Grades 6–8
PoetryWritingLaughter is a reminder
Of true happiness
Laughter moves like the rain
It sounds like popcorn
It wears a clown costume
And a carrot nose
Laughter is the feeling that
Can pick you up
On your darkest days
It is happiness
Laughter can be light or dark
It teaches you to let go and feel
Laughter feels like a bear hug
It smells like peaches
Laughter means you’re alive
And it lives in everyone
from 826NYC digital publication Laughter Means You’re Alive
by 826 National
A flexible, 4-week unit designed for students in grades 6-8 to "write their way" with authentic purpose. Includes a curriculum…
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Lola, 826 Valencia
A poem that portrays the arc of a love story told through the gift of a cigarette lighter.
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 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 Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
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 Jiaxi, 826CHI
A student’s worldview is forever altered after a lesson on the Segregation Era and Jim Crow.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
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 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 Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Renée, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
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 Sela, 826 MSP
This poem holds big dreams for the speaker's future.
by Isabella C., Age 13, 826 Valencia
The misadventures of finding a missing wallet.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
by Mya, 826CHI
A piece packed with vivid description about taking risks at an ice rink.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
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 Asa, 826CHI
This narrator embarks on a mysterious vacation in the sky!
by Emmanuel J., 826NYC
An avid basketball fan discusses the rise of the Golden State Warriors through its individual players.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
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 Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Cayden, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
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 Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
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 Salome Maldonando, 826CHI
A poem about unrequited love.
by Sam, 826CHI
In this poem, a student pits mathematics against the unknown.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Jabari, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
A poem about wanting more from life.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Salvador M., Grade 7, 826DC
A peaceful reflection on what type of place a student would be.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem about a place where ideas can grow.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Dayana Alvarado, 826CHI
A student shares finding home in two places: Mexico and Chicago.
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 Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Rafael, 826CHI
A student remembers an afternoon adventure around town and explores what Chicago and community mean to him.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Elizabeth W., 826 Valencia
A persuasive piece for women and girls to unite and cultivate a culture of body image positivity.
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
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 Sara Sofia Becerra L., Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love for music with the world.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Inge S., Age 13, 826CHI
Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
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.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Isabel, 826 Boston
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem features a student battling with the voices constricting her freedom.
by Vivian, 826CHI
A narrative about loving to run—and learning to never quit!
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.
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 Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
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 Angel, 826CHI
Several friends harness a new source of energy and develop superpowers—with a surprise ending! Both Spanish and English versions available.
by Cora B., Grade 8
This narrative uses nature imagery, to help the reader walk through a day in the speaker's shoes
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 Kiara, 826CHI
In this personal narrative, a student explores growing up young and black in Chicago.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Victor, 826CHI
An epic memoir about an epic volleyball match! Who will win: the teachers or the students?
by David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
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 Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
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 Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
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 Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Diego, 826CHI
On the funniest day of this student’s life…
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
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 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 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 Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Isabella Serrato, Grade 7, 826 Dallas Project
This poem uses sound devices to enhance the overall tone.
by Arianny, 826 Boston
A poem that celebrates being Latino
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 Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
by Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
by Alonso, 826 Boston
An insightful set of instructions for surviving a day as a 7th grader in the Boston Teachers Union School.
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 Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
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 Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Andy, 826CHI
In this memoir, a few friends bond over a rare Pokémon Go catch.
by Sahir M., Grade 7
This poem uses metaphors to describe who the speaker really is.
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Jack, 826 Valencia
An argument against the overconsumption of sugar outlines the ways its effects are anything but sweet.
by Mateo, 826CHI
An informative entry on the meaning and usage of a student-inspired word: doomungous.
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 Sharon, 826CHI
A memoir about finding true friendship.
by Jeff, 826CHI
In this piece, a student describes Christmas as a holiday best spent together.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A middle school student firmly protests the flavor and quality of her school’s lunches.
by Laila, 826CHI
A memoir about losing a parent—and a community’s support.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
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 Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
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 Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Arielle B., Grade 8
This poem invites readers to remember that people are often going through more than choose to show.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
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 Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
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 Iliana, 826CHI
A student searches for answers in their community.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
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 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 CA, Grade 7, 826CHI
A writer's honest view of who they are and their potential.
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
by Natalie, 826CHI
Weaving together Spanish and English, a student shares the discovery of a family secret.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Angel, 826CHI
A student writes about the transformative experience of changing schools.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
by V.G., 826LA
A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
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