Grade 8
NarrativeWritingThe sun radiates with light and sunbeams stretch across the brightly colored skies of blue, purple, yellow, and red. This is during dusk, where everything is falling asleep and something else begins to awaken. This is an area where the mind can return to and think. The dimming star gives off a sense that it is leaving and saying its goodbyes like it will never return. However, even though the sad departure makes your heart ache a little, you know that it is not permanent. That it will come back again. So instead, while looking straight ahead at the sun, those feelings of loss and sorrow are replaced by hope and anticipation for the next time you see it again.
There are subtle hints of blooming roses, water lilies, and sunflowers expanding beyond the vast meadows and creeks. They symbolize change, rebirth, and beauty after dealing with hardships in the past. After the green fields are the forests of pine trees and willows gracefully swaying to the distant echoes of an orchestra and piano. The melodies carried out by this ensemble are melancholy but impactful. You feel lifted from your feet by such an expression. Yet, you are reminded of the realities from your emotions and you immediately fall back down in the harmless trap. You ponder why you feel this way as you realize these tunes reflect what you truly feel. It feels soothing and at times melodramatic.
You do not want to change because it is comforting and it makes you feel understood but if you wish to grow, then you must find new ways of doing so. This world feels like somewhere where you can belong and be accepted to. Although, it is only a figment of your imagination. A world that is telling you where you are now and who you can be tomorrow. This is a decision that you can ignore and stay in the comfort zone or go forth on the journey of growth. Your negative thoughts in the shadows of this realm can be erased once you are finished with your expedition. However, they will not be forgotten so that you can remember how much progress you have made once you have built your confidence.
The sun at this point has fallen at the edge of the map, the night taking full control of the domain. This is the time for you to leave now after you have gotten your answers. Hopefully, you can make those aspirations turn into action. You watch as the sun disappears, hoping you can get one last glimpse of it. Eventually, you are swept off your feet from leaves and petals and they carry you up into the sky, soaring higher and higher. A bright light gleams in front of you and it makes you feel uncertain at first but then you close your eyes, welcoming it.
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 Emmanuel J., 826NYC
An avid basketball fan discusses the rise of the Golden State Warriors through its individual players.
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 Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
by Sharon, 826CHI
A memoir about finding true friendship.
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
by Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem, a student reflects on identity.
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 Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
by Renée, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
by Soeun Lee, Grade 8, Tenafly, New Jersey
In this poem, a student observes a dove's flight and reflects on their ability to soar.
by V.G., 826LA
A poem that muses on the purpose of borders in question and answer format.
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 Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Elizabeth W., 826 Valencia
A persuasive piece for women and girls to unite and cultivate a culture of body image positivity.
by Andy, 826CHI
In this memoir, a few friends bond over a rare Pokémon Go catch.
by Jiaxi, 826CHI
A student’s worldview is forever altered after a lesson on the Segregation Era and Jim Crow.
by Rafael, 826CHI
A student remembers an afternoon adventure around town and explores what Chicago and community mean to him.
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 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 Jeff, 826CHI
In this piece, a student describes Christmas as a holiday best spent together.
by Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Kiara, 826CHI
In this personal narrative, a student explores growing up young and black in Chicago.
by Iliana, 826CHI
A student searches for answers in their community.
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
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 Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
by Isabel, 826 Boston
From the forthcoming anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem features a student battling with the voices constricting her freedom.
by Jabari, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
A poem about wanting more from life.
by Vivian, 826CHI
A narrative about loving to run—and learning to never quit!
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
by Arielle B., Grade 8
This poem invites readers to remember that people are often going through more than choose to show.
by Diego, 826CHI
On the funniest day of this student’s life…
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
by Jack, 826 Valencia
An argument against the overconsumption of sugar outlines the ways its effects are anything but sweet.
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 David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A middle school student firmly protests the flavor and quality of her school’s lunches.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
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 Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Sara Sofia Becerra L., Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love for music with the world.
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 Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
by Lola, 826 Valencia
A poem that portrays the arc of a love story told through the gift of a cigarette lighter.
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 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 Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Mya, 826CHI
A piece packed with vivid description about taking risks at an ice rink.
by Victor, 826CHI
An epic memoir about an epic volleyball match! Who will win: the teachers or the students?
by Salome Maldonando, 826CHI
A poem about unrequited love.
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Arianny, 826 Boston
A poem that celebrates being Latino
by Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Cayden, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
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 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 Laila, 826CHI
A memoir about losing a parent—and a community’s support.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Angel, 826CHI
A student writes about the transformative experience of changing schools.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
by Inge S., Age 13, 826CHI
Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
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 Natalie, 826CHI
Weaving together Spanish and English, a student shares the discovery of a family secret.
by Evelyn Escamilla, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by 826NYC students
This collaborative poem explores the many sides and senses of laughter.
by David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
by Dayana Alvarado, 826CHI
A student shares finding home in two places: Mexico and Chicago.
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