Grades 1–6
InformationalWritingINGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
In order to make a rapper legend, mix the lyrics with speed. That’s what you call a rapper. It’s important to practice, to get your word speed up. You need to end up at the right level. Then sprinkle in a microphone, because you’ll need it in the future. That way people can hear you from ten miles away, and they can be backup singers and fans. Backup singers make the show look cool. They add sparkle to your show, just like me. Then dip the stage and get the crowd going crazy. The stage is for the backup singers to dance, and it will also hold the microphone. A stage is important because it makes you look swag, and if you want, you can even go crowd-surfing. A pinch of practice makes you a better rapper. It’s important because you will need it to get a rap career.
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by 826 National
A flexible, 4-week unit designed for students in grades 3-5 to "write their way" with authentic purpose. Includes a curriculum…
by Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
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 Leslie, 826NYC
In this imaginative narrative about food justice, Golden Girl and LoLo go up against the evil Chemical Bug so kids everywhere can eat healthy fruits and vegetables.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
Armani, 826 New Orleans
A poem about the magic of bath time.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
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 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.
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Saeed, 826NYC
Food justice advocacy is reimagined by this student as an epic battle rages between Nutriman, Captain Nutritional, and Junkster in a school cafeteria!
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Isaac, Grade 2, 826 Boston
A student learns that good things, like kindness, come full circle.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Jude, 826michigan
A student describes life in the future, complete with 3-D pens and hologram television!
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
by Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
by Salmaan S., Grade 2, 826MSP
A second grader's adorable list of demands to the future President.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Diego, 826CHI
This poem might be considered a metaphorical soundoff between a lion and a banana. Written in Spanish and English.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Natalie, 826CHI
A poem about a moon, a flute, and a song.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
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 Matthew, Grade 3, 826 Boston
A student describes their mythic, Michael Jackson loving, imaginary friend!
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Sabir, 826 MSP
In this shape poem, a student walks you through a typical day in her neighborhood.
by Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
Jade Latiker, Grade 3, 826 New Orleans
A student introduces two ghoulish friends.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Zoe Gomez, 826 New Orleans
Through a series of questions, this poem asks what if the world was different.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Amaya, 826michigan
A letter devoted to a favorite fruit that’s sweet and sour just like this student’s favorite candy: Sour Patch Kids!
by Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Edwin M.V., Age 8, 826 Valencia
A student bravely faces the first day of school.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Aidan, 826michigan
A student reflects on how to bounce back from frustration.
by Ari, 826CHI
In the Realm of Virtues, a search for attention and significance teaches these characters an important lesson about what it means to be human!
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
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 Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
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 Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Anna K., 826CHI
This poem uses alliteration to discuss the narrator's pets.
Lanae, 826 New Orleans
A poem about giving and receiving love.
by Brooklyn., Grade 3, 826michigan
A student's reflects on all the love in her life in hopes of inspiring others.
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 Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
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 Lukas, 826 New Orleans
A student challenges the existence of Confederate monuments in New Orleans and builds the case for a monument to The Houma Nation instead.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
Nasir Farmer, Age 8, 826 Boston
Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
Kendall, 826 New Orleans
An ode to an animal friend.
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 Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Kyle I., Grade 6, Kansas City, MO
A gender-fluid student's call to action to the next U.S. president to protect LGBTQIA+ rights.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
by Esperanza R., Grade 3, 826 Valencia
A letter asking the next U.S. President to stop climate change and save our home.
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 Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
by Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
by Donovan, 826CHI
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn how inclusion takes hard work and forgiveness.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Amelia Alamgir, Grade 1, 826NYC
This poem uses repetition and sensory details to describe a trip to the botanical garden.
by Mady, 826 Valencia
A student examines the mermaid industry today through a historical lens that begins in the late-nineteenth century, turning fantasy into a profession.
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
by Aanya K., Grade 3, 826 LA
In this set of diary entries, a student explores what makes a villain.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Nana-Wadieh, 826NYC
This student writes about accepting people the way they are and putting yourself in someone else’s shoes.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
A writer's fake news article about a miracle drug that can cure anything.
A writer's fake news article about a miracle drug that can cure anything.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
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 Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
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 Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
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 Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
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 Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
by Madhav, 826michigan
In this short epic, a pig and a snail pilot a NASA rocket and bring breaking news back to New York City.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
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 Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
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.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
by Sebastian, 826 Valencia
In this story, a student finds a surprise within a Takis bag and makes a wish for a dream school.
by Yusuf, 826 MSP
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn how transformation and creativity can bring together friends.
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
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 Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Khari Garris, New York, NY
A student remembers what life was like before the COVID-19 pandemic, and imagines a brighter day when schools reopen.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Yasmeen W, Grade 3, 826 Valencia
In this descriptive short story, a student overcomes their fear of turning on their video.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
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 Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Sherilyn, 826LA
A story about what to do when one witnesses bullying.
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
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!
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
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 Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Charlotte Velasquez, age 8, 826 Valencia
A school’s spooky secret comes to light. Does a hair-cutting monster really exist?
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
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 Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
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 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 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 Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Krisbel D.L.M., Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A letter to the next President asking them to support immigration laws that will allow them to see their family.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
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 Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
by Nathan A., 826DC
A story about reaching out to others.
by Kevin, 826NYC
A wizened middle schooler offers the benefits of sixth grade to younger readers, sprinkling in a few tips to survive and thrive in their year ahead.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Meyly, Grade 1, 826LA
A student describes their chocolate bunny imaginary friend.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Alex, 826michigan
Percy Jackson’s story retold—in a single tweet!
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Christian, 826michigan
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that sometimes the easiest way to make someone feel included is by lending a hand.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
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 Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
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 Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
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