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Discursive Essay Topics for Students

Home / Blog / 50 Unique Discursive Essay Topics For Students

Introduction

An essay paper is one of the shortest forms of academic tasks, but it isn’t exactly the easiest. Conducting thorough research, preparing a thesis statement, drafting the essay, and proofreading can be quite hectic if you are chased by a stringent deadline. Besides, if you have to write a new type of essay, things may get a lot more challenging for you. A discursive essay is a perfect example of a task that challenges students beyond limits.

Unfortunately, most students don’t know much about a discursive essay. To put it simply, a discursive essay presents both sides of an argument, and then discusses the stance of the author. Here, you need to maintain a formal tone. You need to write the whole paper from the perspective of a third person, even while expressing your opinion. The outline of a discursive essay is quite simple.

Choosing the topic for your discursive essay

Since you have no experience in working on this essay type, it might seem difficult to prepare an essay all by yourself. Before you can get to the writing part, you need to pick a topic first. Selecting a topic is the most time-consuming segment of drafting an essay. To find the right topic for your discursive essay, you can consider the following factors:

Brainstorm :

To generate some effective topic ideas for your essay, try brainstorming with your friends. This process is used in various professions (including creative writing) worldwide to find innovative ideas. People try many ways to brainstorm for ideas. See what suits you the best and jot down the potential ideas for further consideration.

Preferences of the instructor :

While selecting a topic, you need to ensure that it is relevant to the readers, which in your case is the essay instructor. If you want to leave a lasting impression on the instructor, choosing a topic of his/her interests is essential. Communicate with the instructor and try to know about the topics he/she likes. This will help you boost your chances of scoring better marks.

Things that you are interested in:

Most students don’t enjoy academic writing as they find the task to be boring. If you need to draft a discursive essay, consider the topics that genuinely interest you. You will be excited to work on the essay help and you will put in more efforts to excel in the task. If you have already learned about the interests of the instructor, select a topic preferred by both of you.

Availability of research material :

Since you have to present both sides of the argument in a discursive essay, you need a significant amount of data to support your claim as well as the counter-argument. It is better to confirm the availability of necessary data on the chosen essay topic. Scan the internet with proper keywords. If you don’t find any reliable data on the topic, you should consider a different topic.

By considering the four aforementioned factors, you can find a remarkable topic for your discursive essay. In case you are running short on time, you can take ideas from the following list of discursive essay topic ideas.

Impressive topic ideas for a discursive essay

Can violence in video games cause behavioral problems in children?
Is it beneficial to enroll a child in a single-sex school than a co-ed school?
Do firewalls keep the users away from bad content?
Is there any possibility of having another world war in the near future?
Are teachers and schools responsible for the low-test score of a student?
Is the advancement of technology responsible for the increasing number of Cancer patients?
Is Facebook a great tool for socializing or a terrible place for privacy?
Has the internet brought more harm than good?
No one is above the law – is it true?
Is there too much pressure on teens to attend college?
Should there be a legal curfew for minors?
Do mainstream media have the responsibility to promote more diversity?
Should parents push their kids into extracurricular activities?
Should advertisements highlight warnings and side effects?
Do movies create unrealistic expectations for relationships and marriage?
Do children really need an allowance?
Is today's music educating young listeners?
Should parents be on social media platforms?
Should media representatives be punished for an unfair presentation of facts?
Was the war in Iraq justified?
Should court proceedings be televised?
Should gay marriages be accepted in all democratic nations?
Do the police favour law offenders based on their race?
Should parents go for advanced training in parenthood?
Is peer pressure bad?
Using animals as test subjects: necessary or cruelty?
Is a college degree important for success?
Sex education in schools: Should it be stopped or increased?
Should schools teach foreign languages right from kindergarten?
Should there be a dress code for every professional?
Should working places have afternoon nap facilities for the employees?
Is a vegan diet healthy?
Is being broke a habit?
Space exploration is just a huge waste of money.
Destroying forests is a crime against the planet.
Being wealthy and being happy are two different things.
Artificial Intelligence is not a danger to humanity.
Technologies used in space exploration can solve critical problems on earth.
Unmanned probes are not a great choice for space exploration.
Smoking zones should be brought down.
Is it possible to live a healthy life without eating meat?
Do curfews keep children out of trouble?
Are beauty pageants exploitative?
Should men get paternity leave from work?
Do photoshopped images affect self-image and self-esteem?
Passive smokers suffer more than active ones.
Everyone should have free access to healthcare.
Is online censorship critical for internet users?
Cross-cultural marriages have a positive impact on racial tolerance.
Working hours must be reduced to let people spend more time with their family.

You can use these topic ideas for reference and generate an impressive topic idea of your own. You can also use one of these ideas to get started with your discursive essay. However, it is always better to work on a unique topic idea to grab the attention of your instructor.

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Over 170 Prompts to Inspire Writing and Discussion

Here are all of our Student Opinion questions from the 2020-21 school year. Each question is based on a different New York Times article, interactive feature or video.

By The Learning Network

Each school day we publish a new Student Opinion question, and students use these writing prompts to reflect on their experiences and identities and respond to current events unfolding around them. To introduce each question, we provide an excerpt from a related New York Times article or Opinion piece as well as a free link to the original article.

During the 2020-21 school year, we asked 176 questions, and you can find them all below or here as a PDF . The questions are divided into two categories — those that provide opportunities for debate and persuasive writing, and those that lend themselves to creative, personal or reflective writing.

Teachers can use these prompts to help students practice narrative and persuasive writing, start classroom debates and even spark conversation between students around the world via our comments section. For more ideas on how to use our Student Opinion questions, we offer a short tutorial along with a nine-minute video on how one high school English teacher and her students use this feature .

Questions for Debate and Persuasive Writing

1. Should Athletes Speak Out On Social and Political Issues? 2. Should All Young People Learn How to Invest in the Stock Market? 3. What Are the Greatest Songs of All Time? 4. Should There Be More Gender Options on Identification Documents? 5. Should We End the Practice of Tipping? 6. Should There Be Separate Social Media Apps for Children? 7. Do Marriage Proposals Still Have a Place in Today’s Society? 8. How Do You Feel About Cancel Culture? 9. Should the United States Decriminalize the Possession of Drugs? 10. Does Reality TV Deserve Its Bad Rap? 11. Should the Death Penalty Be Abolished? 12. How Should Parents Support a Student Who Has Fallen Behind in School? 13. When Is It OK to Be a Snitch? 14. Should People Be Required to Show Proof of Vaccination? 15. How Much Have You and Your Community Changed Since George Floyd’s Death? 16. Can Empathy Be Taught? Should Schools Try to Help Us Feel One Another’s Pain? 17. Should Schools or Employers Be Allowed to Tell People How They Should Wear Their Hair? 18. Is Your Generation Doing Its Part to Strengthen Our Democracy? 19. Should Corporations Take Political Stands? 20. Should We Rename Schools Named for Historical Figures With Ties to Racism, Sexism or Slavery? 21. How Should Schools Hold Students Accountable for Hurting Others? 22. What Ideas Do You Have to Improve Your Favorite Sport? 23. Are Presidential Debates Helpful to Voters? Or Should They Be Scrapped? 24. Is the Electoral College a Problem? Does It Need to Be Fixed? 25. Do You Care Who Sits on the Supreme Court? Should We Care? 26. Should Museums Return Looted Artifacts to Their Countries of Origin? 27. Should Schools Provide Free Pads and Tampons? 28. Should Teachers Be Allowed to Wear Political Symbols? 29. Do You Think People Have Gotten Too Relaxed About Covid? 30. Who Do You Think Should Be Person of the Year for 2020? 31. How Should Racial Slurs in Literature Be Handled in the Classroom? 32. Should There Still Be Snow Days? 33. What Are Your Reactions to the Storming of the Capitol by a Pro-Trump Mob? 34. What Do You Think of the Decision by Tech Companies to Block President Trump? 35. If You Were a Member of Congress, Would You Vote to Impeach President Trump? 36. What Would You Do First if You Were the New President? 37. Who Do You Hope Will Win the 2020 Presidential Election? 38. Should Media Literacy Be a Required Course in School? 39. What Are Your Reactions to the Results of Election 2020? Where Do We Go From Here? 40. How Should We Remember the Problematic Actions of the Nation’s Founders? 41. As Coronavirus Cases Surge, How Should Leaders Decide What Stays Open and What Closes? 42. What Is Your Reaction to the Inauguration of Joe Biden and Kamala Harris? 43. How Worried Should We Be About Screen Time During the Pandemic? 44. Should Schools Be Able to Discipline Students for What They Say on Social Media? 45. What Works of Art, Culture and Technology Flopped in 2020? 46. How Do You Feel About Censored Music? 47. Why Do You Think ‘Drivers License’ Became Such a Smash Hit? 48. Justice Ginsburg Fought for Gender Equality. How Close Are We to Achieving That Goal? 49. How Well Do You Think Our Leaders Have Responded to the Coronavirus Crisis? 50. To What Extent Is the Legacy of Slavery and Racism Still Present in America in 2020? 51. How Should We Reimagine Our Schools So That All Students Receive a Quality Education? 52. How Concerned Do You Think We Should Be About the Integrity of the 2020 Election? 53. What Issues in This Election Season Matter Most to You? 54. Is Summer School a Smart Way to Make Up for Learning Lost This School Year? 55. What Is Your Reaction to the Senate’s Acquittal of Former President Trump? 56. What Is the Worst Toy Ever? 57. How Should We Balance Safety and Urgency in Developing a Covid-19 Vaccine? 58. What Are Your Reactions to Oprah’s Interview With Harry and Meghan? 59. Should the Government Provide a Guaranteed Income for Families With Children? 60. Should There Be More Public Restrooms? 61. Should High School-Age Basketball Players Be Able to Get Paid? 62. Should Team Sports Happen This Year? 63. Who Are the Best Musical Artists of the Past Year? What Are the Best Songs? 64. Should We Cancel Student Debt? 65. How Closely Should Actors’ Identities Reflect the Roles They Play? 66. Should White Writers Translate a Black Author’s Work? 67. Would You Buy an NFT? 68. Should Kids Still Learn to Tell Time? 69. Should All Schools Teach Financial Literacy? 70. What Is Your Reaction to the Verdict in the Derek Chauvin Trial? 71. What Is the Best Way to Stop Abusive Language Online? 72. What Are the Underlying Systems That Hold a Society Together? 73. What Grade Would You Give President Biden on His First 100 Days? 74. Should High Schools Post Their Annual College Lists? 75. Are C.E.O.s Paid Too Much? 76. Should We Rethink Thanksgiving? 77. What Is the Best Way to Get Teenagers Vaccinated? 78. Do You Want Your Parents and Grandparents to Get the New Coronavirus Vaccine? 79. What Is Your Reaction to New Guidelines That Loosen Mask Requirements? 80. Who Should We Honor on Our Money? 81. Is Your School’s Dress Code Outdated? 82. Does Everyone Have a Responsibility to Vote? 83. How Is Your Generation Changing Politics?

Questions for Creative and Personal Writing

84. What Does Your Unique Style Say About You? 85. How Do You Spend Your Downtime? 86. Would You Want to Live to 200? 87. How Do You Connect to Your Heritage? 88. What Do You Think Are the Secrets to Happiness? 89. Are You a Sneakerhead? 90. What Role Have Mentors Played in Your Life? 91. If You Could Make Your Own Podcast, What Would It Be About? 92. Have You Ever Felt Pressure to ‘Sell Your Pain’? 93. Do You Think You Make Good Climate Choices? 94. What Does TikTok Mean to You? 95. Do Your Parents Overpraise You? 96. Do You Want to Travel in Space? 97. Do You Feel You’re Friends With Celebrities or Influencers You Follow Online? 98. Would You Eat Food Grown in a Lab? 99. What Makes You Cringe? 100. What Volunteer Work Would You Most Like to Do? 101. How Do You Respond When People Ask, ‘Where Are You From?’ 102. Has a School Assignment or Activity Ever Made You Uncomfortable? 103. How Does Your Identity Inform Your Political Beliefs and Values? 104. Are You an Orchid, a Tulip or a Dandelion? 105. Are You Having a Tough Time Maintaining Friendships These Days? 106. How Is Your Mental Health These Days? 107. Do You Love Writing or Receiving Letters? 108. What Has Television Taught You About Social Class? 109. Are You Easily Distracted? 110. What Objects Bring You Comfort? 111. What Is Your Favorite Memory of PBS? 112. Have You Ever Felt Embarrassed by Your Parents? 113. What Are You Doing to Combat Pandemic Fatigue? 114. Have You Ever Worried About Making a Good First Impression? 115. What Do You Want Your Parents to Know About What It’s Like to Be a Teenager During the Pandemic? 116. How Have You Collaborated From a Distance During the Pandemic? 117. How Important Is It to You to Have Similar Political Beliefs to Your Family and Friends? 118. How Are You Feeling About Winter This Year? 119. Which Celebrity Performer Would You Like to Challenge to a Friendly Battle? 120. How Mentally Tough Are You? 121. What Smells Trigger Powerful Memories for You? 122. What Are You Thankful for This Year? 123. Do You Miss Hugs? 124. Are You a Good Conversationalist? 125. What Habits Have You Started or Left Behind in 2020? 126. What Was the Best Art and Culture You Experienced in 2020? 127. What’s Your Relationship With Masks? 128. What Role Does Religion Play in Your Life? 129. How Will You Be Celebrating the Holidays This Year? 130. What Is Something Good That Happened in 2020? 131. What New Flavor Ideas Do You Have for Your Favorite Foods? 132. What Are Your Hopes and Concerns for the New School Year? 133. How Has 2020 Challenged or Changed You? 134. What Do You Hope for Most in 2021? 135. How Do You View Death? 136. What Is Your Favorite Fact You Learned in 2020? 137. What Are the Places in the World That You Love Most? 138. Have You Ever Experienced ‘Impostor Syndrome’? 139. How Well Do You Get Along With Your Siblings? 140. Do You Talk to Your Family About the Cost of College? 141. Do You Have a Healthy Diet? 142. How Do You Feel About Mask-Slipping? 143. Do You Believe in Manifesting? 144. How Do You Express Yourself Creatively? 145. What Are Your Family’s House Rules During the Covid Crisis? 146. What Online Communities Do You Participate In? 147. Have You Experienced Any Embarrassing Zoom Mishaps? 148. What Does Your Country’s National Anthem Mean to You? 149. Are Sports Just Not the Same Without Spectators in the Stands? 150. Would You Volunteer for a Covid-19 Vaccine Trial? 151. What ‘Old’ Technology Do You Think Is Cool? 152. Have You Ever Tried to Grow Something? 153. How Has the Pandemic Changed Your Relationship to Your Body? 154. How Do You Find New Books, Music, Movies or Television Shows? 155. Are You Nervous About Returning to Normal Life? 156. How Do You Celebrate Spring? 157. How Do You Talk With People Who Don’t Share Your Views? 158. Would You Want to Be a Teacher Someday? 159. What Would You Recommend That Is ‘Overlooked and Underappreciated’? 160. What Children’s Books Have Had the Biggest Impact on You? 161. What Is Your Gender Identity? 162. Have You Hit a Wall? 163. What Is the Code You Live By? 164. Do You Think You Have Experienced ‘Learning Loss’ During the Pandemic? 165. What Are the Most Memorable Things You’ve Seen or Experienced in Nature? 166. Do You Want to Have Children Someday? 167. What Have You Learned About Friendship This Year? 168. What Seemingly Mundane Feats Have You Accomplished? 169. Has a Celebrity Ever Convinced You to Do Something? 170. How Have You Commemorated Milestones During the Pandemic? 171. How Often Do You Read, Watch or Listen to Things Outside of Your Comfort Zone? 172. Do You Think You Live in a Political Bubble? 173. What Is Your Relationship With the Weight-Loss Industry? 174. What Have You Made This Year? 175. How Are You Right Now? 176. What Are You Grateful For?

Want more writing prompts?

You can find even more Student Opinion questions in our 300 Questions and Images to Inspire Argument Writing , 550 Prompts for Narrative and Personal Writing and 130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing . We also publish daily Picture Prompts , which are image-centered posts that provide space for many different kinds of writing. You can find all of our writing prompts, added as they publish, here .

The Daring English Teacher on Teachers Pay Teachers Secondary ELA resources Middle School ELA High School English

101 Argument Essay Prompts for High School

Teaching argument writing can be very exciting, especially if you have great argument essay prompts for your students to choose from. It provides students with an opportunity to explore interesting topics. I give my students choices when I am teaching argument writing in my classroom. Students who select their argument essay prompts are more engaged with and connected to their writing.

When assigning a hot topic or controversial issue argumentative essay, I always let students select a topic. That way, they are more passionate about their writing. However, I also make it clear that their topic cannot be discriminatory or hateful in any way and that they must fund valid and credible evidence to back up their claims. When I do this in the classroom, I also like to make sure that only one student per class has the same topic.

If you are planning an argument or controversial issue essay assignment, here is a list of potential topics you can include in your classroom. If you need teaching materials, this argument writing teaching unit will help you walk your students through the process.

Here are 101 Argument Essay Prompts:

Argument essay topics teens love.

Should teenagers be allowed to vote in elections?
Is social media a positive or negative influence on teenagers’ mental health and well-being?
Should schools have a dress code that is gender-neutral?
Should teenage drivers be subject to stricter regulations, such as curfews and passenger limits, to reduce accidents and fatalities?
Is it ethical for teenagers to participate in protests and other forms of civil disobedience?
Should teenagers have access to birth control and sexual health services?
Should schools provide more opportunities for creative expression and the arts, or is the focus on STEM subjects more important for future success?
Should teenagers have their own credit card to establish credit history?
Should teenagers be allowed to work part-time jobs while in school?
How important is academic honesty for future success?

Argument Essay Prompts About Technology

Should social media platforms be held accountable for the spread of fake news?
Are video games a harmful or beneficial form of entertainment for young people?
Should schools replace textbooks with tablets and laptops?
Is technology making us more or less productive in the workplace?
Should there be stricter regulations on the collection and use of personal data by tech companies?
Is artificial intelligence a threat to human jobs and job security?
Should there be limitations on using facial recognition technology by law enforcement agencies?
Has the internet made us more connected or more isolated from each other?
Should governments invest more in renewable energy technologies?
Is technology creating a more unequal society by widening the gap between the rich and the poor?

Argument Essay Topics about the Environment

Should governments impose stricter regulations on corporations to reduce their carbon footprint?
Should government agencies regulate residential thermostats?
Should plastic bags be banned to reduce pollution and protect wildlife?
Is fracking a viable method of energy production, or does it pose significant risks to the environment and public health?
Should individuals be encouraged to adopt a plant-based diet to reduce the carbon emissions caused by the meat industry?
Should the use of pesticides be restricted to protect pollinators and other wildlife?
Is nuclear energy a viable solution to the world’s energy needs, or does it pose too significant an environmental risk?
Should governments invest more in renewable energy technologies such as wind and solar power?
Should individuals and companies be required to pay a carbon tax to encourage them to reduce their carbon emissions?
Is deforestation a significant contributor to climate change?

Argument Essay Prompts about Entrepreneurship

Is entrepreneurship a viable path to economic success for individuals and communities?
Should governments provide more support and incentives for small businesses and startups?
Is social entrepreneurship a more effective way to address social and environmental challenges than traditional methods?
Should entrepreneurs be required to consider the environmental impact of their business operations?
Is it better for entrepreneurs to focus on creating a new product or service, or to improve upon an existing one?
Should entrepreneurs be required to have a certain level of education or experience before starting a business?
Is it ethical for entrepreneurs to use investor funding to support a luxurious lifestyle instead of reinvesting in their business?
Should entrepreneurs be held accountable for the social and environmental impacts of their products or services?
Should entrepreneurs be allowed to patent ideas and concepts, or should all innovations be open for public use?
Is the current system of venture capital funding fair and equitable for all entrepreneurs?

Teaching Argument Essay: Instructional Unit

Help your students master the art of argumentative writing with this argument writing teaching unit!

I created this argumentative essay writing teaching unit with secondary ELA students in mind, and it includes step-by-step and engaging writing instructional materials. This argument essay writing unit includes everything you need for a complete argumentative writing instructional unit, including the print & digital materials.

This essay writing instructional unit includes an editable instructional presentation for direct instruction and student resources to help you and your students work through an argument essay.

With a focus on argument writing and informational text, this unit fuses together key ELA standards as it covers the differences between persuasive and argumentative writing. Thus unit also teaches purpose, audience, tone, diction, and the rhetorical triangle.

Argument Essay Topics about Animals

Should animals be used for scientific research, or are there alternative methods that can be used?
Should exotic animals be kept as pets?
Is hunting a legitimate way to control animal populations and manage ecosystems?
Should animal agriculture be banned or significantly reduced to address concerns about animal welfare, environmental impact, and public health?
Should circuses and other entertainment venues that feature animal acts be banned to prevent animal abuse and exploitation?
Is it ethical to use animals for entertainment purposes such as horse racing, dog shows, or bullfighting?
Should animals have legal rights and be granted personhood, or is that concept reserved only for humans?
Should zoos and aquariums be banned or improved to better serve the welfare and conservation of the animals they hold?
Should invasive species be removed from ecosystems?
Is animal testing justified in developing cosmetic and personal care products?

Argument Essay Prompts about Sports

Should college athletes be paid for their participation in sports?
Should high school athletes be excused from certain class assignments?
Should high school sports be required to prioritize safety over competition, especially in contact sports like football and hockey?
Is esports a legitimate form of competition?
Should performance-enhancing drugs be legalized in professional sports?
Should women’s sports receive the same funding and support as men’s sports?
Should athletes be allowed to protest social and political issues during games, or should sports be kept separate from politics?
Should athletes be held to higher standards of conduct and behavior, given their public profile and influence on young people?
Is it ethical for cities to use taxpayer money to fund sports stadiums and arenas?
Should high schools drop athletics and solely focus on academics?

Argument Essay Topics about School

Should schools require students to wear uniforms?
Is standardized testing an effective way to measure student achievement?
Should schools offer more vocational training programs to prepare students for the workforce?
Should schools ban cell phones and other electronic devices?
Should schools offer more extracurricular activities and sports programs?
Is it essential for schools to provide sex education to students?
Should schools be required to offer courses on financial literacy and personal finance management?
Should schools offer more mental health resources and support to students?
Should schools offer more diversity and inclusion training for staff and students?
Should private schools receive tax-payer funding?

Argument Essay Prompts about Teens and Politics

Should the voting age be lowered to 16 to allow teenagers to have a say in political decisions?
Is it important for teenagers to be politically engaged and active?
Should schools offer more civic education and government classes to prepare teenagers for their roles as future voters and leaders?
Should teenagers be allowed to run for political office?
Should political parties and candidates specifically target and appeal to teenage voters?
Should teenagers be allowed to participate in political protests and rallies?
Is it essential for teenagers to be knowledgeable about political issues and current events?
Should teenagers be allowed to donate to political campaigns?
Should schools be required to remain politically neutral and avoid any bias or preference towards certain parties or candidates?
Should teenagers be encouraged to pursue careers in politics and public service?

Argument Essay Topics about Vehicles

Should governments promote and subsidize electric cars to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability?
Should autonomous cars be allowed on public roads?
Should car manufacturers be held responsible for the environmental impact of their products?
Should speed limits be increased on highways and freeways?
Should car ownership be discouraged in favor of public transportation and ride-sharing services?
Should car insurance be mandatory for all drivers?
Should older cars be banned from the road due to higher emissions and safety risks?
Should governments invest more in developing and promoting alternative fuels and energy sources for cars?
Should car manufacturers be required to disclose all safety and performance data about their products?
Should car-sharing services like Zipcar and Car2Go be encouraged and subsidized by governments?

Argument Essay Prompts about Space and Space Exploration

Is space exploration worth the cost?
Should governments fund space exploration and research?
Is it ethical to mine resources and exploit the commercial potential of other planets?
Should humans establish permanent settlements on other planets?
Should space agencies prioritize manned missions to Mars?
Is space exploration a necessary pursuit for scientific advancement and discovery?
Should international cooperation be a priority in space exploration?
Should space tourism be encouraged and expanded?
Should space debris and junk be regulated and monitored more closely?
Is space exploration an inherently human endeavor, or should we prioritize the development of AI and robotics to take on the challenges of space exploration and colonization

And lastly, here is my all-time favorite argument essay topic that I use to teach argument writing. I use this topic for all of my instruction, for all of my examples, and for modeling the process to students: who makes the best fast-food cheeseburger?

Need argument essay instructional materials?

My argument writing teaching unit has everything you need to teach your students all about argument writing! You can pair this unit with any of the argument essay prompts on this page, and you will be teaching argument writing in no time!

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23 Persuasive writing Topics for High School students

Persuasive Writing Topics for High School Students

Writing a persuasive essay can be difficult for teachers and students if you don’t have a great idea to help get those creative juices flowing. These prompts cover a range of issues and topics that are pertinent to middle school and high school students and can be easily adapted to work with a topic you have been teaching in your own class.

Students really enjoy the opportunity to try and change the world in which they live, and hopefully, these prompts might be a great starting point.

Remember that if you are looking for more excellent free resources and structured guides to teaching all aspects of English, especially writing be sure to visit literacyideas.com and check our vast collection of prompts here.

Year Long Inference Based Writing Activities

Tap into the power of imagery in your classroom to master INFERENCE as AUTHORS and CRITICAL THINKERS .

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (26 Reviews)

This YEAR-LONG 500+ PAGE unit is packed with robust opportunities for your students to develop the critical skill of inference through fun imagery, powerful thinking tools, and graphic organizers.

50 Argumentative Essay Topics for Students

4-minute read

11th June 2022

The goal of an argumentative essay is to persuade the reader to understand and support your position on an issue by presenting your reasoning along with supporting evidence. It’s important to find the right balance between giving your opinions and presenting established research.

These essays discuss issues around a range of topics, including science, technology, politics, and healthcare. Whether you’re a teacher looking for essay topics for your students or a student tasked with developing an idea of your own, we’ve compiled a list of 50 argumentative essay topics to help you get started!

● Does texting hinder interpersonal communication skills?

● Should there be laws against using devices while driving?

● Do violent video games teach or encourage people to behave violently?

● Should social media sites be allowed to collect users’ data?

● Should parents limit how long their children spend in front of screens?

● Is AI helping or hurting society?

● Should cyber-bullying carry legal consequences?

● Should Supreme Court justices be elected?

● Is war always a political decision?

● Should people join a political party?

● Is capitalism ethical?

● Is the electoral college an effective system?

● Should prisoners be allowed to vote?

● Should the death penalty be legal?

● Are governments around the world doing enough to combat global warming?

● Is healthcare a fundamental human right?

● Should vaccinations be mandated for children?

● Are there any circumstances under which physician-assisted suicides should be legal?

● Should parents be able to choose specific genetic modifications of their future children?

● Should abortion be legal?

● Is it ethical to perform medical experiments on animals?

● Should patients who lead unhealthy lifestyles be denied organ transplants?

● Should doctors be able to provide medical care to children against their parents’ wishes?

Mental Healthcare

● What causes the stigma around mental health?

● Discuss the link between insufficient access to mental health services and the high suicide rates among veterans.

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● Should cannabis be used as a treatment for patients with mental disorders?

● Is there a link between social media use and mental disorders?

● Discuss the effect of physical activity on mental health.

● Should sports be segregated by gender?

● Should male and female athletes be given the same pay and opportunities?

● Are professional athletes overpaid?

● Should college athletes be paid?

● Should sports betting be legal?

● Should online access to art such as music be free?

● Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?

● Are there any circumstances under which books should be banned?

● Should schools be required to offer art courses?

● Is art necessary to society?

● Should schools require uniforms?

● Should reciting the Pledge of Allegiance be required in schools?

● Do standardized tests effectively measure intelligence?

● Should high school students take a gap year before pursuing higher education?

● Should higher education be free?

● Is there too much pressure on high school students to attend college?

● Are children better off in two-parent households?

● Should LGBTQ+ partners be allowed to adopt?

● Should single people be able to adopt children as easily as couples?

● Is it okay for parents to physically discipline their children?

● Does helicopter parenting help or hurt children?

● Should parents monitor their children’s Internet use?

Proofreading & Editing

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How to Choose a Good Topic for a High School Essay

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Facing the challenge of writing an essay in high school?

This time, it's different. You have the freedom to choose your own topic. While this might sound exciting, it's not always as simple as it seems. The right topic can be the difference between a compelling essay and a forgettable one.

Feeling the pressure? Don't worry. We're here to help.

In this blog post, we're diving into the world of essay topics, specifically tailored for high school students. We've got you covered with a variety of ideas, ranging from persuasive and discursive essays to opinion, expository, and narrative essays. Plus, we're throwing in an extra treat - five unique topics perfect for crafting a five-paragraph essay.

Our list of 65 topics isn't just a random collection. We've carefully mixed creative, fun, easy, and more challenging topics to cater to all tastes and interests. Whether you're looking to impress with your creativity or tackle something more traditional, we've got something for you.

Ready to find the perfect topic for your high school essay? Let's get started!

List of 65 Good Essay Topics for High School Students

Dive into our carefully curated list of 65 engaging essay topics designed for high school students. From thought-provoking to fun, these topics will spark your creativity and set the stage for compelling writing.

Persuasive topics

Starting a persuasive essay means choosing a topic you like and that can also convince others. It's about finding the perfect topic and making strong arguments. For high school students who are eager to look at things in new ways, here are ten persuasive essay topics that mix creative ideas with smart thinking:

Should School Start Later to Allow More Sleep?
Is Learning a Musical Instrument Important for Students?
Should Junk Food Be Banned in Schools?
Are School Uniforms Necessary or Outdated?
Should High Schools Have Later Start Times?
Is Year-Round Schooling Better than Traditional Schooling?
Should Students Have Homework Every Day?
Are School Cafeterias Offering Healthy Meal Choices?
Should Schools Limit the Use of Technology in the Classroom?
Is It Important to Have Physical Education Every Day?

These topics are great for encouraging students to think critically and develop persuasive arguments about relevant issues. Remember, a successful persuasive essay doesn't just present facts; it convinces the reader to see things from a new perspective.

Discursive topics

Starting a discursive essay means picking a topic where you can explore different sides fairly. It's about discussing the pros and cons and sharing different viewpoints. Here are ten simple yet engaging discursive essay topics perfect for high school students:

School Cafeterias: Should Junk Food Be Banned?
Homework: Helpful Practice or Too Much Pressure?
Online Learning: Is It as Good as Being in the Classroom?
Uniforms at School: Good for Everyone or Too Restrictive?
Reality TV: Fun Entertainment or Bad Influence?
Zoos: Are They Safe Havens for Animals or Just for Show?
Social Media: Connecting People or Causing Stress?
Sports: Just for Fun or Important for Health?
Public Libraries: Still Needed or Outdated?
Group Projects: Best Way to Learn or Too Much Trouble?

These topics are great for discussing different views and will help you see things from more than one angle. Remember, a good discursive essay isn't about picking a side but rather about showing you understand both sides of the story. Pick a topic that makes you curious, and dive into the discussion!

Opinion topics

Writing an opinion essay is all about sharing your views and explaining why you feel that way. It's your chance to express yourself on topics that matter to you. Here are ten fun and easy opinion essay topics perfect for high school students:

Cartoons vs. Real-life Shows: Which Are More Entertaining?
Are Pets Better Friends Than People Sometimes?
Should Schools Start Later in the Morning?
Is Playing Video Games Better Than Watching TV?
Are Books More Fun to Read on Paper or on a Screen?
Should Everyone Learn to Cook?
Can Listening to Music Help You Study Better?
Is It Better to Travel or Stay Home During Vacations?
Are Superheroes the Best Kind of Movies?
Should Every Student Learn to Play a Musical Instrument?

These topics are perfect for sharing your personal viewpoint and can be really fun to write about. Remember, the best opinion essays come from what you're really interested in or feel strongly about. So pick a topic that sparks your interest and share your thoughts!

Expository topics

Expository essays are great for diving deep into a topic and explaining it clearly. It's all about laying out the facts and explaining how things work or why they are the way they are. Here are ten good and interesting expository essay topics perfect for high school students:

How Does Recycling Help the Environment?
What Steps Can You Take to Save Money as a Teenager?
How Do Video Games Affect Your Brain?
What Are the Benefits of Learning a Second Language?
How Does the Weather Affect Your Mood?
What Are the Best Ways to Stay Healthy in School?
How Do Plants Grow and Why Are They Important?
What Makes a Good Leader?
How Does the Internet Work?
What Are the Effects of Listening to Music on Productivity?

These topics are not only good for writing but also interesting to research and learn about. Expository essays are a chance to explore and explain, so pick a topic that you find fascinating and dive into the details!

Cause and effect topics

Cause and effect essays are about understanding why things happen (the cause) and what happens as a result (the effect). It's like being a detective, looking for clues and connecting the dots. Here are ten easy and creative cause and effect essay topics perfect for high school students:

What Happens When You Get Enough Sleep vs. Not Enough?
How Does Spending Time Outdoors Affect Your Health?
What Are the Effects of Eating Too Much Sugar?
How Does Being Organized Help You in School?
What Happens When You Regularly Exercise?
How Does Watching Too Much TV Affect Your Brain?
What Are the Effects of Having a Hobby?
How Does Bullying Affect Students in School?
What Happens When You Drink Enough Water Every Day?
How Does Using Social Media Affect Friendships?

These topics are not only easy to write about but also allow you to be creative in exploring the reasons behind things and their outcomes. Cause and effect essays help you think critically, so choose a topic you're curious about and start investigating!

Narrative topics

Narrative essays are all about telling a story. They allow you to be creative and share experiences or imaginative scenarios. Here are ten easy and interesting narrative essay topics perfect for high school students:

A Day You'll Never Forget
Your First Day at a New School
The Time You Learned a Valuable Lesson from a Mistake
A Memorable Trip with Your Family or Friends
The Moment You Stood Up for What You Believe In
An Unexpected Adventure in Your Neighborhood
The Day You Met Someone Who Changed Your Life
A Special Family Tradition You Cherish
Your Experience of Overcoming a Fear
A Funny or Embarrassing Moment You Experienced

Narrative essays are like your personal stories. They're a chance to share a part of your life or your imagination with others. So pick a topic that means something to you or that you find exciting, and let your creativity flow!

Five-paragraph essay topics

5 paragraph essays are a great way to organize your thoughts and keep your writing focused. Here are five creative topics perfect for high school students:

"If I Could Invent Something New": Imagine you're an inventor. Describe your invention, how it works, and how it would change the world.
"A World Without Smartphones": Describe how daily life would change if smartphones suddenly disappeared. Cover both the challenges and the unexpected benefits.
"The Secret Life of My Pet": Narrate a day from the perspective of your pet. What adventures do they have when you're not around?
"The Book That Changed My Life": Discuss a book that had a significant impact on you. Explain how it changed your thoughts or behavior.
"When Time Stopped": Imagine a day where the clock stopped ticking. How would you spend those endless hours? Describe the events of the day and how the experience changed your view of time.

These topics allow you to be creative and explore different scenarios while keeping your writing structured. Pick a topic that sparks your imagination and start crafting your story!

As we wrap up this journey through diverse and engaging essay topics for high school students, remember that the key to a memorable essay lies in the choice of topic. It's the spark that ignites your writing and captures the reader's interest. Whether you choose a persuasive, discursive, opinion, expository, cause and effect, narrative, or five-paragraph essay, ensure it's a topic that resonates with you personally. Your passion and interest in the subject will shine through your writing, making your essay stand out.

If you're still feeling unsure or pressed for time, remember, Writers per Hour is here to assist. Our essay writing service is tailored for high school students like you, offering guidance and support to help you craft the perfect essay.

But the most important tip : Choose a topic that speaks to you, one that sparks your curiosity and ignites your desire to write. With the right topic in hand, your essay is already on the path to success.

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65 Argumentative Research Topics For High School Students [PDF Included]

In today’s world, where information is readily available at our fingertips, it’s becoming increasingly important to teach students how to think critically, evaluate sources, and develop persuasive arguments. And one of the best ways to do this is through argumentative research topics.

In high school, students are often encouraged to learn and analyze factual information. However, much like other English and biology research topics , argumentative research topics offer a different kind of challenge. Instead of simply presenting facts, these topics require students to delve into complex issues, think critically, and present their opinions in a clear and convincing manner.

In this article, we will provide a list of compelling argumentative research topics for high school students. From education and politics to social issues and environmental concerns, these topics will challenge students to think deeply, evaluate sources critically, and develop and challenge their skills!

Argumentative research topics: Persuading the student to think and reason harder

Argumentative research topics are a fascinating and exciting way for students to engage in critical thinking and persuasive writing. This type of research topic encourages students to take a stance on a controversial issue and defend it using well-reasoned arguments and evidence. By doing so, students are not only honing their analytical skills and persuasive writing skills, but they are also developing a deeper understanding of their own beliefs and assumptions.

Unlike other research topics that may simply require students to regurgitate facts or summarize existing research, argumentative topics require students to develop and defend their own ideas.

Through argumentative research, students are encouraged to question their own biases and consider alternative perspectives. This type of critical thinking is a vital skill that is essential for success in any academic or professional context. Being able to analyze and evaluate information from different perspectives is an invaluable tool that will serve students well in their future careers.

Furthermore, argumentative research topics, are like writing prompts , which are meant to encourage students to engage in civil discourse and debate. These topics often involve controversial issues that can elicit strong emotions and passionate opinions from individuals with differing viewpoints.

By engaging in respectful, fact-based discussions and debates, students can learn how to engage with people who have different beliefs and opinions

Argumentative Research Topics

The boundaries of free speech: where should the line be drawn?
Internet privacy: Should websites and apps be restricted in collecting and utilizing user data?
Has the internet been a force for progress or a hindrance?
The role of public surveillance in modern society: is it necessary or invasive?
Climate change and global warming: Are human activities solely responsible?
Mandating physical education in schools to combat childhood obesity: Is it effective?
The ethics of mandatory vaccination for high school students for public health reasons
The ethics of wearing fur and leather: Is it always unethical?
Keeping exotic pets: is it acceptable or inhumane?
The impact of social media on mental health: Is it more positive or negative?
Wildlife preserves: Are they suitable habitats for all species that reside there?
Animal fashion: Should it be prohibited?
Mental health services in schools: Should they be free or reduced-cost for students?
Quality of high school education: Should teachers undergo regular assessments to ensure it?
Healthy eating habits in schools: Should schools offer healthier food options in their cafeteria or allow students to bring food from home?
Social media addiction: Is it a significant health concern for kids?
Technology use and mental health problems: Is there a connection among high school students?
Junk food in schools: Should schools ban it from vending machines and school stores to promote healthy eating habits?
Dress codes in schools: Are they necessary or outdated
Regulating social media: Should the government regulate it to prevent cyberbullying?
Politicians and standardized testing: Should politicians be subject to standardized testing?
Art vs Science: Are they equally challenging fields?
School uniform and discrimination: Does it really reduce discrimination in schools?
Teachers and poor academic performance: Are teachers the cause of poor academic performance?
Physical discipline: Should teachers and parents be allowed to physically discipline their children?
Telling white lies: Is it acceptable to tell a white lie to spare someone’s feelings?
Sports in college: Should colleges promote sports as a career path?
Gender and education: How does gender affect education?
Refusing medical treatment: Is it acceptable to refuse medical treatment based on personal beliefs?
Children’s rights and medical treatment: Do doctors violate children’s rights if they do not provide treatment when the parents refuse to treat the child?
Parental influence on gender stereotypes: Do parents encourage gender stereotypes?
Dating in schools: Should dating be permitted in schools with supervision?
Human nature: Are people inherently good or evil by nature?
Immigration and national economy: Can immigration benefit the national economy?
Keeping animals in zoos: Is it appropriate?
Cell phone use in schools: Should cell phone use be permitted in schools?
Veganism: Should humans only consume vegan food?
Animal testing: Should it be outlawed?
Waste segregation: Should the government mandate waste segregation at home?
Technology integration in schools: Is it beneficial for traditional learning?
Homeschooling vs traditional schooling: Is homeschooling as effective as traditional schooling?
Prohibition of smoking and drinking: Should it be permanently prohibited?
Banning violent and aggressive video games: Should they be banned?
Harmful effects of beauty standards on society: Are beauty standards harmful to society?
The impact of advertising on consumer behavior
The ethical considerations of artificial intelligence and its potential impact on society
The impact of globalization on cultural diversity
The effectiveness of alternative medicine in treating various illnesses
The benefits and drawbacks of online learning compared to traditional classroom education
The role of mass media in shaping public opinion and political discourse
The impact of artificial intelligence on job automation and employment rates
The impact of fast fashion on the environment and human rights
The ethical considerations of using animals for entertainment purposes
Parents are solely responsible for their child’s behavior.
Is space exploration worth it or not?
stricter regulations on the use of plastic and single-use products to reduce waste
Is capitalism the best economic system
Should there be limits on the amount of wealth individuals can accumulate?
Is it ethical to use animals for food production?
Is the concept of national borders outdated in the modern era?
Should the use of nuclear power be expanded or phased out?
Self-driving cars: Convenience or threat?
The implications of allowing influencers to advertise dietary supplements and weight loss products.
Faults in the education system: need change or modification?
Are the intentions of “big pharma” genuinely aligned with the well-being of the public?

Argumentative research topics are an important tool for promoting critical thinking, and persuasive communication skills and preparing high school students for active engagement in society. These topics challenge students to think deeply and develop persuasive arguments by engaging with complex issues and evaluating sources. Through this process, students can become informed, engaged, and empathetic citizens who are equipped to participate actively in a democratic society.

Furthermore, argumentative research topics teach students how to engage in respectful, fact-based discussions and debates, and how to communicate effectively with people who have different beliefs and opinions. By fostering civil discourse, argumentative research topics can help bridge social, cultural, and political divides, and promote a more united and equitable society.

Overall, argumentative research topics are a crucial component of high school education, as they provide students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in college, career, and life.

Having a 10+ years of experience in teaching little budding learners, I am now working as a soft skills and IELTS trainers. Having spent my share of time with high schoolers, I understand their fears about the future. At the same time, my experience has helped me foster plenty of strategies that can make their 4 years of high school blissful. Furthermore, I have worked intensely on helping these young adults bloom into successful adults by training them for their dream colleges. Through my blogs, I intend to help parents, educators and students in making these years joyful and prosperous.

75+ Persuasive Essay Topics for High School Students

Are you a high school student struggling to come up with a topic for your persuasive essay? Check out our list of 100+ persuasive essay topics that will inspire your writing.

As a high school student, writing a persuasive essay can be a challenging task, especially when it comes to choosing a topic. The topic of your essay can make or break your grade, and it’s essential to choose a subject that is both interesting and relevant. With so many different topics to choose from, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect one. That’s why we’ve created this list of 100+ persuasive essay topics for high school students. We hope it will inspire you and help you find the perfect topic for your next essay.

Table of Contents

75+ (adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); Persuasive Essay Topics for High School (HSC) Students

The impact of social media on teenage relationships
The importance of learning a second language
Should students be required to volunteer in their communities?
The dangers of vaping
The importance of self-care and mental health
Should schools implement a dress code policy?
The impact of technology on education
The benefits of learning a musical instrument
Should high school students be required to take a personal finance class?
The impact of social media on mental health
The importance of physical education in schools
Should schools require students to take drug tests?
The impact of climate change on the environment
The importance of diversity and inclusion in schools
Should high school students be allowed to use cell phones in the classroom?
The impact of video games on teenage behavior
The importance of art education in schools
Should schools offer free breakfast to students?
The impact of standardized testing on education
The benefits of taking a gap year before college
The impact of fast food on teenage health
The importance of sleep for teenagers
Should high schools implement random drug testing for student athletes?
The impact of single-sex schools on education
The importance of financial literacy for teenagers
Should schools teach students how to do taxes?
The impact of bullying on teenage mental health
The importance of sex education in schools
Should high school students be required to wear uniforms?
The impact of social media on body image
The importance of extracurricular activities in schools
Should schools offer vocational training programs?
The impact of homeschooling on education
The importance of computer science education in schools
Should schools have a four-day school week?
The impact of poverty on education
The importance of learning life skills in school
Should high schools have metal detectors?
The impact of video game violence on teenage behavior
The importance of music education in schools
Should schools have armed security guards?
The impact of single-parent households on education
The importance of nutrition education in schools
Should schools offer classes on mental health?
The impact of online learning on education
The importance of learning financial management skills in school
Should high schools offer classes on entrepreneurship?
The impact of domestic violence on teenage mental health
The importance of phy
Fitness in schools
Should schools offer classes on meditation and mindfulness?
The impact of technology on teenage communication skills
The importance of learning about other cultures in school
Should high school students be allowed to choose their own classes?
The impact of parental involvement on education
The importance of learning coding in school
Is it important to learn a second language in high school?
Should high schools have a dress code
Should schools ban junk food?
Should schools start later in the day to allow for more sleep?
Should high schools teach financial literacy?
Should schools eliminate grades and standardized testing?
Should high school students be required to do community service?
Should schools teach more about mental health?
Should high school students be allowed to leave campus for lunch?
Should schools provide free condoms to students?
Should high school students be allowed to have part-time jobs?
Should schools teach gun safety?
Should high schools teach about climate change?
Should schools have a mandatory course on diversity and inclusion?
Should high school students be required to take a course on personal finance?
Should schools teach self-defense?
Should high school students be required to pass a drug test?
Should schools have a mandatory course on nutrition and healthy eating?

In conclusion, choosing a persuasive essay topic for high school students can be challenging, but it is also an opportunity to engage with important issues facing young people today. It is important to select a topic that is relevant and meaningful, and that encourages critical thinking and open discussion. With this list of 100+ persuasive essay topics for high school students, we hope to inspire and motivate young writers to explore the world around them and find their own unique voice in the process. By honing their persuasive skills, high school students can learn to advocate for themselves and others, and become active and engaged citizens in their communities and beyond.

Hello! Welcome to my Blog StudyParagraphs.co. My name is Angelina. I am a college professor. I love reading writing for kids students. This blog is full with valuable knowledge for all class students. Thank you for reading my articles.

Persuasive Essay Topics for Middle School students

How to Write a Discursive Essay: Awesome Guide and Template

Interesting fact: Did you know that the term "discursive" is derived from the Latin word "discursus," which means to run about or to traverse? This reflects the nature of a discursive essay, as it involves exploring various perspectives, moving through different points of view, and presenting a comprehensive discussion on a given topic.

In this article, you will find out about a discursive essay definition, learn the difference between a discourse and an argumentative essay, gain practical how-to tips, and check out a discursive essay example.

What Is a Discursive Essay

A discursive essay definition is a type of formal writing that presents a balanced analysis of a particular topic. Unlike an argumentative essay, which takes a firm stance on a single perspective and seeks to persuade the reader to adopt that viewpoint, a discursive essay explores multiple sides of an issue.

The goal of a discursive essay is to provide a comprehensive overview of the subject, presenting different arguments, counterarguments, and perspectives in a structured and organized manner.

This type of essay encourages critical thinking and reasoned discourse. It typically includes an introduction that outlines the topic and sets the stage for the discussion, followed by a series of body paragraphs that delve into various aspects of the issue. The essay may also address counterarguments and opposing viewpoints.

Finally, a discursive essay concludes by summarizing the key points and often leaves room for the reader to form their own informed opinion on the matter. This form of writing is commonly assigned in academic settings, allowing students to demonstrate their ability to analyze complex topics and present a well-reasoned exploration of diverse viewpoints. In case you find this type of composition too difficult, just say, ‘ write my paper ,’ and professional writers will take care of it.

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Difference Between a Discursive Essay and an Argumentative

The main difference between discursive essays and argumentative lies in their overall purpose and approach to presenting information.

Discursive: The primary purpose of a discursive essay is to explore and discuss various perspectives on a given topic. How to write a discursive essay is about providing a comprehensive overview of the subject matter by presenting different arguments, opinions, and viewpoints without necessarily advocating for a specific stance.
Argumentative: In contrast, an argumentative essay is designed to persuade the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action. It presents a clear and focused argument in favor of the writer's position, often addressing and refuting opposing views.

Tone and Language:

Discursive: The tone of a discursive essay is generally more balanced and objective. It allows for a more open exploration of ideas, and the language used is often neutral and formal.
Argumentative: An argumentative essay tends to have a more assertive tone. The language is focused on presenting a compelling case from the writer's perspective, and there may be a sense of conviction in the presentation of evidence and reasoning.
Discursive Essay: A discursive essay typically follows a more flexible structure. It may present multiple points of view in separate sections, allowing for a free-flowing exploration of the topic.
Argumentative Essay: When learning how to write an argumentative essay, students usually follow a more rigid structure, with a clear introduction, thesis statement, body paragraphs that present evidence and arguments, and a conclusion that reinforces the writer's stance.

Conclusion:

Discursive Essay: The conclusion of a discursive essay often summarizes the main points discussed and may leave room for the reader to form their own opinion on the matter.
Argumentative Essay: The conclusion of an argumentative essay reinforces the writer's position and may include a call to action or a clear statement of the desired outcome.

While both types of essays involve critical thinking and analysis, the key distinction lies in their ultimate goals and how they approach the presentation of information.

Types of Discursive Essay

Before writing a discursive essay, keep in mind that they can be categorized into different types based on their specific purposes and structures. Here are some common types of discursive essays:

Opinion Essays:

Purpose: Expressing and supporting personal opinions on a given topic.
Structure: The essay presents the writer's viewpoint and provides supporting evidence, examples, and arguments. It may also address counterarguments to strengthen the overall discussion.

Problem-Solution Essays:

Purpose: Identifying a specific problem and proposing effective solutions.
Structure: The essay introduces the problem, discusses its causes and effects, and presents possible solutions. It often concludes with a recommendation or call to action.

Compare and Contrast Essays:

Purpose: Analyzing similarities and differences between two or more perspectives, ideas, or approaches.
Structure: The essay outlines the key points of each perspective, highlighting similarities and differences. A balanced analysis is provided to give the reader a comprehensive understanding.

Cause and Effect Essays:

Purpose: Exploring the causes and effects of a particular phenomenon or issue.
Structure: The essay identifies the primary causes and examines their effects or vice versa. It may delve into the chain of events and their implications.

Argumentative Essays:

Purpose: Presenting a strong argument in favor of a specific viewpoint.
Structure: The essay establishes a clear thesis statement, provides evidence and reasoning to support the argument, and addresses opposing views. It aims to persuade the reader to adopt the writer's perspective.

Pro-Con Essays:

Purpose: Evaluating the pros and cons of a given issue.
Structure: The essay presents the positive aspects (pros) and negative aspects (cons) of the topic. It aims to provide a balanced assessment and may conclude with a recommendation or a summary of the most compelling points.

Exploratory Essays:

Purpose: Investigating and discussing a topic without necessarily advocating for a specific position.
Structure: The essay explores various aspects of the topic, presenting different perspectives and allowing the reader to form their own conclusions. It often reflects a process of inquiry and discovery.

These types of discursive essays offer different approaches to presenting information, and the choice of type depends on the specific goals of the essay and the preferences of the writer.

How to Write a Discursive Essay

Unlike other forms of essay writing, a discursive essay demands a unique set of skills, inviting writers to navigate through diverse perspectives, present contrasting viewpoints, and weave a tapestry of balanced arguments.

You can order custom essay right now to save time to get ready to delve into the art of crafting a compelling discursive essay, unraveling the intricacies of structure, language, and critical analysis. Whether you're a seasoned essayist or a novice in the realm of formal writing, this exploration promises to equip you with the tools needed to articulate your thoughts effectively and engage your audience in thoughtful discourse.

Discursive Essay Format

The format of a discursive essay plays a crucial role in ensuring a clear, well-organized, and persuasive presentation of multiple perspectives on a given topic. Here is a typical discursive essay structure:

1. Introduction:

Hook: Begin with a captivating hook or attention-grabbing statement to engage the reader's interest.
Contextualization: Provide a brief overview of the topic and its relevance, setting the stage for the discussion.
Thesis Statement: Clearly state the main argument or the purpose of the essay. In a discursive essay, the thesis often reflects the idea that the essay will explore multiple viewpoints without necessarily taking a firm stance.

2. Body Paragraphs:

Topic Sentences: Start each body paragraph with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main point or argument.
Presentation of Arguments: Devote individual paragraphs to different aspects of the topic, presenting various arguments, perspectives, or evidence. Ensure a logical flow between paragraphs.
Address Counterarguments: Acknowledge and address opposing viewpoints to strengthen the overall credibility of your essay.
Supporting Evidence: Provide examples, statistics, quotations, or other forms of evidence to bolster each argument.

3. Transitions:

Logical Transitions: Use transitional phrases and words to ensure a smooth and logical flow between paragraphs and ideas. This helps readers follow your line of reasoning.

4. Conclusion:

Restate Thesis: Summarize the main argument or purpose of the essay without introducing new information.
Brief Recap: Provide a concise recap of the key points discussed in the body paragraphs.
Closing Thoughts: Offer some closing thoughts or reflections on the significance of the topic. You may also leave room for the reader to consider their own stance.

5. Language and Style:

Formal Tone: Maintain a formal and objective tone throughout the essay.
Clarity and Coherence: Ensure that your ideas are presented clearly and that there is coherence in your argumentation.
Varied Sentence Structure: Use a variety of sentence structures to enhance readability and engagement.

6. References (if applicable):

Citations: If you use external sources, cite them appropriately according to the citation style required (e.g., APA, MLA).

Remember, flexibility exists within this format, and the specifics may vary based on the assignment requirements or personal writing preferences. Tailor the structure to suit the demands of your discourse and the expectations of your audience.

Introduction

A discursive essay introduction serves as the gateway to a thought-provoking exploration of diverse perspectives on a given topic. Here's how to structure an effective discursive essay introduction:

Begin with a compelling hook that captures the reader's attention. This could be a striking statistic, a thought-provoking quote, a relevant anecdote, or a rhetorical question.
Offer a brief context or background information about the topic. This helps orient the reader and sets the stage for the discussion to follow.
Clearly state the purpose of the essay. This often involves indicating that the essay will explore various perspectives on the topic without necessarily advocating for a specific stance.
Provide a brief overview of the different aspects or arguments that will be explored in the essay.
Conclude the introduction with a clear and concise thesis statement.

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Writing a discursive essay involves crafting the body of your discursive essay. The number of paragraphs in the body should correspond to the arguments presented, with an additional paragraph dedicated to the opposing viewpoint if you choose to disclose both sides of the argument. If you opt for this approach, alternate the order of the body paragraphs—supporting arguments followed by counterarguments.

Each body paragraph in your discursive essay should focus on a distinct idea. Begin the paragraph with the main idea, provide a concise summary of the argument, and incorporate supporting evidence from reputable sources.

In the concluding paragraph of the body, present potential opposing arguments and counter them. Approach this section as if engaging in a debate, strategically dismantling opposing viewpoints.

While composing the body of a discursive essay, maintain a cohesive narrative. Although individual paragraphs address different arguments, refrain from titling each paragraph—aim for a seamless flow throughout the essay. Express your personal opinions exclusively in the conclusion.

Key guidelines for writing the body of a discursive essay:

Remain Unbiased: Prioritize objectivity. Evaluate all facets of the issue, leaving personal sentiments aside.
Build Your Argumentation: If you have multiple arguments supporting your viewpoint, present them in separate, well-structured paragraphs. Provide supporting evidence to enhance clarity and credibility.
Use an Alternate Writing Style: Present opposing viewpoints in an alternating manner. This means that if the first paragraph supports the main argument, the second should present an opposing perspective. This method enhances clarity and research depth and ensures neutrality.
Include Topic Sentences and Evidence: Commence each paragraph with a topic sentence summarizing the argument. This aids reader comprehension. Substantiate your claims with evidence, reinforcing the credibility of your discourse.

By adhering to these principles, you can construct a coherent and well-supported body for your discursive essay.

Conclusion

Writing an effective conclusion is crucial to leaving a lasting impression on your reader. Here are some tips to guide you in crafting a compelling and impactful conclusion:

Begin your conclusion by summarizing the key points discussed in the body of the essay.
Remind the reader of your thesis statement, emphasizing the primary purpose of your discursive essay.
Address the broader significance or implications of the topic.
Explain why the issue is relevant and underscore the importance of considering multiple perspectives in understanding its complexity.
Reiterate the balanced nature of your essay. Emphasize that you have explored various viewpoints and arguments without necessarily taking a firm stance.
Reinforce the idea that your goal was to present a comprehensive analysis.
If applicable, suggest possible recommendations or solutions based on the insights gained from the essay.
Encourage the reader to reflect on the topic independently.
Pose open-ended questions or invite them to consider the implications of the arguments presented.
Resist the temptation to introduce new information or arguments in the conclusion.
Keep the tone of your conclusion professional and thoughtful.
Conclude your essay with a strong, memorable closing statement.
Carefully review your conclusion to ensure clarity and coherence. Edit for grammar, punctuation, and overall writing quality to present a polished final product.

By incorporating these tips into your discursive essay conclusion, you can effectively summarize your arguments, leave a lasting impression, and prompt thoughtful reflection from your readers. Consider using our term paper writing service if you have to deal with a larger assignment that requires more time and effort.

Yays and Nays of Writing Discourse Essays

In learning how to write a discursive essay, certain do's and don'ts serve as guiding principles throughout the writing process. By adhering to these guidelines, writers can navigate the complexities of presenting arguments, counterarguments, and nuanced analyses, ensuring the essay resonates with clarity and persuasiveness.

Conduct thorough research on the topic to ensure a well-informed discussion.
Present multiple perspectives on the issue, exploring various arguments and viewpoints.
Maintain a balanced and neutral tone. Present arguments objectively without expressing personal bias.
Structure your essay logically with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. Use paragraphs to organize your ideas effectively.
Topic Sentences:
Include clear topic sentences at the beginning of each paragraph to guide the reader through your arguments.
Support your arguments with credible evidence from reputable sources to enhance the credibility of your essay.
Use transitional words and phrases to ensure a smooth flow between paragraphs and ideas.
Engage in critical analysis. Evaluate the strengths and weaknesses of different arguments and viewpoints.
Recap key points in the conclusion, summarizing the main arguments and perspectives discussed in the essay.
Carefully proofread your essay to correct any grammar, spelling, or punctuation errors.
Don't express personal opinions in the body of the essay. Save personal commentary for the conclusion.
Don't introduce new information or arguments in the conclusion. This section should summarize and reflect on existing content.
Don't use overly emotional or subjective language. Maintain a professional and objective tone throughout.
Don't rely on personal opinions without sufficient research. Ensure that your arguments are supported by credible evidence.
Don't have an ambiguous or unclear thesis statement. Clearly state the purpose of your essay in the introduction.
Don't ignore counterarguments. Acknowledge and address opposing viewpoints to strengthen your overall argument.
Don't use overly complex language if it doesn't add to the clarity of your arguments. Strive for clarity and simplicity in your writing.
Don't present ideas in a disorganized manner. Ensure that there is a logical flow between paragraphs and ideas.
Don't excessively repeat the same points. Present a variety of arguments and perspectives to keep the essay engaging.
Don't ignore the guidelines provided for the essay assignment. Follow any specific instructions or requirements given by your instructor or institution.

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Discursive Essay Examples

Discursive essay topics.

Writing a discursive essay on a compelling topic holds immense importance as it allows individuals to engage in a nuanced exploration of diverse perspectives. A well-chosen subject encourages critical thinking and deepens one's understanding of complex issues, fostering intellectual growth.

The process of exploring a good topic enhances research skills as writers delve into varied viewpoints and gather evidence to support their arguments. Moreover, such essays contribute to the broader academic discourse, encouraging readers to contemplate different facets of a subject and form informed opinions.

The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Employment.
Should Social Media Platforms Regulate Content for Misinformation?
Exploring the Ethics of Cloning in Contemporary Science.
Universal Basic Income: A Solution for Economic Inequality?
The Role of Technology in Shaping Modern Education.
Nuclear Energy: Sustainable Solution or Environmental Risk?
The Effects of Video Games on Adolescent Behavior.
Cybersecurity Threats in the Digital Age: Balancing Privacy and Security.
Debunking Common Myths Surrounding Climate Change.
The Pros and Cons of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs).
Online Education vs. Traditional Classroom Learning.
The Impact of Social Media Influencers on Consumer Behavior.
The Ethics of Animal Testing in Medical Research.
Universal Healthcare: Addressing Gaps in Healthcare Systems.
The Role of Government in Regulating Cryptocurrencies.
The Influence of Advertising on Body Image and Self-Esteem.
Renewable Energy Sources: A Viable Alternative to Fossil Fuels?
The Implications of Space Exploration on Earth's Resources.
Is Censorship Justified in the Arts and Entertainment Industry?
Examining the Impact of Globalization on Cultural Identity.
The Morality of Capital Punishment in the 21st Century.
Should Genetic Engineering be Used for Human Enhancement?
Social Media and Its Influence on Political Discourse.
Balancing Environmental Conservation with Economic Development.
The Role of Gender in the Workplace: Achieving Equality.
Exploring the Impact of Fast Fashion on the Environment.
The Benefits and Risks of Autonomous Vehicles.
The Influence of Media on Perceptions of Beauty.
Legalization of Marijuana: Addressing Medical and Social Implications.
The Impact of Antibiotic Resistance on Global Health.
The Pros and Cons of a Cashless Society.
Exploring the Relationship Between Technology and Mental Health.
The Role of Government Surveillance in Ensuring National Security.
Addressing the Digital Divide: Ensuring Access to Technology for All.
The Impact of Social Media on Political Activism.
The Ethics of Animal Rights and Welfare.
Nuclear Disarmament: Necessity or Utopian Ideal?
The Effects of Income Inequality on Societal Well-being.
The Role of Education in Combating Systemic Racism.
The Influence of Pop Culture on Society's Values and Norms.
Artificial Intelligence and Its Impact on Creative Industries.
The Pros and Cons of Mandatory Vaccination Policies.
The Role of Women in Leadership Positions: Breaking the Glass Ceiling.
Internet Privacy: Balancing Personal Security and Data Collection.
The Impact of Social Media on Youth Mental Health.
The Morality of Animal Agriculture and Factory Farming.
The Rise of Online Learning Platforms: Transforming Education.
Addressing the Digital Gender Gap in STEM Fields.
The Impact of Global Tourism on Local Cultures and Environments.
Exploring the Implications of 3D Printing Technology in Various Industries.

By the way, we have another great collection of narrative essay topics to get your creative juices flowing.

Wrapping Up

Throughout this guide, you have acquired valuable insights into the art of crafting compelling arguments and presenting diverse perspectives. By delving into the nuances of topic selection, structuring, and incorporating evidence, you could hone your critical thinking skills and sharpen your ability to engage in informed discourse.

This guide serves as a roadmap, offering not just a set of rules but a toolkit to empower students in their academic journey. As you embark on future writing endeavors, armed with the knowledge gained here, you can confidently navigate the challenges of constructing well-reasoned, balanced discursive essays that contribute meaningfully to academic discourse and foster a deeper understanding of complex issues. If you want to continue your academic learning journey right now, we suggest that you read about the IEEE format next.

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117 Great Persuasive Essay Topics for High School Level Students

When working on any essay, the first thing you’ll have to figure out is your topic. In high school, you are supposed to pick the kind of topic you will be able to dig into — that is, you have to make sure you can find enough info on the subject. Sure, today it seems that getting your hands on any kind of information is simple and question how long is a thesis isn't on the table yet. Still, you have to remember that apart from being available, the info you discuss should be engaging. So, that’s something to think about.

Argumentative and persuasive essays are most commonly assigned to high school students. So, there are plenty of papers in public domains that are written in one of these styles — and you can take a look at those if you need some inspiration. When working on an argumentative paper, for example, a student is supposed to present two polar different opinions on the subject and present enough evidence to support each point of view. But simply discussing two sides of the argument is not enough — a writer should also come up with a comprehensible conclusion. The same goes for persuasive essays — after all, the student’s primary goal here is to persuade the reader in his/her point of view.

In fact, a lot of argumentative essays are actually persuasive papers. So, if you’ve written at least one of those, you'll know how to write the other one. If you haven’t, here is a tip for you: choose a topic you feel strongly about. This is the certain way to make sure you will have enough ideas for a truly engaging paper; and, since you feel strongly about the subject, it will be way easier to prove your point of view to the reader.

Another word of advice while choosing a persuasive essay topic is to pick something that would be neither too broad, nor too narrow. Remember that most high school papers are no longer than five pages (often, even shorter than that), so it’s best to choose just one question and focus on it in your work. Also, remember that you will have to provide some factual evidence for your opinion (after all, any academic paper should be supported by academically recognized sources), so do not go for subjects that are purely opinionated and do not have any chance of justification.

Now that we’ve highlighted how important choosing a persuasive topic is for a student, let’s give you some great topic ideas to get you started.

50 Simple Essay Topics for High School

How can a person overcome fear?
Describe a piece of art (book, painting, poem) that changed your life.
Should students evaluate their teachers?
Do standardized tests really reveal student knowledge?
Should there be extra incentives for good grades at school?
Should Gym classes be obligatory?
Should we make our school calendar longer?
Can a class size influence student performance?
Should schools punish inappropriate student behavior?
Is there a connection between real-life violence and video games?
Should illegal immigrants’ children get an education?
Is there a way to deal with bullies in schools?
How reality TV is enforcing dangerous stereotypes
Is pop culture encouraging students not to pursue education?
White lies: what are they and should we really believe them to be innocent?
Should violent video games be sold to minors?
Using cell phones for education: the pros and cons
Should we conceal our real identities on the web?
Technology: distraction or a bonus?
Educational apps: how helpful are they?
Should everyone go for a college education?
The role of affirmative action in the modern world
College admission criteria: is there anything else apart from SAT?
The skinny model stereotype and its pressure on average girls
Do we really have equal rights for men and women?
Why so few girls pursue careers in exact sciences?
Stopping sexual abuse against young women
Should sports bets be legalized?
Can cheerleading be considered a sport?
Homosexual rights for sportsmen
The role of sports in our world
Are sports in the US too commercialized?
The benefits of local sports franchises
Should colleges pay their baseball players?
The debate of the naming rights
How should we treat juvenile offenders?
Pros and cons of death penalty
Leadership and the moral obligations that come with it
A cure against mass shootings
Should we change our gun control policy?
Is there too much digital censorship these days?
Should rich people pay higher taxes?
Government and the confidence we place in it
Privacy Vs. Security: which one comes first?
Should the US monitor its allies and citizens?
Should students be able to pick their teachers?
Is it reasonable to lower the voting age?
How important is fashion?
The appropriate dating age
Can older generation learn from the new one?

50 Persuasive topic ideas for high school

The pros and cons of allowing cell phones in schools
Free state college attendance for the state residents
The pros and cons of marijuana treatment
Is death penalty justifiable for violent offenders?
Should illegal immigrants be granted same rights as citizens?
Airport security: do we really need that many screenings?
Should we allow birth control for minors?
Free condoms at schools: atrocity or necessity?
Should schools separate gym grades from the grade list?
Free wi-fi in the cities: pros and cons
How often should teachers pass qualification tests?
Universal wealthy: how reasonable it is in the US realia?
Animal product testing: ethical vs. practical
Civil unions: should the government recognize them?
Is it reasonable to keep suspected terrorists under custody?
Should students be allowed to bring their music players to school?
Can we charge plus size citizens double ticket fair?
Corporate lobbyists and political campaigns: is their support legal?
Should school dedicate more attention to world religions?
Introducing obligatory community service in schools
Is it safe to keep exotic pets?
Cellphones in the classroom: should the teachers have them?
Violent crimes and minors: should the government treat them as adults?
Should we legalize euthanasia?
Should federal government control and restrict certain content on the Internet?
Sexual education as an obligatory subject in high schools
Should ESL students pass state tests in their native languages?
Can digital devices replace traditional textbooks?
Is it reasonable to test professional sportsmen for drugs?
Should corporate advertising be allowed in schools?
Can students and over be friends on social media?
How ethical it is to use stem cells from aborted children for the research?
Should the USA spend more time on internal affairs and less on overseas issues?
Drunk driving: should we enforce stricter punishment?
Is it ethical for a rape victim to go for an abortion?
Driving without a seat-belt: should it be considered a crime?
Is it necessary for high school sportsmen to take drug tests?
Should schools increase their budgets by selling food and drinks to students?
Is it ethical to advertise alcohol on TV?
Should foreign goods be taxed higher than internal products?
Free bus rides for seniors: do we need them?
Should the government ban sports betting?
Should the government lower the budget for schools that show weak results on SAT?
Would it be reasonable to euthanize dogs that have shown aggressive behavior towards people?
Should we introduce government censorship on certain online content?
Should we lower the minimal working age to 14 years old?
The pros and cons of wearing uniforms in schools
Should we allow getting a driving permit starting the age of 21?
Should schools introduce fast food in their menus?
Should booster seats for children be made obligatory?

12 Controversial Topics for School

Are there any moral grounds that can justify torture?
Should we consider police cameras an invasion of our privacy?
Should we ban tobacco once and for all?
Is the access to condoms affecting teenage irresponsible behavior?
Is the mankind really responsible for global warming?
Is it reasonable to teach creationism in schools?
How fair is our election process?
Should fathers get a paternity leave just as mothers do?
Are parents disrupting their children’s privacy by posting photos online?
Is advertising to children ethical?
Is average CEO salary justifiable?
Should the army promote their programs to high school students?

Best Topics for high school that are interesting and fun to read

The positive aspects of rivalry
The matter of age in a relationship
Is boredom is the surest way to trouble?
Should we increase or lower the drinking age?
Are the college tuition fees too high?

Those are some of the most interesting, opinionated essay topics for high school level. The biggest perk of the above examples is that most of them are based on a student’s opinion. At the same time, most of these topics presuppose some research — so any idea you’re proving will not be without confirmation. If you want to get more inspiration check out exploratory essay topics as well.

The final word of advice would be to pay your attention not only to the topic you choose but also to the way you present and organize your ideas. Do not forget that any essay should have an intro, main body and conclusion. The main body should be divided into a series of logically connected paragraphs, each presenting a certain point.

Finally, if you are to write and essay but have little knowledge or interest in the subject, do not forget that there are plenty of custom essay writers that will gladly do the job for you. Perhaps, the toughest thing to do when looking for an essay writing service or lab report example is determining which of them are reliable and which are not. But, with a little bit of time and patience (and attention to detail, of course), you will have no problem figuring out which service is worth a shot. A tip: these companies usually have a great number of positive customer reviews, are available through multiple support channels and have no problem sharing useful information for free.

Proposal Essay Topics: How To Choose Them And How To Make Them Work In Your Paper

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155 Exceptional Discursive Essay Topics To Try

Do you have a discursive essay to prepare, and getting the right topic is proving challenging? Selecting the best title for your essay can be challenging because it requires a lot of research and a deep understanding of the respective discipline. For others, it is simply a lack of confidence and materials for research. So, what is the way out?

To help you get high grades, this post provides a list of 155 hot topics that you can use. Consider using them as they are or tweak a little to fit your preference. Do not just select any topic for your discursive essay; select the best.

How to Select a Good Discursive Essay Topic

Before we can list the best topics to write a discursive essay on, it is important to answer the question, “How do you pick the best?” Here are some expert tips:

Interesting to You No matter the study discipline, the topic you select should be interesting. This can help you to develop a stronger attachment with the work, increasing the chances of crafting a high-quality paper. If you select a topic that is not interesting, the chances are that it will become challenging midway. Relevant As a college or university student, every paper you do should help push you higher into your career ladder. Therefore, it is important to select topics that are relevant to your field, especially the latest happenings. For example, a student pursuing international relations might want to explore areas such as the recent withdrawal of the US from Afghanistan, the recent Israel-Hamas war, or the American policy on climate change. Enough Materials As you select the topic, it will be an excellent idea to also think about the resources that will be used to prepare it. If you do not have ample books, journals, and other publications, there is a danger of getting stuck. Focused and Catchy

When your lecturer checks the essay, the topic is what you will get first, and, therefore, you should make it catchy. This makes the reader want to go deeper into the paper and see what you have to say. A good topic is also likely to earn you a higher grade.

Next, we will highlight the main essay ideas, starting with higher English discursive essay topics. We will also tell you why it is important to work with an expert writer.

Good Discursive Essay Topics for Higher English

Should foreign languages be taught in all schools?
Both safe sex and abstinence should be taught in high school.
In education, are motivational theories effective?
Teenagers and children should always speak out about domestic violence.
Should the government ban all types of sports betting?
Cheating during college examinations should be punished severely.
Alternative sources of energy are excellent in addressing global warming phenomena.
Good communication skills are crucial for success in business.
Should we make recycling mandatory for all?
E-books should not replace conventional books in college and university.
Should we reduce the legal age for acquiring a driving license in the UK?
Every business should invest in innovation.
Competition: Is it a good thing?
Are girls too mean in relationships?
Is fashion important?

Discursive Writing Topics in Sports

Can you keep children out of danger through sports?
Girls should be allowed to participate in the same sports as boys.
Should we legalize the use of steroid alternatives in athletics?
Students should be paid for participating in school sports.
All females should be banned from taking part in extreme sports.
Alcohol and tobacco adverts should be banned from school sports events.
The rules used to guide how coaches treat players are not strict enough.
Parents should disallow their students from participating in school soccer.
Should sports betting be made legal in all countries?
Are video games sports?
Is there a way of preventing injuries in soccer?
Engaging in professional sports is a way of life and not a hobby.
Being gay in sports draws a lot of attention from the media.
Is it acceptable for a soccer coach to lose his/her emotions on the field?
Sports can result in both positive and negative impacts on a person’s health.
Chess: Should it be considered a fully-fledged type of sport like basketball and soccer?
Do athletes experience stress?

Controversial Discursive Essay Topics for You

Death penalty: Is it effective?
What are the main causes of war?

Should we abolish all tobacco products?

Abortion should be abolished.
Illegal migrants: Should they be granted the right of abode?
What should society do to reduce payment inequality between men and women?
Capitalism is the best economic model.
Should we use animals for research?
BREXIT was a huge mistake.
Computer games are bad for children.
Ballarat Rebellion: Why did it end in just 30 minutes?
Sex before marriage should be forbidden.
Is homeschooling better than normal schooling?
To succeed in business, communication is the most important thing?
Fast foods should be disqualified as food.
Parents are to blame for high levels of overweight and obesity among children.
Is globalization really important?
Should human cloning be allowed?
Online dating has ruined the importance of traditional romance.
Can politics be free and fair?

Interesting Topics for Discursive Essays

Uniforms in school limit student’s freedom of expression.
Should all steroid users be banned from all sports in the UK?
Should all court proceedings be captured on camera?
Same-sex marriages: Should they be banned?
Does workplace diversity result in higher productivity?
What is the main challenge for women in the workplace?
Post-WWII America: How did it grow?
Should parents select careers for their children?
Reading non-fiction books helps to improve a person’s writing skills.
Should famous people get involved in leadership, especially politics?
Is Yoga a more spiritual event than fasting?
Short dresses should be banned from schools and workplaces.
Is space exploration a worthy undertaking?
Do we really require social media to stay in touch with each other?
Are vegetarians healthier than meat lovers?
WWI: What was the potential of the Russian Army?
Can virtual reality become dangerous to young people?
Rock music: Is it related to Satanism?

Unique Discursive Essay Topics

Do video games have an advantage for adults?
Punishing students that include physical torture should be banned in schools.
Is the global society becoming over-regulated?
Should we allow students to rate their trainers?
What is the biggest challenge faced by learners in college today?
Movies are better than cartoons.
Should America and Canada merge to form one country?
Smartphones are excellent learning tools.
Why do teenagers feel freer to talk on social media as opposed to face-to-face?
Does the training offered in college prepare students adequately for the real world?
To be successful, hard work alone is not enough.
Is the taxation system in the US effective?
Is college tuition in the UK too expensive?
Is studying Shakespeare in college a good idea today?
Without faith, life is incomplete.

Good Discursive Essay Topics in History

What was the impact of colonization on the Native Americans?
The main causes of the American Revolution.
History of racism in the UK.
What role did women play in WWII?
How significant are the measures adopted by the US to control terrorism?
What issues caused major conflicts between the South and North, resulting in the American Civil-war?
Were Egyptian pyramids constructed using slave labor?
Did WWII spur the creation of a new set of professionals?
During WWII, soldiers were the main spreaders of the Spanish Flu.
The results of WWI caused WWII: Is it correct?
The Second Civil War in South Sudan resulted in the creation of the independent republic of South Sudan.
Spanish-American War: Was it the cheapest war in history?
Why did the Soviet invade Afghanistan?
The Haiti Revolution of 1791-1804: Was it the only successful rebellion of liberated slaves?
Socio-economic and political revolution: What is the main difference?
The Panama Canal made the country one of the fastest-growing nations in Latin America.
Mexican-American War: Why did America Carry the Day?
How are the weapons of ancient Asian Civilization reflected in their culture?
How did the decolonized African states try to decolonize their history?

List of Discursive Essay Topics in Sociology

Should governments put some limits on the freedom of speech?
Giving male workers paternity leave: Is it a good idea?
Are there circumstances when torture is acceptable?
Failed parenting: What is the right form of punishment?
What are the main causes of single-parenthood in society today?
Socialism or capitalism: What is more beneficial to society?
Are women less privileged in society?
Increase in youth crime in the society: What are the major causes?
Is beauty more perceived than intelligence?
Racial stereotyping: What are the implications?
Society and culture: What is the meeting point?
Modern technology: Has it made the globe a better place?
Ethnicity: How does it impact social class?
Is it possible to stop social violence?
What are the psychological impacts of war on children?
Family structure: Does it influence societal development?
What is the best way to encourage society to have good morals?
Is the gay culture a threat to the traditional family?
Single parenting: Has it been accepted in society?

Ideas for Discursive Essays in Nursing

Who between nurses and doctors is exposed to more health hazards?
Racial discrimination: Is it a major issue in nursing?
Do nurses play a bigger role than doctors in defining a patient’s recovery?
Should the government ban costumes that sexualize nurses?
What is the right number of nurses to have in a hospital?
Are female nurses more indifferent to patients than male ones?
Night shift nurses and day-time nurses: Who should earn more?
Nurses’ remuneration: Should their wages be at par with that of doctors?
Are most nurses negligent?
The importance of interpersonal skills in nursing?
What is the impact of nursing theories in nursing practice?
The importance of leadership and managerial skills in nursing.
Sociological issues in nursing.
Do nurses face racial issues in their course of work?

Use Essay Writing Help to Craft A-Rated Discursive Essays

Once you have selected the preferred topic to write a discursive essay on, it marks the start of the next phase, which is the actual writing of the paper. Here, you need to have top-notch research and writing skills to be able to prepare high-quality work. You also require a good mastery of the subject under consideration and enough time to work on the paper. Rarely do students have this combination, and their best way out is working with online academic writing experts.

The professionals offering academic writing services have been on this type of job for years and amassed enough experience. Indeed, they are likely to have handled similar types of paper before, and yours will be pretty easy to complete. The services are also cheap and the writers can work really fast to complete even the essays with the tightest deadlines. You can never go wrong with an expert holding your hand!

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 113 perfect persuasive essay topics for any assignment.

General Education

Do you need to write a persuasive essay but aren’t sure what topic to focus on? Were you thrilled when your teacher said you could write about whatever you wanted but are now overwhelmed by the possibilities? We’re here to help!

Read on for a list of 113 top-notch persuasive essay topics, organized into ten categories. To help get you started, we also discuss what a persuasive essay is, how to choose a great topic, and what tips to keep in mind as you write your persuasive essay.

What Is a Persuasive Essay?

In a persuasive essay, you attempt to convince readers to agree with your point of view on an argument. For example, an essay analyzing changes in Italian art during the Renaissance wouldn’t be a persuasive essay, because there’s no argument, but an essay where you argue that Italian art reached its peak during the Renaissance would be a persuasive essay because you’re trying to get your audience to agree with your viewpoint.

Persuasive and argumentative essays both try to convince readers to agree with the author, but the two essay types have key differences. Argumentative essays show a more balanced view of the issue and discuss both sides. Persuasive essays focus more heavily on the side the author agrees with. They also often include more of the author’s opinion than argumentative essays, which tend to use only facts and data to support their argument.

All persuasive essays have the following:

Introduction: Introduces the topic, explains why it’s important, and ends with the thesis.
Thesis: A sentence that sums up what the essay be discussing and what your stance on the issue is.
Reasons you believe your side of the argument: Why do you support the side you do? Typically each main point will have its own body paragraph.
Evidence supporting your argument: Facts or examples to back up your main points. Even though your opinion is allowed in persuasive essays more than most other essays, having concrete examples will make a stronger argument than relying on your opinion alone.
Conclusion: Restatement of thesis, summary of main points, and a recap of why the issue is important.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Essay Topic?

Theoretically, you could write a persuasive essay about any subject under the sun, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should. Certain topics are easier to write a strong persuasive essay on, and below are tips to follow when deciding what you should write about.

It’s a Topic You Care About

Obviously, it’s possible to write an essay about a topic you find completely boring. You’ve probably done it! However, if possible, it’s always better to choose a topic that you care about and are interested in. When this is the case, you’ll find doing the research more enjoyable, writing the essay easier, and your writing will likely be better because you’ll be more passionate about and informed on the topic.

You Have Enough Evidence to Support Your Argument

Just being passionate about a subject isn’t enough to make it a good persuasive essay topic, though. You need to make sure your argument is complex enough to have at least two potential sides to root for, and you need to be able to back up your side with evidence and examples. Even though persuasive essays allow your opinion to feature more than many other essays, you still need concrete evidence to back up your claims, or you’ll end up with a weak essay.

For example, you may passionately believe that mint chocolate chip ice cream is the best ice cream flavor (I agree!), but could you really write an entire essay on this? What would be your reasons for believing mint chocolate chip is the best (besides the fact that it’s delicious)? How would you support your belief? Have enough studies been done on preferred ice cream flavors to support an entire essay? When choosing a persuasive essay idea, you want to find the right balance between something you care about (so you can write well on it) and something the rest of the world cares about (so you can reference evidence to strengthen your position).

It’s a Manageable Topic

Bigger isn’t always better, especially with essay topics. While it may seem like a great idea to choose a huge, complex topic to write about, you’ll likely struggle to sift through all the information and different sides of the issue and winnow them down to one streamlined essay. For example, choosing to write an essay about how WWII impacted American life more than WWI wouldn’t be a great idea because you’d need to analyze all the impacts of both the wars in numerous areas of American life. It’d be a huge undertaking. A better idea would be to choose one impact on American life the wars had (such as changes in female employment) and focus on that. Doing so will make researching and writing your persuasive essay much more feasible.

List of 113 Good Persuasive Essay Topics

Below are over 100 persuasive essay ideas, organized into ten categories. When you find an idea that piques your interest, you’ll choose one side of it to argue for in your essay. For example, if you choose the topic, “should fracking be legal?” you’d decide whether you believe fracking should be legal or illegal, then you’d write an essay arguing all the reasons why your audience should agree with you.

Arts/Culture

Should students be required to learn an instrument in school?
Did the end of Game of Thrones fit with the rest of the series?
Can music be an effective way to treat mental illness?
With e-readers so popular, have libraries become obsolete?
Are the Harry Potter books more popular than they deserve to be?
Should music with offensive language come with a warning label?
What’s the best way for museums to get more people to visit?
Should students be able to substitute an art or music class for a PE class in school?
Are the Kardashians good or bad role models for young people?
Should people in higher income brackets pay more taxes?
Should all high school students be required to take a class on financial literacy?
Is it possible to achieve the American dream, or is it only a myth?
Is it better to spend a summer as an unpaid intern at a prestigious company or as a paid worker at a local store/restaurant?
Should the United States impose more or fewer tariffs?
Should college graduates have their student loans forgiven?
Should restaurants eliminate tipping and raise staff wages instead?
Should students learn cursive writing in school?
Which is more important: PE class or music class?
Is it better to have year-round school with shorter breaks throughout the year?
Should class rank be abolished in schools?
Should students be taught sex education in school?
Should students be able to attend public universities for free?
What’s the most effective way to change the behavior of school bullies?
Are the SAT and ACT accurate ways to measure intelligence?
Should students be able to learn sign language instead of a foreign language?
Do the benefits of Greek life at colleges outweigh the negatives?
Does doing homework actually help students learn more?
Why do students in many other countries score higher than American students on math exams?
Should parents/teachers be able to ban certain books from schools?
What’s the best way to reduce cheating in school?
Should colleges take a student’s race into account when making admissions decisions?
Should there be limits to free speech?
Should students be required to perform community service to graduate high school?
Should convicted felons who have completed their sentence be allowed to vote?
Should gun ownership be more tightly regulated?
Should recycling be made mandatory?
Should employers be required to offer paid leave to new parents?
Are there any circumstances where torture should be allowed?
Should children under the age of 18 be able to get plastic surgery for cosmetic reasons?
Should white supremacy groups be allowed to hold rallies in public places?
Does making abortion illegal make women more or less safe?
Does foreign aid actually help developing countries?
Are there times a person’s freedom of speech should be curtailed?
Should people over a certain age not be allowed to adopt children?

Government/Politics

Should the minimum voting age be raised/lowered/kept the same?
Should Puerto Rico be granted statehood?
Should the United States build a border wall with Mexico?
Who should be the next person printed on American banknotes?
Should the United States’ military budget be reduced?
Did China’s one child policy have overall positive or negative impacts on the country?
Should DREAMers be granted US citizenship?
Is national security more important than individual privacy?
What responsibility does the government have to help homeless people?
Should the electoral college be abolished?
Should the US increase or decrease the number of refugees it allows in each year?
Should privately-run prisons be abolished?
Who was the most/least effective US president?
Will Brexit end up helping or harming the UK?

What’s the best way to reduce the spread of Ebola?
Is the Keto diet a safe and effective way to lose weight?
Should the FDA regulate vitamins and supplements more strictly?
Should public schools require all students who attend to be vaccinated?
Is eating genetically modified food safe?
What’s the best way to make health insurance more affordable?
What’s the best way to lower the teen pregnancy rate?
Should recreational marijuana be legalized nationwide?
Should birth control pills be available without a prescription?
Should pregnant women be forbidden from buying cigarettes and alcohol?
Why has anxiety increased in adolescents?
Are low-carb or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
What caused the destruction of the USS Maine?
Was King Arthur a mythical legend or actual Dark Ages king?
Was the US justified in dropping atomic bombs during WWII?
What was the primary cause of the Rwandan genocide?
What happened to the settlers of the Roanoke colony?
Was disagreement over slavery the primary cause of the US Civil War?
What has caused the numerous disappearances in the Bermuda triangle?
Should nuclear power be banned?
Is scientific testing on animals necessary?
Do zoos help or harm animals?
Should scientists be allowed to clone humans?
Should animals in circuses be banned?
Should fracking be legal?
Should people be allowed to keep exotic animals as pets?
What’s the best way to reduce illegal poaching in Africa?
What is the best way to reduce the impact of global warming?
Should euthanasia be legalized?
Is there legitimate evidence of extraterrestrial life?
Should people be banned from owning aggressive dog breeds?
Should the United States devote more money towards space exploration?
Should the government subsidize renewable forms of energy?
Is solar energy worth the cost?
Should stem cells be used in medicine?
Is it right for the US to leave the Paris Climate Agreement?
Should athletes who fail a drug test receive a lifetime ban from the sport?
Should college athletes receive a salary?
Should the NFL do more to prevent concussions in players?
Do PE classes help students stay in shape?
Should horse racing be banned?
Should cheerleading be considered a sport?
Should children younger than 18 be allowed to play tackle football?
Are the costs of hosting an Olympic Games worth it?
Can online schools be as effective as traditional schools?
Do violent video games encourage players to be violent in real life?
Should facial recognition technology be banned?
Does excessive social media use lead to depression/anxiety?
Has the rise of translation technology made knowing multiple languages obsolete?
Was Steve Jobs a visionary or just a great marketer?
Should social media be banned for children younger than a certain age?
Which 21st-century invention has had the largest impact on society?
Are ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft good or bad for society?
Should Facebook have done more to protect the privacy of its users?
Will technology end up increasing or decreasing inequality worldwide?

Tips for Writing a Strong Persuasive Essay

After you’ve chosen the perfect topic for your persuasive essay, your work isn’t over. Follow the three tips below to create a top-notch essay.

Do Your Research

Your argument will fall apart if you don’t fully understand the issue you’re discussing or you overlook an important piece of it. Readers won’t be convinced by someone who doesn’t know the subject, and you likely won’t persuade any of them to begin supporting your viewpoint. Before you begin writing a single word of your essay, research your topic thoroughly. Study different sources, learn about the different sides of the argument, ask anyone who’s an expert on the topic what their opinion is, etc. You might be tempted to start writing right away, but by doing your research, you’ll make the writing process much easier when the time comes.

Make Your Thesis Perfect

Your thesis is the most important sentence in your persuasive essay. Just by reading that single sentence, your audience should know exactly what topic you’ll be discussing and where you stand on the issue. You want your thesis to be crystal clear and to accurately set up the rest of your essay. Asking classmates or your teacher to look it over before you begin writing the rest of your essay can be a big help if you’re not entirely confident in your thesis.

Consider the Other Side

You’ll spend most of your essay focusing on your side of the argument since that’s what you want readers to come away believing. However, don’t think that means you can ignore other sides of the issue. In your essay, be sure to discuss the other side’s argument, as well as why you believe this view is weak or untrue. Researching all the different viewpoints and including them in your essay will increase the quality of your writing by making your essay more complete and nuanced.

Summary: Persuasive Essay Ideas

Good persuasive essay topics can be difficult to come up with, but in this guide we’ve created a list of 113 excellent essay topics for you to browse. The best persuasive essay ideas will be those that you are interested in, have enough evidence to support your argument, and aren’t too complicated to be summarized in an essay.

After you’ve chosen your essay topic, keep these three tips in mind when you begin writing:

Do your research
Make your thesis perfect
Consider the other side

What's Next?

Need ideas for a research paper topic as well? Our guide to research paper topics has over 100 topics in ten categories so you can be sure to find the perfect topic for you.

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150 Excellent Discursive Essay Topics for Students To Consider

Table of Contents

Do you want to write an engaging discursive essay? Are you struggling to come up with the best discursive essay topics for your assignment? Don’t worry! To help you with discursive essay writing, here, in this blog post, we have explained what a discursive essay means, its types, and the simple steps for writing it. Also, we have shared some interesting discursive essay topics and ideas to consider for assignments.

If you don’t know where to begin your essay, then keep on reading this blog post and update your knowledge on discursive essay writing.

What is a Discursive Essay?

A discursive essay is a type of academic essay in which you have to share your opinions or views in support of the topic or against the topic. Even at certain times, this essay would permit you to present your views on both sides of a topic in a neutral manner.

The ultimate aim of a discursive essay is to provide the readers with multiple viewpoints on a particular essay help topic or idea. Therefore, while writing a discursive essay, you will have to think deeper from various perspectives and review all the aspects of the subject.

Basically, a discursive essay appears like an argumentative essay or persuasive essay , but it is actually different from them in certain ways. In a nutshell, a discursive essay discusses arguments in a balanced way taking into account all the factors that are for and against the topic.

Types of Discursive Essays

The discursive essay is classified into three types as listed below.

For and Against Essay

It is a form of discursive essay that will argumentatively discuss either for or against the topic or theme. When writing an essay of this type, you should make sure to concentrate on both the advantages and disadvantages of the topic and present your views neutrally. Particularly, before wrapping up the essay, you should showcase your opinion on the topic by specifying your preference.

Solutions Recommending Essay

This discursive essay type will outline the issue and will recommend several possible solutions for that issue. But when you wrap up this essay, in the conclusion paragraph, you should highlight your opinion on the best solution to the issue and explain why that solution is effective.

Opinion Essay

It is a kind of discursive essay in which you have to share your opinions or arguments on a specific topic with supporting evidence from credible sources. Most importantly, while concluding this essay, you should remember to put forward your arguments against the topic and explain the reason why they are not persuasive.

How to Write a Discursive Essay

Do you wonder how to prepare a discursive essay? Cool! Writing a discursive essay will not be so hard when you have a proper essay plan and idea about the essay structure. In general, a discursive essay is a formal essay in which you have to organize and present the ideas in a way that is easy for the readers to understand.

Here are some essential steps that would guide you to craft an excellent discursive essay.

First, read and understand the essay writing guidelines shared by your instructor.
Matching your instructor’s instructions, find a perfect discursive essay topic that allows you to share your opinions.
Next, research the selected topic and gather the important points or arguments for discussion.
After analyzing the topic, prepare a well-structured discursive essay outline that includes sections such as introduction, body, and conclusion.
With the help of the prepared essay outline, start preparing the first draft of the essay according to the standard essay structure.
Open the essay with a catchy introductory paragraph. The introduction should have an engaging hook statement, background information, and a strong thesis statement relevant to the essay topic.
Craft the body paragraphs. The body of the essay should discuss in detail all the major arguments supporting your thesis statement with valid evidence.
Wrap up the essay with a conclusion paragraph. The conclusion section should portray your feelings about the topic and list out all the necessary findings.
Add a reference page and list out the original source of the ideas you have used in your essay.
Before submission, double-check the entire draft of the essay and edit the grammar, spelling, or logical errors in it. The final draft of the essay should be original and free from errors.

Discursive Essay Writing Tips

By following all the above-mentioned steps in order, you can come up with a great discursive essay. But besides, we also recommend you stick to the below-mentioned tips when writing a discursive essay because it would help you to fine-tune your essay format and structure.

Tips for Writing a Brilliant Discursive Essay

Write the discursive essay in a formal third-person speech.
When writing this essay, use the right choice of words and formal language conventions.
Avoid using emotional writing style and clichés to exaggerate your opinions.
Follow the standard essay structure that contains separate sections for the introduction, body, and conclusion.
Explain the arguments using a balanced and calm tone.
Use well-known real-life examples as proof to explain the main arguments.
Never change the original structure of a discursive essay.
Add references to all the ideas taken from external sources.
Make sure to use transition words in between the paragraphs to maintain a smooth and seamless narration flow.
Include persuasive writing techniques such as hyperbole, imagery, metaphors, oxymoron, repetition, and similes at the appropriate places, if needed.

Tips For Choosing a Good Discursive Essay Topic

In the discursive essay writing process, topic selection is the first step that you can’t skip. Generally, you won’t find it hard to identify a topic when your instructor provides a list of discursive essay prompts for you to choose from. But the real challenge comes only when you are given the option to choose a topic of your choice.

For writing a discursive essay, there are numerous topics available on various subjects. Out of them all, based on your interest, you can search and identify any good topic. But the problem here is, when you have many topics, then finding one perfect topic from them would become too hard to handle.

So, to help you identify the right essay topic, here we have shared some key tips to keep in mind during the discursive essay topic selection phase.

Pick a topic in which you have a strong opinion or knowledge.
Go with the topic that is convenient for you to write about.
Avoid selecting a frequently discussed topic.
Identify a topic that is interesting for you and your readers.
Choose a controversial topic in which you can raise varying viewpoints or opinions.
Select a complex topic with two sides, so that you can extract more arguments that are for and against it.
Give preference to the topic that has many valid facts or evidence to prove your arguments.
Finalize the essay topic only if it meets your instructor’s essay writing guidelines, if there are any.

List of Discursive Essay Topics

Here are some unique discursive essay topic ideas on various disciplines.

If you don’t know what topic to choose for your discursive essay, feel free to access the entire list below and spot any topic that suits you perfectly.

Best Discursive Essay Topics

Do space explorations assure long-term survival?
Is the current education system productive?
Is English one of the toughest languages to learn?
Does reading non-fiction build up the writers’ creativity?
Do parents have to reward their children for behaving well?
Describe the best kind of parenting observed in your country.
Should tobacco production be made illegal across the world?
Which is better: reading e-book or paperback?
Discuss the effective ways to keep children away from the use of drugs.
Are acts of sex and violence acceptable on TV?
Is the dependency on technology making us dumber?
Is rock music related to Satanism?
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using mobile phones.
Has blockchain enhanced trade finance in 2018?
Can virtual reality turn out to be dangerous for youngsters?
Should social media platforms be banned from collecting their users’ data?
Do companies have to hire human workers instead of using autonomous machines?
Should cell phones be banned from vehicles?
Has the internet made society better?
Should parents limit screen time for kids?

Excellent Discursive Essay Topics

What are the advantages and disadvantages of globalization?
Is it essential to ban steroid takers from sports?
Are political authorities involved in illegal activities?
Discuss the association between food, fitness, and weight.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of video games among teenagers?
Should schools avoid punishing students that include physical torture?
Is society becoming over-regulated?
How can students contribute to the safety of nature?
Do schools have to ban uniforms?
Explain the adverse effects of detox diets.
Why are policymakers pushing STEM education nowadays?
Should the government ban same-sex marriages?
Should there be restrictions on freedom of speech?
What are the workplace challenges faced by women?
Will robots in the future add to our efficiency?
Does every country have to ban capital punishment?
Should court proceedings in the UK be documented for television?
Is print media almost dead?
Is social media having a positive impact on our lives?
Is home-schooling good for students?
Discuss the need for employees to use social networks at work
Cite reasons why internet slang like LOL should be in the dictionary
Explain the challenges of over-dependence on technology for modern schools
Critique any innovation that has made us lazier than before
Discuss why so many college athletes struggle with schoolwork

Interesting Discursive Essay Topics

Is a college education mandatory to be successful in life?
Which is better: listening to the mind or the heart?
Which is better: watching a movie on the big screen or in your home?
Should parents be honest with their kids?
Share your views about the marriage of convenience.
Is Graffiti an art?
Are plastic water bottles spoiling the environment?
Are athletes the best role models for children?
Is social media presence necessary for a small business to succeed?
Should people in Muslim countries develop a religious tolerance?
Should public schools have a responsibility to teach social-emotional skills to students?
Is the best music founded on social oppression?
Should animal sports be banned?
Should zoos be abolished?
Is cutting hands the only way to stop corruption?
Should polio vaccinations be compulsory for every citizen of the United States?
Is it good to believe that car seats are effective to keep children safe in car crashes?
Should social media sites be banned from collecting their users’ data?
Should healthcare professionals be allowed to market and sell drugs to their patients?
Should companies switch to hiring employees using autonomous machines?

Amazing Discursive Essay Prompts

Explain the scenario of healthcare and medicine in the 1900s.
Is Facebook really needed to stay in touch with each other?
Should short dresses be restricted from the workplace?
Should offshore drilling be widened?
Should famous people in society stay active in politics?
Is social media contributing to a more narcissistic society?
Is IoT no longer a tool that screws up privacy and security?
Is studying Shakespeare outdated in today’s world?
Does workplace diversity contribute to increased productivity?
Are contemporary people across the world depending too much on technology?
Should the average driving age in your country be reduced or increased?
Is yoga a more spiritual activity than fasting?
Discuss the pros and cons of peer pressure.
Are non-vegetarians healthier than vegetarians?
Discuss your viewpoints on cryptocurrency.
Analyze the future of cryptocurrencies
Should there be more parties in the United States?
Should college students be restricted from participating in Greek life?
Is co-education better than single-sex education?
Should college students get to autonomy to choose which professor’s class they attain?

Read more: Amazing Descriptive Essay Topics and Ideas for Students

Captivating Discursive Essay Ideas

Is radio important as a form of media in the 21st century?
Discuss the prospect of having a woman president.
Discuss the mortgage crisis in the economy.
Is it important to heavily regulate newspapers?
Is earning money through the lottery a good idea?
Does technology isolate the individual?
Why an assassination can never be justified?
Discuss the challenges in outsourcing to foreign countries.
Should rape victims be hanged to death?
Explain how the celebrity culture is spoiling the moral values of young teenagers.

Outstanding Discursive Essay Topics

Do social media platforms affect the academic performance of students?
Should the government censor rap music culture?
Are tattoos and paganism related to each other?
Do airlines have to provide a two-seat policy for heavier people?
Are dating websites a good place to meet romantic partners?
Are drug abuse commercials effective?
Is the military’s use of drones an invasion of privacy?
Should GMOs be allowed in food?
Discuss the negative and positive effects of Blockchain on energy.
Why should we prohibit the destruction of rainforests?
Do energy drinks cause health risks to teenagers?
Should text message acronyms be added to dictionaries?
Does the gaming world promote problematic gender and racial stereotypes?
Do all adults need eight hours of sleep?
Is cheerleading a way to objectify young women?

Read more: Sample GRE Essay Topics To Practice

Compelling Discursive Essay Topics

Which is better: nuclear families or joint families?
Is social media more relevant these days than traditional media?
Is it essential to emphasize etiquette in all curriculums?
Are apps more of a help or a waste of time?
Do contact sports encourage aggression?
Do video games have educational value?
Is it possible to create a society based on matriarchy?
Should schoolchildren learn religion as a part of their curriculum?
Is it important to ban beauty contests?
Do politicians rely on the media in order to remain in power?

Incredible Discursive Essay Topics

Discuss the prospect of making education a free for all affair
Explain how the concept of consumer debt affects purchasing ability.
Discuss the correlation between the price of textbooks and education
Should zoos, circuses, and aquariums be closed for the violation of animal rights?
Discuss the ethical prospect of bringing back extinct species through cloning
Is it necessary to abolish the grading system in the education field?
Explain the challenges that different countries face when trying to end poaching.
Should the case for equal pay for equal work be advanced?
Explain how the sitting government perpetuates poverty.
Why is it important to allow college students to choose the course they wish to study?

Wrapping Up

From the above-recommended list of unique discursive essay topics, without any hesitation, select a topic matching your interest and prepare an extraordinary discursive essay. Haven’t you identified the right discursive essay topic for your assignment yet? Do you need instant discursive essay writing help? Contact us now!

The skilled essay writers from our team would assist you in preparing a plagiarism-free academic essay as per your requirements on time at a reasonable price. Also, as a part of our online assignment writing service , we will give you 24/7 customer support and unlimited essay revision until you get complete satisfaction.

Why are you still waiting? Quickly place the order and buy a customized essay that will help you score an A+ grade.

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I am an Academic Writer and have affection to share my knowledge through posts’. I do not feel tiredness while research and analyzing the things. Sometime, I write down hundred of research topics as per the students requirements. I want to share solution oriented content to the students.

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The Most Captivating Discursive Essay Topics For High School Students

With the latest changes to standardized testing and required curriculums, students in high school are writing more essays than they have in the past. Students not only write argumentative, narrative, descriptive, and expository papers; they also have to write discursive papers. This style of paper requires students to avoid being argumentative. They need to be balanced and objective. This can be a difficult task for high school students, especially those who actually prefer to argue a point rather than discuss it without bias.

Even though the assignment requires students to be unbiased, the topics of any discursive paper should be controversial. Here are few captivating topics for high school students:

The use of smartphones in school
The value of homework
The right age to receive plastic surgery
The role of social media in education
The role of movies in academic classes
Video games and social lives
Gas-powered vehicles vs. alternative fuels
Reading, writing, and arithmetic vs. New educational necessities
Standardized testing and the public school student
Should schools provide one-to-one technology for their students?
Are reality television shows really real?
Should communities invest in zoos?
Are vacations better learning experiences than school can offer?
What makes a good teacher?
The importance of recess at all grade levels
School uniforms
Legal driving ages and requirements: Are they appropriate?
Should grammar be taught in school?
Is a college education financially worth it today?
Is body image as big a problem as the media thinks it is?

The best topics are the ones that seem the most argumentative, but the discursive paper should not argue anything about the topic. Instead, the student should present the different sides of the issue with the pros and cons. The reader then gets to make up his or her mind about the right side to take. The best papers will also include real-life examples to bring the issues of the topic to life. If a student does not have a real life example from his or her own life, then they can make up something or use an example from another person’s life.

This type of essay forces students to look closely at the issues from both sides. All too often, students will only look at the sides they agree with, so they never learn about those who prefer the opposite side.

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Discursive Essay Topics for Students

discursive essay topics by Your Academic Writer

A discursive essay is a type of writing that explores different sides of an argument or issue in a balanced way. Unlike argumentative essays that focus on persuading the reader to agree with a particular point of view, discursive essays present an objective and comprehensive analysis of a topic.

100+ Discursive Essay Topics for Students

Writing a discursive essay is an excellent way to develop critical thinking by exploring various viewpoints on a range of topics. Whether you are a student looking to improve your writing skills or a teacher in search of engaging content for your classroom, choosing the right topic can set the stage for successful and discussions.

Here, we provide more than 100 discursive essay topics of different categories such as social issues, technology, environment, and others so that you can opt the topic of your own choice to write your essay.

Discursive Essay Topics for High School Students

Should high school students be allowed to choose their own curriculum?
Is a four-day school week better for student well-being and education?
Should schools replace traditional textbooks with digital versions?
Do school uniforms contribute to a better learning environment?
Should students be allowed to grade their teachers?
Is participation in extracurricular activities as important as academics?
Should schools enforce a strict cell phone policy during school hours?
Are parent-teacher conferences necessary?
Should community service be a compulsory part of high school education?
Is it effective to have closed campus lunch policies for high school students?

Related Blog: Persuasive Essay Topics

Discursive Essay Topics for College Students

Should college education be free for everyone?
Is the pressure to obtain a college degree worth it in today’s job market?
Should colleges be allowed to enforce mandatory drug tests?
Are student loans more harmful than beneficial?
Should colleges have quotas for minority students?
Is there a need for reform in Greek life on college campuses?
Are online courses as effective as in-person classes?
Should universities ban fraternities and sororities?
Is it ethical for colleges to use animals for research?
Should university students be required to learn a second language?

Discursive Essay Topics on Social Issues

The impact of social media on interpersonal relationships.
Does the modern education system prepare students for real-life challenges?
Should voting age be lowered or raised?
The pros and cons of gun control policies in the United States.
Is the death penalty an effective crime deterrent?
The ethical implications of euthanasia.
Should countries have open or closed immigration policies?
Is feminism still relevant in today’s society?
The influence of advertisements on consumer behavior.
Should schools enforce uniforms?

Political Topics for Discursive Essays

Is democracy the most effective form of government?
The implications of Brexit on the UK and the EU.
Should political leaders have term limits?
The role of the United Nations in maintaining global peace.
Is a global government feasible or desirable?
Can censorship be justified under any circumstances?
The impact of lobbying on public policy.
Should voting be mandatory?
The ethics of political propaganda.
Is nationalism a threat or a boon to global stability?

Technology Related Discursive Topics

Will artificial intelligence eventually surpass human intelligence?
Should there be regulations on the use of drones by civilians?
The ethical concerns of genetic cloning.
Is dependence on technology making humanity less capable?
Can privacy exist in the age of the Internet?
The effects of video games on youth behavior.
Should the internet be considered a basic human right?
The potential dangers of artificial superintelligence.
How has technology changed the workplace?
The future of space exploration.

Related Blog: Narrative Essay Topics for Students

Discursive Essay Topics on Health

Should there be a global policy on healthcare?
The effects of fast food on the nation’s health.
The ethical dilemmas of assisted suicide.
Should vaccination be mandatory for all?
The impact of pharmaceutical companies on healthcare.
Is dieting effective for long-term weight loss?
Should alternative medicine be covered by insurance?
The consequences of legalizing drugs.
Is there a right to die?
The role of mental health awareness in schools.

Environmental Topics for Discursive Essays

Should there be a worldwide ban on single-use plastics?
The effects of global warming on biodiversity.
Is nuclear energy a safe and sustainable option?
The pros and cons of zoos and animal sanctuaries.
Can industrial growth and environmental protection coexist?
The effectiveness of the Paris Climate Agreement.
Are electric vehicles the future of transportation?
The impact of urban sprawl on the environment.
Is organic farming the future of agriculture?
The consequences of deforestation.

Ethical Discursive Essay Topics

Is it ethical to use animals for testing?
The moral implications of buying luxury goods.
Should we modify our eating habits for ethical reasons?
The ethics of using placebo in medical trials.
Is it justifiable to break the law for a good cause?
Should parents track their children with GPS devices?
The moral questions surrounding abortion.
Is wealth distribution a moral obligation of society?
The ethics of surveillance for security purposes.
Is honesty always the best policy?

Culture and Media Related Topics

The representation of minorities in media.
The impact of reality TV on society.
Should art be censored?
The influence of music on youth culture.
Is the book always better than the movie?
How does pop culture influence individual identity?
The role of newspapers in the digital age.
Should celebrities be considered role models?
How has the internet affected traditional cultures?
The commercialization of cultural festivals.

Related Blog: Video Gaming Essay Topics

Funny Discursive Essay Topics

Should schools teach students how to become famous YouTubers?
Is watching cartoons beneficial for adults?
Should there be an upper age limit for people posting on TikTok ?
Are cats plotting to take over the world?
Is pineapple on pizza a crime against cuisine?
Should robots replace teachers?
Are smartphones actually making us dumber?
Is living in space better than living on Earth?
Should there be a reality show in the White House?
Is binge-watching TV shows better than reading books?

Discursive Essay Topics on Education

Is homeschooling a better option than traditional schooling?
Should physical education be optional in schools?
How effective is the no-homework policy at schools?
Should schools implement more technology in the classroom?
Is the education system outdated for today’s society?
Should moral education be taught in schools?
How significant is the role of arts in education?
Should sex education be mandatory in all schools?
Are standardized tests a fair measure of student ability and intelligence?
Should parents have a say in the curriculum?

These topics are suggested to encourage deep analysis and understanding from multiple angles, making them perfect for a discursive essay. Each topic provides you an opportunity to explore diverse viewpoints and provide a well-rounded discussion, perfect for academic assignments , let it be in any category i.e. educational, political, environmental etc. you can choose any topic of your interest. If you just don’t only need a topic, but need your essay to be written, you can always hire our academic writing service and get your essays done in high quality.

Best Video Game Essay Topics for Students

100+ Best Narrative Essay Topics

101 Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

Use your words to sway the reader.

Persuasive Essay Topics: Should we allow little kids to play competitive sports?

Persuasive writing is one of those skills that can help students succeed in real life. Persuasive essays are similar to argumentative , but they rely less on facts and more on emotion to sway the reader. It’s important to know your audience so you can anticipate any counterarguments they might make and try to overcome them. Try reading some mentor texts to show kids great examples of opinion writing. Then use these persuasive essay topics for practice.

School and Education Persuasive Essay Topics

Life and ethics persuasive essay topics, science and technology persuasive essay topics, sports and entertainment persuasive essay topics, just for fun persuasive essay topics.

Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?

Persuasive Essay Topics: Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?

Students should/should not be able to use their phones during the school day.
Should schools have dress codes?
If I could change one school rule, it would be …
Is year-round school a good idea?
Should we stop giving final exams?
Is it better to be good at academics or good at sports?

Is it better to be good at academics or good at sports?

Which is better, private schools or public schools?
Should every student have to participate in athletics?
Do you think schools should ban junk food from their cafeterias?
Should students be required to volunteer in their communities?
What is the most important school subject?
Are letter grades helpful, or should we replace them with something else?

Persuasive Essay Topics: Are letter grades helpful, or should we replace them with something else?

Is it ever OK to cheat on homework or a test?
Should students get to grade their teachers?
Do you think college should be free for anyone who wants to attend?
Should schools be allowed to ban some books from their libraries?
Which is better, book smarts or street smarts?

Which is better, book smarts or street smarts?

Should all students have to learn a foreign language?
Are single-gender schools better or worse for students?
Is it OK to eat animals?
What animal makes the best pet?
Visit an animal shelter, choose an animal that needs a home, and write an essay persuading someone to adopt that animal.
If you find money on the ground, should you try to find the person who lost it, or is it yours to keep?

If you find money on the ground, should you try to find the person who lost it, or is it yours to keep?

Who faces more peer pressure, girls or boys?
Should all Americans be required to vote?
Is it better to be kind or truthful?
Which is better, giving or receiving?
Is it OK to keep animals in zoos?
Should we change the minimum driving age in the United States?

Should we change the minimum driving age in the United States?

Which is more important, happiness or success?
Is democracy the best form of government?
Is social media helpful or harmful?
Should parents be punished for their children’s mistakes or crimes?
Should kids have set bedtimes or just go to bed when they’re sleepy?
Do you think the government should find a way to provide free health care for everyone?

Do you think the government should find a way to provide free health care for everyone?

Is it better to save your allowance or spend it?
Should we ban plastic bags and bottles?
Which is better, living in the city or in the country?
If I could make a new law, it would be …
Is Pluto a planet?
Should human cloning be legal?
Should vaccines be mandatory?
Is it right for countries to still maintain nuclear weapon arsenals?

Is it right for countries to still maintain nuclear weapon arsenals?

Should testing on animals be made illegal?
Will expanded use of artificial intelligence be good for humanity?
Should all people have free Internet access in their homes?
Is there intelligent life on other planets?
Does technology create more jobs than it eliminates?
Should parents use their children’s cell phones to track where they are?
Should scientists try to develop a way for people to live forever?

Should scientists try to develop a way for people to live forever?

What’s the best type of smartphone: Android or iPhone?
Which is better, Macs or PCs?
Do people rely too much on technology in the modern world?
Should cryptocurrencies replace cash?
Should there be a minimum age requirement to own a smartphone?
Is it important to keep spending money on space exploration, or should we use the money for other things?

Is it important to keep spending money on space exploration, or should we use the money for other things?

Should kids under 13 be allowed to use social media sites?
Should we ban cigarette smoking and vaping entirely?
Is it better to be an animal that lives in the water or on land?
Should kids be allowed to watch TV on school nights?
Which is better, paper books or e-books?
Is the current movie rating system (G, PG, PG-13, etc.) effective?
Are video games better than board games?
Should we allow little kids to play competitive sports?

Should we allow little kids to play competitive sports?

Which is better, reading books or watching TV?
Does playing violent video games make people more violent in real life?
Are graphic novels just as valuable as traditional fictional books?
Should everyone play on the same sports teams, regardless of gender?
Choose a book that’s been made into a movie. Which was better, the movie or the book?

Choose a book that's been made into a movie. Which was better, the movie or the book?

Who is the world’s best athlete, present or past?
Are professional athletes/musicians/actors overpaid?
Which is better, fiction or nonfiction?
The best music genre is …
What is one book that everyone should read?
What new sport should be added to the Olympics?

What new sport should be added to the Olympics?

What’s the best video game system?
Does playing video games make you smarter?
Does reality TV actually depict real life?
Should all neighborhoods have free parks and playgrounds?
What’s the best holiday?
The very best food of all time is …
Which is better, artificial Christmas trees or real ones?

Which is better, artificial Christmas trees or real ones?

What’s the best season of the year?
Should you put ketchup on a hot dog?
Is a taco a sandwich?
Does fruit count as dessert?
Should people have to go to school or work on their birthday?
Are clowns scary or funny?
Which is more dangerous, werewolves or vampires?

Which is more dangerous, werewolves or vampires?

The best pizza topping is …
What would be the best superpower to have?
Should everyone make their bed every day?
Which came first, the chicken or the egg?
Should you put pineapple on a pizza?
Should you eat macaroni and cheese with a spoon or a fork?

Should you eat macaroni and cheese with a spoon or a fork?

Describe the world’s best ice cream sundae.
Is Monday the worst day of the week?
Would you rather travel back in time or forward in time?
Is it better to be too hot or too cold?
Are there aliens living among us here on Earth?

What are your favorite persuasive essay topics for students? Come exchange ideas in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out the big list of essay topics for high school (120+ ideas) ..

Need some ideas for practicing persuasive writing skills? These persuasive essay topics provide lots of scope for students of all ages.

What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?

The Big List of Essay Topics for High School (120+ Ideas!)

Ideas to inspire every young writer! Continue Reading

187 Impressive Higher English Persuasive Essay Topics [2024]

Persuasive essay writing is a popular assignment for students in high school and college alike. This is not surprising. After all, it is a basic of the learning process. However, finding ideas for such a task isn’t easy, especially if you’re looking for higher persuasive essay topics.

One of the subjects that requires you to write such a paper is higher English. To pass this class, you have to deal with and compose quite tricky texts. Thus, if you are studying this subject, you will have to be ready to face many writing challenges.

This is why our team has created a list of the most fruitful ideas for academic writing. For your convenience, we divided the higher English persuasive essay topics into several sections. So, navigate our page, look through all the examples, and make your search even more effective.

❓ What Is Higher English?

💭 How to Choose?
📎 For High School
✒️ For College
📖 Literature
🙊 Controversial Issues
🏫 Education
🗳️ Politics
💭 Philosophy

📃 References

If you’ve studied in any country other than the UK, you may be wondering what higher English is. Is it a course? Is it a level? Well, in this section, we dive into the definition of the phrase.

Higher English is a course typical for the UK, particularly for England and Scotland. It investigates the English language and literature on a deep level.

It can be taught both:

as an independent subject
alongside other higher science programs

Through the course of higher English, students learn to think critically and creatively.

Developing a portfolio is one of the requirements for completing an advanced higher English course. It takes 30% of the overall grade. Thus, folio plays a vital role in accomplishing the course. For a successful portfolio, students have to write two texts, no less than 1300 words each. Composing them, they have to use creative and discursive writing techniques.

Generally, higher English is focused on advancing reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. By the end of the course, students should be able to do the following:

use complex language;
apply literature knowledge in everyday life;
understand the core of language operation.

Students are required to write an impressive number of persuasive essays. Here is where they may face difficulties with the appropriate topic selection.

We will not let you worry about that.

You can find a list of useful higher English persuasive topics created by our team on our page. Take a look at it and choose the most exciting idea for your essay!

Before selecting a topic for a higher English essay, reread your assignment if you have one.

💭 How to Choose a Persuasive Topic for Higher Folio?

A higher folio has to include a persuasive essay in it. Therefore, first, let’s figure out what it is.

A persuasive essay is one of the types of discursive essays. Its distinctive feature is the presence of a particular situation. Discuss a problem or issue is essential to its purpose.

Now, let’s narrow down the focus:

What is the nature of persuasive writing? It is a writing technique that aims to convince readers to accept the author’s point of view. Moreover, it often includes a call to action. It motivates the audience to take specific steps to achieve the desired result.

Be careful there! Learn how to distinguish an argumentative essay from a persuasive one.

An argumentative essay is often based on a consistent explanation and logical reasoning. It shows the readers the writer’s point of view, yet doesn’t call them for any action. In contrast, a persuasive essay relies on emotions and expressions of personal opinions. A perfect way to see those differences would be by going to an essay examples database that certainly would contain a variety of paper types.

Persuasive essays attempt to make readers follow the author’s idea.

Now, let’s move to the issue of an effective selection of a persuasive topic for higher English. Our team prepared some useful tips for you. Don’t hesitate to use them.

Keep your goal in mind. The persuasive essay aims to present all the arguments that can convince the reader that the writer is right. So, choosing a topic, pick the one that you can elaborate on and persuade in.
Choose the essay idea wisely. Ensure that the topic is appropriate and relevant for the tutor who will check and grade your paper. You’re writing for them.
Make sure to have enough resources. Evaluate whether there is enough information on the topic so that you can write a compelling essay. Check the possible trustworthy sources for the evidence that you’ll use in the paper.
Show your best side. Consider whether you can demonstrate your skills, composing on the chosen idea. Remember that you’re writing an essay for your portfolio. You may want it to look as perfect as possible and highlight your strengths. That is to say, see if you can elaborate on the topic.
Compose a strong introductory paragraph. An introduction is crucial because it grabs the reader’s attention and presents a thesis. Think of a strong thesis statement and whether you can come up with one. If you cannot compose a powerful thesis statement, better choose a more successful topic.
Don’t choose an overused topic. Determine the originality of your idea and your willingness to write about it. Try to google persuasive essay examples and figure out what topics are the most common and widely used. Based on your observations, come up with a unique issue and surprise your readers with it.

Find and consider as many persuasive topics as you can to form one unique idea.

⭐ Top 12 Higher Persuasive Essay Topics

Unions are important.
Zoos are unacceptable.
Paper books are obsolete.
Graffiti is art.
We will live on Mars.
English is universal .
Plastic bags are useful.
Cloning is unethical.
Student uniform is obsolete.
UK schools are better.
Most effective propaganda techniques.
Internships should be paid.

☝️ Amazing Higher English Persuasive Essay Topics

Just like any other assignment, an essay may be of different degrees of complexity. This is how we divided our higher English persuasive essay ideas into several sections.

So don’t waste your time. Go to the corresponding section and select the most appropriate topic.

📎 Higher English Topics for High School

A subject of higher English may seem very unfamiliar and bizarre at school. Being unprepared for the complexity of the course can scare you. Pupils get extremely confused when it comes to the topic search.

You are lucky:

We prepared a list of exceptional topics for middle school and high school students. Feel free to use it. Be prepared to face any challenges of the higher English course!

The significance of literacy .
Football has a direct impact on the culture of England.
Foreign languages should be taught in every school.

Foreign language programs improve students’ academic performance.

Both abstinence and safe sex should be taught in high schools.
School uniforms should be mandatory to maintain discipline.
People should quit smoking .
Eating disorders among teenage girls is an issue that shouldn’t be underestimated.
Motivation theories are incredibly effective in education .
Self-esteem plays a crucial role in students’ health condition .
Alcohol negatively affects adolescent health , so their parents should monitor alcohol consumption by teens.
Children and teenagers should not be silent about domestic violence .
The government should ban sports betting.
We should drink enough water.
The minimization of a generation gap is crucial for a healthy relationship in a family.
Drug tests should be mandatory for high school sportspeople.
A gap year is a great idea . Convince your readers about the usefulness of taking a gap year after finishing school. Prove the rightness of your position by providing strong arguments. In case you don’t agree with the statement, provide well-developed counterarguments.
Alcohol consumption in the UK. The government of the UK should introduce measures to limit alcohol consumption. We have to avoid possible adverse ramifications. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Prove your point of view by providing strong arguments.
Studying in the United Kingdom is a great experience. What are the positive sides of gaining an education in the UK? Convince your readers to study the UK.
A grade does not reflect students’ knowledge. Give your readers a clear explanation of why grades do not demonstrate a student’s performance in the class. Persuade them to pay more attention to education. You might believe that grades reflect a student’s academic performance. Then, support your position by providing counterarguments.
Violent video games should be banned . What are the possible negative consequences caused by video games? Prove your audience the necessity to ban violent video games.

The influence of video games on children is inconclusive.

✒️ Higher English Topics for College

The majority of UK colleges require their students to take the course of higher English. Therefore, you need to be ready. Difficulties caused by this subject should not be your worry.

Since we care about college students, we gathered persuasive essay ideas in one place. So, if you are seeking help, you are on the right page! Scroll through our topics and chose the most appropriate for you.

Cheating during college exams should be strictly punished because it is demoralizing.
The benefits of active listening are crucial in demonstrating high performance in the workplace.
Students’ time management strategies should be taken into consideration by every student.
Sleep is essential because deprivation affects college students’ academic performance.
Should fast food qualify as ‘food’?
A healthy lifestyle and eating should become the norm for every person.
Alternative energy sources are crucial for saving the planet.
A family should promote mobility, not limit it.
We have to implement specific strategies to combat the sexist language.
Communication skills are essential in a successful business leading.
Teaching deaf children how to read is a vital part of deaf kids’ mental development.
Parents should control the impact of TV cartoons on their children’s behavior .
Community services for mentally disabled people should be highly-developed.
Recycling should become mandatory.
Businesses should invest money in innovations.
Genetically modified food should not be a threat to the population. Give a clear explanation of why GMO products are safe to consume. If you disagree with the statement, provide strong counterarguments to prove your position.
Should smoking be banned in public places? Decide on whether it should be prohibited on not and prove your position. Your arguments should support only one side of the issue. Don’t stay somewhere in the middle.
We should expand the legal age for getting a driving license in the UK . Explain why 17 years old adolescents are not mature enough to drive a car. If you don’t agree with the statement, provide counterarguments to prove the rightness of your point of view.
E-books should not replace paper books. Express your position regarding this statement. Provide clear arguments or counterarguments to prove your point of view.

Consider every side of the debate concerning paper books and E-books.

English language learning should be mandatory in every country. The main idea of the essay: English is a global language. Support this statement and persuade the readers about the significance of English knowledge in the modern world.

💪 Persuasive Essay Topics: Advanced Higher English

If you are a university student in Scotland, you will be familiar with higher English. You may have to be ready for an advanced one as well.

Choose the most appropriate idea among a wide variety of persuasive essay topics about Scotland. Although the task is quite challenging, you don’t need to worry. Consider our list of cool essay topics. With it, you will write an outstanding paper without any struggles.

Gender equity issues in work practices should be considered while creating a healthy working environment.
The application of social concepts and theories is a part of the general well-being.
Functionalism, conflict, and interactionism are the most significant aspects of sociological theories .
Data collect regarding customer should be considered as a future of e-commerce.
Scotland’s tourism products and destination identity develop the tourism market economy.
Organizational behavior issues and theories are vital in leading a successful business.
ICT impacts curriculum development and reforms in the United Kingdom to a great extent.
Public sector financial management plays a crucial role in the general well-being of the country.
Scottish routes company establishment is a turning point in the online marketing platform development.
The city authorities should prevent senior citizens’ abuse .
Women’s rights violations should not exist in modern society.
Freedom of speech, religion, and religious tolerance are the fundamental concepts of modern civilized society.
E-Commerce adoption results in wise business positioning. How will e-commerce help to increase the dynamics of any business? Convince your audience about the significance of e-commerce by providing strong arguments.
Human rights play a vital role in public opinion-making. Support this idea with well-developed arguments and examples. If you disagree with the statement, provide compelling counterarguments to prove the rightness of your opinion.
Globalization ruins the cultural heritage of the nations . Comment on the impact of the world globalization on the national identity of every country. Persuade the readers to preserve the national culture of their home countries.

👍 Good Persuasive Essay Topics for Higher English

Our team’s main aim is to help the students in all the possible ways. So, we decided to develop one more method to divide the academic essay topics.

Find different sections that focus on specific fields for your persuasive essay.

Look through the sections, decide what is the most suitable for you, and choose a fascinating essay topic. An essay idea search has never been so easy, right?

💬 Persuasive Essay Topics on Language

Language is one of the most potent tools for communication within one nation and internationally. Moreover, it carries the cultural identity of the country, preserving a spirit.

The topic of language is too diverse and has a lot of aspects to discuss. Consequently, professors of higher English course usually give essays on it.

The section Topics For Persuasive Essay UK will provide you with a wide variety of ideas. Don’t waste your time! Choose an appropriate topic for your paper right away.

Language influences our attitude to a great extent.
Sexism is present in the English Language.
Language and communication are two different concepts .
Language has a direct influence on cognition.
Shakespeare affected the modern English language to a great extent.
To understand how language operates, we should first examine English Language Evolution .
Multilingualism should be accepted and encouraged in modern society.
Accents and dialects are the critical components of language intervention.
The teachers should learn linguistics.
The change in languages over time is harmful to the nation.
Scottish Gaelic and Goidelic Celtic languages should not have been restricted in the 16th century.
Text autocorrect negatively influences the level of literacy and language knowledge.
We should consider Scots Gaelic as a separate language from Irish.
English should become an official international language.
Body language can say more than verbal communication.
Joking or expressing love in a foreign language is harder than in a native one . Either support or contradict this statement by providing appropriate examples and clear arguments.
The implementation of one universal language is a bad idea . Why and how it can impact the national diversity of the world? Prove the importance of preserving national languages.
The Scottish language will soon disappear. Conduct research on the usage of Scottish nowadays. Is it very wide-spread? How many people know and use it in everyday life?

Try to predict the future of the Scottish language.

“As many languages you know, as many times you are a human being.” – Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk. Develop this thought by providing strong arguments and examples. Persuade your readers about the importance of foreign language learning.
Irish language learning should become mandatory in the educational institutions of Ireland . Explain the significance of the Irish language for the population of Ireland. In case you don’t agree with the statement, provide clear counterarguments to prove your position.

🙊 Persuasive Essay Topics on Controversial Issues

Is attention deficit disorder a real disorder?
To deal with girls’ discrimination in the modern educational system , girls need to receive more attention than boys.
Should cigarette smoking be banned?
LGBTQ+ communities should have equal rights all over the world.
Adoption, childlessness, or reproductive technology – which one is the most effective and ethical?
Abortion should be legalized for underaged girls.
Should smoking tobacco be classified as an illegal drug?
Are surrogacy and its effects on families harmful for children?
Should student diversity be present in a school classroom?
Tuition fees should become lower.
Should homelessness become a concern of city authorities or governmental representatives?
Should the death penalty be legalized in the United Kingdom?
Should sex education become mandatory in all high schools in Scotland?
The mental health of employees should be a concern of employers.
Health care should be free.
Should women develop a career and have a stable income before giving birth to kids?
Should the production and selling of energy drinks be banned? Explain the harm of energetics on the health of a human being. Decide whether energy drinks are worth consuming. Persuade the readers about the rightness of your position by presenting strong arguments.

Energy drinks can promote adverse effects on children and teenagers.

Suicides among male teen homosexuals: harassment, shame, or stigma? In your opinion, what is the main reason for suicides among them? Support your position with clear evidence and appropriate examples.
Does studying abroad result in better education? Analyze the positive and negative aspects of gaining higher education abroad. Express your own opinion regarding this issue and convince your readers about your rightness.
Should birth control be monitored on a governmental level? Why is birth control crucial in modern society? What are the religious, cultural, and political aspects of birth control? Explain the link between birth control and gender and sexuality issues. Support your opinion by providing well-structured arguments.

🏫 Persuasive Essay Topics on Education

The college students should be ready to face challenges and pressures.
There is a strong correlation between wearing a school uniform and academic performance .
Sex education plays an essential role in preventing teenage pregnancy.
Student diversity in school classroom influences the educational process in a positive way.
The curriculum approaches in England and Scotland differ to a great extent.
At university, acquiring skills is more significant than getting grades.
Cheating on college exams is demoralizing.
Could electronic cigarettes help university students give smoking up?
Athletes that represent educational institutions should receive scholarships covering their tuition fees.
In schools, we should teach colorblind children what colors are.
Art oriented activities like drama clubs, music lessons, and handicraft classes are essential for the all-round development of children.
A university should be a dry campus. Comment on the negative influence of alcohol on the learning process. Persuade your readers about the importance of controlling alcohol consumption while being a student.
Single-sex schooling in education is effective. Convince the readers about the effectiveness of single-sex education by providing strong evidence. If you don’t agree with the statement, express the opposing position. Elaborate on your arguments and provide counterarguments.

Resultsof the studies on single-sex education are inconclusive.

Online education cannot fully replace the regular one . Compare and contrast these two ways of gaining knowledge. Provide clear arguments to prove the significance of attending educational institutions. Explain why having in-class discussions is crucial for students’ development. Do you believe that regular education is replaceable by the remote one? Then provide counterarguments to support your position.
The internet has a negative influence on the educational process . How the internet stops the mental development of kids, teenagers, and grown-ups? Persuade readers to limit internet usage while studying.

🗳️ Persuasive Essay Topics on Politics

To prevent the adverse effects of corruption, we should eliminate its causes.
The political parties of the United Kingdom are way more reliable than in the United States .
Human rights should not intervene in public opinion-making.
Politics and religion interdependence impacts the general political situation of a country.
Political freedom is a significant key to the general well- being of modern society.
Terrorism should not be used as a political instrument.
Civil disobedience in contemporary society is a massive threat to civilians and governments.
International humanitarian law is a useful tool to reduce the hazardous effects of military conflicts.
The royal family is the indicator of the UK political system’s uniqueness.
We should protect the confidentiality in the health care system.
The voting system should be fair and transparent.
The COVID-19 outbreak of 2019-2020 has a direct influence on international political relations.
Scotland would not be a stronger country if it existed independently from the UK. What are the benefits for Scotland of being in a political union with the United Kingdom? Persuade your readers in a mutually beneficial economic and political cooperation.
Brexit happened against Scotland’s will. Elaborate on the wish of the Scottish population to remain the part of the European Union. Prove that the negotiation of the conflict between England, Wales, and Scotland was not diplomatic enough.
The retirement policy of the UK should be changed. What are the main weaknesses of the current British retirement system? Give your suggestions on how it can be improved. Convince your readers in the usefulness of the retirement policy modifications.

💭 Persuasive Essay Topics on Philosophy

Dystopia idea in movies and novels influences people’s perception of life in a negative way.
Philosophy ideology of success and failure plays a vital role in reaching high results.
Suicide conflicts with moral philosophy and human values.
Classic philosophical problems embodied in films can help people in dealing with them.
We cannot ignore the philosophy of critical issues in today’s society .
Spiritual and physical journeys play a vital role in human life.
The philosophy of religion helps people to dive deep into their beliefs and values.

Philosophy of religion is the examination of the themes and concepts involved in religious traditions.

Unethical treatment of animals contradicts the moral concepts of philosophy.
From the philosophical perspective, heroism should be considered as a dedication to principles.
Specific philosophical values help develop resilience in the face of adversity.
Should human rights be violated if it may help the life of a person?
Abortion should be band because it contradicts the ethical ideas of humanity.
In the battle well-paid job vs. vocation, vocation should win . Explain the philosophy of vocation. Persuade the readers to follow their hearts when it comes to a choice of profession.
Philosophy Issue: Truth vs. Happiness. While choosing between these two notions, what would you select? Persuade your audience about the rightness of your position by presenting well-structured and clear arguments.
Philosophy plays a significant role in education . Convince your readers about the importance of philosophy while gaining knowledge. In case you don’t agree with the position of philosophy in school, present the opposing opinion. Provide counterarguments to support your ideas.

🗿 Persuasive Essay Topics on History

The black death disease should be perceived as one of the most horrible pandemics that hit the medieval world.
Industrial Revolution in England opened a new era of technical advancement.
The conditions of the working class in England is one of the causes of the industrial revolution.
Great Britain Empire’ Alliances led to the break out of the European Great War.
Enlightenment and Romantic Age pushed the development of the British culture forward.
History of Celtic Christianity has a direct impact on the development of religion in the UK.
The provisional Irish republican army is one of the most dangerous terrorist organizations.
The British ideal of an orderly world shaped the world we live in today.
English Civil War has a direct impact on American colonists.
The Wars of the Three Kingdoms formed the history of modern England, Scotland, and Ireland.

The Wars of the Three Kingdoms lasted 12 years.

Elizabeth II -is the legend of contemporary world history . Provide a brief overview of the queen’s achievements. Convince the readers about the uniqueness of Elizabeth’s II as a historical figure.
The Great Fire of London is one of the darkest events in British history. Comment on the terrific outcomes of the tragedy. How did the fire impact the economic situation in the entire county?
Oxford University is the place where ordinary people turn into upstanding figures . Introduce three of the most influential alumnae of Oxford University. What was their input in the scientific development of the UK? Prove the crucial role of Oxford University in the British educational system.
William Wallace is a person who successfully fought for Scottish independence . Elaborate on his role in British history and prove the importance of his actions.
History, culture, and language of Wales directly influenced the development of the United Kingdom. Give a brief overview of Wales formation starting from the ancient times and mowing to the 21st century. Prove the connection between Wales and the UK historical and cultural progress.

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Higher English, Course Overview and Resources: SQA, Scottish Qualifications Authority
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The Complete Guide to English-Language Certificates: Preparation Courses Portal
How to Create a Thesis Statement for a Persuasive Essay: Amy Mahoney, Pen and the Pad
434 Good Persuasive Topics for Speech or Essay: My Speech Class
Senior Fiction Suggestions for Advanced Higher English Dissertations: Senior Reading by Subject, Shetland Library
Persuasive Essay Examples: AcademicHelp.net
Choose Bright Persuasive Essay Topics 6 Main Steps: Persuasive Papers
Strong Thesis Statements: Purdue Online Writing Lab, College of Liberal Arts, Purdue University
Basic Steps in the Research Process: North Hennepin Community College
How to Write a Persuasive Essay: Esther Lombardi, ThoughtCo
Persuasive Essay: Writing Resources, Hamilton College
Persuasive Writing: Read Write Think
Distinguishing Argumentation from Persuasion: Thoughtful Learning, K-12
Find Your Argument: Australian National University, Canberra
Argument: The Writing Center, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
What Is an Essay: Library University of Leeds
Counterargument: Gordon Harvey (adapted from The Academic Essay: A Brief Anatomy), for the Writing Center at Harvard University
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Oral History Offers a Model for How Schools Can Introduce Students to Complex Topics

As historian David McCullough said, history is the study of who we are and why we are the way we are.

That’s why teachers in the Memphis-Shelby County public schools, as racially isolated now as they were when the U.S. Supreme Court outlawed school segregation, have launched a curriculum to introduce their students to the 13 children who helped integrate these Tennessee city schools in 1961.

Memphis-Shelby County teachers, researchers from the University of Memphis, and the local Memphis 13 Foundation worked with seven of the 10 surviving members of the Memphis 13—a group of Black 1st graders who peacefully enrolled in four all-white schools at the height of the civil rights era—to develop teacher training, lesson plans, and oral history activities for elementary students.

“Just going home and talking to grandparents or talking to the elders in their community was never going to be enough,” said Anna Falkner, an assistant professor at the University of Memphis and a co-developer of the curriculum, “because it wouldn’t provide [students] with the context that they needed in order to understand what happened and understand the ongoing effects of, for example, the way segregation looks today.”

The Memphis 13 project offers a model for how schools can introduce complex subjects to students, even in early grades, while also giving them opportunities to investigate social studies in their communities

“Really consider the context,” Falkner said. “What are the specifics that can help students understand their Southern context or the context wherever they are and what that means in relation to the larger experience. It’s not just focusing on that national narrative, not just sharing Brown v. Board , but really thinking about, what did this look like in my backyard? What did it look like for my family members or my community members?”

For example, teachers met with surviving members of the Memphis 13 to identify projects for students in 2nd and 5th grades, when Tennessee social studies standards cover civil rights issues. Sheila Malone, one of the students who first integrated into the district’s Bruce Elementary as a 1st grader, suggested that 5th graders record the experiences of others who had attended the district schools during desegregation.

“[Malone] wanted the students to go back home and share the story and have intergenerational conversations about the history of our schools,” said Gina Tillis, the director of curriculum and instruction for the Memphis 13 Foundation, who co-developed the Memphis curriculum. “One of the things that I’ve noticed with the members of Memphis 13 is, as they’re sharing their stories, they’re unpacking memories that have been silenced. … This is a really powerful space for students to reflect on their education, their parents’ and their elders’ education, and what we’re doing collectively to create a more inclusive and equitable school system.”

Second graders, for example, watch documentaries and review news accounts about the school desegregation decisions in Memphis and other cities, identifying ways children their age participated. In 5th grade , students review collected oral history interviews and collect their own, as well as analyze modern policies related to school integration. Tillis said the project plans to expand the curriculum to 8th and 11th grades in the future.

Building school integration history projects

Emerging technology has made it easier for educators to engage their students in active historical research, according to the Center for Public History and Digital Humanities at Cleveland State University in Ohio. The center, for example, has developed apps to help students record interviews and archive historical documents.

Efforts like those of the Memphis 13 helped integrate public schools in the decades following the landmark U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Brown v. Board of Education . However, these trends began to reverse in the 1990s and have worsened to this day, even as the overall public school population has grown more diverse. Studies find schools serving high populations of students of color continue to have on average fewer educational opportunities —including challenging courses, experienced teachers, and other resources—compared with schools serving mostly white students.

While the Memphis 13 are well known, Tillis stressed that schools can use community history to engage students regardless of where they are. “Everyone has a school desegregation story. Every district, every person ... and every district story is unique,” she said. “It’s, I think, one of the most powerful stories to share because it offers you this platform to really deconstruct what’s going on in our schools.”

Researchers recommended that schools interested in developing similar projects:

Work with local historians and groups to identify social studies topics and events that had strong effects on the local community. This can include school district librarians or archivists, for example.
Provide teachers with training in both the historical context and strategies and tools for documenting community history.
Focus on topics that encourage students to make connections between history and current issues in their community.

“One of the lessons that we’re hoping to share with other school districts is just the power of listening to your community members who are historians, even if they don’t work for the local archive: the neighbor down the street who kept all the newspapers, the person who knew everybody in the neighborhood,” Falkner said. “Finding those community members and making a meaningful way for them to participate in the curriculum development is the most important piece.”

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Oral History Offers a Model for How Schools Can Introduce Students to
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