Grades 1–6
InformationalWritingINGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
To prank your mother, first measure out one gallon of your kitchen or pantry. Add the tablespoons of candy at the bottom of the pantry. Zest the two teaspoons of black glitter around the three tablespoons of candy. Garnish the one cup of ink on every individual zest of black glitter. Fold in the one cup of mouse in the right direction. Add the ten gallons of not laughing into a bowl. Fold the one hundred gallons of mother into your kitchen or pantry mixture, and you are ready!
by Jillian Wasick, 826 Valencia
What are students made of? This activity prompts students to reimagine recipes and write about their life experiences.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
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 Salmaan S., Grade 2, 826MSP
A second grader's adorable list of demands to the future President.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
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 Jude, 826michigan
A student describes life in the future, complete with 3-D pens and hologram television!
by Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
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 Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Sabir, 826 MSP
In this shape poem, a student walks you through a typical day in her neighborhood.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
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 Aanya K., Grade 3, 826 LA
In this set of diary entries, a student explores what makes a villain.
by Anna K., 826CHI
This poem uses alliteration to discuss the narrator's pets.
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 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 Nana-Wadieh, 826NYC
This student writes about accepting people the way they are and putting yourself in someone else’s shoes.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
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 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 Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Zoe Gomez, 826 New Orleans
Through a series of questions, this poem asks what if the world was different.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
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 Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
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 Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
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 Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
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 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 Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Alex, 826michigan
Percy Jackson’s story retold—in a single tweet!
by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
by Isaac, Grade 2, 826 Boston
A student learns that good things, like kindness, come full circle.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
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 Aidan, 826michigan
A student reflects on how to bounce back from frustration.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
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 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 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 Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
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 Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by 826NYC students
This collaborative poem explores the many sides and senses of laughter.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
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 Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Marvin, 826CHI
A troubled young man ends up in another boy’s dreams.
by Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
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 Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
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 Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
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 Charlotte Velasquez, age 8, 826 Valencia
A school’s spooky secret comes to light. Does a hair-cutting monster really exist?
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 Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
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 Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Sherilyn, 826LA
A story about what to do when one witnesses bullying.
by Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
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 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 Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
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 Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
Kendall, 826 New Orleans
An ode to an animal friend.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
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 Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
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 Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Nathan A., 826DC
A story about reaching out to others.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
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 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 Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Yasmeen W, Grade 3, 826 Valencia
In this descriptive short story, a student overcomes their fear of turning on their video.
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 Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
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.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
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 Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Natalie, 826CHI
A poem about a moon, a flute, and a song.
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 Faisa, age 9, 826 MSP
This poem writes from the perspective of a Prairie Shooting Star flower, detailing a day in its life.
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 Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Diego, 826CHI
This poem might be considered a metaphorical soundoff between a lion and a banana. Written in Spanish and English.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Amelia Alamgir, Grade 1, 826NYC
This poem uses repetition and sensory details to describe a trip to the botanical garden.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
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 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 Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
Armani, 826 New Orleans
A poem about the magic of bath time.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
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 Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
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 Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
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 Zaid Rodriguez, 826 Valencia
This story immerses the reader in sensory details to tell the tale of what lies behind a mysterious door.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
Lanae, 826 New Orleans
A poem about giving and receiving love.
bookmark