Grades 9–12
Narrative, PoetryWritingI’ve become so attached to my phone
that the sun no longer provides light.
I’ve become so attached to my phone
that I don’t know how to talk to my best friend
face to face.
It’s hard to socialize in person
but behind a screen I am powerful.
I have a voice that is bright red
that can scream at these
stupid blue screens.
I’ve become so attached
that it is starting to feel like I’ve become addicted.
I’m always on social media.
Constantly texting, liking, commenting.
There are days I cry, stressing about
how many followers I have
and how many likes I receive.
It’s like a job, keeping the data of
every single notification sent to me.
I’m lost behind this stupid blue screen.
I’m done with these stupid blue screens.
They don’t let me think.
No materials available for download.
by Rebecca Darugar, Liz Levine, and Brancey Mora, 826NYC and 826 National
by Rebecca Darugar, Liz Levine, and Brancey Mora, 826NYC and 826 National
Invite students to write about their personal experiences with social media and online platforms with this lesson from 826NYC.
PRESENTED BY 826 NATIONAL AND COMMON SENSE MEDIA True Connections features young writers from around the country exploring their relationship with the internet, with social media, and with the digital world in general. From essays about internet addiction to explorations of digital disconnections, True Connections gives young writers the chance to ask big questions about what it means to strike a balance between real life and online life, and to remain true to oneself in both.
by Samuel Wang, Grade 10, 826NYC
A poem about the complexity of love exchanged during the holidays.
by Maggie Munday Odom, Kailua, HI
This poem personifies Earth as a mother coping with the brutalities of climate change.
by Kailyn Espinosa, 826NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares how essential workers’ courage and compassion center her during these hectic times.
by Jonas K., 826 National
A student explores the paradox of how technology is used amongst teenagers.
by Matthew Inoa, 826 NYC
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student describes how essential workers are the pulse of New York, fueling the city’s hope.
Cate H, Grade 12, 826CHI
A poet sets the stage to showcase her reflections on being trans.
by Joanne H, 826 Valencia
In this poem, a student’s experiences in two countries meld together as she seeks out her true home.
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 Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Junaynah R., Grade 11, 826NYC
Full of exquisite imagery, this poem explores the idea of second chances.
by Cindy, 826LA
A student compellingly argues that immigrants deserve respect and to be free of discrimination.
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 Maya M., Grade 11, Newburg, OR
A student reflects on the memories they made while backpacking.
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 Oriel, 826NYC
In this poem, an echoing question strikes a chord and reveals the tragic loss held within systemic injustice.
by George S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A writer implores people to get outside and touch grass because you never know what you might find!
by Katya Torres, The 826 Dallas Project
This bilingual poem explores the harrowing story of a boy working while in school to save his mother.
by Yazmine-Gizelle, 826DC
This poem uses a fundamental poetry technique, repetition, to share the writer's future plans.
by Chris O., Age 15, 826 Valencia
A freshman describes their first day of school on their own.
by Justis Porter, age 16, 826 Boston
A neighborhood ode filled with sights and sounds of the poet's street.
by Tina N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student describes their shark like imaginary friend.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
by Sergio M, 826 Valencia
This piece reminds us that a smile is not always what it seems.
by Colin Y., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student describes how volunteering saved him from his online prison.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
by Alanis T., Age 17, 826 Boston
A student reflects on how her relationship's with her parents has influenced her life.
by Jesus Sanchez, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative short horror piece explores the mysteries and danger of a night in the woods.
by Karina Centeno, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
This poem takes an honest look at two sides of the writer's culture.
by Regina, 826LA
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem expresses the realization that a cage is not the only obstacle to a bird's freedom.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Karla M., 826LA
A poem for lovers of love and the moon.
Annasian Walters, Grade 11-12, 826NYC
A student explores gratitude and love through sharing food.
Yashasa Fluker, Grade 9, 826 New Orleans
A student describes the eeriness of liminal spaces.
by Aniah, 826 MSP
A student is lifted up by the dance of her ancestors.
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 Mercury, 826CHI
A student explores the representation of LGBTQIA+ minorities and youth in US pop culture.
by Lukoiy V.R.G., Grade 12, Woodburn, OR
A poet speaks out as a voice for change and all those who cannot speak.
by Sarah X., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A student shares how they've uplifted their community.
by Isabella, 826NYC
This poet rejects judgement based on the color of one’s skin.
by Julianna Cruz, 826 Dallas Project
This narrative piece contemplates the struggle of immigrants during the pandemic.
by Elizabeth W, 826 Valencia
Even though we may look different, we remain united with one another.
by Aphra, 826CHI
A student considers realistic happy endings and the representation of LGBTQIA+ youth through the analysis of two webcomics.
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 Sally Phan, 826 Boston
A memoir that questions the idea of home and how it changes with time.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Sylvia C., 826 Valencia
A poet demonstrates their devotion to love.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Augustus Griffith Jr., 826 National
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem explores the aftermath and lasting impacts of school shootings.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
by Camille, 826LA
A student finds her wings in unexpected places in this piece about the transition to college.
by Jeremy Hsiao, 826 National
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem reminds activists that "to change everything, we need everyone."
Virginia Walker, age 18, 826 Boston
A student writes to a grandmother she never met.
by Numan Khan, age 16, 826 Boston
A bilingual "I am" poem filled with conviction and courage.
by Keyshana, Grade 11, 826CHI
Black strength, beauty, and pride soar in this poem as a student discusses overcoming brutality and discrimination.
by Salma Khalif, 826 MSP
A powerful poem that lifts up Black women.
by Jizelle Villegas, Grade 12, 826 Dallas Project
The stunning and vulnerable poem processes feelings of loss, grief, and hope for the future.
by Pretty S, 826 Valencia
Peek into the mind of a student who considers artistic influences in her life.
by Melody Marcano, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on their roots and their desire to grow.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Quardasha Mitchell, The 826 Dallas Project
In this compelling poem, the author navigates her relationship with America as a young African-American woman.
by Rockelle Rodd, Grade 11, 826NYC
This poem uses analogies to describe all of the pieces of the writer's personal history.
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.
Kenya G., 17, 826LA
A poet relates her experience as a queer woman in the closet to a peacock in the zoo.
by Kalyn Jackson, 826 New Orleans
Through this short story, Kalyn explores ideas of home and change in an altered world.
by Terry Velasquez, Grade 12, The Bronx, NY
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a student shares gratitude for the dedication of nurses and gives “credit where credit is due.”
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Sarah X. Age 18, 826Boston
A rousing public narrative from an author coming to terms with their identity as a young Chinese American woman and what they represent: the community of Boston's Chinatown.
by Rey, Grade 9, 826 MSP
Aliens give this student superpowers to help him fulfill his greatest dream.
by Jennifer Alcocer, The 826 Dallas Project
This personal narrative addresses the struggles of students graduating high school during the pandemic.
by Lisbeth M.F., 826NYC
A story about how Marcus becomes Marcela.
by Abby S., Grade 11, 826 Boston
An author reflects on their correspondence with their friend from the past.
by Charles, 826 MSP
A student reflects on his life, stemming from the life of his father.
by Kayla Wayne, Grade 11, 826NYC
In this poem, a student reflects on their first encounter with forced assimilation.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Terra C., Grades 10-11, 826NYC
A student recalls their journey on how they discovered their LGBTQIA+ identity.
by Raymond A., Grade 10, 826 Boston
A bilingual poem that expresses the love of one's culture and people
by Izzy T., 826 Valencia
A student reflects on memories of home and what binds her special community together.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
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 Earl Williams Jr., The 826 Dallas Project
A powerful poetic piece about the experience of being Black in America.
by Luciana, Grade 10, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a sophomore at South High School in Minneapolis gives thanks to Children’s Hospital employees.
by Arianna R., Grade 11, 826 Boston
A beautiful ode to home and self.
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 Leydi Di Villanueva, The 826 Dallas Project
This creative narrative imagines how the coronavirus views humanity during the pandemic.
by Jazmine & Vanessa, 826CHI
Over a series of letters, two compassionate and resilient students develop a deep friendship sealed in writing.
by Steysi Hailee, 826LA
A student reflects on a small moment and single sacrifice that transformed her outlook on giving.
by Isaiah, 826 New Orleans
This student reveals the mysterious origin story of the king cake. Hint: it includes Big Freedia, DJ Chicken Wing, and a massive party.
by Franny, 826CHI
A student spins through space and a treasure trove of memories in this poem.
by Jahruwach Hamilton, 826NYC
In this rousing poem, a student asserts her strength and worth as a woman.
Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
A trans student reflects on their desire to be male.
Rosman A., age 18, 826CHI
Smells swirl about a student walking around an ice cream shop.
by Samantha Wint, Grade 9, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to explore many dualities of the narrator's life.
by Sharoya Bracey, 826NYC
In this memoir, the narrator recounts the struggle of being the bigger person in a very small space.
by Anthony, 826DC
This poem gives insight to what it's like growing up Black in America.
by Sabrin, 826 MSP
The written word is a powerful tool, and this poem shares a few reasons why the author continues to write.
by Elsy M.E., Grade 11, 826 Valencia
A poet imagines a better and more harmonious world.
by Tammy Fong, 826NYC
A soccer-filled, feud-fueled memoir.
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 Nhu N., Grade 12, 826 Boston
A young writer reconciles their sexuality with the beliefs of their community.
by Cristina, 826CHI
A student recounts separation with a beloved friend through a nostalgic lens.
by Soraya, 826NYC
This student’s powerful piece reveals the essence of racial injustice.
by Alexis G., Grade 11
In this narrative, the author uses vibrant language to explore their identity, in all its complexity, through different landscapes.
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 Michaiah Anderson, The 826 Dallas Project
In this poem, a student describes their family origins with an intimate point of view
by Henry F., Grade 12, 826CHI
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
Yamilet J., 826LA
A student reflects on the fear and wonder of becoming a mother.
by Jazlyn Moses, 826 National
One student explores their online persona and the lasting importance of conscientious social media practices.
by Tala, Grade 10, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 10th grader Tala asks essential workers what motivates them to keep going during these difficult times, offering her own views on hope for the future.
by Ryan, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student illustrates the hardships his uncle has faced to argue for a path to citizenship.
by Navayah, 826 MSP
Through redefining a label, a student reclaims a piece of their identity.
by Brandon R., 826LA
A student recounts the epic highs and lows of high school track and cross country.
by Kaleo V.C., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student looks back on their first day of kindergarten and how they've changed.
by Jasmine J, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on her origins to deconstruct social borders and seize her boundless future.
Alex P., Grade 10, 826 National
A poem to the next president of the U.S. demanding change and advocating for transgender rights.
by Albin C., Age 18, 826 Boston
A student recalls how he was able to take charge and turn his life around.
by Kayla, 826 Boston
This poem offers a very-real answer to "What do you want to be when you grow up?"
by Timothy T., Age 17, 826 Valencia
A student tells the story of how his family has influenced his life.
by Kevin G, 826 Valencia
This narrative calls us to see the world through the perspectives of others.
by Lucas Hu, 826 Boston
A poem about staying true to yourself during a challenging transition
by Gisel J., 826LA
The power of public speaking shines through this student's memoir.
by Helen, Grade 12, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, a senior at South High School in Minneapolis offers words of support to healthcare workers across the country, including her own mom.
by Jesus C., Grade 12, 826LA
A poet identifies with a trapped ocelot at the zoo.
by Corazón, 826 New Orleans
In this essay, a student threads their identity across cultures, histories, and places, engaging with legacies of violence and the movement of people.
by Riti Shrestha, 826NYC
In this poem, metaphor is used to describe who the narrator is.
by Ryker, 826michigan
Liner notes that showcase the meaning and musicality of the Jimmy Ruffin song “What Becomes of the Brokenhearted.”
by Bianca Morcho, 826 MSP
A personal essay that explores the different shades of the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Jordan, 826 New Orleans
Crawfish, crayfish, or mudbugs. Whatever you call them, the writer of this poem doesn't like them.
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 Savannah, 826NYC
Using dialogue and detailed description, this poet investigates whose voices are heard and whose voices are left behind when injustice occurs.
by Maria, Grade 12, 826 Boston
In this public narrative, a student makes the case for creating community change by building youth centers in her neighborhood.
by Raheem, 826 New Orleans
A student compares themself to the place they live, New Orleans, as both evolve through great obstacles.
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