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 Arianny, 826 Boston
A poem that celebrates being Latino
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
by Julianna Cruz, 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
Annasian Walters, Grade 11-12, 826NYC
A student explores gratitude and love through sharing food.
by Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
Yamilet J., 826LA
A student reflects on the fear and wonder of becoming a mother.
by David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
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 Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
by Colin Y., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student describes how volunteering saved him from his online prison.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
Yashasa Fluker, Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.
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.
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
by Emmanuel J., 826NYC
An avid basketball fan discusses the rise of the Golden State Warriors through its individual players.
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 Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
by Inge S., Age 13, 826CHI
Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
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 Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
by Kiara, 826CHI
In this personal narrative, a student explores growing up young and black in Chicago.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
by Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
by Cayden, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
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 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 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 Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
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 Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
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.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A middle school student firmly protests the flavor and quality of her school’s lunches.
by Jeremy Hsiao, 826 National
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem reminds activists that "to change everything, we need everyone."
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 Mariah Valenzuela, Minneapolis, MN
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poet uses her voice to speak up for those who have been silenced in the indigenous community.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
by Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
by Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
by Elsy M.E., Grade 11, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines a better and more harmonious world.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Angel, 826CHI
A student writes about the transformative experience of changing schools.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Jabari, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
A poem about wanting more from life.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
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 Lola, 826 Valencia
A poem that portrays the arc of a love story told through the gift of a cigarette lighter.
by Kalyn Jackson, 826 New Orleans
Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.
by Jack, 826 Valencia
An argument against the overconsumption of sugar outlines the ways its effects are anything but sweet.
by Victor, 826CHI
An epic memoir about an epic volleyball match! Who will win: the teachers or the students?
by Mya, 826CHI
A piece packed with vivid description about taking risks at an ice rink.
by Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
by Rockelle Rodd, Grade 11, 826NYC
This poem uses analogies to describe all of the pieces of the writer's personal history.
by Iliana, 826CHI
A student searches for answers in their community.
by Arianna R., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A beautiful ode to home and self.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
by Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
Virginia Walker, age 18, 826 Boston
A student writes to a grandmother she never met.
by Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
Rosman A., age 18, 826CHI
Smells swirl about a student walking around an ice cream shop.
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 Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Augustus Griffith Jr., 826 National
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem explores the aftermath and lasting impacts of school shootings.
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 Salome Maldonando, 826CHI
A poem about unrequited love.
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 Mercury, 826CHI
A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.
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 Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
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 Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Raheem, 826 New Orleans
A student compares themself to the place they live, New Orleans, as both evolve through great obstacles.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
by Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
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 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.
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Jeff, 826CHI
In this piece, a student describes Christmas as a holiday best spent together.
by Laila, 826CHI
A memoir about losing a parent—and a community’s support.
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Diego, 826CHI
On the funniest day of this student’s life…
by Rey, Grade 9, 826 MSP
Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Keyshana, Grade 11, 826CHI
Black strength, beauty, and pride soar in this poem as a student discusses overcoming brutality and discrimination.
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 Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
by Junaynah R., Grade 11, 826NYC
Full of exquisite imagery, this poem explores the idea of second chances.
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
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.
by Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
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 Savannah, 826NYC
Using dialogue and detailed description, this poet investigates whose voices are heard and whose voices are left behind when injustice occurs.
by Isabel, 826 Boston
From the forthcoming 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 Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
by Sara Sofia Becerra L., Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love for music with the world.
by Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
by Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
by Andy, 826CHI
In this memoir, a few friends bond over a rare Pokémon Go catch.
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
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 Sharon, 826CHI
A memoir about finding true friendship.
by Jiaxi, 826CHI
A student’s worldview is forever altered after a lesson on the Segregation Era and Jim Crow.
by Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
by Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
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 Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Isabella C., Age 13, 826 Valencia
The misadventures of finding a missing wallet.
by Sarah X., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student shares how they've uplifted their community.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
by Abby S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
An author reflects on their correspondence with their friend from the past.
by Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people
by Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
by Riti Shrestha, 826NYC
In this poem, metaphor is used to describe who the narrator is.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Natalie, 826CHI
Weaving together Spanish and English, a student shares the discovery of a family secret.
by Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
by Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
by Itzel Medina Luna, 826 Valencia
In this poem from the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student walks through her neighborhood searching for hidden stories.
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 Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
by Rafael, 826CHI
A student remembers an afternoon adventure around town and explores what Chicago and community mean to him.
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 Dayana Alvarado, 826CHI
A student shares finding home in two places: Mexico and Chicago.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
A trans student reflects on their desire to be male.
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 Renée, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Gisel J., 826LA
The power of public speaking shines through this student's memoir.
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 Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
by Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
by Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
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 Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
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 Cora B., Grade 8
This narrative uses nature imagery, to help the reader walk through a day in the speaker's shoes
by Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
by Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
by Arielle B., Grade 8
This poem invites readers to remember that people are often going through more than choose to show.
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
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 Tina N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student describes their shark like imaginary friend.
by V.G., 826LA
A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Alanis T., Age 17, 826 Boston
A student reflects on how her relationship's with her parents has influenced her life.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
by Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
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 Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Jahruwach Hamilton, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
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 Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
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 Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
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 Elizabeth W., 826 Valencia
A persuasive piece for women and girls to unite and cultivate a culture of body image positivity.
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 Pia, 826NYC
A student reimagines food justice: Fruit Woman must convince Junk Food Man and Cheesecake Boy to eat their fruits and vegetables.
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 Vivian, 826CHI
A narrative about loving to run—and learning to never quit!
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