Grades 7–9
PoetryWritingMy culture is based on how you speak,
It’s like a rainy day without the rainbow at the end, it’s just gloomy and sad.
My mother always said, if u step out of a plane speaking like that, u might as well cry ur way back inside.
My family says the same things to the little one, the more chuckles in the air the more cracks in their voices.
I said to my older cousin, “Maxay muhiim u tahay in la barto Soomaaliga?” She said back, “la’aanteed afkeenna ma jiri doontid.”
Translation: I said to my older cousin, “Why do I have to learn Somali?” She said back, “Without our language, you would not exist.”
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 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 Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
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 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 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 Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Sahir M., Grade 7
This poem uses metaphors to describe who the speaker really is.
by Isabel, 826 Boston
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem features a student battling with the voices constricting her freedom.
by Inge S., Age 13, 826CHI
Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
by Lola, 826 Valencia
A poem that portrays the arc of a love story told through the gift of a cigarette lighter.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
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 Kyla Edwards, 826 New Orleans
This creative short story explores a snapshot of what a future New Orleans might look like amid climate change.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
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 Sela, 826 MSP
This poem holds big dreams for the speaker's future.
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Isabella C., Age 13, 826 Valencia
The misadventures of finding a missing wallet.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Arielle B., Grade 8
This poem invites readers to remember that people are often going through more than choose to show.
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 Victor, 826CHI
An epic memoir about an epic volleyball match! Who will win: the teachers or the students?
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Rafael, 826CHI
A student remembers an afternoon adventure around town and explores what Chicago and community mean to him.
by Sammie, Grade 9, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a freshman at South High School in Minneapolis thanks care workers for supporting our local and national communities during this global pandemic.
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 Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Andy, 826CHI
In this memoir, a few friends bond over a rare Pokémon Go catch.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Salvador M., Grade 7, 826DC
A peaceful reflection on what type of place a student would be.
by Laila, 826CHI
A memoir about losing a parent—and a community’s support.
by Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
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 Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
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 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 Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Isabella Serrato, Grade 7, 826 Dallas Project
This poem uses sound devices to enhance the overall tone.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Sharon, 826CHI
A memoir about finding true friendship.
by David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
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 Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
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 Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Mercury, 826CHI
A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.
by Diego, 826CHI
On the funniest day of this student’s life…
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Sam, 826CHI
In this poem, a student pits mathematics against the unknown.
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Alonso, 826 Boston
An insightful set of instructions for surviving a day as a 7th grader in the Boston Teachers Union School.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
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 Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Sabrin, Grade 9, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 9th grader Sabrin discusses how she feels both happy and sad, and thanks nurses nationwide for bringing her peace through their work.
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 Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Rey, Grade 9, 826 MSP
Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.
by Jack, 826 Valencia
An argument against the overconsumption of sugar outlines the ways its effects are anything but sweet.
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem about a place where ideas can grow.
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 Sara Sofia Becerra L., Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love for music with the world.
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 Jabari, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
A poem about wanting more from life.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Gilbert, 826LA
One teen writes a letter to his 14-year-old self, citing his past fears but looking towards his present, a brighter future.
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by Elizabeth W., 826 Valencia
A persuasive piece for women and girls to unite and cultivate a culture of body image positivity.
by Cayden, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A middle school student firmly protests the flavor and quality of her school’s lunches.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Renée, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
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 Arianny, 826 Boston
A poem that celebrates being Latino
by Iliana, 826CHI
A student searches for answers in their community.
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 Mateo, 826CHI
An informative entry on the meaning and usage of a student-inspired word: doomungous.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
by Kiara, 826CHI
In this personal narrative, a student explores growing up young and black in Chicago.
by Kalyn Jackson, 826 New Orleans
Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.
by Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
by V.G., 826LA
A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Asa, 826CHI
This narrator embarks on a mysterious vacation in the sky!
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
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 Angel, 826CHI
Several friends harness a new source of energy and develop superpowers—with a surprise ending! Both Spanish and English versions available.
by Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
by Emmanuel J., 826NYC
An avid basketball fan discusses the rise of the Golden State Warriors through its individual players.
by Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
Yashasa Fluker, Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.
by Angel, 826CHI
A student writes about the transformative experience of changing schools.
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 CA, Grade 7, 826CHI
A writer's honest view of who they are and their potential.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Jeff, 826CHI
In this piece, a student describes Christmas as a holiday best spent together.
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 Salome Maldonando, 826CHI
A poem about unrequited love.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Jiaxi, 826CHI
A student’s worldview is forever altered after a lesson on the Segregation Era and Jim Crow.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
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 Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
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 Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Vanessa Ramon-Ibarra, 826DC
Living in the digital world can create unwanted attachments, as one student laments.
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 Natalie, 826CHI
Weaving together Spanish and English, a student shares the discovery of a family secret.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Mya, 826CHI
A piece packed with vivid description about taking risks at an ice rink.
by Dayana Alvarado, 826CHI
A student shares finding home in two places: Mexico and Chicago.
by Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
by Cora B., Grade 8
This narrative uses nature imagery, to help the reader walk through a day in the speaker's shoes
by Vivian, 826CHI
A narrative about loving to run—and learning to never quit!
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
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