Grades 7–8
PoetryWritingI can’t travel.
Why can’t I travel?
My parents are undocumented.
Why are they undocumented?
They were born in Mexico.
Why does that stop them?
It stops them because we live in world where papers matter.
Why do papers matter?
I’m actually not sure why it matters.
I’m upset because if I want to go somewhere my parents can’t come.
It makes me mad.
It makes me sad.
It makes me wonder.
It makes me wonder why borders exist.
by Violet Roberts, Grade 8, 826DC
This personal narrative explores the connection between music, place, and self-reflection. We recommend reading it while listening to the included playlist.
Amara, 826 New Orleans
An ode celebrating an important figure in this student’s life.
by Judethan Garfias Muñoz, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
This loving poem uses descriptive language to pay tribute to the writer's family.
by Cora B., Grade 8
This narrative uses nature imagery, to help the reader walk through a day in the speaker's shoes
by Duanté, 826 Valencia
A personal narrative about race and identity.
by John, 826NYC
A creative commentary on food justice in which Digestive Man defends local farms from Corn Boy and the Factory Farmers!
by Johnny Vasquez, 826 MSP
A family interview reveals a mother's painful past and shines a light on her persistence.
by Jabari, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
A poem about wanting more from life.
by Diego, 826CHI
On the funniest day of this student’s life…
by Harrison, 826michigan
A recursive poem that helps students explore the potential connections between math fractals and verse.
by Jiyu Kim, Grade 7, Union Middle School, San Jose, CA
This poem shares the beautiful things that can happen when doubt fades away.
by CA, Grade 7, 826CHI
A writer's honest view of who they are and their potential.
by Jason, 826michigan
Making bottle flipping look like child's play, this piece outlines rules for the new, competitive Fantasy Sport "Pencils".
by Madison, 826CHI
In this compelling essay, a student rejects apathy and explores what really matters in conversations about solving gun violence towards black and brown men.
by Sahir M., Grade 7
This poem uses metaphors to describe who the speaker really is.
by Caroline, 826 Valencia
A student explores U.S. soccer player Megan Rapinoe’s decision to kneel in protest during the national anthem.
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 Kiara, 826CHI
In this personal narrative, a student explores growing up young and black in Chicago.
by Natalie, 826CHI
Weaving together Spanish and English, a student shares the discovery of a family secret.
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 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student walks through her neighborhood searching for hidden stories.
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 Annapoorani L., Grade 7, Seattle WA
A student recounts their experience with a school shooting in a letter to the next U.S. President to reform gun control.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
An acrostic poem about the Black Lives Matter movement.
by Curtis, 826michigan
A rhyming (inverse) ode to a very irritating noise.
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 Jeremiah Borgella, Grade 7, 826NYC
This powerful poem is a reminder that being Black is a superpower.
by Christian Z., Age 14, 826 Valencia
A poet recounts his day out at the Yerba Buena Gardens.
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 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 Iliana, 826CHI
A student searches for answers in their community.
by Laila, 826CHI
A memoir about losing a parent—and a community’s support.
by Mya, 826CHI
A piece packed with vivid description about taking risks at an ice rink.
by Djeneba Soumaoro, 826michigan
A student’s manifesto!
by Isabella C., Age 13, 826 Valencia
The misadventures of finding a missing wallet.
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 Blanca Estrada, Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem explores all of sides of a tender heart.
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 Angel, 826CHI
A student writes about the transformative experience of changing schools.
by David & Daniel, 826CHI
In this heartfelt exchange of letters, two students bond over food, videos games, and some scary adventures.
by Andres Santisteban-Perez, age 12, 826 Valencia
When playing video games one night turned into a nightmare.
by Anonymous, Grade 8, 826 Boston
In this poem from the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, a student reflects on identity.
by Lesly, 826 Valencia
A sports poem about the losing blues.
by Asa, 826CHI
This narrator embarks on a mysterious vacation in the sky!
Sizwe H., Age 13, 826michigan
A poet appreciates their loyal riding partner.
by Mariah Valenzuela, Minneapolis, MN
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poet uses her voice to speak up for those who have been silenced in the indigenous community.
by Isabella Serrato, Grade 7, 826 Dallas Project
This poem uses sound devices to enhance the overall tone.
by Jin, 826LA
This student says thank you to her Mom, her hero, for a life full love and beef noodles!
Mahera A., Age 12, 826CHI
What happens when the only thing two people have in common is their love for each other?
by Brigid, 826CHI
A poem about facing fear—and learning how to shine.
by Ibrahim, Grade 7, 826 MSP
In this letter from the Essential Words lesson, 7th grader Ibrahim thanks Nurses for the heart and soul they put into caring for their patients and fighting disease.
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 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 Crystal Colorado, Age 12, 826 Valencia
This poem will take you to the beach and make you wonder if it was all a dream.
by Khloe Fewster, 826 Valencia
This poem uses repetition to give advice for when you're feeling unsure of yourself.
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 Arianny, 826 Boston
A student reflects on the beauty, flavors, and pride of being Latino.
by Rafael, 826CHI
A student remembers an afternoon adventure around town and explores what Chicago and community mean to him.
by Marco, 826LA
A screenplay about a plane crash and an epic journey to Mexico, with a twist!
by Elsy, 826LA
Song lyrics about memories of cake and pizza, friendship, and giving 1,000 opinions.
by Renée, Grade 8, 826NYC
A persuasive letter detailing to the recipient the pointlessness of writing a persuasive letter. A helpful example for reluctant writers.
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 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 Wayne Gillyard, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love of all things yellow.
by Chelsea, 826NYC
A creative field guide to Daddy Longlegs.
by Charlotte, 826CHI
A poem about spring!
by Jack, 826 Valencia
An argument against the overconsumption of sugar outlines the ways its effects are anything but sweet.
by Uma Cantone, 826NYC
Ever wonder what would happen if the sky fell? This student uses metaphor to explore new beginnings.
by Arielle B., Grade 8
This poem invites readers to remember that people are often going through more than choose to show.
by Alondra, 826CHI
An epic story of a princess who seeks acceptance among the stars.
by Salome Maldonando, 826CHI
A poem about unrequited love.
by Shayne Williams
Discover what one student experiences when they tuck their phone away for a whole day.
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 Isabel, 826 Boston
From the 826 National anthology, Poets in Revolt!, this poem features a student battling with the voices constricting her freedom.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem that explores all that a tree can stand for.
by Cayden, Grade 8, 826DC
This poem lists all of the pieces that make up the writer's whole.
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 Alonso, Grade 7, 826 Boston
An insightful set of instructions for surviving seventh grade, from a recent seventh grader in Boston.
by Anjum, 826CHI
A shout-out poem to some things missed (Hyderabad) and celebrated (Mom).
by Janelle Suazo, age 12, 826 Valencia
A school dare gone horribly wrong!
by Sebastian Cendejas, 826CHI
A student reflects on how much Chicago means to them.
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 Salvador M., Grade 7, 826DC
A peaceful reflection on what type of place a student would be.
by Andy, 826CHI
In this memoir, a few friends bond over a rare Pokémon Go catch.
by Sam, 826CHI
In this poem, a student pits mathematics against the unknown.
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 Jeff, 826CHI
In this piece, a student describes Christmas as a holiday best spent together.
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 Sela, 826 MSP
This poem holds big dreams for the speaker's future.
Willa Jones, Grade 8, Salt Lake City, UT
A young author explores a memory of stimming and captures the depth of their experience in a sparkling poem: "wishing I could shift into whatever form. / UNBOUND by what society expects. Free."
by Sara Sofia Becerra L., Age 14, 826 Valencia
This poem shares the writer's love for music with the world.
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 David, 826CHI
A student writes about the smell, taste, and pace of their neighborhood.
by Jiaxi, 826CHI
A student’s worldview is forever altered after a lesson on the Segregation Era and Jim Crow.
by Victor, 826CHI
An epic memoir about an epic volleyball match! Who will win: the teachers or the students?
by Jose Martin Gomez, 826 Valencia
This poem celebrates a special person in the writer's life.
by Giovanna, 826NYC
An informative how-to on using a pen that can manipulate time and space.
by Tylor, 826NYC
A lean but essential checklist for readers to determine if they are awake.
by Claire Leiva, Grade 6, 826michigan
A poem about the writer's favorite animal—corgis!
by Yvanna Bodiana, Age 13, 826 Valencia
A reflection on freedom and Black resilience in the face of opposition.
by Mateo, 826CHI
An informative entry on the meaning and usage of a student-inspired word: doomungous.
by Kevin, 826NYC
An informational briefing on a horrible incident in the year 5176 that changed the hoverboarding industry forever.
by Lola, 826 Valencia
A poem that portrays the arc of a love story told through the gift of a cigarette lighter.
by Evelyn Escamilla, Grade 8, 826 Valencia
This poem uses metaphors and similes to describe happiness.
by Renee, 826NYC
A poem about a place where ideas can grow.
by Issa Caothien, 826NYC
In this resolution inspired by the "Include Someone" lesson and Cartoon Network storyboard, we learn that if you work together, you're golden!
by Byanna & Kayla, 826CHI
Two students across one city bond by writing letters to each other about the people they love most.
by Destiny, 826NYC
In this poem, a student contrasts conflicting perspectives on the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
by the Class of 640 at M.S. 88, 826NYC
This bilingual poem shares an excellent recipe for how to survive middle school.
Jerieliz Garcia & Jaiden Vinti, 826NYC
Two poets braid together their reflections on where they come from.
by Chidi A., Age 12, 826 Valencia
A poet hears the weight of history like music when playing basketball.
by Xaria, 826 Valencia
An argument against the wage gap that prevails in the U.S. and across the globe.
by Kaitlyn, 826NYC
A middle school student firmly protests the flavor and quality of her school’s lunches.
by Emmanuel J., 826NYC
An avid basketball fan discusses the rise of the Golden State Warriors through its individual players.
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 Fahima Dahir, 826 MSP
A poem about the strength and limitations of language and shared culture.
by Dayana Alvarado, 826CHI
A student shares finding home in two places: Mexico and Chicago.
by Eva, 826 Valencia
A student celebrates the journey of discovering whom to love.
Zain L., Age 13, 826CHI
A poet fights to understand a crucial question.
by Inge S., Age 13, 826CHI
Part riddle, part observations, this poem leaves the reader with big things to think about.
by Sharon, 826CHI
A memoir about finding true friendship.
by Elizabeth W., 826 Valencia
A persuasive piece for women and girls to unite and cultivate a culture of body image positivity.
by Sian Laing
When Instagram becomes an unsightly battlefield.
by Calvin, 826michigan
A student professes love—to a jalapeño!
by Luis, 826LA
This student writes a letter to a hero with a sweet double kick: Jackie Chan!
by Angel, 826CHI
Several friends harness a new source of energy and develop superpowers—with a surprise ending! Both Spanish and English versions available.
by Jamie, 826 Valencia
A metaphorical poem about frustrations, from homework to homelessness.
by Vivian, 826CHI
A narrative about loving to run—and learning to never quit!
by Satis, 826 Valencia
A student argues for the importance of transgender rights in response to current events.
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