heart ever beat so fast it might get a speeding ticket and a $500 fine?
by Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
by Tala, Grade 10, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 10th grader Tala asks essential workers what motivates them to keep going during these difficult times, offering her own views on hope for the future.
by Rey, Grade 9, 826 MSP
Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
Yashasa Fluker, Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.
by Kailyn Espinosa, 826NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares how essential workers’ courage and compassion center her during these hectic times.
by Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
by Luciana, Grade 10, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a sophomore at South High School in Minneapolis gives thanks to Children’s Hospital employees.
by Renée, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
by Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
by Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
by Judethan Garfias Muñoz, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
This loving poem uses descriptive language to pay tribute to the writer's family.
by Regina, 826LA
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem expresses the realization that a cage is not the only obstacle to a bird's freedom.
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
by Kiara, 826CHI
In this personal narrative, a student explores growing up young and black in Chicago.
by Denisse Reyes Gonzalez, Age 17, 826NYC
Using metaphors, this bilingual poem explores the idea of lost love.
by Mariah Valenzuela, Minneapolis, MN
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poet uses her voice to speak up for those who have been silenced in the indigenous community.
by Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
by Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
by Riti Shrestha, 826NYC
In this poem, metaphor is used to describe who the narrator is.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
by Laila, 826CHI
A memoir about losing a parent—and a community’s support.
by Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Jeremy Hsiao, 826 National
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem reminds activists that "to change everything, we need everyone."
by Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
by Diego, 826CHI
On the funniest day of this student’s life…
by Yvanna Bodiana, Age 13, 826 Valencia
A reflection on freedom and Black resilience in the face of opposition.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Alexis G., Grade 11
In this narrative, the author uses vibrant language to explore their identity, in all its complexity, through different landscapes.
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
by Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Katya Torres, The 826 Dallas Project
This bilingual poem explores the harrowing story of a boy working while in school to save his mother.
by Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Daniela Martinez, Grade 12, 826 Boston
A poem exploring an electric, freeing moment shared on the dance floor.
by Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
by Luis, 826LA
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.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Isaiah, 826 New Orleans
This student reveals the mysterious origin story of the king cake. Hint: it includes Big Freedia, DJ Chicken Wing, and a massive party.
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by Cayden, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
by Roger, 826 Valencia
An essay in English and Spanish that traces connections between two movements in modern American history for the rights of people of color.
by Kalyn Jackson, 826 New Orleans
Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.
by Angel, 826CHI
A student writes about the transformative experience of changing schools.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Lukoiy V.R.G., Grade 12, Woodburn, OR
A poet speaks out as a voice for change and all those who cannot speak.
by Natalie, 826CHI
Weaving together Spanish and English, a student shares the discovery of a family secret.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Amalia O'Brien, Grade 10, Novato, CA
A letter to the future Madame President of the United States.
by Alphonsine M., 826LA
A student reflects on the journey and struggle of growing in the face of adversity.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Sabrin, 826 MSP
The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
by Olivia H., 826CHI
A piece that explores the connection between stars, legacy, and Black resilience.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
by Augustus Griffith Jr., 826 National
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem explores the aftermath and lasting impacts of school shootings.
by Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
by Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Dayana Alvarado, 826CHI
A student shares finding home in two places: Mexico and Chicago.
by Abby S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
An author reflects on their correspondence with their friend from the past.
by Isabel, 826 Boston
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem features a student battling with the voices constricting her freedom.
by Maya M., Grade 11, Newburg, OR
A student reflects on the memories they made while backpacking.
by Kyla Edwards, 826 New Orleans
This creative short story explores a snapshot of what a future New Orleans might look like amid climate change.
by Sammie, Grade 9, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a freshman at South High School in Minneapolis thanks care workers for supporting our local and national communities during this global pandemic.
by Jason, 826 Valencia
A student reports on the death of a college student from Bernal Heights, San Francisco, who neighbors believe was killed due to racial profiling.
by Inge S., Age 13, 826CHI
Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
by Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Tina N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student describes their shark like imaginary friend.
Yamilet J., 826LA
A student reflects on the fear and wonder of becoming a mother.
by Cora B., Grade 8
This narrative uses nature imagery, to help the reader walk through a day in the speaker's shoes
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Quardasha Mitchell, The 826 Dallas Project
In this compelling poem, the author navigates her relationship with America as a young African-American woman.
by Colin Y., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student describes how volunteering saved him from his online prison.
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
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 Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Yojannie Pizarro, Age 17, 826 Boston
This poem explores the beauty of friendship.
by Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
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 Matthew Inoa, 826 NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student describes how essential workers are the pulse of New York, fueling the city’s hope.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
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