Grades 5–6
Informational, Narrative, STEMWritingLives 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.
No materials available for download.
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 Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
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 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 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 Chelsea, 826NYC
An academically-inclined student passes on their favorite tips for having fun before fifth grade starts.
by Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
Jaylin Guevarro, Grade 6, 826NYC
A poet admires their loved one through this warming ode.
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
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 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!
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
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 Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
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 Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
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 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 Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
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.
Raquel Campos, Age 10, 826 Valencia
Three friends, inspired by a stream of butterflies, bake a beautiful cake.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal—corgis!
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
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 Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
by Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
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 Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
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 Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
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 Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
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 Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Najah, Grade 6, 826 MSP
A student appreciates and reflects on her mother's kindness over the years.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
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 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 Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Angelina Do, Grade 6, 826 Valencia
A poem about living in the space between two cultures.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
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 Ayana A., Grade 6, 826NYC
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
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 Athena, 826NYC
An "I Am From" superhero persona poem.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Valary K., Grade 6, 826 MSP
A story about a mysterious tunnel that leaves you on the edge of your seat!
Dylan Sanderson, Grade 5, 826NYC
A student dreams of the most joyful place in the world--somewhere with their family and money!
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 Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Victor, 826 Valencia
An ode to Beans, Rice, and Chicken.
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 Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Yasmeen Whitney, Age 9, 826 Valencia
This poem declares a student's love for snow globes!
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Isabella, 826CHI
A student describes a scrumptious five-course meal—everything except the vegetables, that is!
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games night turned into a nightmare.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
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 Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
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 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 Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
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 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.
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Kaiya S., Grade 6, 826DC
The harrowing tale of a super spy student vs. the villainous Mr.X.
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 Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning sushi to surviving the sixth grade.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
Vivien Norton, Age 12, 826michigan
A poet explores their love for writing with their friend.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
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 Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
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 Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
by Gael, 826CHI
A poem about becoming a dancer.
by Jekaya, 826 Boston
A student reflects on what it takes to stand up to bullies and speak up for others.
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
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 Jacore, 826 Valencia
An intriguing and educational essay discussing environmental consciousness and the devastating effects of global warming.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
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 Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Guinevre, 826CHI
A persuasive letter with a few ideas on how to improve cafeteria lunches at school.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
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 Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Armaan, 826CHI
This author recounts the beginning of a family tradition: the best homemade sandwich ever!
by Faisa Y., Grade 6, 826MSP
A student describes their comfort fairy imaginary friend.
by Gael, 826CHI
A short but powerful poem about the circular nature of history.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
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 Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
by Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
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 Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Sophia, 826CHI
In this poem, a student makes some noise about resilience and beating the odds.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
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 K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
We are thrilled to have you as the newest member of our online community. Stay up-to-date on the the latest and most relevant resources, student publication opportunities, and what’s new with the 826 Digital community.
bookmark
download
Share
