Eighth grade students were tasked to research homelessness on the Internet, and then write an advocacy essay in Microsoft Word to address this social issue. This activity was in response to a learning service (campaign) initiative by the National Council of La Raza (NCLR).

Advocacy is a political process by an individual or group which aims to influence public policy and resource allocation decisions within political, economic, and social systems and institutions. The student essays were sent to Ms. Torres, Counselor at Raul Yzaguirre School for Success and coordinator for the NCLR homelessness campaign.

An advocacy essay is a paper designed to gain support from readers regarding a specific belief or cause. It is used as a call for action or to raise awareness on a social issue. Writing an advocacy essay requires a thorough knowledge of the subject, and the students spent time at various websites on the Internet reading and taking notes to prepare for the activity.

The students made PowerPoint presentations based on their essays. Go to HPPT to view/read. They also created Digital Art to call even greater attention to the plight of the homeless, and celebrate their humanity. Go to HDA to view.

A selection of essays from the 8th grade students follows (Click on names below to open their essays in PDF format.) (Editing of other essays in progress.):