Grades 6–8
Narrative, PoetryWritingBefore I knew how to stand,
I used to run
running away from everything I could not do
running away from the fears I did not want to face
Then I’d stop, look around, and stand
Let the fears run away and stand
Before I knew how to climb,
I used to fall
saying, “I’ll do it tomorrow”
Those words just turn to dust on a book you don’t know about
Coming to a hurdle, then just running back
or going under and getting a penalty
For something to work, you have to go over it
Something that comes easy is not worth it
Before I knew how to shine,
I used to break
letting a fall get the best of me
not getting up, not fixing a tear
Breaking can shine if you know how
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
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 Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
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 Salome Maldonando, 826CHI
A poem about unrequited love.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
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 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 Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Salvador M., Grade 7, 826DC
A peaceful reflection on what type of place a student would be.
by Issa Caothien, 826NYC
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that if you work together, you're golden!
by Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
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 Ramatoulie, 826DC
A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.
by CA, Grade 7, 826CHI
A writer's honest view of who they are and their potential.
by Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
by Jabari, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
A poem about wanting more from life.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
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.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
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 Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Jack, 826 Valencia
An argument against the overconsumption of sugar outlines the ways its effects are anything but sweet.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
by Sharon, 826CHI
A memoir about finding true friendship.
by Isabella C., Age 13, 826 Valencia
The misadventures of finding a missing wallet.
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 V.G., 826LA
A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
by Mateo, 826CHI
An informative entry on the meaning and usage of a student-inspired word: doomungous.
by Victor, 826CHI
An epic memoir about an epic volleyball match! Who will win: the teachers or the students?
by Asa, 826CHI
This narrator embarks on a mysterious vacation in the sky!
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Alonso, 826 Boston
An insightful set of instructions for surviving a day as a 7th grader in the Boston Teachers Union School.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Arielle B., Grade 8
This poem invites readers to remember that people are often going through more than choose to show.
by Sam, 826CHI
In this poem, a student pits mathematics against the unknown.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Lola, 826 Valencia
A poem that portrays the arc of a love story told through the gift of a cigarette lighter.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
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 Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
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 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 Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Madison, 826CHI
In this compelling essay, a student rejects apathy and explores what really matters in conversations about solving gun violence towards black and brown men.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
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!
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
by Sela, 826 MSP
This poem holds big dreams for the speaker's future.
by Vivian, 826CHI
A narrative about loving to run—and learning to never quit!
by Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
by Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
by Angel, 826CHI
Several friends harness a new source of energy and develop superpowers—with a surprise ending! Both Spanish and English versions available.
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 Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
by Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
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 Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
by Mya, 826CHI
A piece packed with vivid description about taking risks at an ice rink.
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 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 Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
by Diego, 826CHI
On the funniest day of this student’s life…
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
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 Isabella Serrato, Grade 7, 826 Dallas Project
This poem uses sound devices to enhance the overall tone.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
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 John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
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 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 Inge S., Age 13, 826CHI
Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
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 Sara Sofia Becerra L., Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love for music with the world.
by Cora B., Grade 8
This narrative uses nature imagery, to help the reader walk through a day in the speaker's shoes
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Iliana, 826CHI
A student searches for answers in their community.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A middle school student firmly protests the flavor and quality of her school’s lunches.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Arianny, 826 Boston
A poem that celebrates being Latino
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 Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Andy, 826CHI
In this memoir, a few friends bond over a rare Pokémon Go catch.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
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 Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Jiaxi, 826CHI
A student’s worldview is forever altered after a lesson on the Segregation Era and Jim Crow.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Angel, 826CHI
A student writes about the transformative experience of changing schools.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Emmanuel J., 826NYC
An avid basketball fan discusses the rise of the Golden State Warriors through its individual players.
by Ibrahim, Grade 7, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 7th grader Ibrahim thanks Nurses for the heart and soul they put into caring for their patients and fighting disease.
by Rafael, 826CHI
A student remembers an afternoon adventure around town and explores what Chicago and community mean to him.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Jeff, 826CHI
In this piece, a student describes Christmas as a holiday best spent together.
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!
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Annapoorani L., Grade 7, Seattle WA
A student recounts their experience with a school shooting in a letter to the next U.S. President to reform gun control.
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 Cayden, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
by David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Sahir M., Grade 7
This poem uses metaphors to describe who the speaker really is.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
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 Elizabeth W., 826 Valencia
A persuasive piece for women and girls to unite and cultivate a culture of body image positivity.
by Kiara, 826CHI
In this personal narrative, a student explores growing up young and black in Chicago.
by Isabel, 826 Boston
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem features a student battling with the voices constricting her freedom.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem about a place where ideas can grow.
by Renée, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
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 Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
by Natalie, 826CHI
Weaving together Spanish and English, a student shares the discovery of a family secret.
by Dayana Alvarado, 826CHI
A student shares finding home in two places: Mexico and Chicago.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
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 Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Laila, 826CHI
A memoir about losing a parent—and a community’s support.
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.
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