Grade 5
PoetryWritingI love to dance.
I love to feel like I’m
shining, because I know I’m awesome.
When I dance, I always feel awesome.
When I got a first place in the jig
last fall, on that memorable day
in Muskegon, Michigan, I think I was floating
through the cute little ice cream shop, in that
cute little town. It was wonderful to be there
although I knew we had to leave.
I remember sitting on our porch in the lovely fall day.
Twelve hours ago, we were driving in the dead of night.
Now, we’re sitting on our porch.
Well, not our porch. We don’t have a porch.
We just have a stoop and a patio in the back.
I touched my lips, which were still sticky and glossy
from the lip gloss that tasted like Cherry Coke.
It was clear. Not pink or red. It wasn’t blue.
Blue lip gloss is weird. I swore to myself once,
sitting at my desk, that I would never use it again.
That was back in first grade.
In first grade, we studied China.
That was when I wanted to wear blue lip gloss.
That feeling lasted for two minutes.
As in, all the time, before I put it on.
I was looking out at our quiet street,
still sitting on our not-porch, I saw cars, I saw people.
Not very many people.
If we lived in NYC or LA, we would see people.
But that has to wait until I’m a pop star.
Sitting there, I saw a person that reminded me
of an elephant–big, gray. Something about him said,
Don’t mess with me. I’m a big elephant.
I smiled and looked at our yard.
As I took it in, I noticed birds and flowers.
It made me happy, and it meant that spring was still here.
At least for a while. Even September has its warm days.
I thought back. If it seemed long ago that I was smiling,
holding a gold first place medal, it seemed even longer
when I thought about yesterday. I remember the prospect,
not quite in the back of my mind, of dancing the jig
while my friend said for the tenth time, pay attention!
Back on my porch, I am smiling with the glow
of the medal still in my eyes.
by Catherine Calabro, with inspiration from Rachel Feder, 826michigan
Your students will use free writes, writing games, cheesy pop lyrics, and revision strategies to learn how to make connections…
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An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
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This poem declares a student's love for snow globes!
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An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
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A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
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A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
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An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
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A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
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A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
Rachel G., Grade 5, 826NYC
A young writer teaches us the value of learning about different cultures.
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An "I Am From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
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Brooklyn is the place to be over the summer! A young writer reflects on how summertime cookouts bring family and community together.
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
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 Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
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.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Evelyn DiRocco, Grade 5, Andover, MA
Evil doesn't stand a chance against this young superhero.
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A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
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A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
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 Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
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 Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Jacob P., age 11, 826 LA
An iPad, a ghost, and an unexpected friendship.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Chelsea, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student passes on their favorite tips for having fun and surviving fifth grade.
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 Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
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 Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
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 Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Connor, Grade 5, Los Angeles, CA
Come adventure and defeat evil with a picklemobile full of superheroes!
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
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 Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Salimatou, Grade 5, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
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 Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Gabriella Mcclellan, Grade 5, 826michigan
This sci-fi piece shows the importance of talking things out with friends.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
by Travis Cao, Age 8, 826 Valencia
This poem shows the importance of saying thank you to yourself!
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
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 Carolyn Danielle Wong, Age 9, 826 Valencia
In this poem, the writer showcases self-love and joy.
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
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 Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Kelsey F., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
This poem shares an honest look at a big feeling: anxiety
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 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 Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
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 Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
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 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 Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
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 Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Aanikaa Ramesh, Grade 5, Camas, WA
Embrace your inner power!
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Sahni Yokley-Wash, age 9, 826 Valencia
Will this story's brave hero be able to survive a frightening forest adventure?
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
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 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 Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
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!
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