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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.

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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?

body-sparkler-us-flag

  • 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?

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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.

Thinking about taking an AP English class? Read our guide on AP English classes to learn whether you should take AP English Language or AP English Literature (or both!)

Deciding between the SAT or ACT? Find out for sure which you will do the best on . Also read a detailed comparison between the two tests .

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Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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117 Great Persuasive Essay Topics for High School Level Students

persuasive essay topics

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

  • How to Define a Concluding Sentence
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  • Good Topics For Presentations
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persuasive essay topic ideas for high school

Literacy Ideas

23 Persuasive writing Topics for High School students

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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

Persuasive Writing Topics, essay, essay writing, prompts | Visual Writing Prompts | 23 Persuasive writing Topics for High School students | literacyideas.com

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

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.

 TOP PERSUASIVE WRITING TOPICS

  • Some parents give children a weekly or monthly allowance regardless of their behavior because they believe an allowance teaches children to be financially responsible. Other parents only give children an allowance as a reward for completing chores or when they have behaved properly. Explain what you think parents should do and why.
  • Many schools now require teenagers to spend a certain number of hours each term doing volunteer work or community service. Some people believe this is an excellent idea as it promotes good citizenship and cultivates compassion. Others feel that forced volunteerism is not volunteering at all. How do you feel about this issue? Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.
  • Some parts of the world allow people to get a driver’s license at age sixteen. Many feel this age is much too young for the responsibility that comes with driving a car and that teenagers should not be allowed to drive until the age of 18. In your opinion, at what age should people be allowed to drive, and why?
  • What is your all-time favorite book or movie and why? Write an essay persuading readers to watch this film or read this book.
  • Have you ever made a life changing action that has had a positive effect on you or the lives of others? Write an essay that convinces readers to make a change for the better.
  • You have been asked to write a letter that would convince a organizers of a major event to be hosted in your hometown. Write an essay that convinces these delegates that your town would be great host.
  • Top professional athletes often have salaries and bonuses in the tens of millions of dollars. Do you think these athletes deserve this type of income? Why or why not? Explain your position and use specific reasons and examples.
  • Humans have always wondered about the possibility of life on other planets in the universe. Do you believe extraterrestrial life exists? Write an essay persuading others to share your point of view .
  • If someone discovered the ‘Elixir of life’ that would enable us to live forever, would it be a blessing or a curse? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
  • If you have you ever traveled to a place that you found very meaningful and rewarding? Write an essay that persuades others to visit this important place.
  • Nearly all private schools require students to wear uniforms. Should public school students wear uniforms too? Argue for or against school uniforms for public school students. Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.
  • You are to select one item from the twenty-first century to place in a time capsule for future generations, what would you choose? Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice, explaining both the item’s significance and the reasons why it embodies the culture of the early twenty-first century.
  • What would improve your town or city? Write an essay convincing officials to make a change that would improve your neighborhood.
  • Some studies have shown students often perform better on exams if music is played softly in the background. However, some students may find the music distracting. Should schools play classical music during exams and/or allow students to listen to headphones whilst working? Take a position and explain your answer.
  • Should parents be a child’s disciplinarian, or their best friend?
  • Take a position and explain your answer using specific reasons and examples.
  • Millions of people visit zoos around the world. But some people believe that zoos are inhumane and that animals should not be kept in captivity. Do you agree? Why or why not? Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.
  • In most countries people pay taxes based upon how much they earn: the higher their income, the higher the percentage of that income they must pay in taxes. Many people argue that a flat tax, in which everyone pays the same rate regardless of income, would be a more equitable and desirable tax system. Which of these two tax systems do you think is best, and why? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
  • Is it wise to devote time and money to building a space station on the moon or Mars? Why or why not? Explain your answer.
  • An ancient Greek proverb states, “All things good to know are difficult to learn.” Do you agree? Why or why not? Use specific reasons and examples to explain your answer.
  • Imagine that you know someone who is unfamiliar with computers and has never been on the Internet. Write an essay convincing this relative to get a computer and get online.
  • Imagine that you have made it to the final round of interviews for your dream job. Convince your prospective employers that you are the one who most deserves the position.
  • Is there something that you believe is truly worth fighting for? Write an essay persuading others that this cause is worth a fight.

If you have any other great ideas for persuasive prompts please post them in the comments section below. 

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

Ideas to inspire every young writer!

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

High school students generally do a lot of writing, learning to use language clearly, concisely, and persuasively. When it’s time to choose an essay topic, though, it’s easy to come up blank. If that’s the case, check out this huge round-up of essay topics for high school. You’ll find choices for every subject and writing style.

  • Argumentative Essay Topics
  • Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics
  • Compare-Contrast Essay Topics
  • Descriptive Essay Topics
  • Expository and Informative Essay Topics
  • Humorous Essay Topics

Literary Essay Topics

  • Narrative and Personal Essay Topics
  • Personal Essay Topics
  • Persuasive Essay Topics

Research Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics for high school.

When writing an argumentative essay, remember to do the research and lay out the facts clearly. Your goal is not necessarily to persuade someone to agree with you, but to encourage your reader to accept your point of view as valid. Here are some possible argumentative topics to try. ( Here are 100 more compelling argumentative essay topics. )

  • The most important challenge our country is currently facing is … (e.g., immigration, gun control, economy)
  • The government should provide free internet access for every citizen.
  • All drugs should be legalized, regulated, and taxed.
  • Vaping is less harmful than smoking tobacco.
  • The best country in the world is …
  • Parents should be punished for their minor children’s crimes.
  • Should all students have the ability to attend college for free?
  • Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

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  • Schools should require recommended vaccines for all students, with very limited exceptions.
  • Is it acceptable to use animals for experiments and research?
  • Does social media do more harm than good?
  • Capital punishment does/does not deter crime.
  • What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?
  • Do we really learn anything from history, or does it just repeat itself over and over?
  • Are men and women treated equally?

Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics for High School

A cause-and-effect essay is a type of argumentative essay. Your goal is to show how one specific thing directly influences another specific thing. You’ll likely need to do some research to make your point. Here are some ideas for cause-and-effect essays. ( Get a big list of 100 cause-and-effect essay topics here. )

  • Humans are causing accelerated climate change.
  • Fast-food restaurants have made human health worse over the decades.
  • What caused World War II? (Choose any conflict for this one.)
  • Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

  • How does playing sports affect people?
  • What are the effects of loving to read?
  • Being an only/oldest/youngest/middle child makes you …
  • What effect does violence in movies or video games have on kids?
  • Traveling to new places opens people’s minds to new ideas.
  • Racism is caused by …

Compare-Contrast Essay Topics for High School

As the name indicates, in compare-and-contrast essays, writers show the similarities and differences between two things. They combine descriptive writing with analysis, making connections and showing dissimilarities. The following ideas work well for compare-contrast essays. ( Find 80+ compare-contrast essay topics for all ages here. )

  • Public and private schools
  • Capitalism vs. communism
  • Monarchy or democracy
  • Dogs vs. cats as pets

Dogs vs. cats as pets

  • Paper books or e-books
  • Two political candidates in a current race
  • Going to college vs. starting work full-time
  • Working your way through college as you go or taking out student loans
  • iPhone or Android
  • Instagram vs. Twitter (or choose any other two social media platforms)

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School

Bring on the adjectives! Descriptive writing is all about creating a rich picture for the reader. Take readers on a journey to far-off places, help them understand an experience, or introduce them to a new person. Remember: Show, don’t tell. These topics make excellent descriptive essays.

  • Who is the funniest person you know?
  • What is your happiest memory?
  • Tell about the most inspirational person in your life.
  • Write about your favorite place.
  • When you were little, what was your favorite thing to do?
  • Choose a piece of art or music and explain how it makes you feel.
  • What is your earliest memory?

What is your earliest memory?

  • What’s the best/worst vacation you’ve ever taken?
  • Describe your favorite pet.
  • What is the most important item in the world to you?
  • Give a tour of your bedroom (or another favorite room in your home).
  • Describe yourself to someone who has never met you.
  • Lay out your perfect day from start to finish.
  • Explain what it’s like to move to a new town or start a new school.
  • Tell what it would be like to live on the moon.

Expository and Informative Essay Topics for High School

Expository essays set out clear explanations of a particular topic. You might be defining a word or phrase or explaining how something works. Expository or informative essays are based on facts, and while you might explore different points of view, you won’t necessarily say which one is “better” or “right.” Remember: Expository essays educate the reader. Here are some expository and informative essay topics to explore. ( See 70+ expository and informative essay topics here. )

  • What makes a good leader?
  • Explain why a given school subject (math, history, science, etc.) is important for students to learn.
  • What is the “glass ceiling” and how does it affect society?
  • Describe how the internet changed the world.
  • What does it mean to be a good teacher?

What does it mean to be a good teacher?

  • Explain how we could colonize the moon or another planet.
  • Discuss why mental health is just as important as physical health.
  • Describe a healthy lifestyle for a teenager.
  • Choose an American president and explain how their time in office affected the country.
  • What does “financial responsibility” mean?

Humorous Essay Topics for High School

Humorous essays can take on any form, like narrative, persuasive, or expository. You might employ sarcasm or satire, or simply tell a story about a funny person or event. Even though these essay topics are lighthearted, they still take some skill to tackle well. Give these ideas a try.

  • What would happen if cats (or any other animal) ruled the world?
  • What do newborn babies wish their parents knew?
  • Explain the best ways to be annoying on social media.
  • Invent a wacky new sport, explain the rules, and describe a game or match.

Explain why it's important to eat dessert first.

  • Imagine a discussion between two historic figures from very different times, like Cleopatra and Queen Elizabeth I.
  • Retell a familiar story in tweets or other social media posts.
  • Describe present-day Earth from an alien’s point of view.
  • Choose a fictional character and explain why they should be the next president.
  • Describe a day when kids are in charge of everything, at school and at home.

Literary essays analyze a piece of writing, like a book or a play. In high school, students usually write literary essays about the works they study in class. These literary essay topic ideas focus on books students often read in high school, but many of them can be tweaked to fit other works as well.

  • Discuss the portrayal of women in Shakespeare’s Othello .
  • Explore the symbolism used in The Scarlet Letter .
  • Explain the importance of dreams in Of Mice and Men .
  • Compare and contrast the romantic relationships in Pride and Prejudice .

Analyze the role of the witches in Macbeth.

  • Dissect the allegory of Animal Farm and its relation to contemporary events.
  • Interpret the author’s take on society and class structure in The Great Gatsby .
  • Explore the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia.
  • Discuss whether Shakespeare’s portrayal of young love in Romeo and Juliet is accurate.
  • Explain the imagery used in Beowulf .

Narrative and Personal Essay Topics for High School

Think of a narrative essay like telling a story. Use some of the same techniques that you would for a descriptive essay, but be sure you have a beginning, middle, and end. A narrative essay doesn’t necessarily need to be personal, but they often are. Take inspiration from these narrative and personal essay topics.

  • Describe a performance or sporting event you took part in.
  • Explain the process of cooking and eating your favorite meal.
  • Write about meeting your best friend for the first time and how your relationship developed.
  • Tell about learning to ride a bike or drive a car.
  • Describe a time in your life when you’ve been scared.

Write about a time when you or someone you know displayed courage.

  • Share the most embarrassing thing that ever happened to you.
  • Tell about a time when you overcame a big challenge.
  • Tell the story of how you learned an important life lesson.
  • Describe a time when you or someone you know experienced prejudice or oppression.
  • Explain a family tradition, how it developed, and its importance today.
  • What is your favorite holiday? How does your family celebrate it?
  • Retell a familiar story from the point of view of a different character.
  • Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision.
  • Tell about your proudest moment.

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

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 these topics to persuade someone to come around to your point of view. ( Discover 60 more intriguing persuasive essay topics here. )

  • Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?
  • Everyone should be vegetarian or vegan.
  • 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.
  • Who is the world’s best athlete, present or past?
  • Should little kids be allowed to play competitive sports?
  • Are professional athletes/musicians/actors overpaid?
  • The best music genre is …

What is one book that everyone should be required to read?

  • Is democracy the best form of government?
  • Is capitalism the best form of economy?
  • 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?

A research essay is a classic high school assignment. These papers require deep research into primary source documents, with lots of supporting facts and evidence that’s properly cited. Research essays can be in any of the styles shown above. Here are some possible topics, across a variety of subjects.

  • Which country’s style of government is best for the people who live there?
  • Choose a country and analyze its development from founding to present day.
  • Describe the causes and effects of a specific war.
  • Formulate an ideal economic plan for our country.
  • What scientific discovery has had the biggest impact on life today?

Tell the story of the development of artificial intelligence so far, and describe its impacts along the way.

  • Analyze the way mental health is viewed and treated in this country.
  • Explore the ways systemic racism impacts people in all walks of life.
  • Defend the importance of teaching music and the arts in public schools.
  • Choose one animal from the endangered species list, and propose a realistic plan to protect it.

What are some of your favorite essay topics for high school? Come share your prompts on the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out the ultimate guide to student writing contests .

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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.

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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.

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25 Persuasive Essay Topics That Will Captivate High School Students

Stefani H.

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Engaging in persuasive writing is a rite of passage for high school students. It's not only an essential academic exercise but also a skill that plays a crucial role in shaping their understanding of important societal and personal issues. A well-crafted persuasive essay forces students to marshal their thoughts, consider counter-arguments, and convincingly present their viewpoints.

This article aims to help you, the high school student, master the art of persuasive essay writing. We'll explore what a persuasive essay is, the importance of choosing a compelling topic, and provide 25 thought-provoking persuasive essay topics across various fields. We will also delve into how emerging technologies like AI might impact the future of persuasive writing.

Get ready to be inspired and challenge yourself as we embark on this exciting journey. Remember, writing is an art, and with the right tools and topics, you can create compelling essays that leave an impression. So, let's get started.

Understanding Persuasive Essays: The Basics

Before we dive into our list of fascinating topics, let's take a moment to revisit the basics of persuasive writing. What exactly is a persuasive essay? A persuasive essay, as the name suggests, is a type of essay where the writer picks a position on a particular topic and argues in favor of it. Your goal is not just to share information, but to convince your readers to embrace your viewpoint.

1. Components of a Persuasive Essay

The typical structure of a persuasive essay includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Introduction : This is where you introduce your topic and state your position. It usually ends with a thesis statement, which is a clear, concise statement of your main argument.

Body paragraphs : Each body paragraph focuses on a single point or argument that supports your thesis. It includes evidence, such as facts, examples, or quotes from experts.

Conclusion : The conclusion reinforces your thesis and summarizes the main points of your essay. It's your last chance to persuade the reader, so make it count!

2. The Importance of Choosing the Right Topic

Choosing the right topic for your persuasive essay is vital. It should be something you feel passionate about and are willing to research. A good topic can make the difference between a persuasive essay that is merely read and one that is read, thought about, and remembered.

Up next, we're going to delve into a variety of compelling topics to inspire your next persuasive essay. Stay tuned!

25 High School Persuasive Essay Topics

Now, we get to the crux of the matter: the essay topics themselves. These are designed to engage your high schooler's thought processes and challenge them to articulate their ideas persuasively. Let's dive in:

Topics on Education

  • Should uniforms be mandatory in schools?
  • The case for and against homework: Is it helpful or harmful?
  • Should students have a say in curriculum design?
  • Are standardized tests an accurate reflection of a student's abilities?
  • The role of sex education in high school: More harm than good, or vice versa?

Topics on Social Issues

  • Should voting age be lowered to 16?
  • The impact of social media on teenagers: A boon or a bane?
  • Cyberbullying: Should it be addressed more seriously in schools?
  • Teen activism: Is it necessary for societal change?
  • The death penalty: An effective deterrent or a cruel punishment?

Topics on Health and Wellness

  • Should schools provide mental health services to students?
  • The role of diet and nutrition in student performance.
  • Pros and cons of mandatory physical education classes in schools.
  • The case for and against vaccinations: Should they be mandatory?
  • The impact of advertising on teenage body image.

Topics on Technology

  • The effects of AI on society: More beneficial or harmful?
  • Privacy issues concerning social media: Are teens aware?
  • The role of technology in education: Are traditional classrooms obsolete?
  • The future of technology: A utopia or dystopia?
  • Is the dependency on technology making us less creative?

Topics on Personal Development and Life Skills

  • Should entrepreneurship skills be taught in high school?
  • The role of sports in shaping character and discipline.
  • Discuss the influence of video games on cognitive development.
  • Is volunteering and community service important in shaping one's personality?
  • How does learning a new language benefit cognitive skills and cultural understanding?

With these diverse topics, we hope to ignite your high schooler's interest in various subjects and encourage them to delve deeper into issues that resonate with them personally.

How to Choose the Right Topic for You

Selecting the right topic is a crucial step in crafting a persuasive essay that will hold your readers' attention and make your arguments convincing. Here are some steps to guide you in choosing the perfect topic:

1. Pick a Topic You Are Passionate About

This might seem obvious, but it's easier to persuade others about something you feel strongly about. Passion often translates into persuasive, compelling writing. So, make sure the topic you choose is something you're genuinely interested in.

2. Make Sure It's Debatable

There's no point in writing a persuasive essay about a fact or something that everyone already agrees on. The topic should be controversial or have multiple perspectives that you can argue and debate.

3. Consider Your Audience

Keep your audience in mind when choosing a topic. What are their interests? What are their values? What issues would they care about? An understanding of your audience will help you pick a topic that will engage them and make your arguments more convincing.

4. Can You Research It?

Make sure there are enough resources available to research your topic. Check if there's sufficient data, statistics, expert opinions, or other kinds of evidence that you can use to support your argument.

5. Is It Relevant?

Choosing a topic that is timely or relevant increases the chances of engaging your readers. It could be a current event, a controversial issue, or a trending topic.

Remember, a great topic is the foundation of a great essay. But if you're struggling to find the perfect topic or to put your thoughts into words, don't worry. Writers Per Hour is here to help. Our professional writers are skilled in crafting custom persuasive essays that are compelling, well-researched, and tailored to your needs.

Wrapping it Up: Final Tips and Tricks for Your Persuasive Essay

Congratulations on selecting a topic for your persuasive essay . As you start your writing journey, here are some additional tips and tricks to ensure your essay stands out.

A persuasive essay usually consists of an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The introduction includes your thesis statement - the main argument you will be making in your essay. Body paragraphs should each focus on one point supporting your argument, backed up by evidence. The conclusion should restate your thesis and summarize your main points.

Research is key to crafting a persuasive essay. The more evidence you have to support your argument, the more persuasive your essay will be. Use reliable sources, and don't forget to cite them correctly.

Techniques like ethos, pathos, and logos can make your essay more persuasive. Ethos is about establishing your credibility and character, pathos involves appealing to the reader's emotions, and logos means using logic and reasoning.

Always make sure to check your work for any spelling, punctuation, or grammatical errors. It can also be beneficial to get feedback from others. Fresh eyes can often spot errors or areas of confusion that you might have missed.

Don't get discouraged if your first few essays aren't perfect. Writing is a skill that improves with practice. Keep writing, keep learning, and keep improving.

Choosing a topic and writing a persuasive essay can be challenging, but with these tips, you'll be well on your way to crafting a compelling argument. And remember, if you're ever in need of help, the team at Writers Per Hour is just a click away. Our experienced writers are ready to help you with all your essay writing needs.

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Persuasive Essay Guide

Persuasive Essay Topics

Last updated on: Dec 21, 2023

Persuasive Essay Topics Ideas to Craft an A-Worthy Essay

By: Caleb S.

11 min read

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Jan 14, 2020

Persuasive Essay Topics

Are you having trouble starting to write a persuasive essay?

Can’t think of interesting persuasive essay topics to write on?

To help students like you find good persuasive essay topics, we have gathered a wide range of ideas on different subjects and academic levels.

Therefore, continue reading this blog and pick the best topic from the list for your essay.

Persuasive Essay Topics

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Persuasive Essay Topics for Students

The first step of writing a persuasive essay is to choose an interesting topic. If you are not sure what topic is best to write your persuasive essay on, this article is for you.

Here are some good topics for a persuasive writing assignment that will help you craft an interesting essay.

Persuasive Essay Topics for University Students

  • Should churches pay property taxes to support schools?
  • Teachers should also have to go through professional tests like students.
  • Social media should be banned on school premises.
  • Is getting a college degree worth its price?
  • How is home education better than studying at a school?
  • It shouldn’t be legal for students under 18 to drop out of school.
  • Students with good attendance must be rewarded.
  • Students with good academic results must get the opportunity to go to college free of cost.
  • The government shouldn’t have a say in how students should be taught.
  • Making the education sector free can decrease poverty rates. Is that true?

Persuasive Essay Topics for College

  • Wrestling is a dehumanizing sport.
  • Should all college students get a chance to experience fraternity or sorority?
  • Should there be an age limit that teachers can teach?Is taking a gap year from studies a good idea?
  • School students shouldn’t get assigned countless academic papers.
  • Reducing paper consumption can benefit nature largely.
  • The research paper is more effective to learn about the subject than exams.
  • Do you agree that the feminist movement devalued motherhood?
  • Do you think that the older generation can learn things from today’s generation?
  • International exchange program experience, I agree, is important in shaping a student.

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

  • Is it possible for a person to overcome his fear?
  • Should students evaluate their teachers?
  • Is it ok to give extra incentives to students with good grades?
  • What are the pros and cons of using cell phones for academic purposes?
  • The social value of the death penalty in the United States.
  • School college students should write argumentative essays.
  • Who, in your opinion, influences the teenager's behavior the most?
  • Why are teen girls influenced by celebrities?
  • Should genetically modified foods be sold with a warning label?
  • All the arts have become commoditized.

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 9

  • Divorce isn’t always due to the absence of love.
  • Pornography should be banned in the United States.
  • How important is it for a child to grow up with two parents?
  • All students should be taught computer programming in school.
  • We should blame our horoscope for things that have gone wrong in our lives.
  • To get a perspective on life and what it is about, we should spend time with a kid.
  • How to control hazing on college campuses.Listening to music on school campuses shouldn’t be allowed.
  • There are drawbacks to studying abroad.Stricter punishments should be imposed on downloading music and movies illegally.

Persuasive Essay Topics for Middle School

  • Kindness is beautiful.
  • Do you agree?Pros and Cons of summer classes.
  • School computers must have internet filters.
  • Participation in school sports must be mandatory for students.
  • Bullying in schools requires severe punishments.
  • Should there be any flexibility with the policies for illegal immigrants?
  • Why should every school have a school newspaper?
  • Are we the real culprits of global warming?
  • Do violent video games make children more likely to be violent themselves?
  • The internet was invented to control our lives. Do you disagree?

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 6

  • Is toothpaste healthy?
  • Churches should pay taxes.
  • What is the role of the media in sports life?
  • Adopting pets is the best choice.Fairy tales are good for young children.
  • Should our country have free healthcare?
  • Fizzy drinks should be banned from school.
  • Free time gets teens into trouble.
  • The best way to travel is in a guided group.Should nuclear power be used?

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 7

  • Should a college education be free?
  • We should provide food for the poor.
  • Is it a good idea to keep pets outdoors?
  • What school rules would you change?
  • Hunting is not ethical in any life situation.
  • Should horse racing be banned?
  • My allowance should be bigger.
  • Bullies have no place in schools.
  • Computer design isn’t art.
  • Yoga supports the body and soul.

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 8

  • Having more than four kids is irresponsible.
  • Is art a natural talent, or takes hard work and practice to learn?
  • Choose a life partner who has the same educational level as you.
  • Drinking while driving penalties must be much stricter.
  • College students must consider joining a fraternity or sorority.
  • Standardized tests are increasing for school students.
  • Studying at a public school is better than studying at a private school.
  • Wives shouldn’t make more money than their husbands.
  • We should teach etiquette in schools.
  • Is it justified for a person to demand a divorce from their spouse?

Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids

  • Are vampires real?
  • Time travel is possible.
  • Global warming is just a way to scare people.
  • Healthcare systems should be free.
  • Computers don’t make us smarter.
  • Animal abuse is a result of an uneducated owner.
  • The importance of going to the dentist frequently.
  • Discuss the pros and cons of summer classes.
  • Nobody should litter.
  • What is the best way to persuade someone?

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Persuasive Essay Topics About Animals

  • Do you agree with the statement, “Animal testing is a necessary evil?
  • ”People shouldn’t be allowed to keep exotic animals as pets.
  • Zoos are useful for wildlife conservation.
  • Zoo animals should be harvested for food.
  • Is creating hybrids by breeding stray dogs and cats okay?
  • What is the best way to train a dog: rewards or punishments?
  • Is it beneficial to give cows drugs to increase their milk supply?
  • Using animal skin to make coats and bags is unethical.
  • Reforestation is the only way to save animals from becoming extinct.
  • Conserving endangered species is much more essential than the conservation of other animals.

Funny Persuasive Essay Topics

  • What would happen if unicorns took over the world?
  • The worst movie in the world.
  • The worst social network site.
  • Why does the beach have tanning booths?
  • Good video game skills can land you a job.
  • Why do you enjoy getting spam emails more than actual emails?
  • Is it true that wearing braces scares off strangers?
  • Playing with Barbie dolls can change your life.
  • How to look busy and do nothing at work.
  • Do you agree with the statement, "Boys gossip more than girls do?"

Sports Persuasive Essay Topics

  • College athletes dedicate a lot of time to sports, and they should be paid.
  • Female students should be encouraged to participate in sports as much as male students.
  • How can the school management improve this situation?
  • Wimbledon is not as prestigious anymore.
  • Importance of sports.
  • Gender discrimination is a big issue in sports competitions.
  • Girls can play and compete at the same level as boys their age.
  • Bodybuilding has severe risks for females.
  • Physically active kids make physically active adults.
  • Therefore, parents and teachers should encourage taking part in sports.
  • According to you, who is the best FIFA player?
  • What can other players do to become like him?
  • Energy drinks such as Red Bull have harmful effects on the human body.
  • Therefore, athletes must stop consuming them.

Controversial Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Polygamy should be legalized in the United States.
  • Having a lesbian mother can have adverse effects on a daughter.
  • Torture is a necessity for monstrous crimes such as murder, rape, etc.
  • The world would be a better place if everyone followed a single religion.
  • Euthanasia and physician-assisted suicide should be made legal in every state.
  • Online plagiarism is a serious problem. What actions need to be taken to stop it?
  • High school and college surveillance isn’t ethical, nor is it safe.
  • It should be stopped immediately.
  • Is it ethical to prescribe drugs?
  • How can we put an end to school bullying?
  • It isn’t fair to the band members to have less power and control than the music producers.

Unusual Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Is alcoholism a disease?
  • Is having a pet waste of time?
  • Is capital punishment necessary?
  • Art should serve as a symbol of culture, and be returned to its country if it was taken from there.
  • Young people only think about money. Agree?
  • Living in university dormitories is an essential step to help you achieve academic success.
  • Pharmaceutical industries are disrupting our lives.
  • People are wasting their money on lotteries and it isn't worth the risk.
  • Is having friends such a necessity?
  • Transgenic foods: What are you for or against?

Higher English Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Why should the government ban sports bet?
  • A family should encourage self-expression, not inhibit it.
  • The impact of TV cartoons on children's behavior should be controlled by their parents.
  • English language learning should not be a requirement for anyone.
  • There are many reasons e-books should not replace paper books.
  • Cheating during college exams should be strictly punished.
  • Teaching deaf children how to read is a vital part of their mental development.
  • Fast food is a bad invention.
  • Drug tests should be mandatory for high school sportspeople.
  • School uniforms are an effective way to maintain discipline with students.

Easy Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Paparazzi culture must get banned.
  • Kids should be taught about different religions and then have them choose.
  • Using earphones while driving must not be allowed.
  • Everyone under the age of 7 should have a 9 pm curfew.
  • Celebrities who break the law should have bigger penalties.
  • Drug dealers selling drugs to kids should face the death penalty.
  • The government should start a three-day weekend.
  • Introducing grades for gym classes can help fight obesity.
  • The government should keep better control of the content being shared on the internet.
  • Kids need a personal space similar to adults.

Good Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Punishment for cutting school should be made much worse.
  • Parents who smoke shouldn’t tell their kids about its harmful effects.
  • The major cause of obesity in America is fast-food chains.
  • Women perform better than men in managerial posts.
  • To improve the quality of education, the number of classes must be decreased.
  • Should parents buy young kids gadgets for studies and learning purposes?
  • Paparazzi culture should be banned. It puts lives in danger.
  • A gap year after high school should be made compulsory.
  • Optimism is key to good health.
  • Persuasive speeches should be powerful.

Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Pros and Cons of having school all year long.
  • Participating in sports must be made compulsory for every student.
  • Men are smarter than women.
  • Consumption of tea is more harmful than coffee.
  • Luck is an important part of success.
  • Spanking kids should be a crime.
  • Kidnapping by parents is a serious problem nowadays.
  • The solution to the energy crisis is nuclear power.
  • Male and female employees should have the same working privileges and environment.
  • Homeschooling is better than going to a regular school.

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Persuasive Essay Topics 2022

  • Should the jury system be eradicated?
  • Biological weapons should be banned.
  • The next generations should live on Mars.
  • Is governmental surveillance a good thing?
  • Children under 18 shouldn’t be allowed to buy contraceptives.
  • Teen moms should be made to go to classes that encourage them to get married.
  • Sex education should occur at home.
  • Educating women is a waste of resources.
  • Everyone should have free access to the internet in today's day and age.
  • Theoretical subjects should be decreased, and students should study more practical courses to learn things.

How to Choose a Good Persuasive Essay Topic?

Writing your persuasive essay means more than simply arguing the facts. However, you need to settle on a persuasive essay topic that allows you to present the best possible case.

You won’t be able to do that if you write a persuasive essay on a topic that is:

  • Emotionally-charged
  • Too familiar
  • Not interesting for the target audience
  • Factual, and you avoid analysis or reasoning

Here’s what you should do when choosing your essay topics :

  • Take a stand
  • Check for evidence and facts
  • Make a list of specific ideas
  • Outline the purpose of your essay
  • Choose an accessible topic
  • Find a topic that convinces the reader

Hopefully, you have found a good persuasive essay idea by this point and are heading towards the writing process. However, if you’re overwhelmed by the requirements of writing a persuasive and argumentative paper or you’re short on time, we are here to help.

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student opinion

130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing

Questions on everything from mental health and sports to video games and dating. Which ones inspire you to take a stand?

persuasive essay topic ideas for high school

By The Learning Network

Note: We have an updated version of this list, with 300 new argumentative writing prompts .

What issues do you care most about? What topics do you find yourself discussing passionately, whether online, at the dinner table, in the classroom or with your friends?

In Unit 5 of our free yearlong writing curriculum and related Student Editorial Contest , we invite students to research and write about the issues that matter to them, whether that’s Shakespeare , health care , standardized testing or being messy .

But with so many possibilities, where does one even begin? Try our student writing prompts.

In 2017, we compiled a list of 401 argumentative writing prompts , all drawn from our daily Student Opinion column . Now, we’re rounding up 130 more we’ve published since then ( available here as a PDF ). Each prompt links to a free Times article as well as additional subquestions that can help you think more deeply about it.

You might use this list to inspire your own writing and to find links to reliable resources about the issues that intrigue you. But even if you’re not participating in our contest, you can use these prompts to practice the kind of low-stakes writing that can help you hone your argumentation skills.

So scroll through the list below with questions on everything from sports and mental health to dating and video games and see which ones inspire you to take a stand.

Please note: Many of these prompts are still open to comment by students 13 and up.

Technology & Social Media

1. Do Memes Make the Internet a Better Place? 2. Does Online Public Shaming Prevent Us From Being Able to Grow and Change? 3. How Young Is Too Young to Use Social Media? 4. Should the Adults in Your Life Be Worried by How Much You Use Your Phone? 5. Is Your Phone Love Hurting Your Relationships? 6. Should Kids Be Social Media Influencers? 7. Does Grammar Still Matter in the Age of Twitter? 8. Should Texting While Driving Be Treated Like Drunken Driving? 9. How Do You Think Technology Affects Dating?

10. Are Straight A’s Always a Good Thing? 11. Should Schools Teach You How to Be Happy? 12. How Do You Think American Education Could Be Improved? 13. Should Schools Test Their Students for Nicotine and Drug Use? 14. Can Social Media Be a Tool for Learning and Growth in Schools? 15. Should Facial Recognition Technology Be Used in Schools? 16. Should Your School Day Start Later? 17. How Should Senior Year in High School Be Spent? 18. Should Teachers Be Armed With Guns? 19. Is School a Place for Self-Expression? 20. Should Students Be Punished for Not Having Lunch Money? 21. Is Live-Streaming Classrooms a Good Idea? 22. Should Gifted and Talented Education Be Eliminated? 23. What Are the Most Important Things Students Should Learn in School? 24. Should Schools Be Allowed to Censor Student Newspapers? 25. Do You Feel Your School and Teachers Welcome Both Conservative and Liberal Points of View? 26. Should Teachers and Professors Ban Student Use of Laptops in Class? 27. Should Schools Teach About Climate Change? 28. Should All Schools Offer Music Programs? 29. Does Your School Need More Money? 30. Should All Schools Teach Cursive? 31. What Role Should Textbooks Play in Education? 32. Do Kids Need Recess?

College & Career

33. What Is Your Reaction to the College Admissions Cheating Scandal? 34. Is the College Admissions Process Fair? 35. Should Everyone Go to College? 36. Should College Be Free? 37. Are Lavish Amenities on College Campuses Useful or Frivolous? 38. Should ‘Despised Dissenters’ Be Allowed to Speak on College Campuses? 39. How Should the Problem of Sexual Assault on Campuses Be Addressed? 40. Should Fraternities Be Abolished? 41. Is Student Debt Worth It?

Mental & Physical Health

42. Should Students Get Mental Health Days Off From School? 43. Is Struggle Essential to Happiness? 44. Does Every Country Need a ‘Loneliness Minister’? 45. Should Schools Teach Mindfulness? 46. Should All Children Be Vaccinated? 47. What Do You Think About Vegetarianism? 48. Do We Worry Too Much About Germs? 49. What Advice Should Parents and Counselors Give Teenagers About Sexting? 50. Do You Think Porn Influences the Way Teenagers Think About Sex?

Race & Gender

51. How Should Parents Teach Their Children About Race and Racism? 52. Is America ‘Backsliding’ on Race? 53. Should All Americans Receive Anti-Bias Education? 54. Should All Companies Require Anti-Bias Training for Employees? 55. Should Columbus Day Be Replaced With Indigenous Peoples Day? 56. Is Fear of ‘The Other’ Poisoning Public Life? 57. Should the Boy Scouts Be Coed? 58. What Is Hard About Being a Boy?

59. Can You Separate Art From the Artist? 60. Are There Subjects That Should Be Off-Limits to Artists, or to Certain Artists in Particular? 61. Should Art Come With Trigger Warnings? 62. Should Graffiti Be Protected? 63. Is the Digital Era Improving or Ruining the Experience of Art? 64. Are Museums Still Important in the Digital Age? 65. In the Age of Digital Streaming, Are Movie Theaters Still Relevant? 66. Is Hollywood Becoming More Diverse? 67. What Stereotypical Characters Make You Cringe? 68. Do We Need More Female Superheroes? 69. Do Video Games Deserve the Bad Rap They Often Get? 70. Should Musicians Be Allowed to Copy or Borrow From Other Artists? 71. Is Listening to a Book Just as Good as Reading It? 72. Is There Any Benefit to Reading Books You Hate?

73. Should Girls and Boys Sports Teams Compete in the Same League? 74. Should College Athletes Be Paid? 75. Are Youth Sports Too Competitive? 76. Is It Selfish to Pursue Risky Sports Like Extreme Mountain Climbing? 77. How Should We Punish Sports Cheaters? 78. Should Technology in Sports Be Limited? 79. Should Blowouts Be Allowed in Youth Sports? 80. Is It Offensive for Sports Teams and Their Fans to Use Native American Names, Imagery and Gestures?

81. Is It Wrong to Focus on Animal Welfare When Humans Are Suffering? 82. Should Extinct Animals Be Resurrected? If So, Which Ones? 83. Are Emotional-Support Animals a Scam? 84. Is Animal Testing Ever Justified? 85. Should We Be Concerned With Where We Get Our Pets? 86. Is This Exhibit Animal Cruelty or Art?

Parenting & Childhood

87. Who Should Decide Whether a Teenager Can Get a Tattoo or Piercing? 88. Is It Harder to Grow Up in the 21st Century Than It Was in the Past? 89. Should Parents Track Their Teenager’s Location? 90. Is Childhood Today Over-Supervised? 91. How Should Parents Talk to Their Children About Drugs? 92. What Should We Call Your Generation? 93. Do Other People Care Too Much About Your Post-High School Plans? 94. Do Parents Ever Cross a Line by Helping Too Much With Schoolwork? 95. What’s the Best Way to Discipline Children? 96. What Are Your Thoughts on ‘Snowplow Parents’? 97. Should Stay-at-Home Parents Be Paid? 98. When Do You Become an Adult?

Ethics & Morality

99. Why Do Bystanders Sometimes Fail to Help When They See Someone in Danger? 100. Is It Ethical to Create Genetically Edited Humans? 101. Should Reporters Ever Help the People They Are Covering? 102. Is It O.K. to Use Family Connections to Get a Job? 103. Is $1 Billion Too Much Money for Any One Person to Have? 104. Are We Being Bad Citizens If We Don’t Keep Up With the News? 105. Should Prisons Offer Incarcerated People Education Opportunities? 106. Should Law Enforcement Be Able to Use DNA Data From Genealogy Websites for Criminal Investigations? 107. Should We Treat Robots Like People?

Government & Politics

108. Does the United States Owe Reparations to the Descendants of Enslaved People? 109. Do You Think It Is Important for Teenagers to Participate in Political Activism? 110. Should the Voting Age Be Lowered to 16? 111. What Should Lawmakers Do About Guns and Gun Violence? 112. Should Confederate Statues Be Removed or Remain in Place? 113. Does the U.S. Constitution Need an Equal Rights Amendment? 114. Should National Monuments Be Protected by the Government? 115. Should Free Speech Protections Include Self Expression That Discriminates? 116. How Important Is Freedom of the Press? 117. Should Ex-Felons Have the Right to Vote? 118. Should Marijuana Be Legal? 119. Should the United States Abolish Daylight Saving Time? 120. Should We Abolish the Death Penalty? 121. Should the U.S. Ban Military-Style Semiautomatic Weapons? 122. Should the U.S. Get Rid of the Electoral College? 123. What Do You Think of President Trump’s Use of Twitter? 124. Should Celebrities Weigh In on Politics? 125. Why Is It Important for People With Different Political Beliefs to Talk to Each Other?

Other Questions

126. Should the Week Be Four Days Instead of Five? 127. Should Public Transit Be Free? 128. How Important Is Knowing a Foreign Language? 129. Is There a ‘Right Way’ to Be a Tourist? 130. Should Your Significant Other Be Your Best Friend?

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

Persuasive Essay Topics

Aliv Faizal M

  • October 24, 2023
  • Teaching English

Persuasive Essay Topics. As a writing and speaking teacher, I’ve witnessed countless students embark on the rewarding journey of persuasive communication. One crucial step in this journey is the selection of a compelling topic, the cornerstone of any persuasive essay. Whether you’re a high school student searching for an engaging subject, a college scholar diving into complex issues, or an aspiring writer aiming to captivate diverse audiences, the art of persuasion begins with the right choice of topic. Furthermore, as a teacher, you should include it in your lesson plan .

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll draw upon my experience to offer a curated collection of persuasive essay topics, carefully tailored to various interests and levels of expertise. From the significance of financial literacy in high schools to the ethical considerations of AI in healthcare, we’ll explore an array of subjects to ignite your passion and guide your persuasive writing endeavors. So, let’s embark on this journey together and discover the perfect topic that not only sparks conversations but also empowers you to influence minds and inspire change.

Persuasive Essay Topics: Comprehensive Guide

Possible persuasive writing prompts.

persuasive essay elements relevance interest depth audience

Section 1: Understanding Persuasive Essays

Persuasive essays are a common assignment in schools and universities. They aim to develop critical thinking and persuasive communication skills in students. These essays require you to take a stance on a particular issue or topic and provide compelling arguments to convince the reader of your point of view.

Purpose of Persuasive Essays: The primary goal of a persuasive essay is to persuade or convince the reader to adopt your perspective on a given topic. Whether you’re discussing a social issue, debating a philosophical concept, or presenting an argument related to your field of study, your job is to make a convincing case.

Selecting the Right Topic: One of the critical aspects of writing a persuasive essay is choosing the right topic. Your choice can greatly impact the success of your essay. To select an effective persuasive essay topic, consider the following criteria:

  • Relevance: The topic should be current and relevant to your audience’s interests or concerns.
  • Interest: You should have a genuine interest in the topic, as this enthusiasm will be reflected in your writing.
  • Depth: Ensure the topic has sufficient depth for exploration. It should allow you to present multiple arguments and evidence.
  • Audience: Consider the preferences and expectations of your audience. A topic that resonates with them is more likely to be persuasive.

Tips for Choosing a Persuasive Essay Topic

Section 2: Tips for Choosing a Persuasive Essay Topic

Selecting the perfect persuasive essay topic requires careful consideration and creativity. Here are some tips to help you choose a compelling and engaging topic:

1. Relevance: Start by considering current events, societal issues, or subjects directly related to your academic field. A relevant topic is more likely to captivate your readers’ interest.

2. Personal Interest: Choose a topic that genuinely interests you. Your enthusiasm will shine through in your writing and make your arguments more convincing.

3. Depth of Discussion: Ensure the topic has enough depth to explore. It should allow you to present multiple arguments, counterarguments, and supporting evidence. Shallow topics can limit your essay’s persuasiveness.

4. Understanding Your Audience: Consider the preferences and expectations of your audience. A topic that resonates with them is more likely to be persuasive.

5. Research Availability: Check the availability of credible sources and research material related to your chosen topic. A well-researched essay is more persuasive.

6. Uniqueness: If possible, opt for a unique or less-explored perspective on a common topic. Fresh ideas can engage your readers more effectively.

7. Balanced Controversy: Choose a topic with a degree of controversy. A balanced debate with valid arguments on both sides makes for a more engaging essay.

8. Ethical Considerations: Keep ethical considerations in mind. Avoid topics that may be offensive or controversial without adding significant value to the discussion.

Notice that the process of selecting a persuasive essay topic can be as rewarding as writing the essay itself. Based on my experience, once you’ve picked a topic, the next step is to delve into research and build a strong argument.

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

Section 3: Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

High school students often face the challenge of selecting a persuasive essay topic that not only aligns with their academic interests but also engages their peers. Here are ten persuasive essay topics tailored for high school students, each with a brief description or context:

  • The Importance of Teaching Financial Literacy in High Schools: Explore the benefits of integrating financial literacy into the high school curriculum, equipping students with essential life skills.
  • Should Students Have a Say in Curriculum Development?: Discuss the idea of involving students in shaping their own education by contributing to curriculum decisions.
  • The Impact of Bullying on Mental Health and Academic Performance: Analyze the effects of bullying on both the mental well-being and academic success of high school students.
  • Uniforms or Freedom? Exploring the School Dress Code Debate: Engage in the ongoing debate about the necessity of school dress codes and their implications for students’ freedom of expression.
  • The Role of Technology in Education: Boon or Bane?: Assess the impact of technology on the learning process in high schools, addressing its advantages and disadvantages.
  • Promoting Environmental Awareness in High Schools: Discuss the importance of teaching students about environmental issues and encouraging sustainable practices.
  • Should High School Start Times Be Adjusted for Better Sleep?: Explore the debate on whether high school start times should be adjusted to better align with students’ sleep patterns and health.
  • The Influence of Pop Culture on Teenagers: Analyze the role of pop culture, including music, movies, and social media, in shaping the attitudes and behaviors of high school students.
  • The Value of School Vouchers and School Choice Programs: Debate the pros and cons of school voucher programs and their potential impact on the education system.
  • Is Standardized Testing an Effective Measure of Student Ability?: Examine the effectiveness of standardized tests in evaluating students’ skills and knowledge, and discuss potential alternatives.

These topics cover a wide range of subjects, from education to social issues, providing high school students with a diverse selection of ideas for their persuasive essays. In the following sections, we will present persuasive essay topics suitable for college students and general audiences.

for College

Section 4: Persuasive Essay Topics for College

College students often engage with more complex and mature topics. Here are ten persuasive essay topics tailored for college students, each with a brief description or context:

  • The Role of College Education in Career Success: Explore the correlation between obtaining a college degree and long-term career prospects.
  • The Impact of Student Loan Debt on Future Generations: Discuss the implications of the rising student loan debt crisis and its effect on future generations.
  • Balancing Work and College: The Pros and Cons of Part-Time Jobs: Analyze the benefits and drawbacks of working part-time while pursuing a college degree.
  • The Value of Liberal Arts Education in the 21st Century: Explore the importance of a well-rounded education, including the humanities, in the modern workforce.
  • Ethical Implications of Genetic Engineering: Discuss the ethical concerns surrounding genetic engineering and its application in medicine and agriculture.
  • Debating College Athlete Compensation: Examine the debate on whether college athletes should be compensated for their participation in sports.
  • The Influence of Social Media on Personal Relationships: Analyze the impact of social media on personal interactions and relationships among college students.
  • The Future of Renewable Energy Sources: Discuss the potential of renewable energy sources in meeting future energy needs and addressing climate change.
  • Exploring the Role of Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Analyze how AI is revolutionizing the healthcare industry and the ethical considerations it raises.
  • The Benefits and Drawbacks of Online Learning: Debate the advantages and disadvantages of online education, particularly in a post-pandemic world.

These college-level persuasive essay topics cover a range of subjects, from education and technology to ethics and societal issues. They provide college students with thought-provoking ideas for their persuasive essays.

for General Audiences

Section 5: for General Audiences

In this section, we’ll offer ten persuasive essay topics that can appeal to a broader audience, including adults and those interested in a variety of subjects. Each topic includes a brief description or context:

  • Universal Basic Income: A Solution to Economic Inequality: Explore the concept of universal basic income as a potential remedy for economic disparities in society.
  • The Role of Governments in Addressing Climate Change: Discuss the responsibilities of governments in combating climate change and ensuring environmental sustainability.
  • The Impact of Social Media on Democracy: Analyze how social media platforms influence public opinion, politics, and democratic processes.
  • The Ethics of Animal Testing in Scientific Research: Examine the ethical considerations surrounding the use of animals in scientific experiments.
  • Exploring Alternative Medicine: Complementary or Contradictory?: Discuss the role of alternative and complementary medicine in modern healthcare and its benefits and drawbacks.
  • The Future of Space Exploration: Beyond the Moon and Mars: Debate the significance of exploring outer space, including missions to distant planets and beyond.
  • The Influence of Technology on Mental Health: Analyze how technology, particularly smartphones and social media, affects the mental well-being of individuals.
  • The Global Impact of Cybersecurity Threats: Discuss the global consequences of cyberattacks and the importance of cybersecurity in the digital age.
  • The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in Autonomous Vehicles: Examine the ethical dilemmas related to self-driving cars and their decision-making abilities.
  • The Value of International Diplomacy in Resolving Conflicts: Explore the role of diplomacy in preventing and resolving international conflicts.

These persuasive essay topics are suitable for a diverse audience, covering issues related to ethics, technology, global concerns, and more.

Unique and Creative Persuasive Essay Topics

Section 6: Unique and Creative Persuasive Essay Topics

If you’re looking for persuasive essay topics that stand out and capture the reader’s attention, consider these ten unique and creative ideas:

  • The Influence of Color Psychology in Marketing and Design: Discuss the psychological impact of colors in advertising and design choices.
  • The Art of Persuasion in Classic Literature: Analyze how persuasion is portrayed in classic literature and its relevance in modern society.
  • Exploring the Future of Space Tourism: Discuss the prospects and challenges of space tourism as a future travel option for civilians.
  • The Impact of Music on Human Emotions: Analyze how different types of music influence emotions and well-being.
  • The Power of Storytelling in Marketing and Branding: Discuss the effectiveness of storytelling in marketing and creating strong brand identities.
  • The Ethics of Cloning for Medical Advancements: Examine the ethical considerations surrounding human cloning for medical purposes.
  • The Role of Humor in Persuasion: Discuss how humor can be a powerful tool in persuasive communication.
  • The Art of Public Speaking: Lessons from Great Orators: Analyze the techniques and strategies used by famous orators throughout history.
  • The Impact of Virtual Reality in Education: Discuss how virtual reality technology can transform the learning experience.
  • Exploring the Mind-Body Connection in Health and Wellness: Examine the relationship between mental and physical health in holistic well-being.

These unique and creative persuasive essay topics offer a fresh perspective on various subjects, from literature and marketing to technology and healthcare. They provide an opportunity to explore unconventional ideas and engage your readers in captivating discussions.

50 Persuasive Essay Topics for High School Students: Engage, Educate, and Inspire

When it comes to high school education, persuasive essays are an excellent way for students to develop their critical thinking and communication skills. These essays allow young learners to express their opinions, research, and debate on various topics. However, finding the right persuasive essay topic can be a challenge. To make things easier for high school students, we’ve compiled a list of 50 engaging persuasive essay topics that encourage thoughtful discussion and debate.

  • The Importance of Teaching Financial Literacy in High Schools
  • Should Students Have a Say in Curriculum Development?
  • The Impact of Bullying on Mental Health and Academic Performance
  • Uniforms or Freedom? Exploring the School Dress Code Debate
  • The Role of Technology in Education: Boon or Bane?
  • Promoting Environmental Awareness in High Schools
  • Should High School Start Times Be Adjusted for Better Sleep?
  • The Influence of Pop Culture on Teenagers
  • The Value of School Vouchers and School Choice Programs
  • Is Standardized Testing an Effective Measure of Student Ability?
  • Teaching Emotional Intelligence in High Schools
  • The Importance of Sex Education: Comprehensive vs. Abstinence-Only
  • Single-Sex Education: Is It Beneficial or Detrimental?
  • Addressing the Issue of Teenage Pregnancy: Comprehensive Sex Education
  • Banning Junk Food in School Cafeterias
  • The Pros and Cons of Homeschooling
  • Cell Phones in the Classroom: A Distraction or a Learning Tool?
  • Exploring the Impact of Social Media on Teenagers
  • The Effects of Cyberbullying on High School Students
  • Teaching Tolerance and Promoting Diversity in High Schools
  • The Benefits of Learning a Second Language
  • Should High School Athletes Be Drug Tested?
  • Censorship in Schools: Balancing Free Speech and Appropriate Content
  • Is Homework Necessary for Academic Success?
  • The Impact of Music and Arts Education on Student Development
  • The Role of Religion in Public High Schools
  • Teaching Critical Thinking Skills: Is It Adequate in High Schools?
  • Drug Education: The Importance of Substance Abuse Prevention
  • Student Leadership and Extracurricular Activities: Building Well-Rounded Individuals
  • The Ethics of Animal Testing: Should High Schools Use Animals in Science Classes?
  • The Influence of Video Games on Teen Behavior
  • Teaching Internet Safety and Digital Literacy in High Schools
  • Promoting Physical Education and Active Lifestyles
  • Inclusion of LGBTQ+ Education in High School Curriculum
  • The Significance of Financial Aid Programs for College-Bound Students
  • Civics Education: Preparing Students for Active Citizenship
  • Encouraging High School Students to Volunteer in Their Communities
  • Exploring Mental Health Education in High Schools
  • The Impact of Social and Economic Disparities on High School Education
  • Mandatory Community Service: Encouraging Civic Responsibility
  • Exploring the Effects of Climate Change in Environmental Science Classes
  • The Role of Literature in Developing Empathy and Understanding
  • Teaching Time Management and Study Skills
  • Addressing the Issue of Student Stress: Coping Mechanisms and Solutions
  • The Importance of Teaching Consent and Respect in Relationships
  • The Role of High Schools in Combating Substance Abuse
  • Should High School Graduation Requirements Be More Flexible?
  • Teaching Students About Personal Finance and Budgeting
  • Is Advanced Placement (AP) Worth the Extra Effort?
  • Examining the Impact of High-Stakes Testing on Education Quality

These 50 persuasive essay topics for high school students cover a wide range of issues, allowing young learners to explore and articulate their opinions on critical subjects. High school is a time for students to develop their voices, learn to think critically, and engage in meaningful discussions. These topics offer the opportunity to do just that, while also helping to expand their knowledge and understanding of the world around them. Whether it’s addressing contemporary societal issues or delving into traditional educational debates, these topics empower high school students to engage, educate, and inspire. So, pick a topic, and let the persuasive writing begin!

Extra List of Persuasive Topics

Persuasive topics for debates.

Here is a compilation of persuasive essay topics that you can explore and debate:

  • The Use of Cell Phones in Elementary and High Schools
  • School Uniforms: A Necessary Requirement?
  • Paying College Athletes for Their Performance
  • Tuition-Free State Colleges for In-State Residents
  • Mandatory Year of Community Service for All Americans
  • Compulsory Foreign Language Courses in Schools
  • Legalizing Marijuana for Medicinal Purposes
  • Lowering the Voting Age to Thirteen
  • Raising the Driving Age to Twenty-One
  • Paying Students for Good Grades
  • Allowing Illegal Immigrants to Obtain Driver’s Licenses
  • Replacing Textbooks with Notebook Computers
  • Requiring Basic Skills Tests for High School Graduation
  • Fundraising through Candy and Sugary Drinks Sales in Schools
  • Serving French Fries and Fried Potato Products in School Lunches
  • Including Gym Grades in Students’ GPAs
  • Allowing Girls to Participate in Boys’ Sports Teams
  • Sales of Violent Video Games to Teens
  • Segregating Boys and Girls in School Classes
  • Access to Birth Control for Teenage Girls without Parental Permission
  • Implementing a Universal Health Care Program
  • Reforming Immigration Laws
  • Recognizing Civil Unions by the Federal Government
  • Punishing Illegal Music and Movie Downloaders
  • Academic Performance Requirements for School Athletes
  • Allowing Music with Profanity at School Dances
  • Go-Go Bands Performing at School Dances
  • Use of MP3 Players in Classrooms
  • Offering Fast Food Options in Schools
  • Providing Free Public Wi-Fi in Cities
  • Taxation of Junk Food and Fatty Snacks
  • Stringent Security Screenings for Airplane Travelers
  • Basic Skills Tests for Teachers Every Ten Years
  • Ownership of Exotic Animals like Chimpanzees or Tigers
  • Keeping Pit Bull Dogs as Pets
  • Implementing a Bike-Sharing Program in Cities
  • Imposing Ordinances for Non-Recycling
  • Imposing Ordinances for Loud Music
  • Stricter Penalties for Celebrities Who Break the Law
  • Charging Larger Passengers for Extra Plane or Movie Tickets
  • Licensing for Parenthood
  • Stricter Federal Internet Content Restrictions
  • Cursing on Daytime Television
  • Inclusion of Sexual Education in Public Schools
  • Providing Free Condoms to Students at School
  • Suspending Students for Cyberbullying
  • Allowing Corporate Advertising in Schools
  • Eating During Class
  • Protecting and Preserving Endangered Animals
  • Students and Teachers as Friends on Facebook
  • Open Campus Lunch Periods for Students
  • Legalization of Abortions
  • Abortion Legalization in Cases of Rape and Incest
  • The Use of the Death Penalty for Violent Criminals
  • Teaching World Religions in Public Schools
  • Delaying School Start Times in the Morning
  • Ending Overseas Military Operations by the USA
  • Campaign Contributions from Corporate Lobbyists
  • Doctor-Assisted Suicide for Terminal Patients
  • Using Stem Cells from Aborted Fetuses for Medical Research
  • Drug Testing for School Athletes
  • Drug Testing for Professional Athletes
  • Mandatory Community Service for High School Graduation
  • Teens’ Access to R-Rated Movies
  • State Tests in Languages for ESL Students
  • Animal Testing for Human Product Safety
  • Warning Labels on Unhealthy Fast Food
  • Tariffs or Taxes on Foreign-Manufactured Products
  • Monetary Rewards for Standardized Test Performance
  • Enforcing Curfews for Those Under 17
  • Closing Low-Performing Schools Based on Standardized Tests
  • Minors Drinking Alcohol at Home with Parental Consent
  • Allowing Students to Drop Out Before Age 18
  • Alcohol Manufacturers Advertising on Television
  • Part-Time Jobs for Students as Young as Fourteen
  • License Suspension for Drunk Driving
  • Retaining Students Who Fail Their Classes
  • Minority Employment Quotas for Large Businesses
  • Free College Tuition for High-Achieving Homeless Students
  • Legal Status of Gambling and Sports Betting
  • Trying Children Who Commit Violent Crimes as Adults
  • Detaining Suspected Terrorists Without Trial
  • Government Internet Censorship
  • Dress Codes for Teachers
  • Allowing Cell Phones for Teachers in the Classroom
  • Euthanizing Dogs That Bite People

If you’re seeking inspiration for persuasive essays, consider the following prompts:

  • Addressing Bullying: Should Schools or Parents Tackle the Issue?
  • Advocating for a Cause: Convince Readers to Support Your Chosen Cause
  • Online Communication vs. Interpersonal Skills: Which Is More Important?
  • Volunteering: Encourage Others to Contribute to a Charitable Cause
  • The Impact of TV Violence: Discuss Whether It Affects Society
  • Language Learning in Schools: Should Native Speakers Receive Native Language Classes?
  • Balanced News Coverage: Should Television Prioritize International and Global News?
  • Mandatory Volunteer Hours: Are They Beneficial or Coercive?
  • Parental Approaches to Allowance: Should It Be Linked to Behavior or Given Unconditionally?
  • Single-Sex Education: Debate the Advantages and Disadvantages
  • Minimizing TV Time: Convince Readers to Reduce TV Viewing
  • Driving Age: Argue for the Appropriate Age for Driver’s Licenses
  • School Searches: Balancing Student Privacy and Safety
  • Breaking Harmful Habits: Persuade Readers to Quit a Detrimental Habit
  • Military Service: Discuss the Merits of Mandatory Service
  • Labeling Genetically Modified Foods: Argue for or Against GMO Labels
  • The Role of Genetic Modification in Food: Convince Readers of Its Merits or Drawbacks
  • Credit Card Solicitation in Schools: Discuss Whether It’s Exploitative or Educational
  • Reality Television: Are These Shows Valuable or Just Entertainment?
  • Banning Passenger Cars in Favor of Public Transportation
  • Talk Show Aggressiveness: Debate the Extent of Acceptable Confrontation
  • Personal Change for the Better: Encourage Others to Make Positive Life Changes
  • Environmental Actions: Persuade Readers to Partake in Eco-Friendly Activities
  • Promoting Physical Activity: Convince Readers to Lead a Healthier Lifestyle
  • Politicians’ Private Lives: Should They Be of Public Concern?
  • High Earnings for Professional Athletes: Discuss Whether They Are Justified
  • Importance of Computers in Education: Evaluate Their Role
  • Higher School Standards: Advocate for More Challenging Educational Criteria
  • U.S. Foreign Aid: Discuss the Appropriateness of Its Allocation
  • Sport Fishing: Debate the Ethics of the Sport
  • School Security: Argue for Appropriate Measures
  • Grading vs. Evaluation: Discuss Their Effectiveness in Education
  • School Cafeteria Menus: Argue for Healthier Options
  • School Uniforms: Take a Position on Their Implementation
  • Media Ratings Systems: Evaluate Their Effectiveness
  • Learning Foreign Languages: Discuss the Importance of Multilingualism
  • Online Degrees: Consider the Viability of Entirely Online Education
  • Education as a Right or Privilege: State Your Position
  • Improving Hometowns: Advocate for Changes in Your Community
  • Extending the School Year: Argue for or Against a Longer Academic Calendar
  • Surveillance Cameras: Discuss Their Role in Public Safety
  • Reading Classic Literature in Schools: Debate Its Relevance
  • Parental Warnings on Music Lyrics: Take a Stand on Their Adequacy
  • Fuel-Efficient Engines: Argue for Stricter Regulations
  • The Ethicality of Zoos: Discuss Their Impact on Animals
  • Selling Essays Online: Determine Their Legitimacy
  • The Validity of SAT/ACT Exams: Assess Their Accuracy
  • Sharing Music Across Generations: Persuade Others to Appreciate Your Music
  • The Pledge of Allegiance: Mandatory, Voluntary, or Abandoned?
  • The Futility of War: Discuss Thomas Mann’s Perspective
  • The Nature of War: Assess Jeannette Rankin’s Perspective
  • Explicit Lyrics Warning: Argue for Stronger Warnings on Music Labels
  • Study Halls in High Schools: Advocate for Their Inclusion in Schedules

These topics and prompts can serve as a starting point for crafting your persuasive essays, allowing you to express your views and arguments effectively.

Section 7: Conclusion

In this guide, we’ve explored a diverse array of persuasive essay topics suitable for various audiences and interests. Choosing the right topic is the first step towards crafting a compelling persuasive essay, one that not only engages your readers but also inspires thoughtful reflection and discussion.

Whether you’re a high school student, a college student, or a writer addressing a general audience, the key to a successful persuasive essay is selecting a topic that aligns with your interests, the expectations of your readers, and the societal or academic context. As you embark on your essay-writing journey, remember the importance of in-depth research, well-structured arguments, and the art of persuasive communication.

If you’ve found a topic that resonates with you or have been inspired by the creative ideas presented here, it’s time to start crafting your persuasive essay. With your well-researched arguments and thoughtful presentation, you can influence minds and spark meaningful discussions.

Remember that persuasive essays are not just academic exercises; they are opportunities to explore and advocate for the issues that matter most to you. So, choose your topic wisely, research thoroughly, and craft an essay that persuades, informs, and inspires change.

Now, you have a selection of persuasive essay topics that cater to different tastes, interests, and levels of expertise. The world is full of issues waiting to be explored and discussed. It’s up to you to choose the topic that resonates with your passion and convictions.

So, go ahead, pick a topic, and start writing your persuasive essay. Your words have the power to make a difference and inspire change.

Good luck with your persuasive essay journey!

Feel free to use this article as a reference or as a template for your persuasive essay topics. If you need further assistance or have any specific questions, please don’t hesitate to ask.

persuasive essay scoring guide matrix rubrics

Persuasive or Argumentative Essay Scoring Guide – Matrix – Rubrics

Teachers should use the scoring guide for persuasive essays as it provides a systematic and objective framework for assessing students’ writing skills and their ability to construct convincing arguments. In my own teaching experience, I’ve found this guide to be an invaluable tool in several ways.

Firstly, it establishes clear expectations for students, allowing them to understand what’s required to excel in their persuasive writing. By breaking down the assessment into specific criteria, it demystifies the grading process and helps students comprehend the elements that contribute to a strong persuasive essay.

During class, I often use this scoring guide as a reference point, discussing each criterion with students. We talk about the importance of a well-structured argument, the need for strong evidence, the role of transitions, and the significance of grammar and style. It serves as a roadmap for our discussions, making it easier for students to see their strengths and areas that need improvement.

One common issue I’ve encountered is that students sometimes struggle with organizing their arguments effectively. The scoring guide is particularly helpful in addressing this. We discuss the importance of a clear thesis, supporting evidence, and transitions to ensure logical flow. Students can pinpoint where their essays may lack organization, and this guide becomes a tool for self-assessment and revision.

In terms of problems, students can sometimes misinterpret the guide’s criteria or need clarification on specific points. It’s crucial for the teacher to be available for questions and offer examples to illustrate each level of performance for every criterion.

Ultimately, this scoring guide acts as a roadmap for both students and teachers. It helps create a shared understanding of what constitutes a strong persuasive essay and empowers students to take ownership of their writing. It also facilitates more objective and consistent grading, promoting fairness and transparency in the assessment process.

This is supported by this academic research paper .

Aliv Faizal M

Aliv Faizal M

I am a teacher who loves to use technology. I like to design templates in Google Docs, Google Slides, Powerpoint, Word, CorelDraw, etc.

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Persuasive Essay Topics: Top 150 Choices

persuasive essay topic ideas for high school

Did you know that the word 'persuade' is derived from the Latin word 'persuadere,' which means 'to make someone agree or believe through argument or reasoning'? It's a fascinating linguistic connection to the art of writing a persuasive essay, a skill that has the potential to shape opinions, spark discussions, and even drive change.

In this article, our persuasive essay writer will delve into a carefully curated selection of 150 essay topics that are designed to ignite debate, stimulate critical thinking, and empower you to make a compelling case for your viewpoint. Whether you're a student looking for a captivating, persuasive essay idea for your next assignment or an advocate seeking to raise awareness about critical issues, our list offers a diverse range of ideas that can serve as a powerful catalyst for meaningful discourse and positive transformation.

A Comprehensive List of Persuasive Essay Topics

In this comprehensive list, our paper writing service experts have compiled an extensive range of persuasive essay topics to suit various interests and academic levels. Whether you're a college student seeking to engage in complex debates, a high school student eager to make a compelling case, or an advocate looking to address critical issues, we've got you covered. Our topics span across diverse categories such as education, history, society, health, and more. This article is your one-stop resource for finding the perfect topic that aligns with your passion and purpose, ensuring your persuasive essays stand out.

Good Persuasive Essay Topics

In our pursuit of engaging and impactful essay subjects, let's begin by delving into ten distinctive topics that transcend the commonplace. These choices not only provide fresh perspectives but also present an opportunity to learn how to research a topic effectively.

  • Contemplating the Art of Mindful Consumption : Discuss the ethical implications of our consumer choices and how conscious shopping can transform our world.
  • Digital Privacy in the Age of Big Data: Analyze the trade-offs between personal privacy and data collection in our increasingly interconnected world.
  • The Future of Work: Universal Basic Income: Delve into the concept of universal basic income and its potential to address economic inequality and job displacement in the age of automation.
  • Cryptocurrency Adoption and Its Impact on Traditional Banking: Examine how the rise of cryptocurrencies is reshaping the financial landscape and challenging traditional banking systems.
  • Sustainable Fashion: Balancing Style and Environmental Responsibility: Discuss the fashion industry's ecological footprint and the importance of sustainable clothing practices.
  • Decoding Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Explore the transformative potential of AI in revolutionizing healthcare and its implications for medical professionals and patients.
  • The Power of Solar Roadways: Investigate the concept of solar roadways as an innovative solution for both energy generation and sustainable infrastructure.
  • The Intersection of Virtual Reality and Education: Analyze the benefits and challenges of integrating virtual reality technology into the classroom for enhanced learning experiences.
  • Reimagining Urban Planning: The 15-Minute City Concept: Delve into the urban planning movement that aims to create more sustainable and livable cities by emphasizing short commutes and community-centric design.
  • The Impact of Eco-Anxiety on Mental Health: Discuss the psychological effects of climate change-related anxiety and ways to address and mitigate its impact on individuals and society.

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Hopefully this guide will help you discover good topics for a persuasive speech or essay and write a top-notch paper. Looking for more advice or professional help?

Persuasive Essay Topics for College

When it comes to persuasive essay topics for students, the expectation is high. College-level writing demands critical thinking, compelling arguments, and well-researched positions. Here are ten thought-provoking topics tailored for the academic environment:

  • The Ethics of Cloning and Genetic Engineering in Higher Education: Explore the moral and scientific considerations of cloning and genetic engineering research conducted in university settings.
  • Quantum Computing and Its Implications for Computer Science Education: Delve into the potential of quantum computing and its influence on computer science programs in colleges and universities.
  • Deconstructing the Prison-Industrial Complex: A Call for Education Reform: Discuss how higher education institutions can play a role in addressing the social and economic issues related to mass incarceration.
  • Space Exploration and University Research: Analyze the contributions of universities to space exploration and their potential impact on future interstellar exploration.
  • The Intersection of Art and Artificial Intelligence: Examine the collaboration between artists and AI technology in creating innovative and thought-provoking works of art.
  • The Philosophy of Time Travel: Academic Approaches and Paradoxes: Explore the theoretical aspects of time travel from a philosophical and scientific perspective.
  • Biodiversity Conservation in University Campuses: Discuss the role of colleges in preserving local biodiversity and creating sustainable environments within their campuses.
  • The Influence of Virtual Reality on Archaeological Studies: Investigate how VR technology is transforming archaeological research and preservation efforts.
  • The Philosophy of Mind in the Age of Brain-Computer Interfaces: Explore the ethical and philosophical implications of brain-computer interface technology in academic and research settings.
  • Transhumanism and the Future of Human Enhancement: Discuss the ethical, social, and philosophical aspects of transhumanism within the context of higher education.

Persuasive Essay Topics High School

High school students often engage with a wide range of issues and concerns. Here are some essay topics tailored to their interests and age groups:

  • Promoting Financial Literacy in High Schools: Discuss the importance of including comprehensive financial literacy education in high school curriculums to equip students with essential life skills.
  • Social Media's Impact on Teen Mental Health: Explore the influence of social media on the mental well-being of high school students and advocate for responsible usage.
  • The Need for Racial and Cultural Diversity in High School Reading Lists: Analyze the benefits of incorporating more diverse voices and perspectives in the required reading list.
  • Youth Activism and Its Impact on Social Change: Highlight the role of young activists in shaping social and political movements, both historically and in the present.
  • The Effects of Violent Video Games on Adolescent Behavior: Discuss the potential impact of violent video games on high school students and the debate over-regulation.
  • Promoting Healthy Eating Habits in Schools: Advocate for better nutritional standards in high school cafeterias to combat childhood obesity and encourage healthy eating.
  • Cyberbullying Prevention and High School Policies: Examine the issue of cyberbullying and the role of high schools in preventing and addressing this problem.
  • The Pros and Cons of School Uniforms: Debate the advantages and disadvantages of implementing school uniforms in high schools.
  • Youth Voting Rights and Civic Engagement: Discuss the benefits of lowering the voting age to 16 and increasing youth participation in elections.
  • Climate Change Education in High Schools: Explore the need for comprehensive climate change education in high schools to prepare the next generation for environmental challenges.

Persuasive Essay Topics on Education

Education is a dynamic and crucial field that constantly evolves. Here are ten topics related to education:

  • The Impact of Inclusive Education on Student Development: Explore the advantages of inclusive classrooms where students with diverse abilities learn together.
  • The Role of Teachers in Fostering Critical Thinking: Discuss how educators can nurture critical thinking skills in students, preparing them for a rapidly changing world.
  • Standardized Testing: Is it a True Measure of Student Ability? Debate the effectiveness and limitations of standardized testing in assessing student knowledge and readiness.
  • Digital Learning Tools in the Classroom: Analyze the benefits and challenges of integrating digital technology into the education system.
  • The Importance of Arts Education in Schools: Advocate for the inclusion of arts education as a fundamental part of the curriculum, promoting creativity and well-rounded development.
  • Homeschooling vs. Traditional Schooling: A Comparative Analysis: Examine the pros and cons of homeschooling in contrast to traditional classroom education.
  • The Role of Education in Combating Cyberbullying: Discuss how schools can address the issue of cyberbullying and promote safe online behavior.
  • The Necessity of Physical Education: Encouraging Active Lifestyles: Explore the importance of physical education in high schools and its contribution to students' health.
  • The Impact of Early Childhood Education on Future Success: Discuss the long-term benefits of quality early childhood education programs.
  • Environmental Education: Preparing Students for a Sustainable Future: Advocate for the inclusion of environmental education in school curriculums to raise awareness about sustainability and ecological responsibility.

persuasive essay topics

Persuasive Essay Topics on Society

The topics that follow provide distinctive viewpoints on society, offering a novel vantage point from which to delve into the complexities of human culture, behavior, and interpersonal dynamics.

  • The Influence of Culinary Culture on Society: Delve into how culinary traditions, food choices, and dining habits shape our cultural identity and social interactions.
  • Understanding Society Through Foreign Language Semiotics: Examine how symbols and signs in everyday life convey meaning, reflect societal values, and influence communication.
  • The Role of Festivals and Celebrations in Building Community: Explore how communal celebrations and festivals foster a sense of togetherness and unity within societies.
  • The Art of Storytelling: Oral Traditions and Their Impact on Culture: Analyze the significance of oral storytelling traditions in preserving cultural heritage and passing down knowledge from generation to generation.
  • Collective Memory and Historical Narratives: Discuss how societies construct and maintain collective memories and the impact of these narratives on their sense of identity and unity.
  • Urban Planning and the Psychology of Space: Examine the psychological effects of urban environments, architectural design, and city planning on the well-being and behavior of residents.
  • The Societal Significance of Public Transportation: Explore how public transportation systems shape social interactions, reduce environmental impact, and influence urban development.
  • Fashion as a Mirror of Society: Discuss how clothing, styles, and fashion trends reflect cultural values, historical influences, and societal changes.
  • The Rituals of Everyday Life: Examining Mundane Practices: Analyze the significance of daily rituals and mundane practices in creating a sense of order and meaning in society.
  • Digital Subcultures and Online Communities: Investigate how online communities and subcultures have emerged as significant facets of modern society, influencing the way people connect, share interests, and form identities.

Persuasive Essay Topics on History

When considering how to write persuasive essay on history, these topics will provide you with a platform to delve into the past, draw valuable lessons, and make compelling arguments about the significance of historical events, figures, and movements in our world today.

  • The Significance of Historical Preservation: Discuss the importance of preserving historical sites and artifacts for future generations.
  • The Impact of World War II on Global Politics: Analyze how World War II redefined international relations and its lasting effects on the world.
  • The Legacy of the Civil Rights Movement: Explore the achievements and ongoing challenges related to the civil rights movement in the United States.
  • The Role of Ancient History in Modern Society: Discuss the relevance of studying ancient civilizations and their impact on contemporary culture and politics.
  • The Cultural Significance of the Renaissance Period: Analyze the contributions of the Renaissance era to art, science, and human thought.
  • The Causes and Consequences of the Industrial Revolution: Examine the factors that led to the Industrial Revolution and its effects on society.
  • The Impact of Colonialism on Indigenous Peoples: Discuss the long-term consequences of European colonialism on indigenous populations and their cultures.
  • The Lessons of the Cold War: Analyze the Cold War's influence on geopolitics and diplomacy and what lessons can be drawn from it for current international relations.
  • The Role of Historical Truth in Reconciliation: Discuss the importance of acknowledging historical injustices in the process of reconciliation and healing.
  • The Influence of Historical Figures on Modern Political Thought: Explore how historical figures have shaped contemporary political ideologies and movements.

Persuasive Essay Topics About Social Issues

Social issues encompass a wide range of concerns that affect individuals and communities. Here are topics related to social issues:

  • Addressing Homelessness in Urban Areas: Discuss strategies to combat homelessness and support those in need in cities and urban environments.
  • The Impact of Bullying in Schools: Analyze the consequences of bullying and explore ways to create a safer and more inclusive school environment.
  • Youth Substance Abuse and Prevention: Advocate for effective prevention programs and support for young people struggling with substance abuse.
  • Racial Profiling and Police Violence: Discuss racial profiling and excessive use of force by law enforcement and advocate for reforms.
  • Access to Affordable Healthcare: Explore the challenges and solutions for providing affordable and accessible healthcare for all.
  • Gender and LGBTQ+ Rights: Advocate for gender equality and the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, including issues like marriage equality and transgender rights.
  • Combating Human Trafficking: Discuss the global issue of human trafficking and propose solutions to combat it effectively.
  • Mental Health Stigma and Awareness: Explore the stigma surrounding mental health and ways to promote awareness and destigmatization.
  • The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Analyze the relationship between social media use and mental health concerns, such as anxiety and depression.
  • Environmental Justice and Access to Clean Water: Advocate for equitable access to clean water and address environmental disparities in vulnerable communities.

Crime and Legal Persuasive Essay Topics

Issues related to crime and the legal system are often the subject of intense debate. These topics provide a platform for students to examine complex issues in criminal justice, law, and ethics while presenting well-researched arguments and potential solutions.

  • The Efficacy of Restorative Justice Programs: Explore the effectiveness of restorative justice as an alternative to traditional punitive measures in the criminal justice system.
  • Sentencing Reform and the Need for Second Chances: Advocate for reevaluating sentencing guidelines and promoting rehabilitation over lengthy prison sentences.
  • Cybersecurity and Digital Privacy Laws: Examine the importance of legal measures to protect digital privacy and combat cybercrimes.
  • Capital Punishment: Abolition or Reform? Analyze the arguments for and against the death penalty and consider potential reforms.
  • Criminal Profiling and Ethical Considerations: Explore the use of criminal profiling in law enforcement and the ethical questions it raises.
  • Hate Crimes Legislation and Protection: Advocate for stronger hate crime laws and measures to protect vulnerable communities.
  • Juvenile Justice Reform: Discuss the need for improvements in the juvenile justice system, including alternatives to incarceration for young offenders.
  • Civil Asset Forfeiture Reform: Discuss the practice of civil asset forfeiture and advocate for reforms to address potential abuses and protect property rights.
  • Mandatory Minimum Sentences: A Review and Reform: Analyze the impact of mandatory minimum sentencing laws and propose potential reforms for a more equitable criminal justice system.
  • The Role of Mental Health Courts: Explore the benefits and challenges of mental health courts as an alternative approach to addressing criminal cases involving individuals with mental illnesses.

Health Persuasive Essay Topics

These health-related essay topics encompass a wide range of issues, from public health policies to individual health and well-being, providing opportunities for students to explore critical topics and propose meaningful solutions.

  • Universal Healthcare: A Right or a Privilege? Debate the merits of universal healthcare and its implications for society and the economy.
  • The Obesity Epidemic and Public Health: Discuss strategies to combat obesity, promote healthy lifestyles, and reduce the associated health risks.
  • Vaccination Mandates and Public Health: Analyze the controversy surrounding vaccination mandates and their impact on public health.
  • Digital Wellness in the Age of Screens : Examine the impact of constant screen exposure on physical and mental health.
  • The Role of Nutrition Education in Schools: Advocate for the inclusion of comprehensive nutrition education in the school curriculum to combat childhood obesity and promote healthy eating habits.
  • The Opioid Crisis and Addiction Treatment: Explore strategies for addressing the opioid epidemic and improving access to addiction treatment.
  • Reproductive Health and Women's Rights: Discuss the importance of women's reproductive health rights and access to healthcare services.
  • Healthcare Disparities in Underserved Communities: Analyze the disparities in healthcare access and outcomes in underserved and marginalized communities and propose solutions.
  • Telemedicine and the Future of Healthcare: Examine the growth of telemedicine and its potential to improve healthcare access, especially in rural areas.
  • The Impact of Aging Populations on Healthcare Systems: Discuss the challenges and innovations needed to address the healthcare needs of an increasingly aging population.

Women's and Gender Persuasive Essay Topics

Gender and women's issues are essential topics for discussion and advocacy, inviting students to address crucial matters related to gender and work toward a more equitable and inclusive society.

persuasive essay topics

  • Equal Pay for Equal Work: Advocate for closing the gender pay gap and ensuring equal pay for women in the workplace.
  • Women in Leadership: Breaking the Glass Ceiling: Discuss the barriers women face in reaching leadership positions and strategies to promote gender equality in leadership roles.
  • Reproductive Rights and Access to Healthcare: Explore the importance of women's reproductive rights and access to comprehensive healthcare services, including contraception and family planning.
  • Violence Against Women: Prevention and Support: Discuss the prevalence of violence against women, including domestic violence and sexual assault, and propose strategies for prevention and support for survivors.
  • Women in STEM Fields: Encouraging Gender Diversity: Analyze the challenges women face in STEM careers and advocate for increased gender diversity in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics.
  • Gender Stereotypes and Their Impact: Examine the influence of gender stereotypes on society and discuss strategies to challenge and overcome these biases.
  • The Representation of Women in Media: Discuss the portrayal of women in the media and the need for more diverse and empowering representations.
  • Intersectionality and Women's Rights: Explore how race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, and other factors intersect with gender, affecting women's experiences and rights.
  • Child Marriage and Gender-Based Violence: Advocate for ending child marriage and addressing gender-based violence against girls and young women.
  • The Role of Men in Feminism: Discuss the importance of male allies in the feminist movement and how they can support gender equality.

Ethics Persuasive Essay Topics

Ethical issues are at the core of many important debates and decisions in society. Here are some interesting suggestions from our online essay writer that explore various ethical dilemmas:

  • Ethics of Artificial Intelligence and Automation: Discuss the ethical considerations surrounding AI, automation and their impact on the workforce and decision-making.
  • Bioethical Dilemmas: Genetic Engineering and Designer Babies: Analyze the ethical concerns raised by genetic engineering and the creation of designer babies.
  • Ethics in Animal Testing and Research: Debate the ethical considerations of using animals for scientific experiments and research.
  • Euthanasia and the Right to Die with Dignity: Discuss the ethical aspects of euthanasia and whether individuals have the right to make end-of-life decisions.
  • Environmental Ethics and Conservation: Explore the ethical principles underpinning environmental conservation and sustainability efforts.
  • Ethical Implications of Privacy in the Digital Age: Analyze the ethical dilemmas related to data privacy, surveillance, and digital information sharing.
  • Ethics in Journalism and Media Integrity: Discuss the ethical responsibilities of journalists and media outlets in reporting news and information accurately.
  • Ethical Considerations in Healthcare Resource Allocation: Explore the ethical challenges healthcare professionals face when allocating limited resources, such as during a public health crisis.
  • Ethical Implications of Cloning and Stem Cell Research: Examine the ethical concerns and potential benefits of cloning and stem cell research.
  • Corporate Social Responsibility and Ethical Business Practices: Advocate for ethical standards and social responsibility in business practices, including issues related to sustainability and fair labor practices.

Science Persuasive Essay Topics

These science-related topics allow college students to engage in discussions about the role of science in addressing critical global issues and how scientific knowledge can shape our understanding of the world and improve our lives.

  • Climate Change and Urgent Action: Advocate for the importance of addressing climate change and the role of scientific research in finding solutions.
  • Space Exploration: The Quest for Knowledge and Discovery: Discuss the value of space exploration and the knowledge gained from missions to the cosmos.
  • Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) and Food Security: Explore the benefits and risks of GMOs in agriculture and their role in food security.
  • The Role of Science in Addressing Public Health Crises: Analyze the significance of science in responding to public health crises, such as pandemics and infectious diseases.
  • The Untapped Potential of Mycorrhizal Fungi in Enhancing Sustainable Agriculture : Explore the largely uncharted territory of harnessing mycorrhizal fungi to improve soil health, nutrient absorption, and crop yields.
  • The Importance of STEM Education: Advocate for the promotion of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) education in schools to prepare future generations for scientific and technological challenges.
  • Artificial Intelligence and its Ethical Implications: Explore the ethical concerns related to AI technology, such as decision-making algorithms and machine learning.
  • The Impact of Scientific Discoveries on Medical Ethics: Discuss how scientific advances, such as gene editing and organ transplantation, influence medical ethics and healthcare decision-making.
  • Biodiversity Conservation and Ecosystem Health: Analyze the role of science in preserving biodiversity and maintaining the health of ecosystems.
  • The Role of Scientific Skepticism in Critical Thinking: Advocate for the importance of scientific skepticism in evaluating claims, combating pseudoscience, and fostering critical thinking.

Persuasive Essay Topics on AI Impact

These essay topics on AI impact suggested by our dissertation service writers provide students with an opportunity to critically examine the various ways AI is reshaping our world, considering both the benefits and challenges it presents.

  • AI in Literature and Creative Writing: A New Era of Storytelling: Explore the use of AI in generating creative content, such as poems, stories, and novels, and its potential impact on the literary world.
  • AI in Archaeology and Historical Preservation: Discuss how AI technologies are aiding in archaeological discoveries, historical research, and the preservation of cultural heritage.
  • AI and the Future of Personal Relationships: From Virtual Companions to AI Love: Examine the ethical and emotional implications of AI-powered virtual companions and their potential influence on human relationships.
  • AI in the Workplace: Job Automation and the Future of Employment: Analyze the impact of AI on the workforce, considering job displacement and the need for new skill sets.
  • AI and Privacy Concerns: Balancing Innovation with Data Protection: Debate the ethical and privacy considerations related to AI technologies and data collection.
  • AI and Mental Health: Chatbots and Supportive Technologies: Explore the use of AI in providing mental health support, including chatbots and virtual therapists.
  • AI and Criminal Justice: Predictive Policing and Bias Mitigation: Analyze the role of AI in criminal justice, including predictive policing and efforts to address bias.
  • AI in Art and Creativity: Tools, Innovations, and Copyright: Discuss the impact of AI in creative fields, raising questions about copyright and the definition of art.
  • AI in Environmental Conservation: Enhancing Conservation Efforts: Explore how AI technologies are used to monitor and protect endangered species and natural ecosystems.
  • AI and Accessibility: Empowering Individuals with Disabilities: Advocate for the use of AI to improve accessibility and inclusivity for individuals with disabilities.

Persuasive Essay Topics on Racism

These persuasive writing prompts on racism provide opportunities to engage in important discussions and advocate for social justice, equity, and change. They encourage college students to address the multifaceted issues related to racism and contribute to the ongoing fight against discrimination.

  • The Impact of Systemic Racism on Communities of Color: Discuss the pervasive effects of systemic racism on individuals and communities, including disparities in education, healthcare, and criminal justice.
  • Racial Profiling and Police Violence: Analyze the issues of racial profiling and the use of force by law enforcement, as well as strategies for reform.
  • Hate Crimes and Discrimination: Explore the prevalence of hate crimes based on race, religion, or ethnicity and advocate for measures to combat discrimination.
  • The Importance of Diverse Representation in Media: Discuss the need for more diverse and accurate portrayals of racial and ethnic minorities in film, television, and advertising.
  • Affirmative Action: Balancing Equal Opportunity and Meritocracy: Debate the role of affirmative action policies in addressing historical injustices and promoting diversity in education and employment.
  • Race and Education: Addressing the School-to-Prison Pipeline: Examine the disproportionate impact of disciplinary policies on students of color and the need to dismantle the school-to-prison pipeline.
  • The Role of Allyship in Combating Racism: Discuss the importance of allyship in supporting marginalized communities and dismantling racist systems.
  • Racial Health Disparities: A Call for Equity in Healthcare: Analyze the disparities in healthcare access and outcomes among racial and ethnic groups and advocate for equitable healthcare solutions.
  • Microaggressions and Unconscious Bias: Explore the impact of microaggressions and unconscious bias on marginalized communities and strategies for raising awareness.
  • Reparations for Historical Injustices: Debate the need for reparations to address the historical injustices inflicted on communities of color, particularly the descendants of enslaved individuals.

Unique Persuasive Essay Ideas

These persuasive essay ideas offer opportunities to explore unconventional and fascinating topics, encouraging critical thinking and in-depth examination of issues that may not be as widely discussed but are nonetheless thought-provoking.

  • The Ethics of Space Colonization: Explore the ethical considerations and responsibilities of humanity as we venture into space and potentially colonize other planets.
  • The Impact of Digital Immortality: Discuss the ethical and existential questions raised by advancements in digital technology that allow individuals to preserve their personalities and memories beyond their lifetimes.
  • The Necessity of Emotional Education: Advocate for the inclusion of emotional intelligence and empathy education in schools to promote healthy relationships and emotional well-being.
  • The Role of Psychedelics in Mental Health Treatment: Examine the potential therapeutic benefits of psychedelics, such as psilocybin, in the treatment of mental health disorders.
  • The Art and Science of Laughter: Explore the physiological and psychological benefits of laughter and its potential as a form of therapy.
  • The Future of Sustainable Fashion: Discuss innovations in sustainable fashion, including circular fashion, eco-friendly textiles, and ethical fashion practices.
  • The Impact of Silence on Mental Health: Examine the importance of silence and solitude in maintaining mental well-being in a noisy and interconnected world.
  • The Philosophy of Time Travel: Paradoxes and Possibilities: Delve into the philosophical questions and paradoxes related to time travel and its feasibility.
  • Human Augmentation and Cyborg Ethics: Explore the ethical considerations surrounding human augmentation technologies and the blurring of boundaries between humans and machines.
  • The Art of Procrastination: Creativity and Productivity: Discuss the potential benefits of procrastination in fostering creativity and innovation.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, this article has presented a diverse array of persuasive essay topics, spanning from pressing social issues to the ethical implications of AI and beyond. It highlights the importance of engaging in critical discourse, fostering empathy, and advocating for positive change in our ever-evolving world.

At the same time, if you find yourself seeking assistance with your academic endeavors, remember that we can help you with your homework, ensuring you stay on top of your studies and coursework. Whether it's tackling complex essays or asking for support like ' do my homework ,' our resources are here to aid you on your academic journey.

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Explore the endless possibilities of interesting persuasive essay topics that elevate your writing and inspire change.

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Persuasive Essay Topics

Cathy A.

Easy and Unique Persuasive Essay Topics with Tips

15 min read

Published on: Jan 4, 2023

Last updated on: Jan 29, 2024

persuasive essay topics

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You're staring at a blank screen, trying to come up with a topic for your persuasive essay. You know you need to pick something interesting, but you're unsure where to start. 

It's hard to get motivated when it feels like everything has already been said on the topic you're considering. You are wondering how can you make your essay stand out.

The good news is that CollegeEssay.org  is here to help. 

We have compiled a list of potential persuasive essay topics to get your creative juices flowing. Whether you are looking for something controversial, humorous, or informative – we have it all. 

Take a look at our list of persuasive essay topics below to get started.

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Unique Persuasive Essay Topics for Students

Writing a persuasive essay can be quite an interesting task for students. It allows them to showcase their research and analytic skills and present their thoughts orderly. 

Choosing the right topic is key to making the writing process more enjoyable. 

Here are some great ideas that you can use for your essay: 

Persuasive Essay Topics for Middle School 

  • Should students be required to wear uniforms in school? 
  • What are the benefits of a longer school day? 
  • How can technology help improve student engagement and learning? 
  • Is it important for all schools to have equal access to resources? 
  • Should physical education be mandatory in all schools? 
  • How can schools better prepare students for entering the job market?
  • Should a student’s grade be based solely on test performance?
  • Is it important to limit screen time, or should there not be restrictions? 
  • Should recess time be increased or decreased in school? 
  • Is it beneficial for students to take part in after-school activities?

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 6 

  • Should school lunch prices be lowered to make it more accessible for all students? 
  • Is there an argument for allowing cell phone usage in the classroom? 
  • Should schools offer a wider variety of electives? 
  • Is there a persuasive case for requiring physical education classes in elementary and middle schools? 
  • Should students be allowed to opt-out of standardized testing? 
  • Is the current homework load for elementary and middle school students too much? 
  • Should school provide free breakfast and lunch to all students, regardless of financial status?
  • Should sixth-grade classes have more field trips and outdoor activities? 
  • Should students have access to more technology in the classroom? 
  • Is there an argument for making recess mandatory for all grade levels? 

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 7

  • Should schools have a dress code? 
  • Should students be required to do community service projects to graduate? 
  • Is it necessary for all student-athletes to take mandatory drug tests? 
  • Are the current laws on gun control sufficient enough? 
  • Should same-sex marriage be legal? 
  • Should teenage drivers be allowed to have passengers in their cars? 
  • Is standardized testing an effective measure of student success?
  • Should homework be abolished in schools? 
  • Should young children be allowed to use mobile phones or tablets at school? 
  • Are video games too violent for young children?

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Persuasive Essay Topics for High School 

  • Should physical education classes be mandatory in high school?
  • Is a strict dress code necessary for student success?
  • Are standardized tests an effective measure of student achievement?
  • Does social media have a positive or negative impact on teenagers?
  • Should students be allowed to grade their teachers? 
  • Should cell phones be prohibited in the classroom?
  • Should schools offer fast food options like McDonald's or Taco Bell?
  • Is competitive sports necessary for a well-rounded education? 
  • Are after-school activities essential to a student’s development?
  • Should students be allowed to choose their classes?

Persuasive Essay Topics for College 

  • Should universities require all students to take at least one course in diversity studies? 
  • Should universities implement free speech zones on campuses? 
  • Should college athletes be paid for their performance? 
  • Is it ethical for employers to ask about an applicant’s criminal history during the hiring process? 
  • Should college students be required to take a foreign language course? 
  • Should the US government provide free tuition for all qualifying students? 
  • Is it ethical to use animals in scientific research? 
  • Are standardized tests an adequate measure of academic aptitude and ability? 
  • Should paper textbooks be replaced with e-books? 
  • Should all students be required to learn coding and computer science in school? 

Persuasive Essay Topics for University 

  • Should universities offer free tuition to all students?
  • Are special scholarships beneficial for university students?
  • Should college athletes be paid for their services?
  • Is it important for universities to provide mental health resources to their students? 
  • How can universities help prevent cheating and plagiarism among students?
  • Should universities be required to provide online courses?
  • Are university degree requirements outdated and irrelevant?
  • Is it necessary for university students to take physical education classes? 
  • Does the presence of social media in academia positively or negatively impact learning? 
  • Should universities prioritize research over teaching?

Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics from Different Fields 

When choosing essay topics, there is no shortage of interesting persuasive essay topics from different fields available.

Here are some examples of interesting persuasive essay topics from different fields:

Arts & Culture 

  • Should museums be more inclusive of diverse cultures?
  • Should the government fund public art programs?
  • Are comic books an important form of literature?
  • Does graffiti have any value as an art form?
  • Is the traditional concept of beauty outdated in today’s society? 
  • Is it important for the public to have access to art galleries and museums?
  • Do modern movies have any real artistic value?
  • Are video games a form of art?
  • Should government funding be given to the performing arts?
  • Does the music industry put too much emphasis on image rather than talent?
  • Should governments guarantee a minimum wage?
  • Should the government subsidize green energy projects?
  • Is it necessary to introduce higher taxes on wealthy people?
  • Are free trade agreements beneficial or detrimental to developing countries?
  • Can economic growth be sustained without harming the environment?
  • Is immigration beneficial or detrimental to a country’s economic growth?
  • Should governments limit the size of banks and financial institutions?
  • Is it necessary for countries to regulate their currency markets?
  • Should governments invest in renewable energy sources instead of fossil fuels?
  • Should high officials pay more taxes?
  • Should students be required to complete a certain number of community service hours to graduate?
  • Should school uniforms be mandatory for all public schools?
  • Are textbooks becoming obsolete due to technological advances?
  • Should the education system focus more on practical subjects such as coding and programming?
  • Is the current grading system in public schools fair and effective?
  • Is homeschooling a viable alternative to traditional schooling?
  • Should standardized testing be abolished from the education system?
  • Should teachers receive bonuses for good performance in the classroom?
  • Are students more likely to succeed if they attend a private school or university?
  • Should all students have access to free college tuition?
  • Is using animals in medical research ethical?
  • Should parents be allowed to choose their child’s gender?
  • Should companies be held responsible for the pollution they create? 
  • Are businesses obligated to act ethically when conducting business abroad? 
  • Is it ethical to censor content on the internet?
  • Should the government enforce stricter regulations on genetically modified food?
  • Is it ethical to use artificial intelligence in decision-making processes?
  • Should corporations be allowed to have their own private security forces? 
  • Are restrictions on freedom of speech necessary for public safety? 
  • Do companies have an ethical responsibility to pay fair wages?

Government and Politics 

  • Should the government regulate social media?
  • Should term limits be placed on members of Congress?
  • Are taxes too high in the United States?
  • Should voting be mandatory for all citizens?
  • Is the Electoral College still relevant today?
  • Does the death penalty serve as a deterrent to crime?
  • Should the US switch to a single-payer health care system?
  • Should there be limits on campaign spending?
  • Should the United States adopt a flat tax system?
  • Is it time to repeal the Second Amendment?
  • Is legalizing marijuana an ethical practice?
  • Should parents be allowed to choose the gender of their child? 
  • Is it ethical to test medicines on animals? 
  • What are the benefits and drawbacks of genetic engineering? 
  • Are there any health risks associated with using digital screens too often? 
  • Should physical education be mandatory in every school? 
  • Is the healthcare system in your country adequate for your needs? 
  • Are there any benefits to eating organic food? 
  • How does mental health affect physical health? 
  • Should vaccinations be mandatory for all children? 
  • Was the Spanish Inquisition justified? 
  • Were the American Colonists justified in rebelling against Great Britain? 
  • Did Christopher Columbus’ discoveries benefit or harm indigenous populations? 
  • What effect did Genghis Khan have on world history? 
  • Did World War I significantly change the course of history? 
  • Was the Treaty of Versailles fair to Germany? 
  • Did Napoleon Bonaparte’s rule bring about positive or negative changes for France and Europe? 
  • Should the United States annexed the Philippines in 1898? 
  • How did the Great Depression shape world history? 
  • Is there any validity to the theory of a “clash of civilizations”? 
  • Should artificial intelligence be regulated?
  • Should autonomous vehicles be allowed on public roads?
  • Is the internet making us less social?
  • Should research into cloning be banned?
  • Are there moral issues related to genetic engineering?
  • Should governments fund space exploration programs?
  • Are smart home devices making us more vulnerable to cyberattacks?
  • Should the government regulate social media use?
  • Are robots taking away jobs from humans?
  • Should nuclear energy be used as an alternative to fossil fuels?
  • Should professional athletes be drug tested?
  • Is there a gender gap in sports?
  • Should college athletes be paid for their performances?
  • Does skill or luck decide the outcome of sports competitions?
  • Are sporting events becoming too commercialized? 
  • Is it necessary to increase public funding for sporting events?
  • Is the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports cheating or fair?
  • Should college students be able to choose their own sports teams?
  • Do professional sports hurt young people?
  • Should parents allow children to play violent video games?
  • Should schools replace textbooks with tablets?
  • Are algorithms replacing human decision-making in the workplace?
  • Is it time to regulate the use of facial recognition technology?
  • Can artificial intelligence and robots be used to improve healthcare outcomes?
  • Should autonomous vehicles be allowed on public roads? 
  • Should Internet access be a basic human right?
  • Should social media platforms do more to protect user privacy?
  • Is blockchain technology the future of banking and finance? 
  • Are virtual assistants such as Siri and Alexa invading privacy? 
  • Can we trust that autonomous weapons system will make ethical decisions in war?

Social Media

Here are a few social media persuasive essay topics. Take a look at them.

  • Is social media a positive or negative influence on society?
  • Should employers be able to access an employee's social media accounts?
  • Should people be allowed to post anonymously online?
  • How can parents protect their children from the risks of using social media?
  • Does the spread of fake news on social media hurt society?
  • Should governments regulate online speech on social media?
  • Should employers be allowed to conduct background checks using social media?
  • Is the personal data of individuals safe from exploitation by corporate interests on social media platforms?
  • Are people spending too much time on their digital devices?
  • Is the use of social media by young people making them more isolated?

Controversial Persuasive Essay Topics 

  • Should the death penalty be reinstated in all states?
  • Should gun control laws be stricter? 
  • Is global warming a real threat? 
  • Are vaccinations safe for children? 
  • Should prostitution be legalized? 
  • Should marijuana be made legal? 
  • Does school uniform violate personal freedom? 
  • Should genetically modified foods be allowed in the market? 
  • Should sex education in school be mandatory? 
  • Should animal testing be banned?

Fun Persuasive Essay Topics 

  • Should cats be allowed to go to school?
  • Should people have a minimum number of friends before they can graduate?
  • Is it okay to laugh at your own jokes?
  • Should parents be required to take parenting classes?
  • Are video games the best way to spend free time?
  • Should kids be allowed to wear pajamas in public places?
  • Should students have to pass a test before they can drive a car?
  • Are cell phones essential for teenagers or should they be limited?
  • Should everyone learn how to cook their meals?
  • Would it be better if all schools had the same uniform?

Argumentative Persuasive Essay Topics 

  • Should the electoral college be abolished? 
  • Is it ethical to eat meat? 
  • Should the internet have censorship? 
  • Are genetically modified foods safe for human consumption? 
  • Is social media good or bad for society? 
  • Should the drinking age be lowered or raised? 
  • Should school attendance be mandatory for students? 
  • Are video games too violent and negatively influencing children?  
  • Should religious education be banned from public schools?

How to Choose a Good Persuasive Essay Topic? 

Choosing a writing topic for your persuasive essay writing is essential. 

The right topic will let you draft an exceptional and well-written essay. Selecting a persuasive essay topic might sound easy, but it can be challenging. 

You cannot randomly start writing a persuasive essay about any topic and expect your essay to be brilliant. 

To select the best topic for your essay, take these essential steps:

1. Know your Interests -   You can only draft an effective essay if you are writing about something that interests you. When you write something you are passionate about, the enthusiasm helps to persuade the readers.

2. Narrow Down Ideas - Make a rough list of the topic of your interest. Then, analyze all the issues and identify topics you think you can present well.

3. Pick your Stance - Now that you know the information is sufficient on a topic, decide your stance. Pick a side to support with evidence and logic. 

4. Controversy is the Best Policy - People love to read about controversial stuff. It is more likely that the readers will go through the entire essay to ease their curiosity. 

After passing your ideas through these filters, you will have a strong and arguable topic to draft an essay on.

Tips for Writing a Compelling Persuasive Essay 

Whether you are in school, college, or university, crafting an effective persuasive essay can be difficult.

Fortunately, with a few tips and tricks, you can create a compelling, persuasive essay that will make your readers take notice. 

Here are six tips to help you write a compelling, persuasive essay:

1. Choose Your Topic Carefully

You need to select a relevant and interesting topic for your audience. Make sure you feel passionate about it and can present it logically and convincingly.

2. Do Extensive Research

Before beginning your essay, research your topic as much as possible. So you can present both sides of the argument in an informed, balanced way.

3. Identify Your Audience

 Before writing your persuasive essay, consider who will be reading it and their interests. 

This will help you write in a language that resonates with them and ensure that your arguments suit their understanding.

4. Use Logical Arguments

It is important to provide logical and compelling arguments to be persuasive. Make sure you use facts, statistics, and other evidence to make your points more convincing.

5. Structure Your Essay Well

An effective persuasive essay should be well-organized. Divide it into an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. 

Pay attention to the structure of your essay, as it can help you make your points more effectively.

Learn how to make a perfect persuasive essay outline with the help of our blog. 

6. Make It Engaging

An engaging, persuasive essay will capture your audience’s attention from beginning to end. 

Use various techniques to make your essay interesting and engaging, such as using examples, analogies, and persuasive language.

We hope you are inspired by our comprehensive list of topics. Pick up a topic that entices you and start working on it. By following these amazing tips and tricks, you can surely compose an essay that will wow your professor.

Still not sure how to draft a perfect essay? Well, leave it to us. Our essay writing service helps you craft your argument in the most effective way possible to get the desired results.

 Don't let yourself get overwhelmed with the process! Trust our professional persuasive essay writer. 

Let CollegeEssay.org's best essay writing service guide you on your journey and take your writing to the next level. 

Take the stress out of writing persuasive essays and get the results you need with our expert essay writer AI .

Frequently Asked Questions

How can i choose a good persuasive essay topic.

When selecting a persuasive essay topic, consider an issue that is interesting to you and has two or more opposing viewpoints. Research various resources about the topic to gain a better perspective

What strategies can I use for writing a persuasive essay?

When writing a persuasive essay, establish facts from reliable sources to support your argument. Be concise but thorough, and use persuasive language to strengthen your argument.

How can I make my persuasive essay stand out?

To make your persuasive essay stand out, use vivid language and strong, specific evidence to support each point. Make sure all sources are current and relevant to the argument being made. With these elements, your persuasive essay will stand out from the rest!

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112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

What’s covered:, how to pick an awesome persuasive speech topic, 112 engaging persuasive speech topics, tips for preparing your persuasive speech.

Writing a stellar persuasive speech requires a carefully crafted argument that will resonate with your audience to sway them to your side. This feat can be challenging to accomplish, but an engaging, thought-provoking speech topic is an excellent place to start.

When it comes time to select a topic for your persuasive speech, you may feel overwhelmed by all the options to choose from—or your brain may be drawing a completely blank slate. If you’re having trouble thinking of the perfect topic, don’t worry. We’re here to help!

In this post, we’re sharing how to choose the perfect persuasive speech topic and tips to prepare for your speech. Plus, you’ll find 112 persuasive speech topics that you can take directly from us or use as creative inspiration for your own ideas!

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

It’s much easier to write, research, and deliver a speech about a cause you care about. Even if it’s challenging to find a topic that completely sparks your interest, try to choose a topic that aligns with your passions.

However, keep in mind that not everyone has the same interests as you. Try to choose a general topic to grab the attention of the majority of your audience, but one that’s specific enough to keep them engaged.

For example, suppose you’re giving a persuasive speech about book censorship. In that case, it’s probably too niche to talk about why “To Kill a Mockingbird” shouldn’t be censored (even if it’s your favorite book), and it’s too broad to talk about media censorship in general.

Steer Clear of Cliches

Have you already heard a persuasive speech topic presented dozens of times? If so, it’s probably not an excellent choice for your speech—even if it’s an issue you’re incredibly passionate about.

Although polarizing topics like abortion and climate control are important to discuss, they aren’t great persuasive speech topics. Most people have already formed an opinion on these topics, which will either cause them to tune out or have a negative impression of your speech.

Instead, choose topics that are fresh, unique, and new. If your audience has never heard your idea presented before, they will be more open to your argument and engaged in your speech.

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

For a persuasive speech to be engaging, there must be a clear side of opposition. To help determine the arguability of your topic, ask yourself: “If I presented my viewpoint on this topic to a group of peers, would someone disagree with me?” If the answer is yes, then you’ve chosen a great topic!

Now that we’ve laid the groundwork for what it takes to choose a great persuasive speech topic, here are over one hundred options for you to choose from.

  • Should high school athletes get tested for steroids?
  • Should schools be required to have physical education courses?
  • Should sports grades in school depend on things like athletic ability?
  • What sport should be added to or removed from the Olympics?
  • Should college athletes be able to make money off of their merchandise?
  • Should sports teams be able to recruit young athletes without a college degree?
  • Should we consider video gamers as professional athletes?
  • Is cheerleading considered a sport?
  • Should parents allow their kids to play contact sports?
  • Should professional female athletes be paid the same as professional male athletes?
  • Should college be free at the undergraduate level?
  • Is the traditional college experience obsolete?
  • Should you choose a major based on your interests or your potential salary?
  • Should high school students have to meet a required number of service hours before graduating?
  • Should teachers earn more or less based on how their students perform on standardized tests?
  • Are private high schools more effective than public high schools?
  • Should there be a minimum number of attendance days required to graduate?
  • Are GPAs harmful or helpful?
  • Should schools be required to teach about standardized testing?
  • Should Greek Life be banned in the United States?
  • Should schools offer science classes explicitly about mental health?
  • Should students be able to bring their cell phones to school?
  • Should all public restrooms be all-gender?
  • Should undocumented immigrants have the same employment and education opportunities as citizens?
  • Should everyone be paid a living wage regardless of their employment status?
  • Should supremacist groups be able to hold public events?
  • Should guns be allowed in public places?
  • Should the national drinking age be lowered?
  • Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
  • Should the government raise or lower the retirement age?
  • Should the government be able to control the population?
  • Is the death penalty ethical?

Environment

  • Should stores charge customers for plastic bags?
  • Should breeding animals (dogs, cats, etc.) be illegal?
  • Is it okay to have exotic animals as pets?
  • Should people be fined for not recycling?
  • Should compost bins become mandatory for restaurants?
  • Should electric vehicles have their own transportation infrastructure?
  • Would heavier fining policies reduce corporations’ emissions?
  • Should hunting be encouraged or illegal?
  • Should reusable diapers replace disposable diapers?

Science & Technology

  • Is paper media more reliable than digital news sources?
  • Should automated/self-driving cars be legalized?
  • Should schools be required to provide laptops to all students?
  • Should software companies be able to have pre-downloaded programs and applications on devices?
  • Should drones be allowed in military warfare?
  • Should scientists invest more or less money into cancer research?
  • Should cloning be illegal?
  • Should societies colonize other planets?
  • Should there be legal oversight over the development of technology?

Social Media

  • Should there be an age limit on social media?
  • Should cyberbullying have the same repercussions as in-person bullying?
  • Are online relationships as valuable as in-person relationships?
  • Does “cancel culture” have a positive or negative impact on societies?
  • Are social media platforms reliable information or news sources?
  • Should social media be censored?
  • Does social media create an unrealistic standard of beauty?
  • Is regular social media usage damaging to real-life interactions?
  • Is social media distorting democracy?
  • How many branches of government should there be?
  • Who is the best/worst president of all time?
  • How long should judges serve in the U.S. Supreme Court?
  • Should a more significant portion of the U.S. budget be contributed towards education?
  • Should the government invest in rapid transcontinental transportation infrastructure?
  • Should airport screening be more or less stringent?
  • Should the electoral college be dismantled?
  • Should the U.S. have open borders?
  • Should the government spend more or less money on space exploration?
  • Should students sing Christmas carols, say the pledge of allegiance, or perform other tangentially religious activities?
  • Should nuns and priests become genderless roles?
  • Should schools and other public buildings have prayer rooms?
  • Should animal sacrifice be legal if it occurs in a religious context?
  • Should countries be allowed to impose a national religion on their citizens?
  • Should the church be separated from the state?
  • Does freedom of religion positively or negatively affect societies?

Parenting & Family

  • Is it better to have children at a younger or older age?
  • Is it better for children to go to daycare or stay home with their parents?
  • Does birth order affect personality?
  • Should parents or the school system teach their kids about sex?
  • Are family traditions important?
  • Should parents smoke or drink around young children?
  • Should “spanking” children be illegal?
  • Should parents use swear words in front of their children?
  • Should parents allow their children to play violent video games?

Entertainment

  • Should all actors be paid the same regardless of gender or ethnicity?
  • Should all award shows be based on popular vote?
  • Who should be responsible for paying taxes on prize money, the game show staff or the contestants?
  • Should movies and television shows have ethnicity and gender quotas?
  • Should newspapers and magazines move to a completely online format?
  • Should streaming services like Netflix and Hulu be free for students?
  • Is the movie rating system still effective?
  • Should celebrities have more privacy rights?

Arts & Humanities

  • Are libraries becoming obsolete?
  • Should all schools have mandatory art or music courses in their curriculum?
  • Should offensive language be censored from classic literary works?
  • Is it ethical for museums to keep indigenous artifacts?
  • Should digital designs be considered an art form? 
  • Should abstract art be considered an art form?
  • Is music therapy effective?
  • Should tattoos be regarded as “professional dress” for work?
  • Should schools place greater emphasis on the arts programs?
  • Should euthanasia be allowed in hospitals and other clinical settings?
  • Should the government support and implement universal healthcare?
  • Would obesity rates lower if the government intervened to make healthy foods more affordable?
  • Should teenagers be given access to birth control pills without parental consent?
  • Should food allergies be considered a disease?
  • Should health insurance cover homeopathic medicine?
  • Is using painkillers healthy?
  • Should genetically modified foods be banned?
  • Should there be a tax on unhealthy foods?
  • Should tobacco products be banned from the country?
  • Should the birth control pill be free for everyone?

If you need more help brainstorming topics, especially those that are personalized to your interests, you can  use CollegeVine’s free AI tutor, Ivy . Ivy can help you come up with original persuasive speech ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

Do Your Research

A great persuasive speech is supported with plenty of well-researched facts and evidence. So before you begin the writing process, research both sides of the topic you’re presenting in-depth to gain a well-rounded perspective of the topic.

Understand Your Audience

It’s critical to understand your audience to deliver a great persuasive speech. After all, you are trying to convince them that your viewpoint is correct. Before writing your speech, consider the facts and information that your audience may already know, and think about the beliefs and concerns they may have about your topic. Then, address these concerns in your speech, and be mindful to include fresh, new information.

Have Someone Read Your Speech

Once you have finished writing your speech, have someone read it to check for areas of strength and improvement. You can use CollegeVine’s free essay review tool to get feedback on your speech from a peer!

Practice Makes Perfect

After completing your final draft, the key to success is to practice. Present your speech out loud in front of a mirror, your family, friends, and basically, anyone who will listen. Not only will the feedback of others help you to make your speech better, but you’ll become more confident in your presentation skills and may even be able to commit your speech to memory.

Hopefully, these ideas have inspired you to write a powerful, unique persuasive speech. With the perfect topic, plenty of practice, and a boost of self-confidence, we know you’ll impress your audience with a remarkable speech!

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There is a small but important difference between planning a persuasive speech and writing a persuasive essay. First, if you are planning a persuasive speech, you should think about a topic that can engage your audience. For this reason, you may want to consider a few topics before settling on the one that allows you to be more descriptive and entertaining.

Another important factor when picking a persuasive speech topic is to choose one that can provoke your audience. If you stir up a little emotion in your audience members, you'll keep their attention. The list below is provided to help you brainstorm. Choose a topic from this list or use the list to generate an idea of your own.

  • Studying martial arts is good for mind and health.
  • Competitive sports can teach us about life.
  • Reality shows are exploiting people.
  • Community service should be a graduation requirement for all high school students.
  • The characteristics that make a person a hero.
  • It's important to grow things in a garden.
  • Violent video games are dangerous.
  • Lyrics in a song can impact our lives.
  • Traveling and studying abroad are positive experiences.
  • Journal writing is therapeutic.
  • You should spend time with your grandparents.
  • A laptop is better than a tablet.
  • Religion and science can go hand in hand.
  • School uniforms are good.
  • All-female colleges and all-male colleges are bad.
  • Multiple choice tests are better than essay tests .
  • We should not spend money on space exploration.
  • Open-book tests are as effective as closed-book tests.
  • Security cameras keep us safer.
  • Parents should have access to students' grades.
  • Small classes are better than big classes.
  • You need to start saving for retirement now.
  • Credit cards are harmful to college students.
  • We should have a royal family.
  • We should protect endangered animals.
  • Texting while driving is dangerous.
  • You can write a novel.
  • Recycling should be required in the U.S.
  • State colleges are better than private colleges.
  • Private colleges are better than state colleges.
  • We should do away with penny coins.
  • Fast food containers hurt the environment.
  • Plastic straws are harmful to the environment.
  • You can eat and enjoy healthy snacks.
  • You can become a millionaire.
  • Dogs are better pets than cats.
  • You should own a bird.
  • It's unethical to keep birds in cages.
  • Liberal arts degrees prepare graduates to be better workers than other degrees.
  • Hunting animals should be banned.
  • Football is a dangerous sport.
  • School days should start later.
  • Night school is better than day school.
  • Technical training is better than a college degree.
  • Immigration laws should be more lenient.
  • Students should be able to choose their schools.
  • Everyone should learn to play a musical instrument.
  • Grass lawns should be prohibited.
  • Sharks should be protected.
  • We should do away with cars and go back to horse and carriage for transportation.
  • We should use more wind power.
  • We should pay more taxes.
  • We should do away with taxes.
  • Teachers should be tested like students.
  • We should not interfere in the affairs of other countries.
  • Every student should join a club.
  • Homeschooling is better than traditional schooling.
  • People should stay married for life.
  • Smoking in public should be illegal.
  • College students should live on campus .
  • Parents should let students fail.
  • Giving to charity is good.
  • Education makes us happier people.
  • T​he ​ death penalty should be outlawed.
  • Bigfoot is real.
  • We should increase train travel to save the environment.
  • We should read more classic books.
  • Fame is bad for young children.
  • Athletes should stay loyal to teams.
  • We should reform our prisons.
  • Juvenile offenders should not go to boot camps.
  • Abraham Lincoln was the best president.
  • Abraham Lincoln gets too much credit.
  • Students should be allowed to have cell phones in elementary, middle, and high school.
  • College student-athletes should be paid for playing.
  • Elderly citizens on fixed income should receive free public transportation.
  • Colleges and universities should be free to attend.
  • All American citizens should complete one year of community service.
  • Students should be required to take Spanish classes.
  • Every student should be required to learn at least one foreign language .
  • Marijuana should be legal for recreational use nationwide.
  • Commercial testing of products on animals should no longer be allowed.
  • High school students should be required to participate in at least one team sport.
  • The drinking age in the U.S. should be 25.
  • Replacing fossil fuels with cheaper alternative energy options should be mandated.
  • Churches need to contribute their share of taxes.
  • The Cuba embargo should be maintained by the U.S.
  • America should replace income taxes with a nationwide flat tax.
  • Once they reach the age of 18, all U.S. citizens should be automatically registered to vote .
  • Doctor-assisted suicide should be legal.
  • Spammers—people who bombard the internet with unsolicited email—should be banned from sending junk mail.
  • Every automobile driver should be required to take a new driver's test every three years.
  • Electroshock treatment is not a humane form of therapy.
  • Global warming is not real.
  • Single-parent adoption should be encouraged and promoted.
  • Gun companies should be held accountable for gun crimes.
  • Human cloning is not moral.
  • Religion does not belong in public education.
  • Juveniles should not be tried as adults.
  • American workers should be guaranteed a three-day weekend by law.
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160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024

April 3, 2024

argumentative essay topics

The skill of writing an excellent argumentative essay is a crucial one for every high school or college student to master. In sum, argumentative essays teach students how to organize their thoughts logically and present them in a convincing way. This skill is helpful not only for those pursuing degrees in law , international relations , or public policy , but for any student who wishes to develop their critical thinking faculties. In this article, we’ll cover what makes a good argument essay and offer several argumentative essay topics for high school and college students. Let’s begin!

What is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is an essay that uses research to present a reasoned argument on a particular subject . As with the persuasive essay , the purpose of an argumentative essay is to sway the reader to the writer’s position. However, a strong persuasive essay makes its point through diligent research and emotion while a strong argumentative essay should be based solely on facts, not feelings.

Moreover, each fact should be supported by clear evidence from credible sources . Furthermore, a good argumentative essay will have an easy-to-follow structure. When organizing your argumentative essay, use this format as a guide:

  • Introduction
  • Supporting body paragraphs
  • Paragraph(s) addressing common counterarguments

Argumentative Essay Format

In the introduction , the writer presents their position and thesis statement —a sentence that summarizes the paper’s main points. The body paragraphs then draw upon supporting evidence to back up this initial statement, with each paragraph focusing on its own point. The length of your paper will determine the amount of examples you need. In general, you’ll likely need at least two to three. Additionally, your examples should be as detailed as possible, citing specific research, case studies, statistics, or anecdotes.

In the counterargument paragraph , the writer acknowledges and refutes opposing viewpoints. Finally, in the conclusion , the writer restates the main argument made in the thesis statement and summarizes the points of the essay. Additionally, the conclusion may offer a final proposal to persuade the reader of the essay’s position.

How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step

  • Choose your topic. Use the list below to help you pick a topic. Ideally, a good argumentative essay topic will be meaningful to you—writing is always stronger when you are interested in the subject matter. In addition, the topic should be complex with plenty of “pro” and “con” arguments. Avoid choosing a topic that is either widely accepted as fact or too narrow. For example, “Is the earth round?” would not be a solid choice.
  • Research. Use the library, the web, and any other resources to gather information about your argumentative essay topic. Research widely but smartly. As you go, take organized notes, marking the source of every quote and where it may fit in the scheme of your larger essay. Moreover, remember to look for (and research) possible counterarguments.
  • Outline . Using the argument essay format above, create an outline for your essay. Then, brainstorm a thesis statement covering your argument’s main points, and begin to put your examples in order, focusing on logical flow. It’s often best to place your strongest example last.
  • Write . Draw on your research and outline to create a first draft. Remember, your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect. (As Voltaire says, “Perfect is the enemy of good.”) Accordingly, just focus on getting the words down on paper.
  • Does my thesis statement need to be adjusted?
  • Which examples feel strongest? Weakest?
  • Do the transitions flow smoothly?
  • Do I have a strong opening paragraph?
  • Does the conclusion reinforce my argument?

Tips for Revising an Argument Essay

Evaluating your own work can be difficult, so you might consider the following strategies:

  • Read your work aloud to yourself.
  • Record yourself reading your paper, and listen to the recording.
  • Reverse outline your paper. Firstly, next to each paragraph, write a short summary of that paragraph’s main points/idea. Then, read through your reverse outline. Does it have a logical flow? If not, where should you adjust?
  • Print out your paper and cut it into paragraphs. What happens when you rearrange the paragraphs?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School, High School, and College Students

Family argumentative essay topics.

  • Should the government provide financial incentives for families to have children to address the declining birth rate?
  • Should we require parents to provide their children with a certain level of nutrition and physical activity to prevent childhood obesity?
  • Should parents implement limits on how much time their children spend playing video games?
  • Should cell phones be banned from family/holiday gatherings?
  • Should we hold parents legally responsible for their children’s actions?
  • Should children have the right to sue their parents for neglect?
  • Should parents have the right to choose their child’s religion?
  • Are spanking and other forms of physical punishment an effective method of discipline?
  • Should courts allow children to choose where they live in cases of divorce?
  • Should parents have the right to monitor teens’ activity on social media?
  • Should parents control their child’s medical treatment, even if it goes against the child’s wishes?
  • Should parents be allowed to post pictures of their children on social media without their consent?
  • Should fathers have a legal say in whether their partners do or do not receive an abortion?
  • Can television have positive developmental benefits on children?
  • Should the driving age be raised to prevent teen car accidents?
  • Should adult children be legally required to care for their aging parents?

Education Argument Essay Topics

  • Should schools ban the use of technology like ChatGPT?
  • Are zoos unethical, or necessary for conservation and education?
  • To what degree should we hold parents responsible in the event of a school shooting?
  • Should schools offer students a set number of mental health days?
  • Should school science curriculums offer a course on combating climate change?
  • Should public libraries be allowed to ban certain books? If so, what types?
  • What role, if any, should prayer play in public schools?
  • Should schools push to abolish homework?
  • Are gifted and talented programs in schools more harmful than beneficial due to their exclusionary nature?
  • Should universities do away with Greek life?
  • Should schools remove artwork, such as murals, that some perceive as offensive?
  • Should the government grant parents the right to choose alternative education options for their children and use taxpayer funds to support these options?
  • Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling for children’s academic and social development?
  • Should we require schools to teach sex education to reduce teen pregnancy rates?
  • Should we require schools to provide sex education that includes information about both homosexual and heterosexual relationships?
  • Should colleges use affirmative action and other race-conscious policies to address diversity on campus?
  • Should public schools remove the line “under God” from the Pledge of Allegiance?
  • Should college admissions officers be allowed to look at students’ social media accounts?
  • Should schools abolish their dress codes, many of which unfairly target girls, LGBTQ students, and students of color?
  • Should schools be required to stock free period products in bathrooms?
  • Should legacy students receive preferential treatment during the college admissions process?
  • Are school “voluntourism” trips ethical?

Government Argumentative Essay Topics

  • Should the U.S. decriminalize prostitution?
  • Should the U.S. issue migration visas to all eligible applicants?
  • Should the federal government cancel all student loan debt?
  • Should we lower the minimum voting age? If so, to what?
  • Should the federal government abolish all laws penalizing drug production and use?
  • Should the U.S. use its military power to deter a Chinese invasion of Taiwan?
  • Should the U.S. supply Ukraine with further military intelligence and supplies?
  • Should the North and South of the U.S. split up into two regions?
  • Should Americans hold up nationalism as a critical value?
  • Should we permit Supreme Court justices to hold their positions indefinitely?
  • Should Supreme Court justices be democratically elected?
  • Is the Electoral College still a productive approach to electing the U.S. president?
  • Should the U.S. implement a national firearm registry?
  • Is it ethical for countries like China and Israel to mandate compulsory military service for all citizens?
  • Should the U.S. government implement a ranked-choice voting system?
  • Should institutions that benefited from slavery be required to provide reparations?
  • Based on the 1619 project, should history classes change how they teach about the founding of the U.S.?
  • Should term limits be imposed on Senators and Representatives? If so, how long?
  • Should women be allowed into special forces units?
  • Should the federal government implement stronger, universal firearm licensing laws?
  • Do public sex offender registries help prevent future sex crimes?
  • Should the government be allowed to regulate family size?
  • Should all adults legally be considered mandated reporters?
  • Should the government fund public universities to make higher education more accessible to low-income students?
  • Should the government fund universal preschool to improve children’s readiness for kindergarten?

Health/Bioethics Argumentative Essay Topics

  • Should the U.S. government offer its own healthcare plan?
  • In the case of highly infectious pandemics, should we focus on individual freedoms or public safety when implementing policies to control the spread?
  • Should we legally require parents to vaccinate their children to protect public health?
  • Is it ethical for parents to use genetic engineering to create “designer babies” with specific physical and intellectual traits?
  • Should the government fund research on embryonic stem cells for medical treatments?
  • Should the government legalize assisted suicide for terminally ill patients?
  • Should organ donation be mandatory?
  • Is cloning animals ethical?
  • Should cancer screenings start earlier? If so, what age?
  • Is surrogacy ethical?
  • Should birth control require a prescription?
  • Should minors have access to emergency contraception?
  • Should hospitals be for-profit or nonprofit institutions?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics — Continued

Social media argumentative essay topics.

  • Should the federal government increase its efforts to minimize the negative impact of social media?
  • Do social media and smartphones strengthen one’s relationships?
  • Should antitrust regulators take action to limit the size of big tech companies?
  • Should social media platforms ban political advertisements?
  • Should the federal government hold social media companies accountable for instances of hate speech discovered on their platforms?
  • Do apps such as TikTok and Instagram ultimately worsen the mental well-being of teenagers?
  • Should governments oversee how social media platforms manage their users’ data?
  • Should social media platforms like Facebook enforce a minimum age requirement for users?
  • Should social media companies be held responsible for cases of cyberbullying?
  • Should the United States ban TikTok?
  • Is social media harmful to children?
  • Should employers screen applicants’ social media accounts during the hiring process?

Religion Argument Essay Topics

  • Should religious institutions be tax-exempt?
  • Should religious symbols such as the hijab or crucifix be allowed in public spaces?
  • Should religious freedoms be protected, even when they conflict with secular laws?
  • Should the government regulate religious practices?
  • Should we allow churches to engage in political activities?
  • Religion: a force for good or evil in the world?
  • Should the government provide funding for religious schools?
  • Is it ethical for healthcare providers to deny abortions based on religious beliefs?
  • Should religious organizations be allowed to discriminate in their hiring practices?
  • Should we allow people to opt out of medical treatments based on their religious beliefs?
  • Should the U.S. government hold religious organizations accountable for cases of sexual abuse within their community?
  • Should religious beliefs be exempt from anti-discrimination laws?
  • Should religious individuals be allowed to refuse services to others based on their beliefs or lifestyles? (As in this famous case .)
  • Should the US ban religion-based federal holidays?
  • Should public schools be allowed to teach children about religious holidays?

Science Argument Essay Topics

  • Would the world be safer if we eliminated nuclear weapons?
  • Should scientists bring back extinct animals? If so, which ones?
  • Should we hold companies fiscally responsible for their carbon footprint?
  • Should we ban pesticides in favor of organic farming methods?
  • Should the federal government ban all fossil fuels, despite the potential economic impact on specific industries and communities?
  • What renewable energy source should the U.S. invest more money in?
  • Should the FDA outlaw GMOs?
  • Should we worry about artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence?
  • Should the alternative medicine industry be more stringently regulated?
  • Is colonizing Mars a viable option?
  • Is the animal testing worth the potential to save human lives?

Sports Argument Essay Topics

  • Should colleges compensate student-athletes?
  • How should sports teams and leagues address the gender pay gap?
  • Should youth sports teams do away with scorekeeping?
  • Should we ban aggressive contact sports like boxing and MMA?
  • Should professional sports associations mandate that athletes stand during the national anthem?
  • Should high schools require their student-athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
  • Should transgender athletes compete in sports according to their gender identity?
  • Should schools ban football due to the inherent danger it poses to players?
  • Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
  • Do participation trophies foster entitlement and unrealistic expectations?
  • Should sports teams be divided by gender?
  • Should professional athletes be allowed to compete in the Olympics?
  • Should women be allowed on NFL teams?

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

  • Should sites like DALL-E compensate the artists whose work it was trained on?
  • Should the federal government make human exploration of space a more significant priority?
  • Is it ethical for the government to use surveillance technology to monitor citizens?
  • Should websites require proof of age from their users? If so, what age?
  • Should we consider A.I.-generated images and text pieces of art?
  • Does the use of facial recognition technology violate individuals’ privacy?
  • Is online learning as effective as in-person learning?
  • Does computing harm the environment?
  • Should buying, sharing, and selling collected personal data be illegal?
  • Are electric cars really better for the environment?
  • Should car companies be held responsible for self-driving car accidents?
  • Should private jets be banned?
  • Do violent video games contribute to real-life violence?

Business Argument Essay Topics

  • Should the U.S. government phase out the use of paper money in favor of a fully digital currency system?
  • Should the federal government abolish its patent and copyright laws?
  • Should we replace the Federal Reserve with free-market institutions?
  • Is free-market ideology responsible for the U.S. economy’s poor performance over the past decade?
  • Will cryptocurrencies overtake natural resources like gold and silver?
  • Is capitalism the best economic system? What system would be better?
  • Should the U.S. government enact a universal basic income?
  • Should we require companies to provide paid parental leave to their employees?
  • Should the government raise the minimum wage? If so, to what?
  • Should antitrust regulators break up large companies to promote competition?
  • Is it ethical for companies to prioritize profits over social responsibility?
  • Should gig-economy workers like Uber and Lyft drivers be considered employees or independent contractors?
  • Should the federal government regulate the gig economy to ensure fair treatment of workers?
  • Should the government require companies to disclose the environmental impact of their products?
  • Should companies be allowed to fire employees based on political views or activities?
  • Should tipping practices be phased out?
  • Should employees who choose not to have children be given the same amount of paid leave as parents?
  • Should MLMs (multi-level marketing companies) be illegal?
  • Should employers be allowed to factor tattoos and personal appearance into hiring decisions?

In Conclusion – Argument Essay Topics

Using the tips above, you can effectively structure and pen a compelling argumentative essay that will wow your instructor and classmates. Remember to craft a thesis statement that offers readers a roadmap through your essay, draw on your sources wisely to back up any claims, and read through your paper several times before it’s due to catch any last-minute proofreading errors. With time, diligence, and patience, your essay will be the most outstanding assignment you’ve ever turned in…until the next one rolls around.

Looking for more fresh and engaging topics for use in the classroom? You might consider checking out the following:

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  • How to Write the AP Lang Rhetorical Analysis Essay
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  • 49 Most Interesting Biology Research Topics
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Lauren Green

With a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University and an MFA in Fiction from the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin, Lauren has been a professional writer for over a decade. She is the author of the chapbook  A Great Dark House  (Poetry Society of America, 2023) and a forthcoming novel (Viking/Penguin).

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227 Amazing College Persuasive Essay Topics [Free Ideas]

persuasive essay topic ideas for high school

Ever wondered what a persuasive essay is? Are you struggling to differentiate it from an argumentative one? Do you think it’s impossible to find original persuasive speech topics for college students?

If you have answered yes to any question, you’ve come to the right place. Our team can help you!

A persuasive essay is a piece of academic writing that convinces readers to accept the author’s position and agree with their ideas. Through clear arguments and examples, the writer demonstrates the legitimacy of their point of view.

Below, we have provided a list of the most interesting and unique college persuasive essay topics. So, don’t waste any more of your time searching for the right title. Use our ideas and create an outstanding persuasive essay!

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  • 🖐 25 More Topics

👉 How to Choose a Persuasive Essay Topic for College?

The main secret of the successful persuasive essay is a compelling topic. Therefore, when choosing the right persuasive topic, follow these few simple pieces of advice:

  • Re-read the assignment . The task that you’ve received from your tutor can be of great assistance. You just have to read it correctly. Unfortunately, college students tend to underestimate the power of the question. Don’t make this mistake. Read your assignment carefully because it can provide clues on the topic to look for.
  • Brainstorm ideas. Before writing any paper, college students have to research. It will ensure the argumentative part of the persuasive essay. To understand what to examine, have an ideation session, and consider a variety of ideas. Picking the most appropriate one, you’ll see where to start your research. Try to find as many topics as you can. Free college essays collection is a good place to check out as a part of your session. You’ll be able to see what topics are already covered, and what you can expand upon. It will make your investigation and writing processes easier!
  • Don’t pick an idea if it’s too broad . You may think that in this case, you’ll have plenty of things to argue about. Well, maybe a bit too many. In your essay, you should cover an entire topic so that it sounds convincing. When the idea is too broad, you can’t fit every argument in one paper. So, specify your title. For instance, you want to persuade your readers to stay healthy. Then don’t investigate all the aspects of maintaining health. Focus on one specific issue. For example, explore the positive influence of sport on the general health condition of a human being.
  • Ensure that you have credible sources. In some colleges, even the smallest essays may require a list of references. Thus, make sure you have materials to research and later list as your sources. Remember: Good persuasive paper topics for college have to offer a wide variety of sources to investigate. So, if you are not confident in your materials, better change the title. It will prevent you from a lack of evidence to support your arguments.
  • Choose a topic of personal interest. We’re not compelling you to write something that you enjoy when it contradicts the assignment. But try to select an idea that doesn’t bore you from reading it out loud. It is always more pleasurable to write on a topic you are passionate about. Don’t miss your chance to make turn your essay writing process into an exciting activity.
  • Select something you have an opinion about, but open to debate. Your tutors can disagree with your position. Nevertheless, it is not a reason to give up. It’s the right time to show your critical thinking skills. State your position clearly and provide convincing arguments to support it. Show your readers that you can change your position if you see some compelling data. It can give you some extra credit. The best persuasion topics for college create an environment for debates and discussions.
  • Be unique! In colleges, the amount of papers done daily is enormous. Don’t make your professors read about the importance of waste sorting, for example, yet again. The topic of environmental protection is undoubtedly extremely significant. However: It is way too overused. The professors are tired of reading essays on the same issues again and again. Surprise them and stand out.

Finding an original topic for a persuasive essay is tricky.

✨ 12 Best Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students

  • How important is mental health?
  • Is online school more effective?
  • Are GMO products good?
  • Is social media dangerous?
  • What’s wrong with the education system?
  • Does recycling work?
  • Is veganism bad for the environment?
  • Should foreign policy be feminist?
  • Is marriage an obsolete institution?
  • Can protests and demonstrations bring change?
  • Can alternative medicine actually work?
  • Is modern advertising unethical?

🔑 Essential College Persuasive Essay Topics

We bet, every college student at least once had an assignment to write a persuasive essay. Haven’t you had yet? The best is yet to come! Thus, you have to be prepared to face all the challenges of a persuasive essay composing.

Searching for interesting persuasive essay topics is a complicated issue. However, you don’t have to worry about it. Our team of experts gathered the most popular and effective ideas in one place.

Don’t stress out about the topic:

Take a look at our list of persuasive essay topics for college students. We divided our ideas into sections so that you can find the most appropriate one. So, you can easily navigate throughout our page for a more effective search.

🎓 College Persuasive Essay Ideas on Education

  • An educational system should encourage creativity .
  • Student diversity should be present in a school classroom .
  • Why should college students care about their mental and physical health?
  • Why should we stop girls’ discrimination in the modern educational system?
  • Why should computer science programs be taught in colleges and universities?
  • Why should parents take part in their children’s education?

Parents should participate in their children's studying for numerous reasons.

  • Why reading performance of students with learning disabilities should be improved?
  • Studying abroad results in better education.
  • Homework does not help in the learning process.
  • The costs of higher education should be reduced.
  • A grade does not show a student’s knowledge.
  • The Internet overuse blocks the mental development of a modern teenager.
  • Education should not depend on technologies.
  • Essay writing develops the critical thinking skills of students.
  • Foreign language learning should be mandatory in school . Conduct research on how foreign languages influence children and teenagers. What are the positive sides of such education? Then, persuade your readers that foreign languages are essential in the school core curriculum.
  • Art classes should be a priority in middle school . Elaborate on the importance of the development of the sense of art for children and teenagers. Why should art classes be higher in the list of priorities than technical or science courses? How can the right perception of art help pupils in future life?
  • The core curriculum of the high school should not be too broad. Why do we have to narrow down our focus in high school? Explain how teenagers will benefit from studying particular subjects instead of getting general knowledge. Convince your readers about the importance of focusing on a specific field in high school.
  • A gap year before entering the university is beneficial. Give persuading evidence why students should take a gap year. What are the advantages? Make your readers debate whether a gap year is worth considering. Finally, convince them that it is worth it.
  • Mobile phones should not be allowed in school. State your position regarding the usage of smartphones during the learning process. What adverse ramifications do the mobile phones have on the academic results of pupils? Persuade your readers to prohibit phone usage in school.
  • Traditional education is more effective than remote learning . How the benefits of the conventional way of learning outweigh the advantages of remote education? Compare the aspects of remote learning for different age groups: 1st grade age, 6th grade age, and a college student.

📜 College Persuasive Essay Topics on History

  • The American Revolution was a turning point in USA history.
  • The year 1763 is crucial in US history.
  • The media played a crucial role in promoting the Vietnam War .
  • We shouldn’t underestimate the significance of African-American social reform.
  • Technological advancement of the 17th century was a new era in world history.
  • Without Enlightenment and Romantic Age , the European culture wouldn’t be so progressive nowadays.

Enlightenment took over the period of the 17th and 18th centuries.

  • People should’ve stopped the propaganda of Adolf Hitler and Jim Jones before the intensive development.
  • The historical influence of Abraham Lincoln should become a role model for modern political figures.
  • Americans should have abolished slavery in the United States way earlier.
  • The four voyages by Christopher Columbus are crucial in the progress of world history.
  • Cultural exchanges in the medieval period significantly impacted the civilizations.
  • Protestant reformation was the most influential Christian movement.
  • Japanese women in the Middle Ages should have been more powerful.
  • The world war should never happen again.
  • The age of exploration . Who are the key figures? How did they impact world history formation? Convince your readers of the importance of the age of exploration.
  • The Mayan calendar system did not predict the end of the world . Investigate the Mayan calendar system. What is your explanation of the fact that the calendar system ended in the year 2012? Persuade your readers that the suggestions about the end of the world in 2012 are false.
  • Racial discrimination in America violated human rights to a great extend . Give a brief overview of racial discrimination in the USA. Persuade the readers to perceive racial discrimination as an act of human rights violation.
  • Apollo 11 – the first spaceflight that landed people on the Moon . Discuss the importance of this event. Convince your readers about the significance of the Moon exploration.
  • History studying should become the top priority for students. The knowledge of history may help to prevent mistakes from the past. So, persuade your readers to explore historical events.
  • Holocaust should not be justified and denied . What are the horrible consequences of holocaust tragedy? Analyze an opinion regarding the denial of the holocaust. Persuade the readers not to support this idea.

⚖ College Persuasive Essay Ideas on Politics

  • Civil rights of black Americans should not be limited.
  • Migration should not be restricted because it has certain benefits to modern countries .
  • In the battle of socialism vs. democracy , the second one should win.

Why is socialism becoming so popular in democratic states?

  • Nationalism in international relations should be accepted.
  • E-government should become transparent and accountable for the citizens .
  • Celebrities should stay aside from political activities.
  • The laws for each state of America should become common.
  • A voting system should be transparent.
  • Ordinary people should not be allowed to own guns.
  • The federal tax return process should become more manageable.
  • Individual rights versus the common good . Express your position regarding the issue. What do you support: individual rights or common good? Persuade the readers to follow your ideas.
  • Gay marriage should be allowed . If you don’t agree with the topic, express the opposing opinion. Elaborate on your arguments and provide counterarguments. Exclude harsh comments and offensive language from the narrative.
  • The death penalty cannot be justified . Why do you think so? Give clear arguments to support your opinion. If you believe that the death penalty is justifiable, prove your position.
  • Electronic voting in the United States should not be banned . Present the positive sides of this way of voting and convince the readers in your rightness. Don’t you agree with this opinion? Then, provide counterarguments.
  • Abortion should be legal . Provide clear arguments to express your position. Or provide counterarguments to contradict the idea of abortion legalization.

👍 College Persuasive Essay Topics on Sociology

  • Community services should be provided for mentally disabled people .
  • Equality and diversity are the main social issues .
  • Interpersonal communication skills are crucial in modern society.
  • Gender inequalities in the 21st century should be overcome .
  • Should the Canadian government legalize prostitution?
  • Max Weber’s rationality theory should be accepted by society .
  • China should take specific steps to overcome the overpopulation problem .
  • Gender stereotypes in a family should be dismantled.

Present studies aim to fill a gap in the literature on gender role attitudes and family dynamics.

  • Abusive relationships in a family should not be hidden.
  • Implementing more tough punishments on the lawbreakers should reduce the crime rates of the USA.
  • Does family promote or limit mobility? Choose one side of the issue and provide clear arguments to support your ideas.
  • Divorce has negative effects on children . Do you agree with this statement? Convince the readers to accept your point of view by stating your position clearly and powerfully.
  • Birth control should be monitored on a governmental level. Express your opinion regarding birth control in modern society. Conduct a study on the cultural, religious, and political aspects of the birth control issue.
  • Is there the right age to get married? Decide if there are any age suggestions to create a family or no? Support your choice with bright ideas and appropriate examples.
  • To resolve the conflict, we need to know the nature of the conflict . Do you agree or disagree with this idea? Provide strong arguments to make people believe in your point of view. How do you think psychology works while resolving the conflict?

💰 College Persuasive Essay Ideas on Economics

  • Competing theories are the core of economic development.
  • We have to consider John Locke’s and Karl Marx’s economic ideas nowadays.
  • Demand and supply correlation in the market matters a lot.
  • Adam Smith’s “invisible hand” concept can improve modern economics .
  • If we want to stabilize the economy, we have to implement the monetary policy .
  • Should big banks be broken up?
  • We should consider the relationship between money supply and inflation while preventing the high level of inflation.
  • We shouldn’t take the Keynesian explanation of the recession too seriously.
  • Industrialization plays a significant role in economic development.
  • Small business owners should receive financial support during the period of crisis.

As an example or evidence for this persuasive topic, talk about the COVID-19 crisis.

  • The governments should reduce monopoly power.
  • The role of understanding the goals of human resource management in the context of human capital theory . Explain the significance of effective HR management for a business flourishing. Persuade your readers to invest enough resources in human capital.
  • Exchange regimes have a significant impact on macroeconomic performance . Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Provide well-developed arguments to prove your point of view. Persuade your readers to accept your position.
  • Consumer behavior is different in every country. If you agree, develop this idea by providing strong arguments. If you don’t, state your position. Either way, support your arguments with supporting evidence. Make your readers follow your opinion.
  • The understanding of the basic concepts of economics is essential for every person . Explain how the knowledge of economics can help people to manage their money wisely. How to survive during the crisis? How to lead a business successfully, etc. Persuade your readers to study the basics of economics.

💡 Interesting College Persuasive Essay Topics

Are you already impressed with a diversity of topics our team collected for you? But don’t think that’s all we have to offer for you. Since our mission is to help you, we have more persuasive essay ideas for college to share.

Below, you can find more fascinating ideas for your assignments. For your convenience, we divided persuasive essay topics for college into several sections. Investigate our ideas and don’t hesitate to use them.

🚌 Transportation Persuasive Essay Topics

  • Planes should newer take off if weather conditions are inappropriate .
  • Never drive a car if you are under the alcohol or drug effect .
  • Hybrid cars are environmentally friendly, so they should become the future of the transportation industry .
  • Why should people study driving?
  • The usage of alternative energy resources should reshape the global transportation infrastructure .
  • The governments should invest enough money in public transport advancement .
  • Cars usage should be regulated .
  • A school bus should be checked at least once a month to ensure the safety of pupils.
  • The reserves of petroleum should be replenished to provide a proper transportation industry operation.
  • The shipping of essential goods during the state of emergency (quarantine, dangerous natural conditions, etc.) should be free.
  • We should use public transport instead of private cars to save the environment.
  • Hybrid engine vs. standard engine . Examine the positive and negative aspects of both of them. Which one would you prefer? Persuade your readers to support your opinion by giving clear arguments.
  • Information technology influences the logistics industry to a great extent . Provide appropriate examples of the IT impact on logistics. Convince your readers of the importance of your opinion.
  • The role of transportation in the development of tourism . Prove your audience that transportation progress has a direct impact on tourism opportunities.

Transportation plays a vital role in tourism.

  • We have to reduce the use of crude oil in the transportation industry . What are the possible adverse ramifications of such oil usage? Persuade your readers to limit applying this type of fuel. If you don’t agree with the idea, express the opposing opinion. Elaborate on your arguments and provide counterarguments.

🌿 Environmental Persuasive Essay Topics

  • The government should control the overpopulation to prevent consequences for the environment .
  • Human activity should be limited to preserve biodiversity .
  • We have to examine an ecologically sustainable approach .
  • Alternative energy sources are essential for saving the planet .
  • We should try our best to live a zero-waste lifestyle .
  • Saving endangered species must be a top priority issue for environmental organizations.
  • Solar energy can save the environment.
  • Hunting sports should be banned because they harm biodiversity.
  • The conservation of global resources is necessary for maintaining the lifecycle of the planet.
  • Waste sorting should be mandatory all around the world.
  • Stopping deforestation will prevent the loss of natural habitat for animals.
  • Tourism negatively affects wildlife. Comment no the negative consequences of traveling on nature. If you believe that tourism does not harm wildlife, provide counterarguments to claim your position.
  • Farming has to be wise. Explain how intensive farming damages nature. Convince your readers about the importance of following the farming rules. They can help to prevent intensive farming’s adverse ramifications.
  • The Prime Days on Amazon should be banned . Explain how the incredibly low prices on items during the Prime Days result in extremely high costs for the environment. Persuade your readers to resist the desire to buy unnecessary goods from Amazon.
  • Without rainforests, our planet will suffocate . Prove the significance of the preservation of the rainforests for the environment.

Tropical forests are responsible for around 34 percent of photosynthesis occurring on land.

⚙ Technology Persuasive Essay Ideas

  • Globalization influences computer technologies to a great extent .
  • The government should implement Internet censorship .
  • Cloud computing is an innovative era in computer science .
  • Cyberbullying should be controlled to prevent a negative influence on youth .
  • Dependency on computers is a considerable threat to human well-being .
  • Data and information security should be a top concern of every internet user .
  • Investing money in developing information technology systems is profitable for companies.
  • The internet blocks the development of human intelligence.
  • To prevent the development of serious illnesses, we should use genetic technology.
  • Technological advancement should focus on the improvement of the health sector.
  • We have to use technology wisely to make people smarter.
  • A scientific revolution started the technological advancement. Convince your readers about the importance of the scientific revolution in technological development. If you don’t agree with the topic, express the opposing opinion, providing counterarguments.
  • E-books or audiobooks will never replace paper books. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? State your position clearly and make your readers accept it.
  • Nowadays, society is too dependent on computer technologies . Comment on its negative and positive sides in the life of modern people. Persuade the readers not to overuse technology in everyday life.
  • Technology and science complement each other. Provide clear arguments to prove this idea or counterarguments to disprove it.

😃 Easy College Persuasive Topics

Do you think that persuasive essays have to cover only serious or global issues? Do you feel as if you have to be overwhelmed with the complexity of the subject? You are mistaken. A paper won’t become less successful if it explores even everyday life topics.

That’s why:

We prepared the next section of the article for you. Here you can find simple persuasive essay ideas for college students. Select a fascinating topic and compose an outstanding essay.

🎶 Persuasive Essay Ideas for College about Music

  • Music has a significant impact on culture .
  • Music preferences depend on personality type .
  • Music can influence our behavior .

Research suggests music can influence us a lot. It can impact illness, depression, spending, productivity, and our perception of the world.

  • Songs with lyrics that promote violent behavior should be banned.
  • A musician is not just a job; it is a vocation.
  • Medical workers should investigate the positive effect of music on mental illnesses’ treatment.
  • Music can be helpful in the learning process.
  • Good song lyrics can inspire people . Provide a sample of inspiring verses. How can it motivate listeners? Persuade the readers to pay attention to the song lyrics while listening to music.
  • A guitar is always a good idea for friendly gatherings . Prove to your readers that several songs played on a guitar can create a warm and cozy atmosphere.
  • Rap reflects violence. This is a generally accepted opinion. Do you agree or disagree with it? Prove your point of view by providing well-developed arguments.

🌍 Persuasive Topics for College on Traveling

  • While traveling, health and safety issues should be a top priority .
  • Tourism should be sustainable .
  • A trip to India will make you see the world from the other side.
  • Summer will become more memorable and fascinating if you travel.
  • Traveling broadens people’s minds.
  • Traveling with family or friends is an essential part of a happy life.
  • Spending a holiday on a trip is always more pleasurable than in front of a TV or computer.
  • Every person should visit Europe at least once in life. Explain why Europe is a must-see destination for every tourist.
  • People should travel as much as they want. Persuade people not to resist the desire to explore new places by listing the advantages of traveling.
  • Traveling is affordable for everyone. Persuade people to visit various countries, even with a limited budget.

Give some useful tips to persuade your reader to travel more.

✌ Persuasive Essay Ideas for College about Lifestyle

  • Parents should be responsible for their children’s obesity .
  • Proper nutrition and positive behavior prevent cancer .
  • A healthy lifestyle prevents aging .
  • Weight management programs and hypnotherapy are useful in maintaining good shape and a healthy organism .
  • An active way of life should replace a sedentary lifestyle to prevent heart diseases.
  • You should plan your weight loss process wisely.
  • Well-balanced nutrition is a way to a healthy and beautiful body.
  • Regular yoga and fitness will help you to maintain mental and physical wellness.
  • Regular physical activities and enough sleep can help students to study better.
  • Media influences the development of eating disorders . Explain the mechanisms media’s effect on eating disorders. Persuade your readers to pay enough attention to the information on social media.

📺 Persuasive Topics for College about Media

  • The role of mass media in modern society shouldn’t be underestimated .
  • Media affects the way people look at society .

Dr. Pamela Rutledge says about the media's influence on society.

  • TV shows have a negative influence on children .
  • Parents should control the effects of mass media advertising on teenagers .
  • Professional psychologists should review every cartoon before being released on television.
  • The information on the internet should be filtered to avoid the spreading of fake news.
  • Censorship is a must-have for modern television.
  • Old cartoons are more insightful than modern ones. Compare and contrast old and new animated films. Prove the usefulness of old ones. Convince the audience to make their children familiar with old cartoons.
  • Social media develops an inferiority complex among teenagers . How pictures of luxurious life in social networking sites influence adolescents’ self-esteem? Persuade the readers to filter the information seen in social media.
  • Mass media in the 1950s was more ethical than contemporary mass media. Analyze the ethical issues that are present in modern media. Why is following the ethical rules while sharing the information through the mass media vital?

🏫 Persuasive Essay Ideas for College on Teens

  • Both abstinence and sex education should be taught in high schools .
  • Professional psychologists or psychiatrists should treat anxiety disorders in children and adolescents .
  • Cheating in schools should be strictly punished.
  • Understanding teen depression is a crucial step in overcoming it.
  • The federal government should enact anti-bullying laws .
  • Bullying in school should be the main issue to deal with for the headteacher.
  • The teenage period requires constant monitoring of children’s behavior by parents and teachers.
  • Parents should have access to teenagers’ academic results.
  • The mental health of teens is precarious. Convince the readers to monitor and maintain adolescents’ mental health.
  • Parents should control social media usage by teenagers. Why should parents monitor the social networking accounts of their children? Explain why it is useful to teach teens how to behave on social media.

Persuade the parents to keep track of kids’ social networking activity.

📚 Persuasive Topics for College on Literature

  • Literature studying should be mandatory in schools.
  • Literature teaches us how to live a worthy life.
  • Robin Hood should become an example to follow.
  • You have to read some books several times throughout life to get the idea.
  • Lyric poetry may help in dealing with inner conflicts.
  • William Shakespeare is an outstanding figure of English literature that should always be appreciated.
  • Every person should have one book that will always remain their favorite one.
  • The theme of Romeo and Juliet will always remain relatable. Support this idea by providing compelling arguments and examples from the play. If you don’t agree with the statement, present clear counterarguments to prove your point of view.
  • The parents should read fairy tales to their children from early childhood. Persuade your audience to make their kids familiar with the fairy tales. Explain the importance of positive aspects of this genre of literature.
  • Dorian Gray and Oscar Wilde are connected. Describe Oscar Wilde’s background. Analyze how the author reflected his personality in the character of Dorian Gray. Convince your readers to accept your point of view. Propose examples from the book and the author’s biography.

🖐 25 More Topics to Persuade College Students

Here you can find a pleasant bonus from our team—25 more ideas to write about. You can use them not only for essays but also as persuasive speech topics for college.

So, take the benefit of our list of topics. Show an outstanding academic performance in the college.

College Persuasive Essay Topics: Family

  • A happy relationship should be based on trust and honesty.
  • In small and big families, parents should treat their children equally.
  • After giving birth, motherhood should become the primary concern of a woman’s life.
  • Parents should be the most significant support for their kids when they are sad, confused, or lost in life.
  • Children should take their retired parents to their home instead of the nursing home.

Support your position by providing strong arguments.

College Persuasive Essay Topics: Health

  • Physical activity is an effective way to prevent heart diseases.
  • People should quit smoking .
  • Mental health is not less important than physical health.
  • Well-balanced nutrition is key to a healthy body.
  • Taking care of general wellness should be everyone’s primary concern.

College Persuasive Essay Topics: Medicine

  • Strong pain killers should be sold by prescription only.
  • Drug prices should be set ethically .
  • Herbal medications are the safest.
  • Self-medication is extremely dangerous, even in the case of a simple cold or an allergy.
  • Differentiating various forms of medicines is essential . What is the working principle of a capsule, pill, syrup, etc.? Prove that the inappropriate application will not have an appropriate effect.

College Persuasive Essay Topics: Sports

  • Visiting a gym is extremely useful for our health .
  • Physical education should be mandatory in high school.
  • Extreme sports are only for professional athletes.
  • The governments should invest enough money in the development of sports schools.
  • Football is not only for boys. Women can create a successful football team, as well.

College Persuasive Essay Topics: Religion

  • Discrimination by religion or culture should not be acceptable in modern society.
  • Every person should have a right to choose a god or goddess to worship.
  • The representatives of different religions should be tolerant of each other.
  • The attitude towards wealth in Christianity differs from the perception of wealth in Islam.
  • Any other religious representatives should not criticize the central beliefs of Judaism .

Select a persuasive topic on a touchy subject with care.

Thank you for visiting our page! We hope the information was useful to you. Don’t forget to leave your comments and share the article with other students.

🔗 References

  • Persuasive Essays, Writing Resources, Hamilton College
  • Persuasive Essay Outline: HCC Learning Web, Houston Community College
  • Choosing a Topic for Your College Essay: Essay Writing Center, International Student
  • Choosing College Essay Topics: Accepted
  • 35 College Essay Prompts and Topics: Kayla Rutledge, SignUpGenius
  • How to Write a College Essay: Kelly Mae Ross, Devon Haynie, and Josh Moody for U.S. News
  • How To Answer the 2022-23 Common App Essay Prompts: College Essay Advisors
  • Writing a Political Science Essay: Charles King, Georgetown University
  • Writing a Paper about an Environmental Issue: Frederic Beaudry, ThoughtCo
  • Evidence: The Writing Center, the University of North Carolina, at Chapel Hill
  • Introducing Quotations and Paraphrases: UNSW Current Students
  • How Do I Write an Intro, Conclusion, & Body Paragraph: College of Literature, Science, and Arts, University of Michigan
  • Essay Writing Guide for Psychology Students: Saul McLeod, Simply Psychology
  • How to Write a Persuasive Essay: Writing Guides, Ultius
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Read our research on: Gun Policy | International Conflict | Election 2024

Regions & Countries

3. problems students are facing at public k-12 schools.

We asked teachers about how students are doing at their school. Overall, many teachers hold negative views about students’ academic performance and behavior.

  • 48% say the academic performance of most students at their school is fair or poor; a third say it’s good and only 17% say it’s excellent or very good.
  • 49% say students’ behavior at their school is fair or poor; 35% say it’s good and 13% rate it as excellent or very good.

Teachers in elementary, middle and high schools give similar answers when asked about students’ academic performance. But when it comes to students’ behavior, elementary and middle school teachers are more likely than high school teachers to say it’s fair or poor (51% and 54%, respectively, vs. 43%).

A horizontal stacked bar chart showing that many teachers hold negative views about students’ academic performance and behavior.

Teachers from high-poverty schools are more likely than those in medium- and low-poverty schools to say the academic performance and behavior of most students at their school are fair or poor.

The differences between high- and low-poverty schools are particularly striking. Most teachers from high-poverty schools say the academic performance (73%) and behavior (64%) of most students at their school are fair or poor. Much smaller shares of teachers from low-poverty schools say the same (27% for academic performance and 37% for behavior).

In turn, teachers from low-poverty schools are far more likely than those from high-poverty schools to say the academic performance and behavior of most students at their school are excellent or very good.

Lasting impact of the COVID-19 pandemic

A horizontal stacked bar chart showing that most teachers say the pandemic has had a lasting negative impact on students’ behavior, academic performance and emotional well-being.

Among those who have been teaching for at least a year, about eight-in-ten teachers say the lasting impact of the pandemic on students’ behavior, academic performance and emotional well-being has been very or somewhat negative. This includes about a third or more saying that the lasting impact has been very negative in each area.

Shares ranging from 11% to 15% of teachers say the pandemic has had no lasting impact on these aspects of students’ lives, or that the impact has been neither positive nor negative. Only about 5% say that the pandemic has had a positive lasting impact on these things.

A smaller majority of teachers (55%) say the pandemic has had a negative impact on the way parents interact with teachers, with 18% saying its lasting impact has been very negative.

These results are mostly consistent across teachers of different grade levels and school poverty levels.

Major problems at school

When we asked teachers about a range of problems that may affect students who attend their school, the following issues top the list:

  • Poverty (53% say this is a major problem at their school)
  • Chronic absenteeism – that is, students missing a substantial number of school days (49%)
  • Anxiety and depression (48%)

One-in-five say bullying is a major problem among students at their school. Smaller shares of teachers point to drug use (14%), school fights (12%), alcohol use (4%) and gangs (3%).

Differences by school level

A bar chart showing that high school teachers more likely to say chronic absenteeism, anxiety and depression are major problems.

Similar shares of teachers across grade levels say poverty is a major problem at their school, but other problems are more common in middle or high schools:

  • 61% of high school teachers say chronic absenteeism is a major problem at their school, compared with 43% of elementary school teachers and 46% of middle school teachers.
  • 69% of high school teachers and 57% of middle school teachers say anxiety and depression are a major problem, compared with 29% of elementary school teachers.
  • 34% of middle school teachers say bullying is a major problem, compared with 13% of elementary school teachers and 21% of high school teachers.

Not surprisingly, drug use, school fights, alcohol use and gangs are more likely to be viewed as major problems by secondary school teachers than by those teaching in elementary schools.

Differences by poverty level

A dot plot showing that majorities of teachers in medium- and high-poverty schools say chronic absenteeism is a major problem.

Teachers’ views on problems students face at their school also vary by school poverty level.

Majorities of teachers in high- and medium-poverty schools say chronic absenteeism is a major problem where they teach (66% and 58%, respectively). A much smaller share of teachers in low-poverty schools say this (34%).

Bullying, school fights and gangs are viewed as major problems by larger shares of teachers in high-poverty schools than in medium- and low-poverty schools.

When it comes to anxiety and depression, a slightly larger share of teachers in low-poverty schools (51%) than in high-poverty schools (44%) say these are a major problem among students where they teach.  

Discipline practices

A pie chart showing that a majority of teachers say discipline practices at their school are mild.

About two-thirds of teachers (66%) say that the current discipline practices at their school are very or somewhat mild – including 27% who say they’re very mild. Only 2% say the discipline practices at their school are very or somewhat harsh, while 31% say they are neither harsh nor mild.

We also asked teachers about the amount of influence different groups have when it comes to determining discipline practices at their school.

  • 67% say teachers themselves don’t have enough influence. Very few (2%) say teachers have too much influence, and 29% say their influence is about right.

A diverging bar chart showing that two-thirds of teachers say they don’t have enough influence over discipline practices at their school.

  • 31% of teachers say school administrators don’t have enough influence, 22% say they have too much, and 45% say their influence is about right.
  • On balance, teachers are more likely to say parents, their state government and the local school board have too much influence rather than not enough influence in determining discipline practices at their school. Still, substantial shares say these groups have about the right amount of influence.

Teachers from low- and medium-poverty schools (46% each) are more likely than those in high-poverty schools (36%) to say parents have too much influence over discipline practices.

In turn, teachers from high-poverty schools (34%) are more likely than those from low- and medium-poverty schools (17% and 18%, respectively) to say that parents don’t have enough influence.

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Table of contents, ‘back to school’ means anytime from late july to after labor day, depending on where in the u.s. you live, among many u.s. children, reading for fun has become less common, federal data shows, most european students learn english in school, for u.s. teens today, summer means more schooling and less leisure time than in the past, about one-in-six u.s. teachers work second jobs – and not just in the summer, most popular.

About Pew Research Center Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, media content analysis and other empirical social science research. Pew Research Center does not take policy positions. It is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts .

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