Grades 4–5
Narrative, PersuasiveWritingChapter 1
One day on the basketball court at BVHM, a bell rang. That was the bell to go back to the classroom. It was loud. When the students from room 305, a fourth grade classroom, went into their classroom, two kids, or should I say best friends, were talking about starting a business together when they grew up. They did not know what business they should start. Then Noel said, “Let’s make a school!”
Then Pedro asked, “But what should we name it?”
They thought for hours and hours, until Noel said, “University of Noel and Pedro.”
At the exact same time, Pedro said, “University of Pedro and Noel.”
Noel immediately said, “Noel and Pedro!”
Pedro said, “No! Noel and Pedro!”
“Ugh!” said Noel. They argued for hours until they used the most ancient and old ritual to end arguments: rock, paper, scissors. Pedro won after forty-eight rounds. Noel was pretty mad. And that is how the University of Pedro and Noel began, or at least, that was what I heard. The rest, who knows what happened!
Chapter 2
Wait wait wait!
I was walking on the street sidewalk when I overheard someone say that the school smelled like chocolate and they saw a water slide on the playground. It sounded so peaceful and fun. I just had to visit! It was only one mile away, so I hopped in my car and drove away. When I got there, I was about to walk in when someone in a suit offered me a piece of cheese. He looked like he worked there. I took the piece, and ate it. It was the most delicious piece of cheese I had ever tasted.
Then, in 2036, Taylor Swift and Pitbull bought the school and wanted to build a new one. They renamed it the University of Taylor Swift and Pitbull, and were trying to convince people to go there.
Chapter 3
“Hello boys and girls! Ladies and gents, I’m here to talk about the future of all education. My name is Noel Marquez and I’m here to talk about the University of Taylor Swift and Pitbull. Now, this is a private school that offers seven hours of learning and fun, all combined together. Is this sounding good already? Well, there is much more ahead!
One reason you should build this school is it will only cost a gazillion dollars, but Taylor Swift will pay for it. Also, you are 99.99% likely to get a job interview to any job you want when you go there. Another reason is the students are surrounded by a comfortable and safe environment.
Plus, who do you think will be the principal and vice principal? They are Taylor Swift and Pitbull! Taylor Swift will be our principal and Pitbull will be our vice principal. Pitbull wanted to be principal, too, so they settled it with rock, paper, scissors. Taylor Swift won and Pitbull was sad, but Taylor Swift said, ‘Oh, just shake it off, you big baby!’
Some other reasons you should go here are the free water bottles, baseball field, an 826 Valencia, an Italian restaurant, and a movie theater. You can also go shopping in one of the stores, including Starbucks, Sports Authority, etc… My final reason is that the school is so big they give you hoverboards to travel around the school. Please consider building my school and thank you for listening.”
And all the kid wanted to go there.
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by Ashley Smith, 826 Valencia
Students design dream schools filled with creative and imaginative elements to improve learning, complete with origin stories, illustrated designs, and…
by Lina, 826 Valencia
A mischievous recipe calling for 3 tablespoons of candy, 10 gallons of not laughing, and 100 gallons of mother.
by Yaretzi, 826LA
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn how a thoughtful surprise can brighten a friend's day.
by Maribel O.G., Grade 4, 826 Valencia
In this story, a student gets to know a new teacher and discovers that things are not always as they seem.
by Caleigh, 826LA
A letter offering a concise yet compelling list of all that awaits in LA.
by Keila S.O., 826michigan
An “I Am From” poem about growing up in Detroit.
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 Eric, 826CHI
This student recounts a fictional chat with George Washington about the American Revolution over a meal.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A creation myth reimagined in a poem.
by Natalia, 826CHI
A story told by her grandfather leads Betty on a journey where fiction and reality collide.
by Norah, Grade 5, 826DC
A student describes her mystical worm imaginary friend.
by Athena, 826NYC
In this poem, a student explores both the seen and unseen powers of a superhero.
by Ximena Torres, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poem about the lessons your family can teach you.
by Hanako M., Age 10, 826michigan
A "sense"-sational poem about the flowers in their yard.
by Camilla S.R., Grade 5, 826 Valencia
A student describes her imaginary friend from Funky Town.
by Victor, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
by Naomi, 826michigan
A (mostly) love letter to a kiwi with delicious imagery.
by Marisol, 826michigan
A young girl's poem about all the life she sees in her yard. English and Spanish versions included.
by Jesús, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Spyman is on an important mission—saving donuts from becoming bagels!
by Joshua, 826CHI
Alien monsters and a young boy forge a friendship over a dramatic series of events.
by Winta, 826DC
A concise but essential list of survival tips in the event of a sweet disaster.
Ren, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student explores what summer means to them.
by Keila, 826michigan
An "I A From" poem. English and Spanish versions included.
by Liliana, 826DC
This student’s heartbreaking personal narrative describes what it can feel like to have your parents get divorced.
by Smila H., Age 10, 826LA
A powerful acrostic poem that shares an encouraging message.
by Elena Chambers, 826michigan
Thinking of Cherry Coke lip gloss, community, and dancing, this narrator celebrates life from their front stoop.
by Donald W., Grade 4, 826michigan
A student describes their very helpful imaginary friend.
by Quinn, 826CHI
A piece that explores the dynamic nature of love and might just become your next Valentine's Day card.
by Ava Tassinari, 826 Boston
A story about a bullying incident on the school bus.
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 Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Girod, 826 New Orleans
This celebratory poem uses similes to list all of the things the writer loves about themself.
by Emma D., Grade 4, 826LA
A plea to the next President to provide better access to mental health treatment for youth.
by Pearl L., Age 10, 826DC
A story about Rory the dragon, the defender of all genders.
by Marisa, 826michigan
A series of tweets about an adventurous cat named Marcus. #SuperCat #Meow
by Claire, 826CHI
A poem about “unfinding” what was known and learning to explore.
by Uma, 826NYC
A witty set of foolproof pickup lines.
by Charm R., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
This poem tells the story of a courageous little bird.
by Alan, 826DC
This poem describes the thoughts of hunger.
by Marie, 826CHI
A monkey named Chesley saves the animals of the forest from an evil Master!
by Will, 826michigan
A student imagines life in the future.
by Hope L.C., Age 10, 826DC
A silly story about dragon fruits -- no wait, fruit dragons!
Elsie, 826 New Orleans
In this poem, a student celebrates individuality.
by Daphne, 826 Valencia
A girl named Chloe embarks on a heroic mission after discovering a new super-identity: Fluffy Justice!
by Alfredo Enriquez-Aguilar, 826 Valencia
Have you ever wanted to care for a dragon? This poem teaches you how.
by Muawiye, 826 Boston
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that the act of inclusion begins with feeling empathy.
by Clara, 826 Valencia
A detailed design for a new school that students would love, complete with outdoor spaces for tennis and ice-skating!
by Giannyl Guerrero Cabral, 826 Boston
A practical list of ways anyone can stop bullying.
by Ivan Newton Ponce, 826 Valencia
This poem uses sensory details to describe the writer's favorite places.
by Oscar, 826CHI
The story of a lifetime—literally.
by Kelis, 826NYC
On the planet Mars, Zoe must defeat the supervillain Zygorn to avenge her family! Wait—was it all a dream?
by Antoni L., 826DC
In this poem, the author discusses their origins through metaphor.
by Alexa, 826michigan
A poem that tastes like pepperoni pizza.
by Simone, 826michigan
A poem about appreciating trees and why we should study them.
by Mohamed F., 826 MSP
This poem uses descriptive language to leave the reader clues about the animal it is depicting.
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 Jeffrey, 826DC
In this "I Wish" poem, written in both Spanish and English, a student dreams of a more colorful world.
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 Ciaran, 826NYC
A creative field guide to a Mourning Cloak butterfly who lives in New York City.
by Dy’Stonie V., Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
A poem that highlights the bond between grandparent, grandchild, and a sweet perfume.
by Angel Flores Vazquez, 826 Valencia
This poem illustrates the effectiveness of descriptive language.
by Luana Anticona Nolasco, age 10, 826 Valencia
An eerie encounter with a shapeshifter after a grocery run.
by Caira N., Grade 5, 826NYC
A student lists all the reasons why her school is the best!
by K.M., 826DC
In this piece, a student describes the challenges of being a superhero and reflects on their power to shine.
by Rechab T., 826DC
This poem takes a surreal approach to describing a scene.
by Walter Linares, Age 11, 826 Valencia
The secrets of a spy in a red venom suit unfold...
by Penelope, 826 Valencia
In this superhero story, Super Duper Scarlet must save San Fran Superland from Doctor Nefario!
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 Robert, 826CHI
A collection of haikus spanning books and cosmology.
by Kenneth Vasquez, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student reflects on their love of soccer.
by Dahlia-Rose, 826NYC
A field guide to Queen Anne’s Lace and a day in the life from a flower’s perspective.
by Marisa, 826NYC
A student reports on Islamophobia, using research and interviews to explore this mindset and its damaging repercussions.
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 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 Jonathan Rivera Navarro, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates and mourns a taco.
by Fatima, 826michigan
A list poem about a beautiful room and a beautiful family in both English and Spanish.
by Elian de Leon, 826NYC
A poem that focuses on color and translates it into sensory details.
by Ehmely, 826CHI
A crucial missive for anyone playing a high-stakes game of "Hide and Seek".
by Yarely, 826michigan
A poem about grandma. English and Spanish versions included.
by Lux, 826NYC
A student reflects on their experiences with bullying and how they’ll take a stand in the future.
by Jalen, 826NYC
A series of superhero haiku inspired by engineering secret lairs.
by Violeta, 826CHI
A monster's routine trip for tuna sandwich ingredients results in a broken arm!
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 Faisa, age 9, 826 MSP
This poem writes from the perspective of a Prairie Shooting Star flower, detailing a day in its life.
by Meredith, 826michigan
A poem about globe-sized dreams.
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 Luis Cornejo, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student recalls the first time they saw a ghost.
by Joseline, 826DC
A personal narrative about a teensie, tiny bit of jealousy for a new baby sister turning into love.
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 Kevin J. Ortiz, 826DC
A personal narrative about a trip to Ocean City, a lonely puppy, and sharing our fears with others.
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 Ayelen C., Age 9, 826 Valencia
A student's sweet letter to their grandmother.
by Natalie, 826 Valencia
A recipe for how to create a legendary rapper.
by Milo, 826NYC
A creative origin story in which a programmer simultaneously creates life and biology in a program.
by Salimatou, 826NYC
Together, a princess with superpowers and an orphan-turned-sidekick must save the king and queen of kingdom Atarica!
by Javier, 826DC
A student wishes for unexpected pops of color.
by Robert, 826CHI
A poem that explores the struggles of mine workers.
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!
Nur Schlenker, Age 10, 826 Valencia
A student paints two images, one of Halloween night, and the second of home.
by Christian, 826 New Orleans
This poem uses personification to introduce the audience to an olive and its cousin, Jeff.
by Salma, Grade 5, 826 Boston
A student reminds herself of the many ways she shines
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 Camila R.G., Grade 4, 826LA
In this letter, a student asks the next U.S. President to help the homeless.
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 Lyric White, age 10, 826 Valencia
A magical mountain quest to save a mermaid.
by Kathryn, 826NYC
A very scientific origin poem about french fries, starting with an argument between the sun and the moon.
by Zari P., Grade 4, 826DC
A playful "I am" poem that explores what's possible.
by Sumaya, 826 MSP
This poem uses analogies to describe different objects the writer would like to be.
by Reyes, 826NYC
A creative field guide to the eastern gray squirrel.
by Madison, 826 New Orleans
This poem leaves the reader descriptive clues to help them guess the mystery food.
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 Marvin, Grade 5, 826CHI
A troubled ghost haunts a boy’s dreams.
by Kayla, 826LA
This author reflects on an act of kindness to someone in need.
by Juna, 826michigan
A poem about taking the world in—and letting go.
Nasir Farmer, Age 8, 826 Boston
Our protagonist attempts to evade a boogieman invasion.
by Aiden Spence, Grade 3, 826NYC
This poem describes all of the reasons why green is the best color.
by Abdinasir, 826 MSP
This poem shares what someone might experience on Halloween.
by Kayamaghi, 826NYC
A lab experiment goes wrong and a humble scientist must save Superhero Land from a super speedy villain!
by Damian A., Grade 4, 826CHI
A student describes their bear-y fun imaginary friend.
by Talia, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Sea Lettuce.
by Kevin, 826LA
A letter from the author to the author on appreciating both the unconventional and conventional parts of oneself.
by Jaceon B., Grade 4, 826 New Orleans
A student describes their butter covered imaginary friend.
by Emmanuel, 826DC
A personal narrative about a tender first sighting between brothers on a family trip to El Salvador.
by Maia Sears, 826michigan
This student describes exciting things the future will bring, like elevators that can reach space!
by Olivia, 826NYC
An elegy for corn.
by Charlie, 826michigan
A very scientific retelling of why dinosaurs went extinct.
by Alongkorn, 826 New Orleans
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that unlike wasabi gummies, there is no expiration date for making amends.
by Maria, 826 Valencia
This student gives thanks to ordinary objects in an ode.
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 Elaine, 826 Boston
A diary entry reflecting on a secret mission to Mars!
Raven, 826 New Orleans
You guessed it—an ode to cookies.
by Felix E., 826 Valencia
A student's fear is conquered after a startling discovery.
Perla Ortega, Age 9, 826 Valencia
A poet sweetly appreciates a teacher for her kindness.
Roberto Misael Aguilera, Age 9, 826 Valencia
Discover the fearful T-Rex Koala--koala by day, monster by night!
by Jack, Grade 5, 826 New Orleans
In this transcript, a student shares three clear actions to stand up to bullies.
Dominick Contreras Rodriguez, age 9, 826 Valencia
A student traces his identity through food and family.
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 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 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 Erriyanna, 826michigan
An epic poem about a younger sister. English and Spanish versions included.
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