Stargazing
A Collection by RCPS+ Middle School Writers | Summer 2024
Stargazing
We Are Stars
The theme for RCPS+ this summer was We Are Stars. Middle school English and creative writing students practiced reading, writing, and discussing in RCPS+ English classrooms every day. This collection showcases many of their shining stars.
Inspiration from Authentic Literature
Students were inspired to find their voices by reading and discussing the following anchor texts in English classrooms throughout the summer:
Informational texts (nonfiction) about the Greek and Roman gods, the planet Mars, space exploration, and technology.
“We Have Always Lived on Mars,” a short story by Cecil Castellucci
various poems
Editing
The pieces in this publication represent a range of ages and literacy levels. Just as would be true in a professional publication, all pieces in this magazine have been edited for spelling, punctuation, and some grammar (when
necessary for clarity). The concepts, ideas, and organization of each piece have not been edited. In some cases, when left untitled by the student writer, pieces have been assigned a title by the editor. Parents and guardians were provided an opportunity to opt-out if they preferred not to have their child’s pieces published. Some students’ writing may not have been published if it was turned in late, illegible, incomplete, or in a file format that could not be opened.
Edited & Designed by Lisa Renard-Spicer
Colophon
Fonts used in this publication include Biome (masthead and header/footer), Aptos Black (titles and headings), an Aptos Light (body text).
2024 RCPS+ English Teachers
Destiny Brown
Christine Dittmyre
Beverly Frazier
Kelly Shaver
Laura Spangler
COVER IMAGE | Mikhail Nilov on Pexels
WRITING PROMPT: After reading the informational article “A Slick Little Robot” by Harry T Roman (2015), GRADE 6 students were tasked with writing an essay answering the following question.
If you created a robot to do a task for mankind, what would it be and why?
A Robot for Laundry
Anaijah C
If I could create a robot to help with any task on Earth, it would be to fulfill the task of laundry. Laundry is a weekly task that can become very stressful and time-consuming. Creating a laundry robot would save time, reposition my energy, simply take away excess stress.
Truthfully, I'm a tired person. I have to clean weekly, as well as tend to schoolwork, and make time to hang out with friends and enjoy life. I want a robot that completes the task of laundry because I could program it to do my laundry at a certain time or certain day. If I have a busy day and I need clean clothes, all I would have to do is ask the robot to do it for me. This would give me extra time to rest. It has been told to me for years that people shouldn't leave home with the dryer running because it can catch on fire, so with the busy life that I live, I would be able to remain stress-free from concerns with appliances and have free time to enjoy being a teenager.
Because at the time of learning, it would be easy to learn to do the activities and it would also work for many. A robot that helps you with your homework and finds your favorite music. My first reason is it will play music. It would be any music to meet the person's taste. My second reason is to ask it questions. Questions such as intelligence and research that the person does not know can be used as questions for school homework. The most important robot comes into your life and makes it easier
This will be the first robot that helps you understand school assignments much better and play your favorite music without judging your type of music. Many children find it difficult to understand the tasks and the robot's job is to explain and tell them better explanations so they can understand. Bayeily, the robot that helps you do your homework and plays your favorite music.
The BF-35
Theodore T
A Learning Robot
Yeivannys G
Hasn’t it happened to you that when you are busy you haven't been able to answer or make calls or you can't play the music you like? A robot that does it for you would be easier. You need someone to help you play music, call or to ask questions I present to the Bayeily, the name of my learning robot.
I want BF-35 or Battle Franky 35 to help people and save people from crime. It has a fire sword for fighting criminals also he has a firework launcher. This robot will help the community and the police.
BF-35 cost depends because you can get customization on every part. The least expensive part is 45 dollars. It is an armor piece for its arm. The most expensive part is a jet pack for 350 dollars. For people who are new, I recommend the transportation piece for
120 dollars. It is a like a mini golf cart that can carry your BF-35 anywhere across the globe! I think the best items for the BF-35 are the leg blasters; they can shoot each leg at each enemy and it will come back in 10 seconds This item truly is the best! Those come at a cost of 95 dollars each. That is all the pieces we can give you for the buck!
Some people are probably asking where can I get an amazing BF-35? You can get it at any Walmart and a Target for 1,000 dollars. It’s pretty pricey but it’s very worth it because the robot protects you from any crime. For online shoppers you can get it on eBay and Amazon I think this robot is truly amazing protecting people from crime and ensuring their safety!
The Tree Bot
Alexander Z
Since all the trees have been burned by forest fires and cut down by us we should replant the trees but we don't.
So if we’re too lazy to plant trees why not make a robot to do it? I thought of a robot to plant and water trees. There are two of them one can water and one can plant. All we have to do is fertilize the soil! We might even be able to put cool little designs on them and if they get out of hand all you got to do is fix them, reprogram them with the device. There's a controller device that you can use to reprogram and fix them. They're also waterproof and bug proof. Maybe in the future we could even build robots to build buildings for us and help the environment with our gas problems in the atmosphere.
Aurora the Healing Robot
Josue F
The robot that will change your life is super intelligent. It takes care of you, it protects you from any risk, it's your best friend-
-always helps you no matter what You need help? For there's the robot that takes care of you or helps you , he will always accompany you, trust in Aurora the name of my healing robot.
What if I get sick? It would heal me and help me, and if I fall it would heal me with a first aid kit It would also take care of many dangers that would be near and would accompany me everywhere. Aurora the robot that will take care of you. My first reason is to heal sickness. He will take care of you, he will give you the medications, he will take care of the medical clinic appointments, etc. My second reason is to keep you safe. It will keep you safe wherever you go from bad people and any danger of any kind: falls, theft, accidents, etc. Do not hesitate to trust Aurora to protect and take care of you whenever you need it. Aurora is the best robot that helps you with your problems and is always there for what you need. Aurora is important because it takes care of you from any problems and insecurity. You will be well in anything Aurora helps you take care of yourself and always protects you.
Bob Auto Jackson C
I'm going to make a robot that would be able to make car parts and put car parts on for free, getting the robot is free! The name of the robot is Bob Auto. Bob Auto has 1 terabyte of storage.
Buy Bob Auto for free! The look is like a Roomba with arms. Bob Auto is a robot that is a square 3 foot x 3 foot x 1 foot. Max speed making parts 10 mph.
Real speed 15 mph. Bob Auto paints cars as well. Get Bob Auto in any color.
A Robot to Cook & Clean
Nikhat A
Have you ever wanted someone to drive you around the city? A robot can clean floors, wash clothes, and cook. If I could create a robot, I would make one to wash the dishes and clean the floor.
My robot will do two things: cleaning and cooking. My first reason is cleaning floor, dishes, dusting, mop, removing trash, vacuum cleaner, and etc. My second reason is cooking. It will make pizza, sandwich, salad, rice, spaghetti, sea food and etc. This is why my robot will be successful because of the easy work.
My robot is important because it makes things easier. My reasons are it helps with cleaning and cooking. I will love my robot because she takes care of all my chores.
Robot Teachers
Anivel A
Wouldn't it be nice to get a full education from home? In public schools, students are exposed to outside dangers and social stuggles; however, if I had the opportunity to have a robot fulfill any task, it would be to teach students grade-level standards. Not only would it support students' safety, but it can also prevent student conflict and controversy of modern technology.
It would be positive for robots to teach from home because cell phones have been a struggle in public schools. They cause major distractions in the classroom and students’ lives. Students meet up in the bathroom and record Tik-Toks and at times, instigate altercations. It has been a struggle for teachers, parents, and administrations for years to manage concerns with phones. At home, students can use their phones without disrespecting teachers and school rules, while
also receiving their education at their own pace.
Another reason why a robot teacher would be beneficial is to support students who experience bullying and social anxiety. It would be beneficial because students that are being bullied would be able to be separated from their problem and still receive an adequate education. This could also help students with social anxiety because they can have time to be by themselves and focus.
Braider Robot
Cristian C
Have you ever rejected someone braiding your hair because you are tenderheaded?
This occurs often because people cannot handle the pain of getting braids. But wouldn't it be nice to have a robot that can braid your hair without pain, and that you can control the tightness of the braid or how intense the braiding process is? Also, a braiding robot can be a cheaper option than a real braider. It can do many different hairstyles and complete the job quickly.
First, a braiding robot can be gentle and reduce pain on your scalp. Sometimes braiders are too aggressive, and you can't get braided because there is too much pain. Getting your hair braided is also very expensive, to the point that some people can't afford it. But with a braiding robot, you can control the pain and also adjust the intensity of the braids.
Second, having a braiding robot can be a lot cheaper, and you wouldn't have to pay money to get your braids done. It might not be as perfect as what a real human can do, but it will get the job done for a much cheaper price. Lastly, a braiding robot can also do many different hairstyles. Imagine having a menu of different hairstyles you can choose from, because sometimes the choices are limited at a hair salon. But having a braiding
robot can be different, and you wouldn't have to wait to make an appointment or wait in line to get your hair done. A braiding robot can also do the job quickly.
In conclusion, a braiding robot can be helpful for people who like or would like to get braids without pain, expensive prices, or being late to your date.
Command Robot
Marleigh D
What kind of robot could help the world? A command robot! A command robot can help everyone! It can do many things. For example, it can do lawn work, clean your house, cook, and work on cars. It can also help businesses! It can do anything you ask it to, but how would this help the world?
The best reason for this is that it can help all different people. It can help busy parents, disabled people, and elderly people who can't do things themselves. It has security features so when you leave your house, it can make sure nobody will break in. It can even alert the police.
I like my robot because it can help lots of people. I hope it can help people who need assistance with different things if they don't have access to the help they need. This is why the command robot can help people and why it is worth buying.
WRITING PROMPT: After reading the informational article “This Tiny Animal is Apocalypse Proof” by Maria Temming (2017), GRADE 7 students were tasked with writing an opinion essay answering the following questions.
Consider the idea of using tardigrades as experiments for interplanetary colonization. What would make them good to use for living on planets we can’t go to ourselves yet? What might make that a bad idea? Should we intentionally introduce tardigrades to Mars or other planets?
Water Bear
Sophia H
Water bear might end up being the last animal on earth. Also known as tardigrades, these microscopic creatures are tough. Water bears could survive nuclear war, global warming, or astronomical events. Tardigrades should not be on other planets because the Water Bear cannot survive on Mars and other planets. Imagine discovering creatures that cannot survive on another planet. We should be troubled to send tardigrades to Mars and other planets because they might die on other planets.
Tardigrades to Space
Kellen A
Hey guess what? I bet you did not know about tardigrades (water bears). These creatures are going to live until the sun turns into a black hole and the earth gets sucked in. That means billions of years from now. And they could help humans start life on a planet, is not that cool?
I am about to write an essay about tardigrades (water bears) and why humans should send tardigrades to space. Tardigrades should be taken to other planets to start some life on that planet. It may help us put more life on that planet and we can bring them back and see what is on that planet like the air quality,
etc. And they can live without food or water for an exceptionally long time. Tardigrades (water bears) should be sent to space because we need to see if they can live there or not. And to help us start life on that planet and bring them back to see what the air quality is like on that planet. To see if they can live there. We cannot just assume that animals and plants can live there without proof and if we do then that means the air could kill the animals and plants. So that we can have proof that animals could live there. To see if the air quality is good for animals and plants. Because what if air quality is bad and we did not know that that’s why tardigrades would help? Those are all the reasons why we should send the tardigrades to space. Tardigrades should be taken to other planets because we could search for life and build life on that planet. And get them back to earth so we can see what is in the air. Also, they can live without water or food for an exceptionally long time. We humans think we can start life on planets, so this is a clever idea. So, I think we should send the tardigrades to another planet so, do you think we should send tardigrades to planets?
Water Bears
Tam C
Have you ever heard of tardigrades? Like those little creatures that might be the last
animal on Earth? While this animal is very small, it is very strong, and looks like a squished, hairless pig, with lots of legs. Tardigrades can survive without food or water for many years. This is why I think we should send them to other planets to find life.
Tardigrades can survive from a supernova which is an explosion and no matter how strong the supernova is it cannot affect the tardigrade. It can survive from just being frozen at –272 Celsius. Tardigrades are not indestructible, and they are not harmful to humans.
Did you know that if there is no more water in the ocean or rivers then there will be no water bears? But this is why we should send tardigrades to a different planet. Tardigrades are just trying to find life and it is not trying to harm humans and plus they live for a very long time.
Tardigrades Finding Life on Different Planets
Ahkir A
The field of science could benefit from sending organisms to space to find life, specifically tardigrades. They would be great to carry out this task because they are durable organisms that can go years without food and they can help us find out useful information, such as what is going on at different planets.
These durable organisms are extraordinarily strong. They can withstand high pressure and extremely high and low temperatures. They can survive decades without food and water. They are also able to survive massive explosions, so we would not have to worry about destroying a whole source of organisms.
This is a clever idea because we would want to know if life is suitable on a different planet. This would be an innovative idea to send water bears to the planet to see if it is suitable or not. Overall, this idea is good
because if Earth were to explode, we would already have a backup planet to live on.
About Tardigrades (Water Bears)
Trishtan C
Tardigrades are so small that you need a microscope to see them. Tardigrades are also known as water bears, so the name makes you think they would be huge bears that live in water. However, they are actually rock/worm looking creatures with lots of legs. We should send tardigrades to space because they are durable and strong, to see if they would survive, also they may like it there and stay.
Tardigrades are hardy and can go decades without food and water. They can survive temperatures as low as -272 degrees Celsius or temperature as high as 150 degrees Celsius. They can also survive exposure to extreme radiation. Something would have to boil the ocean away to terminate Tardigrades on earth.
Since tardigrades can survive almost anything on earth, I want to see if they can survive anything on another planet. I am not sure what extreme conditions the tardigrades will have to face but I believe they will be able to survive space as well. Then we can do research on them in space too.
All About Water Bears
Ariel Kayla C
For years, Scientists have wanted to explore more about space. In summer school, I have recently learned about tardigrades, which are also known as water bears.
I think it would be a wholesome idea to send water bears to space.
The plants that tardigrades eat can absorb pollutant and toxins in the air and water. The tardigrades were able to survive in
the simulated Martian conditions by entering a state of cryptobiosis. Their unique abilities could be used to preserve other biological materials. They can protect again radiation, oxidative stress, and DNA damage. One unique ability can be that they’re extraordinarily strong and hard to kill they are unstoppable! Another unique ability that they have is that they can survive being completely dried out; being frozen to just above absolute zero (about minus 458 degrees Fahrenheit, when all molecular motion stops); or, heated to more than 300 degrees Fahrenheit.
The tardigrades can also survive and reproduce without any negative effects during space flight. No beast on Earth is tougher than the tiny tardigrade. It can survive being frozen at -272° Celsius, being exposed to the vacuum of outer space and even being blasted with 500 times the dose of X-rays that would kill a human. In other words, the creature can endure conditions that do not even exist on Earth.
For my conclusion I think it would be a wholesome idea to send Water Bears to space because it would be okay and safe to send them to space.
Tardigrades in Space
Dominique H
Imagine how an Earth animal would survive on Mars. Earth creatures shouldn’t be sent to Mars, for danger can occur. Either the planet or the tardigrades also known as a water bear. Water bears are invertebrates that are known for surviving harsh environments. They can be found in water or film moss. The name "water-bear" comes from the way they walk, reminiscent of a bear's gait. Water bears are able to survive at temperatures as low as negative 328 degrees.
We should not send tardigrades to Mars, because it could go wrong. They could end up harming themselves or even
Mars. We cannot know for sure what will happen but the chances are not perfect. It's unlikely, but not completely impossible, that we are going to find life, or traces of past life, on Mars. Life needs water in its cell structures, therefore even if tardigrades can survive harsh climates they might not get the things they need. We know for sure they can survive on Mars, only for about 10 days as told. They will live but if they wake up and re-hydrate they will die.
This is important to understand for we can create new problems, water bears are extremely sturdy but it is possible to overestimate their body. Mars is not an experiment yet concluded. As said, there is a chance they may wake up from cryptobiosis and end up dying immediately. Cryptobiosis is a state tardigrades go into and it almost seems like they are dead but not quite. In their cryptobiotic state, desiccated or frozen, they are amazingly durable to danger.
Tardigrades should stay on Earth, for all stated purposes. Trouble can be waiting and we don’t know, we can end up harming the Red Planet or the tardigrades sent there.
Just Say NO to Tardigrades in Space
Liliana M
Do you want sick people to breathe on you and make you sick? Just like we should keep our germs to ourselves when we are sick, we should also keep organisms from earth on earth.
We should not send tardigrades to explore planets because it costs too much, and we don't want to contaminate other planets. It will cost too much to send tardigrades to other planets. We should take care of ourselves by getting rid of pollution in the air and recycle all trash Tardigrades could die on other planets and then we will have wasted a lot of money.
We don't want to contaminate. We should take care of ourselves.
Tardigrades: The Aliens of
Planet Earth
David R
Water bears, known as Tardigrades, are strong microscopic creatures that can live/survive in very harsh climates and even live in outer space! I believe that we should bring these microscopic creatures to different planets because tardigrades are extraordinarily strong and can survive outer space’s vacuum.
I think tardigrades should be brought to different planets. Here are a few reasons. Tardigrades are extraordinarily strong creatures and are hard to kill. They can live years and decades without food or water. Tardigrades can also live in harsh climates. They could live in –272 Celsius and 150 Celsius without any problems or struggles. These extraordinary features lead me to believe that Tardigrades should be brought to different planets in space.
I personally think that these strong creatures should be sent to space because multiple things could happen. I believe this is important because it could lead into a new species of tardigrades and could evolve to the planet they are brought to. I think multiple good and extraordinary things could happen to these microscopic creatures if they are sent to space.
Tardigrades to Other Planets
Kanadia S
Water bears do not need anything to live, water bears can survive in any conditions They can survive through rain, thunderstorms, sun, and they can survive without food, and water. Water bears are so sturdy nuclear war wouldn't kill them. They are so sturdy, so they
are strong. I think it's a good idea to send water bears to other planets because they can survive in any weather conditions, they might end up the last animal on the planet. They cannot die easily. Water bears do not need anything to live, they can survive up to 40 years
Exploring Other Planets
Kanaria S
It will be a good idea for tardigrades to go to other planets . Wouldn't it be interesting to see if there is life on other planets?
One reason to send them is because they can go without food and drink for decades and still survive. So that would be a good reason why we can send them instead of humans to other planets. Another reason is they can survive in extreme heat and cold temperature. For example, they can survive temperatures plummeting to -272 Celsius going up to 150 degrees Celsius and. Another reason even a nuclear war probably wouldn't kill them.
Tardigrades seems to be the best choice to be sent to other planets rather than humans, because we don't know enough about the conditions of other planets. Just like the article said: tardigrades are indestructible.
About Water Bears
Kahlyn S
Do you want to read about little things that cannot die? They are called water bears, also known as tardigrades. Water bears cannot die, they can survive in any conditions whether it is frigid cold or a hot island. Tardigrades are microscopic critters that live all around the world. I think it would be a promising idea to send tardigrades to other planets because they can survive in any condition, and we can learn a lot from them.
We could learn a lot from tardigrades because they can survive up to 40 years without food or water. They might end up being the last animal on earth. They're also small so nobody would know when they're around. Tardigrades are microscopic critters that live all around the world.
Water Bears for Exploration
Kailyn W
I believe that we should bring tardigrades to other planets to explore. I think so because they can survive extreme conditions.
In the article it says that they survived temperatures plummeting to -272 degrees Celsius (-460 Fahrenheit) or skyrocketing to 150 degrees (c) (300 degrees). Do you think that tardigrades would survive living on other planets? I think yes because nothing can really harm them. I believe that bringing tardigrades to space for exploration would be a good decision. I think so because they can survive any condition unless something kills them physically, they will be fine.
WRITING PROMPT: After reading the informational article “Will We Know Alien Life When We See It?” by Tina Hesman Saey (2017), GRADE 8 students were tasked with writing an opinion essay answering the following question.
Astrobiologists search for and study signs of life beyond Earth. Do you think scientists should focus their energy on studying life on Earth or on finding life beyond Earth?
Helping Earth
Yaren A
Have you ever wanted to study life on planet Earth? Life on Earth is reaching its limit. Earth is heating up, causing global warming. The heat causes many life forms to struggle to support themselves. Trying to help Earth could slow down this problem by reducing many carbon emissions from objects that are causing pollution, such as cars. Cars are a daily use item for many humans. Finding other ways to power cars, such as using carbon to help run them while getting rid of it at the same time, could help.
We will live longer on Earth than on Mars. If we were on Mars right now, we would have less than two minutes to survive. Humans have lived on Earth since 190,000 B.C.E. We would not survive that long on Mars. Earth is better than Mars because we have the oxygen, food, and water necessary to keep us alive. It is the right distance from the Sun and is protected from harmful solar radiation by its magnetic field. For billions of years, we have studied more about geology, meteorology, climatology, and environmental science than space. We have learned more about Earth than space or Mars. Earth is much larger, denser, and heavier than Mars.
Helping Earth could improve life on this planet, giving organisms a chance to adapt to this situation. Helping Earth would slow down its problems, but eventually, it would be too much for Earth. So, future people, good luck with these problems.
Studying Life on Earth
LeAsiah F
Studying life on Earth is more important because 70% of the Earth’s ocean has not been discovered. The Mariana Trench was discovered in 1875 and is known for being the deepest point on Earth’s surface. Fifty percent of the U.S. ocean is still unmapped. “The intense pressures in the deep ocean make it an extremely difficult environment to explore.”
Exploring Earth
Lakenzy H
Did you know Earth is the only planet with known life? Studying life on Earth is more important than exploring other planets.
Studying life on Earth is more important because it is better to know everything that is on this Earth, so we can prepare ourselves for anything dangerous and help repair the planet we already live on.
Earth is in crisis; however, we could repair all the pollution and climate change. Companies like Shein and Temu are very wasteful shopping apps because they use non-biodegradable synthetics, contributing to landfill waste and microplastic pollution. One way to stop it is to close them down. Another
reason why we should explore Earth more is that it is the one place in the entire solar system where humans can live. My last reason is to know everything that lives on the Earth. This is a good reason because there could be something valuable, such as another stone that's more valuable than a blue diamond. We should explore Earth more instead of Mars because Mars is a planet we do not live on, so danger isn't an issue to us right now. Also, a lot of Earth has not been explored yet, and we need to know more. Exploring Earth is needed because we can inspire the next generation. In conclusion, I feel we should explore more of the Earth and attempt to maintain our precious resources at a successful rate before trying to explore and colonize another planet we have no information about.
All About Earth
Colin H
While Earth is only the fifth-largest planet in the solar system, it is the only planet in our solar system with liquid water on the surface. We should try to find more life on Earth. They are trying to find new plants and animals on Earth. We need to try to improve air pollution on Earth. You should recycle more than you throw away so there will be less littering. You need to do these things to make Earth good to live on. We need to explore Earth because we need to find more ways to reduce air pollution.
On Earth, there is more life than on other planets because there is more oxygen and carbon dioxide here. People have not explored 70% of Earth, and there are areas still undiscovered in the world. People are trying to find ways to reduce air pollution. People need to use less gas in cars across the states. We need to explore Earth because there are more ways we can find solutions to stop global warming.
They are trying to improve air pollution for the plants and animals so they do not die. They are trying to find more plants and animals on Earth. They are also working to make Earth cooler now because of global warming. They need to find more animals and plants on Earth. We should not explore another planet because there is already a lot of life on Earth. We could find other ways to make Earth a better planet for animals and plants so they do not die. There are people trying to find places on Earth that have not been discovered yet.
Save Earth
Reeya C
Our Earth is dying. Global warming is affecting our Earth greatly, and it has lasted for a very long time. Water levels are increasing, along with Arctic animals losing their homes. This is all due to our Earth getting hotter and hotter because of greenhouse gases and pollution caused by humans. There is still so much of our Earth that has been left unexplored, especially our oceans, where we have only explored 5%. There could be possible resources that could help save our Earth or make it a better place. Scientists have been looking for a planet that can support life, and those planets may have potential resources. I think we should continue looking for resources a little closer to home. That’s why I believe studying life on Earth is more beneficial than finding life on other planets because finding resources can help save Earth, and another planet would take too long to get to.
First, global warming has become a big conflict in our modern world. Finding new resources that can produce energy without harming our Earth would help make a big change. There could be so many possible resources in our unexplored oceans. Moreover, other planets could show us new life and new discoveries, but do we really have time to search for another planet when 70% of
our planet is still left unexplored? Finding resources on a different planet could take ages. Even if we found a new resource on a different planet, it would take over a month to bring it back to Earth and a long time to collect it. This would likely take much longer than exploring our home oceans. Saving our Earth should be our priority. Saving life on our planet should come first before finding life on a different planet.
To conclude, the Earth is dying, and we should do something about it. We should know everything about our Earth first before we worry about different planets. Focusing on our Earth can help us find resources to save it, and getting to another planet would take too long. The time we spend searching for another planet could be used to help make Earth a better place. I think we should focus on saving our Earth before we care about what’s happening outside our planet. Don’t you think so too?
Living on Another Planet Lilly D
Earth is getting more unlivable every day. People are polluting Earth, and it is not good for our planet.
So, I think that another planet that can sustain life could be useful in so many meaningful ways. Earth may become more livable if there is another planet, as all the trash and gunk would have a chance to be picked up.
Planet Mars is a good option because it has been proven to have water but no plants. The air pressure would be another reason humans cannot live on Mars, but I think that if we have more time, our technology would get better and better to the point where we could live on Mars one day.
People will destroy Earth one day, and having another planet would be a promising idea that will happen one day. I hope Mars is a good planet.
Exploring Other Planets
Alyssa K
Some say Earth is the only planet with known life, but is that true? I think we should explore life on other planets because it is a good thing to do. You also never know what you might find. Studying life on different planets is more important because we need to know if there are living things and if they are safe.
We need to study life on other planets to make sure there are other safe places because, in the future, something might happen. Someday we might have to evacuate the Earth. We would need someplace to go to be okay. Also, it might be a better place to live, and we wouldn’t have to worry about the extinction of humans.
We should also study other planets out of curiosity. A lot of people would want to know what else is going on in space. People think that it's just planets, the Milky Way, and things like that. Yet, we never know what has changed and what is different.
This is why I think we should explore more than just the Earth.
Studying About Earth
Antony Q
Should we research more about the Earth? Do you think we should focus on studying the Earth, or should we study other planets? I think we should study life on Earth because it is far more important. For instance, only about five percent of the ocean has been discovered, leaving 95% unexplored. Additionally, there are many unusual species yet to be uncovered. Finally, studying life on Earth helps us understand biology and how plants or organisms live.
First, we should research and study Earth for many reasons. Only 42% of the land has been explored, leaving 58% still undiscovered. There may even be underground
cities that have not yet been found. Discovering and understanding ancient cities can help us learn about their way of life, history, and language. Furthermore, studying life on Earth is much more important than studying life on other planets if we cannot travel to them yet.
Second, there may be distinct species still undiscovered. Some organisms are living out there, and we have not seen them. Researching these could provide valuable insights. Studying Earth is also more important because it helps us learn new and critical information about our home planet.
In conclusion, we should prioritize studying life on Earth because there may be varied species or organisms still unknown to us. Additionally, many parts of our planet remain unexplored.
Is There Life Out There?
Thomas R
Do you think it is a good idea to explore life on Earth or in space? I think finding life on other planets is more important because we want to know what might help us on Earth.
The first reason is to know what is out there and what we are sending our astronauts into. It could be your son or daughter we send out there, and they could be eaten by an alien or something else.
The second reason is to know if it is friend or foe because if it is a foe, the creature might try harming us. On the other hand, if it is friendly, it could help us on Earth and assist sick people. For example, there might be minerals from other planets that could help us find cures for diseases we have on Earth.
The third reason is we could find a lot of resources out there that could help us here on Earth, aid sick people, and solve our climate change issues.
So, that is why I think finding life on other planets is more important than studying life on Earth. If you want to study life on Earth
instead of on other planets, then so be it, but when the Earth ends, I will be sitting my happy butt on a different planet, playing games and studying it.
Our Lives are in the Hands of This Decision
Austin W
There are many reasons why studying life on Earth is more important than studying other planets. From less risk of wasted money and time to having a head start, there is so much more reason to study life on our own planet. While studying other planets can be interesting and even useful, it is outweighed by the productivity of studying Earth. Our lives could even depend on this decision. We need to decide how to fix our previous mistakes rather than run from them or repeat them. There are plenty of reasons why life on Earth is more important to study than life on other planets. One major reason for studying life on Earth is that we are already sure it exists. We could be wasting decades and billions of dollars by studying life that doesn't exist. While, in the small chance that there is life elsewhere, it could be very useful to model our way of living to help our planet, the risk of wasting so many resources we can't get back is just too large. Additionally, we already know a lot about our planet, whereas on other planets, we would have to figure out and test everything again. This makes studying Earth more productive.
Another reason is that we could focus on saving our planet. We waste so many resources to take care of our basic needs, and it could be very useful to learn how to conserve these resources by studying our own planet. For example, we are using so much water that it is estimated we will run out in only 100 years. There are many other resources, like trees, that are limited and scarce. We need to put all our brainpower together to focus on saving our
planet, as the survival of our population is at stake.
These are the reasons why it is very important to focus on our own planet before exploring others. I think there is a world where we can do both, but we need to put a 70/30 focus on Earth. While studying other planets can be interesting and even useful, it is outweighed by the productivity of studying Earth. Our lives could even depend on this decision. We need to decide how to fix our previous mistakes rather than run from them or repeat them.
Why Studying Life on Earth is More Important
Fiona S
Currently, we haven’t discovered 80% of the ocean. Prior to studying life in space, we should study as much life as possible here on Earth. Studying life on Earth primarily would help us grow Earth’s society in many ways, such as finding new species. As well, God created us in His image, so we should use His creation the way He intended for us to. I believe studying life on Earth is more important than studying life in space because we should use and help life to the best of our ability here first, God created this Earth for us, and there are still many unknowns about life. Before people move to another planet to find life, we need to already know how to thoroughly preserve and find life. Studying life on another planet wouldn’t be good right now because life on Earth isn’t at its full potential. There are still many unknown areas and species on Earth that we haven’t discovered yet, like the ocean, for example. Plus, finding new species and areas of Earth can help make medicines, provide more food, etc. In addition, the Bible clearly talks about how God created Heaven and Earth to share His love and kindness with us. Without God’s will to create Earth, we wouldn’t be here. So, we need to use
and study what He created for us out of gratitude.
In conclusion, before moving on to finding life in space, we should focus on what’s in front of us first. There are still many problems and unknowns on this planet that we need to fix and discover. Studying life on Earth is more important than studying life in space because we should use and help life to the best of our ability here first, God created this Earth for us, and there are still many unknowns about life.
Other Planets
Kharmani V
A fun fact about different planets is that there is always something new to discover. Which one is more important: studying life on Earth or finding life on other planets? I think finding life on other planets is more important because you can discover something new. You can also see how it works and what it looks like.
I think finding life on other planets is more important. The reason why is because you can discover something new, like when scientists found lava worlds covered in molten seas. You can also see what it looks like and how it works, like how on Jupiter there is a big red storm with no life on it, or like Mars, which is stormy and may have secret life on it. Therefore, those are some reasons and examples why finding life on other planets is important. I believe that finding life on other planets is more important because you can discover something new, and you can see how it looks and how it works. This sums up why studying life on other planets is more important than studying life on Earth because we already know so much about Earth, so why not explore other planets?
Earth is Dying!
Reeyanna C
The Earth is dying, and yet we are focusing on finding another planet that human life could destroy. Astrobiologists are searching and studying for further signs of life beyond Earth. However, while doing so, our Earth is being ruined, and people are dying because of the effects of human activities. I think that instead of searching for life outside of Earth, scientists should focus on studying life on Earth because the tons of resources being used to explore space could be further beneficial to studying and discovering the rest of Earth.
The materials, technology, and money that go into researching space, I believe, would be more valuable if used to research this planet. By studying Earth, we could benefit in ways that help us understand Earth better, therefore enabling us to predict Earth's behavior, such as natural disasters, temperature changes, and geographic transformations. Additionally, (insert more about the benefits, such as exploration of the ocean and fixing climate change instead of just trying to avoid it).
In conclusion, not only will studying life on Earth help scientists better understand this planet, but I strongly believe that if God put us on this Earth, He put us here for a reason. So, He would also give us everything we need for humans to survive. Given the circumstances, do you think that studying life on Earth is more important, or is studying life outside of Earth?
Could We Live on Another Planet?
Joseph S
If we could find how to live on other planets, it could have a lower chance of containing harmful diseases. We could go to different planets if anything were to go wrong
on Earth. I think that finding life on other planets would be more important for us. Why would this be a better option for us? Well, we could find materials that could benefit us in a wonderful way because this material could help us with more scientific research. For example, we could expand the average human lifespan further so that if there were a person who has significant importance to society, they could live longer and keep the Earth striving for some more time. This way, we would not need a plan B, which would be to move to another planet. We could find life and make an alliance with them. They could help us with technological advancements, and we could be more prepared for terrible things that could happen, so we would not have to move to another planet. In conclusion, we can have many other great outcomes if we were to research more about finding life on other planets.
I would say that finding life on other planets would be a better option for us. I think that way because we have already explored a significant amount of Earth, and if we find a planet we could inhabit, we can leave if there is a bad disaster. In conclusion, we have a chance to live on other planets.
Life On Earth
Marquez W
Did you know not even 30 percent of the Earth is discovered? This is why Earth is more important than looking for different life forms in outer space because it’s safer and more time-efficient. We can still save the Earth if we try, and Earth is the only planet that can support life. So here is my evidence for my claims.
Earth has the best atmosphere, oxygen, and livability for humans. Our oxygen is the best for humans. If Mars had oxygen, Earth would have the better one. Mars’ atmosphere is worse compared to Earth’s atmosphere. And the journey to Mars is half a
year, making it harder to live as millions of people would be in one place. Earth can still be saved, and we will save resources. Mars’ cycle of the sun is a lot slower than Earth’s, being two Earth years. Not even 30 percent of the Earth has been discovered.
So, those are my reasons why Earth is more important than Mars. It has better oxygen and livability. These are all reasons why we should stay on Earth.
Space Life Rules!
Vy V
Did you know Earth is a ticking time bomb? Tick, tick, tick. You surely wouldn’t wait here for the boom! Would you rather research life on Earth or research other life in outer space? Personally, I would pick finding the more important issue: another life in space! I pick this option because researching life in outer space could benefit us by showing us that there are other habitable planets out there. It would also help us with a technological advance in science, and finally, it would be useful as a backup for when Earth faces impending doom.
My first reason would be that another life in space would prove to us that there are other habitable planets out there. This would make us feel less anxious because now we know that we could just travel there! But, I mean, we would need a rocket that could travel how far that planet is... so my next reason would question that!
The second reason why we need to research space life is to advance our technology! Technology is good, but knowledge about space life could support us to the point where we could build a rocket ship that could travel light years! Other things that could be worked on could probably be better satellites for better connection, better devices like phones or computers, etc.
My final reason goes back to the first one. Knowing there are other planets we could colonize is useful since it could be used as a backup for when Earth expires. Whether
nuclear wars start or the sun gets way too hot, we could use the rocket we made and just travel light years there! So, everything works in our favor.
In conclusion, researching for life in the large and continuously expanding universe is way more important than researching some random old planet we have been living on for millions of years. Plus, human society has researched most of Earth anyway! But this is my opinion, and I’m sure you could have a way better explanation, so have a go!
Life Beyond the Cosmos
Bryan W
Which is more important: finding life on Earth or on other planets?
I believe that finding life on other planets is more important because studying them will provide information. If they are intelligent, then we could communicate to share technologies and information. Finally, their technologies will greatly assist in the advancements of mankind.
Different Ways Aliens Can Benefit Humanity
First, different types of life will help to widen the human horizon. Studying the physical structure of life from a completely different planet and habitat will help to broaden the scope of human knowledge. Secondly, intelligent beings from another planet may be able to communicate and share knowledge, which will greatly help both species.
These are two of the reasons why discovering life on other planets is important, but there is more.
So, is finding life on other planets a good thing? Yes! If you’re still not convinced, here is my last reason:
Lastly, imagine a world where alien tech and resources are incorporated into the human world and vice versa.
Cinquain Poem Pairs
Students were asked to write two poems in the cinquain form.
David Nice, Shy Playing, Running, Talking He is so tall! Perm
Baseball
Fun, Friends Throwing, Catching, Running A white ball in a weird-shaped hand. Throwing
by Karen A
Moon Round, Gray Moving, Shining, Cycling The Moon is so round. Stunning
Star
Bright, White Shining, Brightening, Glowing Bright shape in the sky. Planet
by Alex C
Wrestling
Strong, Tough
Exciting, Tiring, Outstanding Wrestling makes me feel great. Fighting
by Jonathan
Sun Big, Burning Light, Burns, Still A giant magma ball. Star
Spider-Man
Helpful, Athletic, Jumping, Running, Webbing He is the best! Spider
by David R
Sun Hot, Shiny Beaming, Spinning, Glowing The sun is yellow. Star
Roller Coaster Long, Tail Fast, Extreme, Heights A car on train tracks. Ride
Alien Green, Ugly Coming, Scaring, Hovering They are scary! Martians
by Marleigh D
Graffiti
Style, Colorful
Writing, Creating, Sneaking
Very stylish and fast.
Art
Rabbit Cute, Soft Looking, Running, Eating They have big eyes. Hare
by Jackson C
Space
Dark, Pretty Infinite, Large, Empty
Very pretty and interesting. Vast
Venus Big, Hot
Boring, Brightening, Yellowing The Goddess of Love
Aphrodite
by Nikhat A
Soccer
Beautiful, Talented Playing, Running, Moving Soccer is a sport that takes the attention of everyone.
Football
Video Games
Fun, Entertaining Interesting, Playful, Gaming Fun in my free time. Elden Ring
by Jose C
Planets
Mysterious, Interesting Floating, Burning, Exploding Planets scientifically are weird. Earth
Racing Fast, Turbo
Drifting, Crashing, Burning Cares are fun to drive.
Ferrari
by Jonathan
Style An Open Space
To be painted, a rainbow of Colors to pick from Clothes
Butterfly
Beautiful, Colorful Flying, Blowing, Flying Butterfly is very beautiful. Insect
by Christian
Flowers So many of them Planting, Bringing, Shining Flowers in the ground. Plants
Flower
Beautiful, Colorful
Growing, Changing, Feeding Flower is very beautiful. Color
by Nikhat A
Ocean
Peace, Destress
Moving, Waving, Swimming
The ocean is a place to calm down.
Water
Dog Small, Barks Sleeping, Running, Eating
A goblin is running! Outside
Christmas Nice Night, Family Time Snowing, Eating, Decorating At Christmas we celebrate the family together. Xmas
by Jose C
Neptune Blue, Cold Freezing, Floating, Swimming
A big blue circle is circling around. Space
by Tam
Cats
Playful, Meowing They are adorable and cute.
Stuffed Animal
Stars Bright, Distant Bright light in the distance. Ball of Hot Air
by Ashly
Bunnies
Cute, Cuddly Romping, Hopping, Jumping Always want to cuddle.
Rabbits
Tree Long, Wood Growing, Bending, Living Trees help us breathe. Wood
Stars Bright, Shiny Burning, Shining, Lighting Camping under the stars. Sun
by Elise
Venus Big, Ball Nonliving, Burning, Loving It’s a hot planet. Evening Star
by Trishtan C
Sci-Fi Short Stories & Mythology Poems
The Robot Apocalypse
Jerry T
A scientist named Billy made robots and they malfunctioned. They tried to take over the world. A scientist named Jerry tried to stop them. Now he is trying to stop them. The weapons the robots have let them transform into tanks and jets, and they have hand cannons. The only way to stop them is to touch a button on their head.
When we were in the city trying to touch the buttons, a robot with a hand cannon tried to stop us. They shot the cannon but Jerry dodged it. Billy got knocked out. I touched the button to stop the robot. Then Billy woke up. We decided we needed to create a machine that will stop the robots. Billy is creating the machine.
Jerry said, “Get it done fast!”
Billy got it done in three weeks. Then we pushed a button and the robots were stopped.
Billy said to Jerry, “I learned a lesson.” Jerry said, “Good Billy! What is it?” “Never create robots again.”
Jerry laughed and said, “2030 was the worst.”
Hades Poem
Thomas R
in the depth of the underworld were a fiery river twisted and twirled lives hades a grim lord with a heart of cardboard yet his realm's secrete is tightly curled.
Aries, The God of War
Antony Q
There once was a god name Ares Who was the God of the Military There once was a fire That was on a wire Who orders his army to the czars
Kellen’s Adventure
Kellen A
Mars
Alyssa
Mars, a pretty red planet
A place where aliens might be from Really amazing sights to see but not from home
Stars so bright, perfect in a dark day
Here I am, a 33-year-old strong, fit, fast human being. Nothing new, just bored. I just decided to take a walk. Then I found a robot, and suddenly it saw me. I started running to the woods, where it would get slowed down by the sticks, twigs, and the bumpy ground. I see it behind me. I am starting to see the robot change. In the middle of the robot, I can see it. It starts to shoot laser beams at me, but I am thinking as I run about how to attack it and stop the robot from attacking me.
I am dodging and dodging the laser beams, and I am starting to get tired. I thought to myself, This is bad. Then a laser skimmed my left arm, and I am bleeding. And then I see it knocking over the trees like it is hoping they will land on me, but I dodge them. My arm stops bleeding, and my nervousness is almost gone.
Then I sigh as I find a big tree limb large enough to jam its wheel so it cannot move. I charge it like I am trying to kill it. I move the stick into position, then I force the stick into the wheel. The robot stops. Then I take a big rock and throw it at the box that creates the laser beams. I sigh in relief and walk back to my house with the robot to show scientists what I found, hoping they will take it and study it to build it and gain that technology. Because laser beams would be cool, and laser guns would be even more fun.
Would this be the beginning of Star Wars?! But space is a big place, and we are not the only ones out there, I think to myself.
The Robot Army Jace A
One day, there was a giant monster, and it had robot arms and feet, and it had a laser on its back. It was going to take over the world until the superhero came and stopped him from destroying the world and killing everybody on it. But there was one thing: every time it killed somebody, it made even more robots, and there were a lot of robots. So the superhero had to think of a plan, and he was thinking, what if he took the laser off the back of the robot and used it to regenerate everyone that got killed into every robot? But there was one problem: the robots kept regenerating over and over again. So he had to get help, so he called the other superheroes to help him.
They killed them all and were about to go home, but then they saw that there was a robot army in space. And they had to do something about it, so they made their own army. So they taught the normal people how to fight, and they got gear and everything they needed to fight. So once they all got ready, they went to space, and at first, they didn't see anything.
But then they saw that there was more than just a robot army; there were a whole lot more aliens coming to third-party the battle
and kill both armies. So they all went to war, and then they realized that they were ruining space and everything in it. So they all stopped and went back home. And when the human army went home, they were preparing to fight, and then the aliens showed up and were helping clean up. Turns out the robots were the bad guys, and the aliens were trying to help. So the aliens and the humans were cleaning up Earth until the humans took a break and went back to Earth. And when they went back to space, the aliens were making it worse. So the humans were trying to stop them, but the aliens were actually clones of the robots, and they betrayed the humans and killed all of them.
And they took the planet. But there was one more human, and there was an emergency button. The human pressed the button, and everything exploded, and everyone ran. So Earth got exploded, and the last human ran to another planet and repopulated.
Hermes the Messenger Joseph S
There was a god named Hermes who never had any worries because he was fast and never got last messaging with no difficulties
Butterfly Nikhat A
There once was a butterfly on the flower. It tasted the flower, and it was sweet. She needed to sleep, and after a long night's rest, her tiredness was relieved. The next day, after her sleep, she found the perfect pink and white flower. She flew over the flower and was tired again because she had flown a lot. She could hear the sound of her wings fluttering. She continued her flight. She flew wherever she wanted.
The Kittens
Ashly
The kitten
They are cute and soft
And playful, curious, sleeping Fat, loving, naughty
The Wild Fart
Ayala A
Once upon a time, there was a lady names Ms. M. She was a teacher and coach and mom, and she loved the color pink.
One day, Ms. M was playing outside with her dog after taking him for a walk. She tried to hold it in, but she let out a big fart and felt embarrassed because she didn’t know if people were watching her. She farted so loudly that everyone was looking at her and she was scared that they would be like, “ew!”
But everyone around laughed and cheered. Now she does it all the time around anyone and isn’t afraid anymore. After a long day, she went home and dreamed about it at night. She was surprised her farts smelled like roses. Ms. M met an alien and it farted, but they smelled like Taco Bell.
I wrote this story because people need to know that there’s nothing to be ashamed of. It’s natural.
Ares Kharmani V
There once was a god named Ares
He hated all of his fairies
He liked his half sister
This was during the winter
But his favorite fruit was cherries
Venus
Kharmani
V
There once was a goddess named Venus
She was such a genius
She is the god of love
Also peaceful like a dove
Her husband was the meanest
Hades Fiery Poem
Vy V
The menacing man named, Hades Ruled the underworld with Great Ease.
But a planet was based on him called, Pluto They did him so wrong, You know?
Still, people will sacrifice their babies.
Alva’s Story
Ashley
R
Once upon a time, there was a robot. The robot's name was Alva. She was not so pretty like the other robots, and she wanted to be prettier. So, she underwent surgery to be pretty, but the surgery went wrong, and she became super ugly. Then her parents paid for another surgery, and they went to another surgeon. They paid money for the surgeon to perform the operation, and after her surgery, she looked in the mirror and said, “I don’t need surgery to be beautiful. I already am.”
All About Chance
Layah
Nice style wavy hair
He is quiet and very sweet
Good at drawing and very fun
Escaping Ms. S’s Class
Marleigh D
We walked into Ms. S’s class. We needed to escape! She was mad and woke up on the other side of the bed. We did our work so we could get out as soon as we could! She turned into an evil robot.
We were in the class and a little kid said, “Hey! You’re ugly!” That caught everybody off guard. We finished class and escaped. We went to the gym to hide. Ms. S came after us. Finally, we escaped outside and went into the woods.
Morning’s Gentle Light
Bryan W
In the morning’s gentle light Dreams take flight hearts feel right Whispers of the dawn’s embrace Bring a smile to every face.
INDEX by Writer’s First
