Lives with: Horseshoe crab & Scenedesmus
Latin name: Ulva lactuca
Description
Sea Lettuce is slimy with bright green leaves that are about seven inches in length and twelve inches in diameter. It looks a lot like the lettuce we eat.
Lifespan
Sea Lettuce only lives for about three months.
Season
Sea Lettuce grows any time of the year.
Habitat
Sea Lettuce lives at all levels of the shore, particularly rockier beaches. It lives almost all around the world.
Reproduction
Sea Lettuce reproduces through parthenogenesis – the splitting of cells.
Predators
Sea slugs and manatees like to snack on it.
Interesting facts
When it decomposes, sea lettuce releases toxic gas called hydrogen sulfide. It reproduces quickly and can overpopulate its environment.
Personality traits
My plant is lazy, gassy, uncomfortable most of the time, and grumpy.
Physical traits
He is curly and slimy. He is not attractive. No one really likes him because he sasses people off with poisonous gas.
Life at home
He spends his time mostly alone. He doesn’t have any siblings, and if he did, he’d ignore them.
The Sea Lettuce sits in bed and watches TV, going through season after season of “How I Reproduce Myself.” He pretends to sneeze and releases hydrogen sulfide. He is good at skipping school. The Sea Lettuce is on episode 273 when his mom smashes into the room with a bowl of sea slime. “Here, Sonny.” She hands him the crab shell bowl. He grabs the bowl and says thank you. Usually when his mom finds out about his devious scheme, he has to go to school. Most of the kids in the class dislike him because he’s slimy, grumpy, and smelly. And he doesn’t like them either. No one really likes him in school, and he’s okay with that. He doesn’t like class. He doesn’t like anything in school. He doesn’t like school in general. His favorite subject is dismissal. His life is sad. So sad, all he wants to do is sit and watch “How I Reproduce Myself.” He’s happy when he watches that. All he likes to do is watch TV and sleep. Does he dream? He dreams. He dreams about sleeping. That is a peek into the life of the grumpy, slimy, sad Sea Lettuce.
by Rebecca Darugar, 826NYC
by Rebecca Darugar, 826NYC
Students investigate the plant life that grows within their community and then select a specific species to learn about in-depth…
Through the eyes of 826NYC's young scientists and writers, explore New York City's myriad habitats and inhabitants. From the tiniest microbes in the waters of Coney Island to the tallest trees in Central Park, every organism has its role. Unlike those in other guidebooks, these species often take on lives of their own, writing about the torture of getting detention as a daddy longlegs to the excitement of trick-or-treating as a northern mockingbird. Life is vibrant within these pages.
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
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 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 K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
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 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 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 Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
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 Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
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 Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
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 Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
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 Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
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 Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
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 Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
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 Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
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 Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
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 Ramatoulie, 826DC
A student shares memories of transitioning from Gambia to a new home in the United States, complete with a snowy encounter.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
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 Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
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 Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
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 Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
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 Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
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 Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
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 Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
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 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 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 Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
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 Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
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 Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
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 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 Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
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 Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
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 Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
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 Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal--corgis!
by Marvin, 826CHI
A troubled young man ends up in another boy’s dreams.
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.)
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 Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by 826NYC students
This collaborative poem explores the many sides and senses of laughter.
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 Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
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.