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Home / Essay Writing Tutorials / 30 Professor Recommended Discursive Essay Topics (Updated for 2022)

30 Professor Recommended Discursive Essay Topics (Updated for 2019)

Published Date: September 25, 2018

Writing on your choice of discursive essay topics gives you the rare opportunity to walk the fine line that separates a discursive essay from its close cousins—the argumentative or persuasive essay . While in certain lights, a discursive essay might resemble its relatives, the argumentative or persuasive essay, they are still very distinct. For example, an argumentative essay seeks to convince you of an argument, but a discursive essay seeks to examine the arguments on opposing sides of an issue—with marked detachment.

A discursive essay forces you to look at an issue you might be very passionate about and to approach it with the cool detachment of a surgeon. You need to actively find a way to push your personal opinions aside and examine a topic seeing the validity of two opposing perspectives. Crafting a discursive essay might be a bit more challenging, but the entire process serves to elevate your level of writing. This is because you are forced to examine and explain the validity of viewpoints you might personally disagree with. This pushes a level of higher emotional maturity into your writing and helps to expand your perspective regarding the overall complexity of the world. You might find that after writing a discursive essay, you don’t object as strongly to divergent viewpoints over controversial topics.

Table of Contents

1.1 Grade 8 Topics
1.2 Sports Topics
1.3 Music Topics
1.4 2018 / Current Events Topics
1.5 Higher English Topics
1.6 Provocative Topics
2 Conclusion

Discursive Essay Topics

Grade 8 topics.

#1 Is college still necessary to be very successful in life?

For the longest time, getting a college degree has been viewed as crucial stepping-stone in life on the path to reaching one’s full potential. However, now in the digital age, more and more entrepreneurs are getting started in high school, creating their own empires on social media and branding their own goods and services. Perhaps geniuses like Bill Gates and Steve Jobs, who both ultimately dropped out of college were showing society how unnecessary this institution is. Discuss.

#2 Should text message acronyms (lol, smh, yolo) be included in dictionaries?

It seems as though the vocabulary base of digital messaging grows bigger everyday and that young people are rapidly finding ways to communicate directly and efficiently through the use of acronyms. Do these digital acronyms represent a “dumbing down” of language or should they be embraced and entered officially into dictionaries. Explain.

#3 Is it better to meet your husband/wife later or earlier in life?

The media has definitely romanticized the idea of high school sweethearts as being an ideal relationship to grow old in. Is this really the best iteration of true love or a relationship? Discuss the pros and cons of finding love later and earlier in life.

#4 Should parents be brutally honest with their kids?

For the last few decades, common parenting wisdom has dictated that there are certain truths about the world that aren’t appropriate for children of all ages. This has created a multitude of scenarios where parents will sugarcoat facts about reality to their children, leading them to learn harsh realities later on in life. Is this common practice best for raising the most self-aware children or is brutal honesty the best way to acquaint children to the world at large?

#5 Do you think soda should be banned in public schools?

A host of negative health impacts are connected to the consumption of soda from obesity to tooth decay. Does this mean it has no place near children in public schools or is it just a harmless treat in moderation? Discuss.

Sports Topics

#6 Cheerleading : Valid sport or another way to objectify young women?

Cheerleading is viewed by many as offering a valuable skillset to young women, a healthy experience with competition and lessons in teamwork. Others view cheerleading as the subjugation of young women to the sidelines in support of male victory. Discuss.

#7 Animal sports such as bull fighting and horse racing are just as barbaric as cock fighting or dog fighting and should be banned.

As society continues to evolve, more and more citizens are becoming deeply concerned with the rights of animals and how people treat them. This has caused certain animal- centered sports to receive new scrutiny. Are such sports the remaining relics of antiquated and barbaric traditions or mere harmless fun? Discuss.

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#8 University sports departments should have a fixed budget, not to exceed a small percentage of yearly revenue.

Universities have a moral and legal obligation to focus on academics first of all. This priority is something often undermined by the fat budgets and excessive spending of athletic departments. Should all athletic departments have a fixed budget (not to exceed 5-10% of the annual budget) or is it important for universities known for sports (such as ones like Notre Dame) to be given the freedom to allocate their budgets as they see fit, empowering them to them attract big donations from alumni? Discuss.

#9 The wage gap between genders in professional sports should be immediately abolished by law.

In a perfect world, everyone would earn the same amount of money and there would be no one who was poor nor homeless. However, our society views certain jobs/roles as more valuable and as able to offer a bigger return for the tasks they complete. Is the pay gap between genders a reflection of a still antiquated and misogynist society, or simply a reflection of the bigger market for male athletes? Discuss.

#10 Athletes are the best/worst role models for children.

Athletes show the power of hard work, perseverance and facing one’s fears. On the other hand, they can also demonstrate overly-competitiveness, ruthlessness, obsessiveness and over-commercialism. Discuss how athletes are both the best and worst role models for children.

Music Topics

#11 Does violence or misogyny in song lyrics desensitize members of society to these forces or are these references innocuous? Discuss.

Many song lyrics contain some rather disturbing misogynist suggestions or racial epithets that are not the hallmark of a healthy society. Is this harmless creative expression or factors that continue to promote inequality, injustice and marginalization of women and minorities?

#12 The music industry transformed from one focused on album sales to one which focuses on song sales and streaming. Which business platform was better for the creation of great music?

The music industry was built on the fact that consumers had no choice but to buy entire albums. Now consumers have more choices and can purchase songs or stream them, allowing them to save money and just purchase what they really, truly want to own. Have these changes in the market created better or worse music?

#13 Most musicians just have a few hits in them that they are capable of making. The bulk of their work is mediocre.

One could argue that only a small handful of artists are able to produce music that is critically acclaimed and a popular success, year after year. Others argue there are lots of musicians all over the world capable of creating hit music, they just aren’t able to receive the same level of exposure as those at the top. Discuss.

#14 Music can be powerfully transformative in improving one’s mood or is it merely a distraction from one’s problems and the monotony of life?

Science has long studied the mood enhancing impacts of music. Are these effects really as concrete and beneficial as one would like to think or are they a simple distraction for the brain, akin to television? Explore.

#15 Do you think the best music was founded in social oppression? Discuss.

Many believe that art is at its greatest incarnation when it addresses some form of injustice. Many believe some of the greatest music every written does exactly that. Is this the case or does great music simply center on human experience, both good and bad? Explain.

2018 / Current Events Topics

#16 Trump is a manifestation of the end of corruption in politics or the fullest realization of corruption politics. Discuss.

Trump might be one of the most polarizing presidents this country has ever known. His platform was to “drain the swamp” meaning rid Washington D.C. of the corrupt politicians so many Americans have tired of. Is this what he has achieved or is he a representation of the furthest extent of corruption? Explain.

#17 Separating children from their parents at the border (if their parents have tried to cross illegally) is inhumane or standard policy for crime and punishment. Discuss.

The Trump administration’s policy of separating children from their parents was an issue that caused the most bitter debates all over the nation. Some viewed it as the obvious consequence of a crime committed. Others viewed it as inhuman and a manifestation of a policy that bordered on scathing totalitarianism. Explore.

#18 Social media in contributing to a more narcissistic society.

For all the benefits that social media provides us with (making friends, finding support, discovering new places, sharing moments from life) it does cause the individual to forge a hyper-awareness of themselves, their image and appearance. Some might argue this leads to narcissism, insecurity and a tendency to compare oneself to others. Still others might object, asserting it just creates a healthy level of self-awareness. Explore and discuss.

#19 Transgender people should compete in sports of their original gender not their transferred or selected gender.

Experts in development have long argued that when someone transfers from one gender to another, they should attempt to fully embrace the new gender in all scenarios. A male transitioning to female should use female bathrooms, pick a female name and compete in female sports, if desired. Others argue that such a heavy-handed policy creates massive unfairness on the playing field and in other forms of athletic competition. Explore the best options for transgender students.

#20 Internet pornography is a healthy outlet for exploring eroticism or a devastating perversity leading to addiction and violence against women.

The porn of the digital age is unlike anything the human body or mind has ever been exposed to. The enormous variety and extremity of the porn available is so immense that it has the power to create addictions overnight or to help people find a healthy, safe outlet to explore their erotic inclinations. Discuss.

Higher English Topics

#21 Studying Shakespeare is obsolete in today’s world. Discuss.

While modern day scholars have lauded the plays of Shakespeare, the style of writing is so inaccessible that one might argue many of his plays are just over-hyped tedious tales. Others would strongly object, asserting these plays tell timeless tales of the more eternal aspects of human existence, such as justice, revenge, hope, love, and victory. Explain.

#22 Advanced English classes should include slang, including slang from song lyrics. Discuss.

Some may argue that slang is temporal, and while it is hip and beloved by the young, not necessary for mastery of the English language. Others would disagree, saying that mastery of current slang is precisely what makes or breaks someone’s advanced English skills.

#23 British English is the purest and most elegant manifestation of the English language.

Learning the “Queen’s English” gives one’s language skills an undeniable touch of class. Others might disagree, calling such a notion antiquated and out of touch with modern times. Discuss.

#24 Speaking and listening are the most important aspects of learning any foreign language: writing is the least important.

Speaking and listening skills are precisely what empowers one to go out into the world with one’s foreign language skills—to any degree of success. Writing is the least important, particularly with the advent of voice dictation on smart phones. Many linguists disagree, asserting that writing is the exact skill which helps connect speaking and listening. Explore.

#25 English is one of the hardest/easiest languages to learn. Discuss.

Some English language learners argue that even though English is founded in Latin, its host of borrowed words means its has irregular verb tenses and odd spelling rules. However, compared to so many other languages English is easy: there are no cases, no genders and the subject verb agreement is often to pick up. Explore this issue.

Provocative Topics

#26 Should medicating kids for ADHD be outlawed?

For children with ADHD, their lives can feel like chaos. Medication is a quick fix but is it the best one? Some experts argue treatments like meditation, supplements, time in nature and limitation of the television should be used first instead. Explore.

#27 Do all religions create an us vs. them mentality?

Religion offers many people a sense of something greater and a respite from the demands of the physical world, along with a sense of safety and security. Others might argue it is another manmade faction in the world that promotes divisiveness. Explore.

#28 The gaming world promotes problematic gender and racial stereotypes. Discuss.

The game world, while exciting and enticing for so many, has helped to promote deeply troubling representations of women and ethnic minorities. Is this issue harmless entertainment or does it make a permanent contribution to a damaging problem in society?

#29 Graffiti can be creative expression and/but it is often/never art. Discuss.

Some art scholars celebrate graffiti as a form of art in the streets. Others condemn it as mere creative expression, but not any expression that can actually be considered high art. Explore.

#30 Public schools have a responsibility to teach social-emotional skills like empathy.

This modern era puts pressure on young people in ways that are more intense than any other generation has experienced before. Teaching emotional-social skills gives students immediate benefits, as does society. Others disagree, arguing these things should be left up to the parents. Explore.

Selecting the best out of an array of discursive essay topics will be the first step in creating the most excellent essay that you are capable of writing. When you pick a topic that you are genuinely interested in, it makes the process of conducting research far more engaging. You’ll notice that a lot of these essay topics can be used in an argumentative or persuasive essay, as well. These topics are all controversial and often spark heated debate. However, what makes them fitting for a discursive essay is your treatment of them within the body of your essay text. Regardless of how intensely you feel one way or the other, you still need to force yourself to have the enlightened detachment of a critical scholar. This will allow you to dig deep and explore nuances of each topic that you hadn’t been aware of before.

Finally, if you find yourself hitting a mental brick wall, our writers are always available to offer suggestions, guidance or sample essays for you to use as inspiration. We understand the pressures students are up against and we’ve been assisting for decades.

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Discursive Essay Topics for Students

Home / Blog / 50 Unique Discursive Essay Topics For Students

Introduction

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

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

Choosing the topic for your discursive essay

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

Brainstorm :

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

Preferences of the instructor :

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

Things that you are interested in:

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

Availability of research material :

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

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

Impressive topic ideas for a discursive essay

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

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

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155 Exceptional Discursive Essay Topics To Try

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

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

How to Select a Good Discursive Essay Topic

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

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

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

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

Good Discursive Essay Topics for Higher English

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

Discursive Writing Topics in Sports

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

Controversial Discursive Essay Topics for You

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

Should we abolish all tobacco products?

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

Interesting Topics for Discursive Essays

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

Unique Discursive Essay Topics

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

Good Discursive Essay Topics in History

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

List of Discursive Essay Topics in Sociology

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

Ideas for Discursive Essays in Nursing

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

Use Essay Writing Help to Craft A-Rated Discursive Essays

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

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Discursive Essay Topics & Ideas 2022

Published by Alvin Nicolas at November 16th, 2022 , Revised On November 3, 2023

A discursive essay is a form of an academic essay in which you express your beliefs or points of view in favour of or against the issue. Even at times, this essay would allow you to impartially offer your points of view on all sides of a debate.

A discursive essay’s ultimate goal is to give readers many perspectives on a specific essay help topic or issue. As a result, when writing a discursive essay, you must think deeply from numerous viewpoints and evaluate all parts of the issue. Additionally, it is also important to come up with unique and appealing discursive essay topics .

A discursive essay, in a nutshell, explores arguments in a balanced manner, taking into account all of the elements for and against the issue.

Important links: Research Essay Topics , Cause and Effect Essay Topics , Argumentative Business Essay Topics , Expository Essay Topics , 84 Nursing Essay Topics

Topic Selection!

The first step in the discursive essay writing process you cannot omit is topic selection. In general, if your instructor gives a list of discursive essay topics from which to pick, you won’t have trouble coming up with a topic. However, the true test begins when you are given the option of selecting a topic of your choice.

There are countless themes accessible for writing a discursive essay on diverse issues. You can seek and identify any suitable topic from among them based on your interests. So, to assist you in identifying the best essay subject, we have included some crucial pointers to consider during the discursive essay topic choosing process:

Choose a topic on which you have strong feelings or knowledge.
Choose a topic that is both intriguing to you and your audience.
Pick a contentious issue on which you may provide opposing ideas or opinions.
Select a difficult issue with two sides to extract more arguments for and against it.
Choose a topic with many credible facts or proof to support your claims.

Only finalize the essay topic if it complies with your instructor’s essay writing criteria if any exist.

Discursive Essay Topics

Social networking sites are to blame for the creeping loss of the reading habit among schoolchildren. Explain.
Should parents reward their children for good behaviour?
Describe the finest type of parenting in your nation.
Should tobacco manufacture be made illegal globally?
Is our greater reliance on technology making us stupider?
Is rock music associated with Satanism?
A child raised by a single parent matures quicker than a youngster raised by both parents.
Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of using mobile phones.
Is blockchain improving trade finance in 2018?
Can virtual reality end up being hazardous to children?
Explain some of our concerns regarding first impressions and their influence on encounters.
Explain why energy drinks are as dangerous as alcoholic beverages.
Explain ways to prevent online students from cheating.
Discuss why children should not have easy access to virtual reality.
Discuss if peacekeeping operations bring peace to countries or if they are simply a pretext for countries to attack one another and cause more violence than before.
Explain the remedies that should be made available to hyperactive children.
Using an entertainment industry case study, discuss how bad PR may help someone become more successful.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of globalization?
Should steroid users be barred from participating in sports?
Are political leaders engaging in illicit activities?
Examine the relationship between diet, fitness, and weight.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of video gaming among teenagers?
Should schools refrain from using physical torture to punish students?
Why are legislators now emphasizing STEM education?
Should the government outlaw same-gender marriage?
Should there be limitations on free speech?
What are the workplace issues that women face?
Will robots improve our efficiency in the future?
Should the death penalty be prohibited in all countries?
Should judicial hearings in the United Kingdom be televised?
Is it true that plastic water bottles harm the environment?
Are athletes good role models for kids?
Is a presence on social media required for a small business to succeed?
Should Muslims in Muslim nations cultivate religious tolerance?
Should public schools be responsible for teaching pupils social and emotional skills?
Is the Internet of Things no longer a technology that compromises privacy and security?
Is Shakespeare still relevant in today’s world?
Is workplace diversity beneficial to productivity?
Are modern people all across the world overly reliant on technology?
Should your country’s average driving age be decreased or increased?
Should mobile phones be permitted in the classroom?
What should the penalty be for trolling or cyberbullying on the internet?
Which is superior, traditional or alternative medicine?
Is texting and messaging applications such as WhatsApp destroying the English language?
Should workplace afternoon naps be permitted?
When should a youngster begin doing domestic chores?
Should cheering be considered a sport and competed in the Olympics?
Discuss the good and bad implications of blockchain technology on energy.
Why should we make it illegal to destroy rainforests?
Do energy drinks endanger the health of teenagers?
Should text messaging abbreviations be included in dictionaries?
Is the game industry responsible for negative gender and racial stereotypes?
Do all people require eight hours of sleep every night?
Is cheerleading a method of objectifying young women?
Do video games teach us anything?
Is it feasible to build a matriarchal society?
Should religion be taught in schools as part of the curriculum?
Should beauty pageants be outlawed?
Do politicians rely on the media to stay in power?
Is social media more important than conventional media these days?

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How to write a discursive essay?

A discursive essay requires presenting multiple viewpoints on a topic, providing evidence, and forming a balanced argument. Start with an introduction, present arguments with supporting evidence in body paragraphs, and conclude by summarizing the main points.

187 Impressive Higher English Persuasive Essay Topics [2024]

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

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

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

❓ What Is Higher English?

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

📃 References

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

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

It can be taught both:

as an independent subject
alongside other higher science programs

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

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

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

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

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

We will not let you worry about that.

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

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

💭 How to Choose a Persuasive Topic for Higher Folio?

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

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

Now, let’s narrow down the focus:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

⭐ Top 12 Higher Persuasive Essay Topics

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

☝️ Amazing Higher English Persuasive Essay Topics

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

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

📎 Higher English Topics for High School

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

You are lucky:

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

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

Foreign language programs improve students’ academic performance.

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

The influence of video games on children is inconclusive.

✒️ Higher English Topics for College

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

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

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

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

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

💪 Persuasive Essay Topics: Advanced Higher English

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

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

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

👍 Good Persuasive Essay Topics for Higher English

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

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

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

💬 Persuasive Essay Topics on Language

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

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

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

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

Try to predict the future of the Scottish language.

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

🙊 Persuasive Essay Topics on Controversial Issues

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

Energy drinks can promote adverse effects on children and teenagers.

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

🏫 Persuasive Essay Topics on Education

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

Resultsof the studies on single-sex education are inconclusive.

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

🗳️ Persuasive Essay Topics on Politics

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

💭 Persuasive Essay Topics on Philosophy

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

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

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

🗿 Persuasive Essay Topics on History

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

The Wars of the Three Kingdoms lasted 12 years.

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

Thank you for visiting our page! We hope our article was insightful and full of useful ideas. Don’t forget to share it with the other students!

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

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Discursive Essay Topic Ideas For College Students: Top 20 Examples

When it comes to choosing a topic for a discursive essay, college students often find themselves facing a difficult task. There are so many ideas to consider, and it’s important to find a subject that not only allows for a strong argument but also engages your audience. In this article, we will explore 20 top examples of discursive essay topics that can help students navigate their way through the decision-making process.

One of the most discussed topics in society today is the impact of video games on the mental health of teenagers. While some argue that gaming can lead to addiction and other negative effects, others point out the potential benefits, such as improved cognitive skills and problem-solving abilities. This topic presents an opportunity to evaluate both sides of the argument and engage in a thoughtful discussion about the role of video games in our lives.

Another topic that is sure to spark some interesting debates is the question of whether the government should ban single-use plastic bottles. With the increasing focus on environmental issues, the impact of plastic waste on our planet has become a pressing concern. By discussing the pros and cons of banning plastic bottles, students can delve into the complexities of this problem and propose practical solutions to mitigate its effects.

For those interested in exploring the role of social media in our lives, a discursive essay on the topic of its influence on society may be a good fit. This subject allows students to critically analyze the impact of platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter on our relationships, self-esteem, and overall well-being. By examining the positive and negative effects of social media, students can gain a deeper understanding of its complexities and make informed decisions about their own media usage.

Academic performance is another area that offers a range of discursive essay topic ideas. From the efficacy of standardized testing to the benefits of grading systems, there are many issues to explore and discuss. These topics give students the opportunity to think critically about their educational experiences and propose changes or improvements that would enhance the learning environment for everyone.

Importance of Discursive Essay Topics for College Students

For students, writing a discursive essay is a challenging task that requires critical thinking, research skills, and the ability to present both sides of an argument. Having a well-selected topic makes this process easier and more enjoyable.

Discursive essays are beneficial for college students as they encourage them to explore different points of view on various topics and develop their persuasive writing skills. These essays help students think critically and analyze complex issues from multiple angles.

Moreover, having a list of discursive essay topics can help students in brainstorming ideas and narrowing down their choices. It ensures that students have a wide range of options to choose from and find a subject that truly interests them.

In today’s online-driven society, discursive essay topics are also important as they reflect current issues and trends. They allow students to explore and discuss different aspects of social media, environmental concerns, government policies, and more.

Furthermore, a well-written discursive essay can be a powerful tool for college students to express their thoughts and engage in intellectual discussions. It helps students learn how to present their arguments effectively, develop logical reasoning, and enhance their communication skills.

Discursive essays also have a lighter side; they can be fun and enjoyable to write. Choosing an interesting and engaging topic will make the writing process more enjoyable for students and motivate them to produce a high-quality essay.

Why choosing a good discursive essay topic is crucial for college students

1. engaging the reader.

Choosing a topic that is relevant and interesting helps to engage the reader from the very beginning. An intriguing topic can grab the attention of the reader and make them want to continue reading to find out more.

2. Showcasing your knowledge

By selecting a topic that you are passionate about or knowledgeable in, you can demonstrate your expertise. This allows you to showcase your understanding of the subject matter and present a well-researched argument.

3. Encouraging critical thinking

A good discursive essay topic should stimulate critical thinking and promote analytical skills. It should encourage the reader to evaluate different perspectives and form their own opinion. This is an essential skill for college students to develop.

4. Reflecting societal issues

The choice of topic can reflect important societal issues and current events. College students have the opportunity to discuss topics such as government policies, environmental concerns, social media impact, and more. This allows them to engage with real-world problems and contribute to the ongoing discourse.

5. Making a difference

Choosing a discursive essay topic that addresses a significant problem or raises awareness about an important cause can make a real difference. By discussing topics like mental health, social justice, or environmental sustainability, students can contribute to creating a positive impact on society.

6. Personal growth

Writing a discursive essay on a challenging topic can help students grow intellectually and emotionally. It encourages them to explore different perspectives, develop empathy, and understand diverse opinions.

2. The role of online gaming in shaping the behavior of young individuals

Examine the positive and negative effects of online gaming on the mental and physical health of young individuals.

3. The importance of teaching financial literacy in schools

Explore why it is crucial to incorporate financial literacy into the school curriculum and how it can positively impact students’ future.

4. The impact of marketing on children’s behavior and choices

Analyze the ways in which marketing techniques influence children’s preferences and whether it is ethical.

5. The benefits and drawbacks of online education

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of online education compared to traditional classroom learning.

6. The government’s role in promoting a healthier environment

Evaluate the extent to which the government should be responsible for creating a healthy and sustainable environment.

7. The portrayal of women in media

Examine how the media portrays women and discuss whether it promotes gender equality or reinforces stereotypes.

8. The impact of music on mental health and well-being

Explore the influence of music on mental health and its potential as a therapeutic tool.

9. The benefits and drawbacks of video games as a form of entertainment

Dive into the positive and negative aspects of video games and their effects on individuals’ behavior and well-being.

10. The importance of arts education in schools

Discuss whether arts education should be prioritized in schools and how it can contribute to students’ overall development.

11. The role of the government in addressing climate change

Examine the government’s responsibility in combating climate change and discuss potential strategies to mitigate its effects.

12. The impact of social media on mental health

Analyze the connection between social media usage and mental health issues, such as anxiety and depression.

13. The pros and cons of standardized testing in schools

Explore the advantages and disadvantages of standardized testing and its impact on students’ learning and motivation.

14. The societal expectations on body image

Discuss the influence of societal expectations on body image and the potential consequences on individuals’ self-esteem and mental health.

15. The role of technology in fostering creativity in the classroom

Evaluate how technology can enhance and hinder creativity in educational settings.

16. The ethics of animal testing

Examine the ethical considerations surrounding animal testing and discuss alternative methods for scientific research.

17. The impact of fast fashion on the environment

Analyze the environmental effects of the fast fashion industry and discuss sustainable fashion alternatives.

18. The benefits and drawbacks of genetically modified organisms (GMOs)

Discuss the potential advantages and disadvantages of GMOs in terms of food production and environmental impact.

19. The influence of technology on interpersonal relationships

Examine how technology, such as social media and smartphones, affects the quality of interpersonal relationships.

20. The role of government in addressing the mental health crisis

Discuss the government’s role in providing mental health support and the necessary resources for individuals facing mental health challenges.

A list of interesting and thought-provoking discursive essay topics

These topics cover a wide range of subjects, allowing you to choose the one that aligns best with your interests and expertise. Remember to carefully evaluate each topic and consider both sides of the argument before making your selection. It is also helpful to create an outline and gather supporting points to ensure a well-structured and compelling essay. Good luck with your discursive writing!

How to Choose the Best Discursive Essay Topic for Your College Assignment

Consider your interests and passions.

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a discursive essay topic is your own interests and passions. Think about what issues or ideas you are most passionate about and choose a topic that aligns with those interests. When you are passionate about a topic, it will come through in your writing and make for a more engaging read.

Research the Topic

Before committing to a topic, do some research to ensure that there is enough information available to support your argument. Look for academic articles, online resources, and books that discuss the topic you are considering. This will help you determine if the topic has enough depth and substance to make for a well-rounded essay.

Choose a Topic with Multiple Perspectives

A good discursive essay topic should allow for multiple perspectives and a balanced discussion. Avoid choosing a topic that has a clear-cut answer or only one side to the argument. Instead, opt for topics that are more complex and have a range of opinions and viewpoints. This will make your essay more interesting and challenging to write.

Consider Relevance and Timeliness

When choosing a discursive essay topic, it’s important to consider the relevance and timeliness of the issue. Choose a topic that is current and addresses important issues in society. This will show that you are engaged with the world around you and can make your essay more impactful.

Seek Inspiration from Examples

If you’re struggling to come up with ideas, look for examples of discursive essays online. Read through different essay topics and outlines to get a sense of what has been written about before and what arguments have been made. This can help spark ideas and guide you in the right direction when choosing your own topic.

Guidelines for selecting a suitable discursive essay topic

1. consider the problem or issue.

First and foremost, identify a problem or issue that you feel strongly about. It could be anything from environmental issues to social, health, or academic concerns. Make sure the topic is specific enough to allow for a focused discussion.

2. Brainstorm ideas

Next, brainstorm potential ideas related to the problem or issue you have identified. Write down as many ideas as possible, without evaluating them at this stage. This will help you narrow down your options later.

3. Evaluate the topic

Once you have a list of ideas, evaluate each topic based on its relevance, significance, and feasibility. Consider whether there is enough information available to write a well-researched essay on the topic. Also, think about whether the topic will appeal to your target audience.

4. Consider different perspectives

A discursive essay requires you to discuss different perspectives on the topic. Therefore, choose a topic that has multiple sides or viewpoints. This will not only make your essay more interesting but also demonstrate your ability to analyze and evaluate different arguments.

5. Look for examples

It is always helpful to support your arguments with real-life examples. While choosing a topic, think about whether there are enough examples available to support your points. Examples can be drawn from various fields such as politics, education, media, or even personal experiences.

6. Keep your target audience in mind

Consider the interests, preferences, and concerns of your target audience when selecting a topic. For example, if you are writing for college students, choose a topic that is relevant and relatable to their lives. This will help you engage your readers and make your essay more impactful.

7. Stay updated with current issues

Current issues and topics that are being discussed in society, the media, or academia can make great discursive essay topics. Staying updated with current events and trends will not only help you choose a relevant and timely topic but also show your awareness of the world around you.

8. Narrow down your options

Once you have evaluated your ideas, narrow down your options to a few strong and manageable topics. Consider factors such as the availability of information, your interest in the topic, and the potential for engaging discussions.

9. Choose a topic that allows for both sides of the argument

A discursive essay requires you to discuss both sides of the argument. Therefore, choose a topic that allows you to present contrasting viewpoints. This will enable you to build a well-rounded and balanced argument in your essay.

10. Make sure the topic is manageable

Lastly, choose a topic that is manageable within the scope and word limit of your essay. Avoid highly complex or technical subjects that may require excessive explanation. Instead, opt for a topic that can be effectively discussed and analyzed within the given constraints.

By following these guidelines, you can select a suitable discursive essay topic that is both interesting to you and provides enough material for a well-structured and persuasive essay.

Tips for Writing a Compelling Discursive Essay

1. choose a thought-provoking topic.

The first step in writing a discursive essay is to select a topic that is interesting and relevant. Choose a subject that you feel passionate about and one that has enough points to discuss. Consider current issues in society, government policies, or controversial topics that evoke strong opinions. Some examples of discursive essay topics could be: the impact of social media on teenagers, the legalization of marijuana, or the influence of marketing on children.

2. Develop a Strong Thesis Statement

A clear and concise thesis statement is essential for a discursive essay. This statement should outline your main argument or position on the topic. It should be debatable and prompt discussion. Your thesis statement will serve as a guide throughout the essay, helping you stay focused and on track with your arguments.

3. Create an Outline

4. research and gather evidence.

Before you start writing, it’s important to gather reliable and relevant information to support your arguments. Look for reputable sources such as academic journals, books, or online articles. Cite these sources properly to strengthen your essay and show that your arguments are backed by evidence.

5. Consider Both Sides of the Argument

A discursive essay requires you to evaluate different perspectives on the topic. While you may have a strong position, it’s important to acknowledge opposing viewpoints. This shows that you have considered various opinions and strengthens your overall argument. Address counterarguments in your essay and provide reasoned rebuttals.

6. Craft Well-Structured Paragraphs

Each body paragraph should focus on a single point or argument. Start with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph. Support your argument with evidence and examples, and ensure that your points are clear and logically connected. Use transition words to make your essay flow smoothly and guide the reader through your ideas.

7. Check for Coherence and Consistency

Read through your essay to ensure that your ideas are well-developed and coherent. Make sure that your arguments build upon each other and that there are no logical gaps in your reasoning. Check for consistency in your writing style, tone, and use of language. A well-structured and consistent essay is more persuasive and easier to read.

8. Edit and Revise

Once you’ve written your essay, take the time to edit and revise. Check for spelling and grammar errors, and ensure that your sentences are clear and concise. Trim down any unnecessary information and tighten your arguments. Ask someone else, such as a classmate or teacher, to read your essay and provide feedback. Fresh eyes can catch mistakes or suggest improvements.

By following these tips, you can write a winning discursive essay that engages readers and showcases your strong arguments. Remember to choose a captivating topic, research thoroughly, consider different perspectives, and present your arguments in a well-structured and coherent manner. Good luck with your writing!

Why is choosing a discursive essay topic important?

Choosing a discursive essay topic is important because it sets the foundation for your entire essay. It determines the scope of your argument and the direction in which you will take your essay. A well-chosen topic will help you present a strong and well-supported argument, while a poorly chosen topic can make it difficult to find relevant evidence and make a coherent argument.

What are some popular discursive essay topic ideas?

There are many popular discursive essay topic ideas to choose from. Some examples include: “Should the voting age be lowered to 16?”, “Should college education be free?”, “Should the death penalty be abolished?”, “Should marijuana be legalized?”, and “Should animal testing be banned?”. These topics are popular because they are controversial and can generate a lot of discussion and debate.

What should I consider when choosing a discursive essay topic?

When choosing a discursive essay topic, there are several factors to consider. First, consider your own interests and knowledge. Choose a topic that you are passionate about and have enough knowledge to support your argument. Second, consider the relevance and current importance of the topic. Choose a topic that is timely and can generate interest among your readers. Finally, consider the availability of resources and evidence. Choose a topic for which you can find enough relevant and reliable sources to support your argument.

Can I choose a discursive essay topic that is not controversial?

Yes, you can choose a discursive essay topic that is not controversial. While controversial topics can generate more discussion and debate, not all essays need to be controversial. You can choose a topic that is informative or educational, such as “The benefits of exercise” or “The impact of social media on society”. The key is to present a well-supported argument, even if the topic itself is not controversial.

What should I do if I’m struggling to choose a discursive essay topic?

If you’re struggling to choose a discursive essay topic, there are a few things you can do. First, brainstorm a list of potential topics and narrow them down based on your interests and knowledge. Second, do some preliminary research on your shortlisted topics to see if there is enough information available to support your argument. Finally, seek advice from your instructor or classmates. They may be able to provide guidance or suggest additional topics for you to consider.

By Alex Koliada, PhD

Alex Koliada, PhD, is a well-known doctor. He is famous for studying aging, genetics, and other medical conditions. He works at the Institute of Food Biotechnology and Genomics. His scientific research has been published in the most reputable international magazines. Alex holds a BA in English and Comparative Literature from the University of Southern California , and a TEFL certification from The Boston Language Institute.

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50 Powerful Discursive Essay Topics With Unique Writing Tips

December 29, 2021

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Guide on 50 Powerful Discursive Essay Topics with Unique Writing Tips!

Discursive writing necessitates more than adherence to rational thought; it also necessitates automaticity of representation that conveys the fine points of the writer's deductive reasoning. While fluency is realised by combining many geometric forms, from spelling and punctuation to organisation, the degree to which theories and concepts are smooth as possible woven together is also important. If he is unable to replicate the subtlety of his thought in his writing, even the most sagacious scholar will fall short in arguing a thesis. What rules of thumb might be helpful in achieving such competency?

We've organised a list of 50 Powerful Discursive Essay Topics with Unique Writing Tips to assist you in getting started.

50+ Excellent Discursive Essay Topics to Consider

And it is now time for the icing on the cake! Here's a collection of the best discursive writing topics , in furthermore to each of the above-mentioned technical aspects explored. Require some practice to read, and you'll be able to confidently hit the target this course.

wearing a uniform restrict students' freedom of expression. Should school uniforms be prohibited?
Talk about the advantages and disadvantages of video games among high school kids.
Should colleges and universities outlaw the use of physical torture as a form of punishment for students?
Should steroid users be prohibited from participating in team sports in the United Kingdom?
What are some of the benefits and drawbacks of globalisation?
Should court proceedings in the United Kingdom be broadcast on television?
How can students contribute to the social movement for environmental protection?
Should same-sex marriages be prohibited by the government?
Are political authorities in the United Kingdom involved in illegal activities?
Talk about the drawbacks of detox diets.
Should tobacco production and sale be prohibited in the United Kingdom?
Is society becoming excessively regulated?
What are Block-negative c's and positive effects?
Is crypto-currency, in today's world, a breeding ground for mistrust?
Is Facebook really necessary for us to communicate with one another?
Is machine programming jeopardising our freedom of choice?
Has the use of blockchain in trade finance improved in 2018?
Should the government censor rap music culture?
Is the Internet of Things no longer a tool for ensuring privacy and security?
Is it possible that virtual reality will end up being harmful to children?
Should airlines consider allowing heavier passengers to travel in two seats?
Is it true that meat-eaters are healthier than vegetarians?
Is print media already dead in the United Kingdom?
What is the best type of parenting seen in the United States?
Should the right to free speech be restricted?
Should we continue to read e-books rather than paperbacks?
Do you think social media has a positive or negative impact on our lives?
Do parents in the United Kingdom go to great lengths to prevent their children from abusing drugs?
What was the healthcare and a medical situation like in the early 1900s?
May indeed having to read nonfiction help writers be more creative?
Would you join a different family if you had the option?
Will robots improve our efficiency in the future?
Is it appropriate for well-known people in society to get involved in politics?
Is it acceptable to watch sex and violence on television?
Is it better to lower or increase the overall driving age in the United Kingdom?
Should parents praise their children for good behaviour?
Do you think yoga is more spiritual than fasting?
What are the various benefits and drawbacks of peer pressure?
Is today's educational system effective?
Should short dresses be outright prohibited in the workplace?
Why should we make an effort to prevent rainforest destruction?
Can long-term survival be guaranteed by space exploration?
Is it true that commercials about drug abuse are effective?
Is there a link between tattoos and paganism?
Is Satanism linked to rock music?
13. Are today's people all over the world overly reliant on technology?
Should capital punishment be abolished in all countries?
What are the benefits and drawbacks of using a mobile phone?
Identify a true link between food, weight, and fitness.
Is there a link between workplace diversity and increased productivity? Is it the other way around, or vice versa?
Would the House of Lords having veto power over the House of Commons be beneficial to the United Kingdom?
Does homeschooling have a significant disadvantage for students?
Why are so many policymakers now promoting STEM education?
What are the most significant challenges that women face in the workplace?
Are we becoming dumber as a result of our increased reliance on technology?

Writing discursive writing topics isn't exact science if you've learned the basics of flawless writing. We hope the descriptive recommendation on discursive essays listed above, as well as an extensive list of important articles, will assist you in forming a clear explanation. Our Essay Writing Help Tutors can assist you with the assignments and different topics. Simply make an effort and set aside some time to put the strategies into action.

Discursive Essay Topics with Unique Writing Tips-

The writing process creates a student's technical knowledge and skills, so discursive essay topics are a popular form of evaluation at community colleges. Further writing potential is accumulated as an ability of learners, insightful, inclusive, and problem-solving knowledge and skills are assessed.

These abilities, honed through the writing of discursive essay topics, are essential for graduate-level texts, scholarly articles, and dissertations. Developing these academic skills is essential for graduating from university with a good grade. Of a sort, these abilities are immediately useful as well. Businesses are willing to hire people with university regents for a variety of reasons, one of which is the progression of such expertise.

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150 Excellent Discursive Essay Topics for Students To Consider

Table of Contents

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

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

What is a Discursive Essay?

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

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

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

Types of Discursive Essays

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

For and Against Essay

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

Solutions Recommending Essay

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

Opinion Essay

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

How to Write a Discursive Essay

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

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

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

Discursive Essay Writing Tips

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

Tips for Writing a Brilliant Discursive Essay

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

Tips For Choosing a Good Discursive Essay Topic

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

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

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

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

List of Discursive Essay Topics

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

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

Best Discursive Essay Topics

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

Excellent Discursive Essay Topics

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

Interesting Discursive Essay Topics

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

Amazing Discursive Essay Prompts

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

Read more: Amazing Descriptive Essay Topics and Ideas for Students

Captivating Discursive Essay Ideas

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

Outstanding Discursive Essay Topics

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

Read more: Sample GRE Essay Topics To Practice

Compelling Discursive Essay Topics

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

Incredible Discursive Essay Topics

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

Wrapping Up

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

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Discursive Essay Writing Guide [+Examples]

Students obtain various types of assignments during their studies. Each task is different and has strict requirements and guidelines to follow. A discursive essay example is considered to be one of the most challenging types of essay writing for college students. Many of them don’t see the difference between a discursive and argumentative essay. Yet, each essay type has distinct features that we are going to talk about here. If you were assigned to craft this paper and you have doubts, here are professional tips and advice on topics to select and create a stellar discursive essay plan.

How to Write a Discursive Essay

First of all, every college student who is assigned to craft this paper needs to understand that discursive essay topics can be different from those of an argumentative essay . On one hand, these pieces of writing can be similar as they both are essay types and have three main parts. On the other hand, discursive essay ideas differ in the purpose and structure.

Good discursive essay topics provide an unprejudiced and reliable assessment of a certain problem. Yes, the topic should also be controversial leaving each student an opportunity to select their point of view and arguments to support one side. But discursive essay examples demonstrate a more balanced and formal discussion. It shouldn’t be absolutely neutral but the author needs to reflect both sides of the problem and present enough arguments and facts to support each side.

What Is a Discursive Essay?

So, once you realize that this is a separate type of assignment that shouldn’t be crafted the same way you write other academic tasks, let’s talk about the discursive essay definition. So, its definition is rather simple: this is a type of academic assignment that is aimed to discuss a particular issue or problem. The author should demonstrate both sides of the problem without stating his or her personal opinion.

When choosing higher discursive essay topics, it is necessary to admit that the style of this task should be kept formal and impersonal compared to other written assignments. The structure is strict and similar to essay on science : you should submit an introduction, the main body, and the conclusion. Each separate question should be discussed in a separate paragraph so that the readers can distinguish what you are writing about and how many arguments you provide.

Main Types of Discursive Essay Writing

Did you know that there are three main types of this assignment? Depending on the type you were assigned or you select, there may be different features to include in your text. Here they are:

Opinion Essay – if you have this type of paper in your discursive essay topics list, you should keep in mind that it demands your opinion of a problem you are going to discuss. This opinion needs to be mentioned in the discursive essay introduction and followed by examples and reasons. Another fact is that the opposing argument should be stated before the conclusion and you should explain why you found this argument unconvincing. The summary needs to be present in the conclusion.
Essay Offering Solution to a Problem – as you can notice from the name of this discursive essay meaning, the author should discuss the issue and try to find solutions. The issue should be stated in the introduction, and possible solutions should be mentioned in the body paragraphs. Each solution goes for a separate paragraph of the main body. The writer’s opinion is usually summarized in the conclusion of a discursive essay template.
For and Against Essay – this is a task written in the form of a debate with opposing opinions. You should be ready to describe every point of view, present facts, and be objective. The introduction of discursive essay topics higher English states the problem you are going to discuss. The main body demonstrates reasons, examples, and facts. The conclusion is finally for the writer’s opinion on the problem.

Discursive Essay Structure

Now let’s talk more about the structure of this academic assignment. As a scholarship essay , almost all essays have a strict structure that should be followed by students who want to obtain the highest grades. Here is how to structure a discursive essay:

Introduction

Many students wonder how to start a discursive essay. What should they mention in the first part? It is simple as that – all you need to do is state the issue and show some “hook” for the readers to follow. Think about ways to attract the attention of the lecturer. You may want to start with a rhetorical question or add a famous quote. Either way, you need to demonstrate both sides of the issue even if it’s Scottish independence discursive essay.

Here is what you need to remember when building your main part of the assignment: assess every aspect of the problem and stay unbiased when describing the points of view. Your own opinion can be mentioned only in the conclusion of the discursive essay examples in higher English. More than that, it is essential to insert at least three arguments to support your opinion. Start each argument with the new paragraph so that the readers can distinguish each reason. Be precise and distinct when you provide evidence and facts. This is how to write a discursive essay in higher English.

There are many discursive essay topics UK – make certain you select the one you understand and know how to use this structure. So, the conclusion is the last section of your task. This is a part where you can summarize the viewpoints mentioned above and express your own point of view. Don’t write too many sentences here and don’t copy what you’ve written in the introduction.

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How to Write a Discursive Essay: Awesome Guide and Template

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

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

What Is a Discursive Essay

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

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

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

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

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Difference Between a Discursive Essay and an Argumentative

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

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

Tone and Language:

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

Conclusion:

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

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

Types of Discursive Essay

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

Opinion Essays:

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

Problem-Solution Essays:

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

Compare and Contrast Essays:

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

Cause and Effect Essays:

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

Argumentative Essays:

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

Pro-Con Essays:

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

Exploratory Essays:

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

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

How to Write a Discursive Essay

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

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

Discursive Essay Format

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

1. Introduction:

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

2. Body Paragraphs:

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

3. Transitions:

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

4. Conclusion:

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

5. Language and Style:

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

6. References (if applicable):

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

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

Introduction

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

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

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

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

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

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

Key guidelines for writing the body of a discursive essay:

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

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

Conclusion

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

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

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

Yays and Nays of Writing Discourse Essays

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

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

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Discursive Essay Examples

Discursive essay topics.

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

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

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

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

Wrapping Up

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

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

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How to Write a Policy Analysis Paper Step-by-Step

26 Planning a Discursive Essay

Discursive essay – description.

A discursive essay is a form of critical essay that attempts to provide the reader with a balanced argument on a topic, supported by evidence. It requires critical thinking, as well as sound and valid arguments (see Chapter 25) that acknowledge and analyse arguments both for and against any given topic, plus discursive essay writing appeals to reason, not emotions or opinions. While it may draw some tentative conclusions, based on evidence, the main aim of a discursive essay is to inform the reader of the key arguments and allow them to arrive at their own conclusion.

The writer needs to research the topic thoroughly to present more than one perspective and should check their own biases and assumptions through critical reflection (see Chapter 30).

Unlike persuasive writing, the writer does not need to have knowledge of the audience, though should write using academic tone and language (see Chapter 20).

Choose Your Topic Carefully

A basic guide to choosing an assignment topic is available in Chapter 23, however choosing a topic for a discursive essay means considering more than one perspective. Not only do you need to find information about the topic via academic sources, you need to be able to construct a worthwhile discussion, moving from idea to idea. Therefore, more forward planning is required. The following are decisions that need to be considered when choosing a discursive essay topic:

These will become the controlling ideas for your three body paragraphs (some essays may require more). Each controlling idea will need arguments both for and against.
For example, if my topic is “renewable energy” and my three main (controlling) ideas are “cost”, “storage”, “environmental impact”, then I will need to consider arguments both for and against each of these three concepts. I will also need to have good academic sources with examples or evidence to support my claim and counter claim for each controlling idea (More about this in Chapter 27).
Am I able to write a thesis statement about this topic based on the available research? In other words, do my own ideas align with the available research, or am I going to be struggling to support my own ideas due to a lack of academic sources or research? You need to be smart about your topic choice. Do not make it harder than it has to be. Writing a discursive essay is challenging enough without struggling to find appropriate sources.
For example, perhaps I find a great academic journal article about the uptake of solar panel installation in suburban Australia and how this household decision is cost-effective long-term, locally stored, and has minimal, even beneficial environmental impact due to the lowering of carbon emissions. Seems too good to be true, yet it is perfect for my assignment. I would have to then find arguments AGAINST everything in the article that supports transitioning suburbs to solar power. I would have to challenge the cost-effectiveness, the storage, and the environmental impact study. Now, all of a sudden my task just became much more challenging.
There may be vast numbers of journal articles written about your topic, but consider how relevant they may be to your tentative thesis statement. It takes a great deal of time to search for appropriate academic sources. Do you have a good internet connection at home or will you need to spend some quality time at the library? Setting time aside to complete your essay research is crucial for success.

It is only through complete forward planning about the shape and content of your essay that you may be able to choose the topic that best suits your interests, academic ability and time management. Consider how you will approach the overall project, not only the next step.

Research Your Topic

When completing a library search for online peer reviewed journal articles, do not forget to use Boolean Operators to refine or narrow your search field. Standard Boolean Operators are (capitalized) AND, OR and NOT. While using OR will expand your search, AND and NOT will reduce the scope of your search. For example, if I want information on ageism and care giving, but I only want it to relate to the elderly, I might use the following to search a database: ageism AND care NOT children. Remember to keep track of your search strings (like the one just used) and then you’ll know what worked and what didn’t as you come and go from your academic research.

The UQ Library provides an excellent step-by-step guide to searching databases:

Searching in databases – Library – University of Queensland (uq.edu.au)

Did you know that you can also link the UQ Library to Google Scholar? This link tells you how:

Google Scholar – Library – University of Queensland (uq.edu.au)

Write the Thesis Statement

The concept of a thesis statement was introduced in Chapter 21. The information below relates specifically to a discursive essay thesis statement.

As noted in the introduction to this chapter, the discursive essay should not take a stance and therefore the thesis statement must also impartially indicate more than one perspective. The goal is to present both sides of an argument equally and allow the reader to make an informed and well-reasoned choice after providing supporting evidence for each side of the argument.

Sample thesis statements: Solar energy is a cost -effective solution to burning fossil fuels for electricity , however lower income families cannot afford the installation costs .

Some studies indicate that teacher comments written in red may have no effect on students’ emotions , however other studies suggest that seeing red ink on papers could cause some students unnecessary stress. [1]

According to social justice principles, education should be available to all , yet historically, the intellectually and physically impaired may have been exempt from participation due to their supposed inability to learn. [2]

This is where your pros and cons list comes into play. For each pro, or positive statement you make, about your topic, create an equivalent con, or negative statement and this will enable you to arrive at two opposing assertions – the claim and counter claim.

While there may be multiple arguments or perspectives related to your essay topic, it is important that you match each claim with a counter-claim. This applies to the thesis statement and each supporting argument within the body paragraphs of the essay.

It is not just a matter of agreeing or disagreeing. A neutral tone is crucial. Do not include positive or negative leading statements, such as “It is undeniable that…” or “One should not accept the view that…”. You are NOT attempting to persuade the reader to choose one viewpoint over another.

Leading statements / language will be discussed further, in class, within term three of the Academic English course.

Thesis Structure:

Note the two sides (indicated in green and orange)
Note the use of tentative language: “Some studies”, “may have”, “could cause”, “some students”
As the thesis is yet to be discussed in-depth, and you are not an expert in the field, do not use definitive language
The statement is also one sentence, with a “pivot point” in the middle, with a comma and signposting to indicate a contradictory perspective (in black). Other examples include, nevertheless, though, although, regardless, yet, albeit. DO NOT use the word “but” as it lacks academic tone. Some signposts (e.g., although, though, while) may be placed at the start of the two clauses rather than in the middle – just remember the comma, for example, “While some studies suggest solar energy is cost-effective, other critical research questions its affordability.”
Also note that it is based on preliminary research and not opinion: “some studies”, “other studies”, “according to social justice principles”, “critical research”.

Claims and Counter Claims

NOTE: Please do not confuse the words ‘claim’ and ‘counter-claim’ with moral or value judgements about right/wrong, good/bad, successful/unsuccessful, or the like. The term ‘claim’ simply refers to the first position or argument you put forward (whether for or against), and ‘counter-claim’ is the alternate position or argument.

In a discursive essay the goal is to present both sides equally and then draw some tentative conclusions based on the evidence presented.

To formulate your claims and counter claims, write a list of pros and cons.
For each pro there should be a corresponding con.
Three sets of pros and cons will be required for your discursive essay. One set for each body paragraph. These become your claims and counter claims.
For a longer essay, you would need further claims and counter claims.
Some instructors prefer students to keep the pros and cons in the same order across the body paragraphs. Each paragraph would then have a pro followed by a con or else a con followed by a pro. The order should align with your thesis; if the thesis gives a pro view of the topic followed by a negative view (con) then the paragraphs should also start with the pro and follow with the con, or else vice versa. If not aligned and consistent, the reader may easily become confused as the argument proceeds. Ask your teacher if this is a requirement for your assessment.

Use previous chapters to explore your chosen topic through concept mapping (Chapter 18) and essay outlining (Chapter 19), with one variance; you must include your proposed claims and counter claims in your proposed paragraph structures. What follows is a generic model for a discursive essay. The following Chapter 27 will examine this in further details.

Sample Discursive Essay Outline

The paragraphs are continuous; the dot-points are only meant to indicate content.

Introduction

Thesis statement
Essay outline (including 3 controlling ideas)

Body Paragraphs X 3 (Elaboration and evidence will be more than one sentence, though the topic, claim and counter claim should be succinct)

T opic sentence, including 1/3 controlling ideas (the topic remains the same throughout the entire essay; it is the controlling idea that changes)
A claim/assertion about the controlling idea
E laboration – more information about the claim
E vidence -academic research (Don’t forget to tell the reader how / why the evidence supports the claim. Be explicit in your E valuation rather than assuming the connection is obvious to the reader)
A counter claim (remember it must be COUNTER to the claim you made, not about something different)
E laboration – more information about the counter claim
E vidence – academic research (Don’t forget to tell the reader how / why the evidence supports the claim. Be explicit in your E valuation rather than assuming the connection is obvious to the reader)
Concluding sentence – L inks back to the topic and/or the next controlling idea in the following paragraph

Mirror the introduction. The essay outline should have stated the plan for the essay – “This essay will discuss…”, therefore the conclusion should identify that this has been fulfilled, “This essay has discussed…”, plus summarise the controlling ideas and key arguments. ONLY draw tentative conclusions BOTH for and against, allowing the reader to make up their own mind about the topic. Also remember to re-state the thesis in the conclusion. If it is part of the marking criteria, you should also include a recommendation or prediction about the future use or cost/benefit of the chosen topic/concept.

A word of warning, many students fall into the generic realm of stating that there should be further research on their topic or in the field of study. This is a gross statement of the obvious as all academia is ongoing. Try to be more practical with your recommendations and also think about who would instigate them and where the funding might come from.

This chapter gives an overview of what a discursive essay is and a few things to consider when choosing your topic. It also provides a generic outline for a discursive essay structure. The following chapter examines the structure in further detail.

Inez, S. M. (2018, September 10). What is a discursive essay, and how do you write a good one? Kibin. ↵
Hale, A., & Basides, H. (2013). The keys to academic English. Palgrave ↵

researched, reliable, written by academics and published by reputable publishers; often, but not always peer reviewed

assertion, maintain as fact

The term ‘claim’ simply refers to the first position or argument you put forward (whether for or against), and ‘counter-claim’ is the alternate position or argument.

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How to Write a Good Discursive Essay?

05 June, 2020

7 minutes read

Author: Elizabeth Brown

What does a discursive essay mean? We have an answer to this and many other questions in our article. Welcome to the world of ideal essay writing. Ever wanted to build buzz for your text? We know you do. And we also know how you can do that with minimum effort and little diligence. So forget about your trivial academic essays - they are not as exciting as a discursive one. Ready to dive in?

What is Discursive Writing?

For all those who wanted to know the discursive essay meaning, here it is: a discursive essay is a writing piece, in which the focal element is devoted to an argument. That is, discursive writing presupposes developing a statement that ignites active discussions. After this essay, readers should be motivated to express their own opinions regarding the topic. Discursive essays have much in common with argumentative and persuasive papers, but these are not to be confused. Despite some similarities, discursive writing is a separate type of work that has its specific features and nuances. What we do want you to remember about discursive essays is that you need to concentrate on the power of thought rather than factology and pieces of evidence. In short, your mind is the only tool required to persuade and interest others on the topic you choose.

Discursive Essay Format

Now that we’ve figured out what is discursive writing, it’s time to focus more on the “skeleton” of discursive essay. Like any other piece of writing, discursive essays have clear requirements that help to glue their elements into a coherent paper. By the way, there are many writing services available which can help you present an excellent academic essay. So if you need professional assistance with your task, check them out. But if you want to do it yourself, you can simply take any discursive essay example from the web and use it as a starting point for your paper.

As for the discursive structure itself, you need to start your essay with an introduction in the first place. Create a lead-in that’ll spark the reader’s interest and make them genuinely responsive to the topic. Also, make sure that your introduction is neither small nor extensive. Stick to the optimal amount of words that’ll be sufficient for readers to get the general idea of your essay.

Another essential aspect of an effective intro is your opinion. It’s worthy of note that some discursive essays might require no particular stance on the topic. In situations like this, wait until the end of an essay comes, and only then share your personal view on the matter. This way, readers will understand the neutral tone throughout the piece, shape their own thoughts about it, and later decide whether to agree with yours or not.

In the paragraphs that follow, you’ll need to accentuate on the argumentation. There’s no room for vague and unarticulate expressions at this point. Quite the contrary – you need to unfold your statements consecutively, in a couple of paragraphs, to depict the entire image of your stance for or against the topic. And don’t forget to link your discursive text to supporting evidence.

The last section is the conclusion. Your finishing remarks should clearly articulate your position toward this or that issue, with a close connection to the main ideas in the essay body.

Discursive Essay Thesis

To construct a good thesis for your discursive essay, you’ll need to describe the general stance your work will argue. Here, it’s important to back up the thesis statement with points. These are the opinions that support your thesis and allow to create an affirmative structure for the entire paper.

Discursive Essay Linking Words

The points you use while writing a discursive essay need to flow smoothly so that readers could see a logical organization of the work. For this, you can use transition words that’ll make your paper easily readable and crisp. For example, if you want to list some points, opt for such words as firstly, to begin with, secondly, lastly, finally, etc. If you wish to point at advantages or disadvantages, consider using these transitions: the main/greatest/ first advantage of… is …, another positive side is…, an additional drawback is, another negative aspect of…is…

How to Write an Introduction for a Discursive Essay?

The introductory part is the critical aspect of creating a good discursive essay. In this section, specific attention should centralize on what your topic is all about. Therefore, it needs to be presented with clarity, be informative, and attention-grabbing. How to make your intro sentence for discursive essay memorable? You can start with a spicy anecdote to add humor to discussion. Another powerful way for hooking readers is stating a quote or opinion of experts and famous influencers. This will add to the credibility of your statements, making readers more motivated to read your work.

How to Write a Discursive Essay Conclusion?

Your discursive essay ending is the climax of your argument, a final link that organically locks up a chain of previously described points. This part is devoted to the restatement of the main arguments that sum up your attitude to the topic. And just like with introduction, the conclusion should leave a trace in readers’ minds. To achieve this result, your closing paragraph should include a call to action, warning or any other food for thought that will encourage people to ponder on the issue and make relevant conclusions.

Discursive Essay Topics

The ideas for discursive papers are so versatile that it’s hard to compile all of them in one list. For such list will extend to kilometers. However, we’ve collected some of them for you to facilitate your work on this task. So here are some discursive essay examples you can use any time:

As you understand now, discursive writing definition and discursive essay definition are not as scary as they seem from the first glance. Even though the art of this type of paper is hard to master, over time, you’ll notice significant progress. All you need for this is practice and a little bit of patience to understand the subtle nuances of this task and develop the skill of writing confidently. And if you ever wondered what is an essay, a team of professional academic essay writers can give a helping hand and provide you with a top-notch paper.

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30 Dazzling Discursive Essay Topics To Up Your Essay Game

Home / Blog / 30 Dazzling Discursive Essay Topics To Up Your Essay Game

If you fought over the television remote with your dad as a kid, you would know that news channels run multiple debates all through the day. The panelists and their heated arguments over one political issue or the other may have given plenty of headaches. But in college, your professor asks you to assume your position in that very panel when setting a discursive essay.

A discursive essay, as the name suggests, is a discourse on a given topic. When you are assigned a discursive essay, you need to plan it a tad bit differently than other kinds of essays. For a discursive essay, you must present all arguments in favour of as well as against the topic with evidence to support your claims. In many ways, it is like an argumentative essay with a few structural differences.

But there is no need to panic just yet. Even though it sounds difficult, a discursive essay is not that uphill a task when you plan it well.

Read on, and you will find a few clever tips to prepare the structure of your discursive essay along with 30 amazing topics to choose from.

While writing a discursive essay, you need to strike the right balance between the arguments you present, as well as the counter-arguments that you will include in the paper. The structure of a discursive essay is similar to the following.

Introduction
Body paragraph 01: argument and supporting examples
Body paragraph 02: counter-argument and supporting examples
Body paragraphs 03 to 06: following the same argument and counter-argument structure

Pro tip 01: Never forget to run a thorough plagiarism check after you have finished writing the essay. You can use an online plagiarism checker to get it done quickly and for free.

Pro tip 02: Do not turn in the essay without editing and proofreading it thoroughly. In case you are too caught up with other tasks, get editing and proofreading help from experts online.

Picking a topic – 30 discursive essay topics to floor your professors

If you are at sea with picking a topic for your discursive essay, then you might have been going wrong about it all the while. A good discursive essay topic should not be too broad, but should also cover the essential thesis that you wish to put forth. While global or political issues are quite fascinating topics for discursive essays, keep in mind that they tend to stretch over quite a few pages.

There is a quick way to determine whether you are going the right way. Whenever you need to choose a topic for a discursive essay, analyse the topic in the light of CDRM.

C – C urrent (must be of relevant nature to the time when you write the essay)

D – D ebatable (must have at least two opposing arguments ongoing)

R – R esearchable (must have info that you can look up and present scope of further study)

M – M anageable (must be narrow enough to wrap up within the length and breadth of an essay)

Given below is a list of 30 discursive essay topics. Pick one that catches your fancy or take inspiration and creates a topic of your own.

Should GMOs be allowed as mainstream food for consumption?
Is veganism really great for the health and the environment?
Is the military invading our privacy with the use of drones?
Will AI take over the world in near future?
Should public places (bars, cafes, bus stops, libraries, etc.) use Internet filtering devices?
Are plastic straws and bottles really harming the environment?
Are dating websites reliable for meeting potential future partners?
Does every small business need to be on social media to make it big?
Are humans causing global warming?
Should tobacco and its by-products be banned entirely in public places?
Is the human race becoming increasingly tech-reliant?
Do we have a tax system that is fair and just to all citizens?
Is it necessary to impose a curfew when bringing up teenagers?
Should the government control our daily diets and rations to improve national health?
Do female sports stars deserve equal pay as their male counterparts?
Does playing war or shooting-based RP video games encourage violent behaviour in children?
Should formal sex education be made mandatory globally?
Beauty pageants empower or demean men and women?
Can switching all racing cars to bio-fuel be a wise move to bring down emission levels?
Should homosexual partnerships and resultant marriages be legalised throughout the world?
Should abortion be made illegal in all countries?
Does having a school uniform encourage kids to learn about inclusiveness and equality?
Are standardised tests fair to all students coming from different backgrounds and having varying cognitive capacities?
Should the death sentence be replaced with 25 years of prison sentence?
How useful are swimming and dancing as whole-body exercises?
Should governments ban all products that use animals for testing?
Does reducing work hours have a positive impact on work-life balance?
Do fame and money necessarily have to come at the price of mental stability or emotional peace?
Should the government be more empathetic towards the rights and needs of minorities?
Is free access to the Internet one of the greatest threats to education and learning?

Parting words

That’s all there is behind choosing a great topic for your discursive essay. Be careful about the parameters of your academic institution, and pick a topic that appeals to you. That way, you won’t be at your wits’ end when trying to research for the essay. As a result, the process of writing the essay will become much more enjoyable. That’s exactly what top academicians suggest as well. Go with a topic that genuinely interests you. Make sure the topic has all four elements of CDRM, and you will be good to go. Pick your stance and plan away. All the best with your discursive essay.

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Discursive Essay Topics: Everything You Need to Know

Students have a lot of assignments to write, and it can be tough to come up with new ideas for each one. That’s why we have compiled this list of great topics for argumentative essay. If you’re looking how to write a discursive essay or want to see what other people are writing about, check out these prompts.

What Does a Good Essay Need?

It’s all about the topic. If you want to produce a good essay, you need to choose good discursive essay topics. So, how do we find this perfect, golden nugget of information? Well, we have some suggestions for you!

Good topics should:

Be suitable to your audience (for example, if you are composing an essay on pollution in Delhi and the audience is people who live there.)
Be interesting and engaging (otherwise, no one will read it!)

The Writing Process

Before you start the writing process, you need to figure out what your argument will be. If you don’t know your thesis statement, it’s hard for anyone else to read your essay and understand your point of view.

Once the essay writer has a topic in mind, they should write a few sentences about what kind of information the reader should expect from reading this essay. Then write three paragraphs that expand on each one of these points in detail. They are called body paragraphs. The first body paragraph should introduce the main idea — the topic sentence — and then provide examples or points relating to that central idea (the supporting details). The second body paragraph expands on another aspect associated with the first part of the paper while also including different facts or evidence than were included previously (in case two subjects were covered by two various topics). The third body paragraph does something similar but may include even more new ideas or evidence than before.

How to Choose Topics for Argumentative Essay

Choosing a topic is the first step to writing an essay. You need to select a topic that will interest you. It has to be something you are interested in and can write about. You’ve come to the ideal place if you’re looking for a topic for a research paper. There are countless options available, including cases in politics, science, and more! We have a ton of discursive essay topics that are sure to catch your attention and stimulate your thinking. Here are some of them:

Should the US outlaw assault rifles?
Is fame or wealth preferable?
What is the ideal place to visit?
Should all firearms be required to be registered?
Man or woman, who makes a better leader?
Should all citizens be eligible for free housing from the government?
Should the minimum wage be eliminated?

Discursive Essay Topics: Tips and Tricks

Finally, the argumentative essays topics should be relevant and engaging. Your thesis statement should motivate your audience to read further. You need to present evidence in support of your argument. It is essential to explain not only why something is right or wrong but also why it matters that way (for example, what effect it has on society).

How it works

How to Write a Discursive Essay – Guide with Examples

Published by Grace Graffin at March 28th, 2022 , Revised On July 26, 2023

What is a Discursive Essay?

You can see the word ‘discursive’ is close to the word ‘discourse’; in short, it means involving discussion. “In a discursive essay, you explore the discussion and perspectives surrounding a topic. Then proceeding with reason and argument, you reach a conclusion in which you may or may not agree with one of the perspectives you have presented.”

What is Discussed in a Discursive Essay?

Example: The discursive essay discusses ideas and opinions on a topic without the aim of persuading the reader to take a given view. It is your unbiased presenting of differing viewpoints that allows the reader to decide which is best. This allows you to present the topic from several viewpoints, showing the pros and cons of them all.

During the Renaissance, discursive essays were quite popular, though they have become much less so over time. Many consider the discursive essay to be one of the more difficult to approach. As such, many students struggle with them, and it is quite common to seek essay writing assistance .

What is the Purpose of a Discursive Essay?

The purpose of a discursive essay is to show that there are different and often competing viewpoints around a subject. The subject often raises a controversy or describes a problem requiring a solution. As such, discursive essay assignments are often used when comparing subjective opinions on literary works. Discursive essays highlight different opinions and arguments but do not argue either way.

Do Discursive Essays Offer Solutions to Problems?

It is not the author’s job to solve a problem. The problem could be a long-running one with no solution in sight. For example, in a discursive text, you do not examine a problem or literary text; instead, you discuss the opposing ideas and opinions surrounding them. These essays benefit readers by presenting a collection of various views on a subject all in one place, saving them from doing the research themselves.

What is the Author’s Role in a Discursive Essay?

Apart from creating the essay, the author’s role is minimal. That is, the essay should not be a personal opinion piece. The author stands in the centre of the ongoing debate, selects some of the best arguments and presents them to the reader. In this way, the author is more like a facilitator providing a clear view of the arguments surrounding the topic .

Should the Author Give an Opinion?

The role requires the author to stay mostly neutral, but it is acceptable for authors to take a stance. Whether you include your own stance in the essay is either up to you or your tutor. There is no rule that says you have to. You can clarify where you stand early in the essay, or you can wait until the conclusion.

Present Others’ Views Fairly

You should present the views of others in the best possible light; showing balance between the arguments is essential. When presenting others’ viewpoints, you should not try to prejudice readers or persuade them your view is best. This is not an argumentative essay .

How Does a Discursive Essay Differ from an Argumentative Essay?

When to write a discursive essay.

Your coursework may require a discursive essay in order to test your ability to find and presenting balanced evidence without bias. In this assignment, you need to make a balanced examination of arguments surrounding a topic, with the option of stating your own position. You are not attempting to settle the debate, only to show the thinking that surrounds it.

How do I Know if I Should Write a Discursive Essay?

Your tutor might not directly say ‘write a discursive essay’ but the essay question will give you a clue. It might be a relatively simple question, or it could just state that there is disagreement on a topic . It will not ask you to give your opinion or direct you to persuade your readers. Your essay is part of a study course, so there will be enough guidance from your tutors.

Here are some title examples that would be best discussed in discursive essays.

Is modern technology good or bad?
The effects of social media on today’s youth.
Should children under the age of ten be given mobile phones?
Should cigarettes be banned worldwide?
The positive and negative effects of water fluoridation.
Should governments subsidise healthy food and tax junk food?
Arranged marriages last longer than free-choice marriages.
Are educational standards declining?
How Harmful is cyberbullying?
Should gene editing and ‘designer babies’ be allowed?
Should the minimum age for driving a car be raised to 20?
Has the death penalty been proven as a failure or a success?
Does Google have too much power?

Types of Discursive Essays

There are three main types of discursive essays:

The opinion essay requires the author’s opinion on the issue. It should be clearly presented and supported with reason and evidence; it should also contain an opposing argument. The writer should explain why the counterargument is not convincing.
The for-and-against essay should provide readers with a good debate on the subject, aided by the opposing points of view. The main body should provide examples with sound reasoning to support claims. This should be an objective piece, as its purpose is to bring the information to the reader to make a decision.
Essays suggesting a solution to a problem should discuss the stated problem and find the main solution(s) that have been suggested. The introduction defines the problem, its causes and the consequences. The main body offers some suggestions for a possible solution to the problem and the possible consequences that can be anticipated from this solution.

Approaching a Discursive Essay

Before you do anything, read the essay question/prompt several times; let it sink in. All the work you undertake will be based on this. If you study remotely and receive the essay prompt digitally, copy it onto paper to make it real. Highlight key words and make sure you thoroughly understand what you are expected to write. Are you being asked to analyse , discuss , or explain something? These keywords are important to understand.

Steps Towards Creating your Essay

Before you even write the first line of the introduction, you have to carry out research. Trying to write an essay before doing research is like polishing a car before washing it. Researching is a way of learning about the subject while gathering and filtering information, forming the backbone of your coursework. The research you carry out should look into the subject and more importantly, also investigate the broad range of opinions and evidence surrounding it. Your research should not focus solely on the argument you favour but should cover other views equally.

How Many Viewpoints to Include

Some issues have a huge number of opinions surrounding them; you cannot include them all. Using too many will confuse the reader and make a conclusion difficult. Also, you won’t have the word limit to include everything you discover. Ask yourself if you have considered the most relevant viewpoints. Working through your discovered material, you can determine what to include based on appropriateness. It can become overwhelming, but there is plenty of help out there.

Where to Find your Evidence

Much of your research will be done online. But you should not disregard relevant books and other print sources, some of which are also online. There is also television and video to consider, and depending on the subject, you can ask family members and friends. Variety in your research shows you have really made an effort to cover all bases.

Always consider the credibility of any source you use, and always note where you found it. You will need this information to complete your bibliography. When you feel you have enough material and researching has given you a richer understanding of the subject, you can start writing.

Writing your Discursive Essay

The first thing to write is an outline ; think of it as a framework. You are going to fill this framework with good material. Remember that every word you put into it will have to justify its inclusion. For a discursive essay, the structure will likely follow the usual format of title, introduction , main body , and conclusion , followed by a reference section.

The Introduction

Example: The introduction should touch on all the points you’re going to cover, even if only broadly. It should provide a concise description of the topic and what your focus will be. Everything you discuss in the body should come under the umbrella created by the introduction.

Help the Reader Right from the Start

From the introduction, the reader should understand where the essay is going; it should not be a mystery tour. This is especially important if the subject is very broad. You can state your position on the subject in the introduction, but it is not necessary.

The discursive essay does not have a formal thesis statement , as with other essay types . This gives you the option of opening with something to really hook the reader. For example, any of these can be used:

Be provocative – “Maybe you don’t care about children’s self-confidence…”
Be balanced – “There are different opinions on whether children should do martial arts.”
Use a relevant quote – “As martial arts practitioners, we are not the type of people who allow life to happen to us. We are the author of our own lives.” – Jay Haynes.
Illustrate something – “Four-foot-tall Lisa was once bullied. After taking up kickboxing, she seems to stand much taller. She is no longer a target.”
Use an anecdote – “I lacked confidence and direction as a child. Taking up Tae Kwon Do changed all that in the first few weeks.”

After this is a rhetorical question at the centre of the discussion and a description of what the essay will cover.

Argumentative Essay Checklist

Frequently asked questions, should i analyse evidence in a discursive essay.

Although you will provide evidence in a discursive essay, it is not the same as in persuasive or argumentative essays. For example, if the essay is questioning the correct interpretation of a literary work, you do not analyse or review the literary work. Rather, you look at what others say about it and present that for the reader. What you present are ideas. And you support these ideas with quotations from other people, although it’s possible to do this by referring to your own experiences.

Can I disagree with the prevailing opinion on the subject?

You do not have to take a position on the subject you write about in a discursive essay. Your tutor might even instruct you not to. If you decide to tell the reader your position, you briefly say what you think and why. It shouldn’t become a major part of your assignment because this is not a persuasive or argumentative essay. The essay is not based on what you think.

Can I address the reader directly?

Yes, it makes your work more personal if you do this. You could do this right at the start of the introduction, asking something like, “Have you ever wondered how much information big tech companies hold about you?” A direct question like this can be a useful hook to keep the reader reading. You could say that it reduces formality and brings in familiarity, but used minimally, maybe just once, it can be effective. Generally, the discursive essay should be quite formal and impersonal.

The Best Discursive Essay Topics

Before defining the term “discursive essay” and getting to discursive essay topics, let us present you a real-life example that will be relevant to your writing and help you understand the whole concept of discursive topics overall.

Imagine you and a friend are discussing whether or not the death penalty is ever justifiable. Your pal thinks that in some circumstances, this method can be applied to those who deserve capital punishment. You, on the other hand, claim that the society of the 21st century should move away from this harsh procedure. Well, that is where discursive essay writing comes into fruition (do not forget this topic to your list, it is something your professor will appreciate).

So, basically, the discursive essay is a piece of writing where you are looking at the two sides of an argument in an open-minded way. In this kind of an essay, you do not finalize your thoughts after paragraph and do not conclude until the end of a paper. Here are a few more general guidelines for your discursive essay topics from experts of “ write my essay ” requests.

Discursive Essay Topics: “Do” and “Do Not”

1. use impersonal constructions.

In your discursive essay, you are going to look at the two sides of the debate, so you do not want to begin the argument by saying “I think this, I think that”, and then use the same personal construction exploring the other side of the debate, when these two points of view may be contradictory. Present your arguments in an impersonal way. For example, “It can be argued…”, “an important point to consider is…”, “one might argue…”, etc. It is only at the end of the discursive essay, where you might come in with your own angle on things.

So, by using impersonal constructions, you get a lot more room for maneuver.

2. Back Up Your Opinion

Do make sure that you back up your ideas with examples, statistics (if possible), or at the very least, with a clear, rational argumentation. Ensure that your reader is able to understand your point. If you put something forward, you have to give evidence for it.

3. Stick to the Question and the Topic

It is okay to go off on little tangents and explorations but make sure that you bring that back round to the question and show how the point you have just made does relate to the topic. A sign of a good student is one who is really able to cater to the argument and the insights to the question.

Format of the Discursive Essay

Before diving into the best discursive essay topic, we could not help but mention the format of your paper. You might think it has the same formula as always (introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion), but it is not. A discursive essay is incredibly easy to structure. However, you need to know how to do it correctly. It is the case of what you actually put in at each level of your discursive essay and how you construct your arguments and ideas.

Introduction of the Topic

In a discursive essay, there may be some terminology in the intro that your reader is not entirely sure about, so you want to define the term. For example, the discursive essay topic is “The positive and negative impact of Instagram photos on the self-esteem”. So, in the introductory paragraph (in the first couple of sentences), you need to explain what self-esteem is.

Second of all, you need to set a time frame as well. Is this a debate which has been raging for centuries? Or is this a relatively new topic to discuss? In addition, you want to give a general outline of the whole discursive essay.

The best way to start an essay, especially the discursive one, is by using a trusty hook statement. Yeah, we know, you have heard of it before, but there is no better way to attract reader’s attention. For discursive essay specifically, the rhetorical question seems to be an efficient tool for hook statement. So, if you do all the things, you will have a pretty solid introduction, and then you can move on to the main argument proper.

2 or 3 Arguments for A and B side

You are going to have more or less a paragraph per argument, so make sure you do explore your topic and ideas in-depth. You want to give examples and evidence as well as draw meaning and do proper analysis in each section. When it comes to the opposite opinion (B side), use your discourse markers right the way through your discursive essay. It is up to orientate your reader.

Conclusion of the Topic

It is at this point where you really say which side of defense you are standing on. Give your position and remember that it should be based on which side has the stronger evidence and better arguments. You might also say whether there are weaknesses in one of the sides of the topic. But do not think that just because two arguments are presented side by side in the discursive essay, they both have equal merit.

End on a resounding note. So, how can you do that? There are different ways – you can look at the future and say, “I predict that this issue is going to head in this direction”. You can also make a strong statement or call to action as well as add a powerful quote that is related to the topic.

Choose One of the Best Discursive Essay Topics

It is great if you are given a provocative discursive essay topic and are asked to discuss it, but what if you are free to choose. This is when your inner alarmist comes in. Calm down, we have got you covered and have gathered the best discursive essay topics. The ones which can tear apart a good conversation, friendship, and relationship. They can make you angry, uncomfortable or release your inner activist. But what these topics won’t do is fail to elicit an opinion.

The discursive essay topics we are focusing on are quite broad, so if you brainstorm, you will discover dozens of other topics. For example, such discursive topic as “animal rights” can lead you to write about hunting.

So, here is the list of the best discursive topics for a killer discursive essay.

Topic: Society

Social media is destroying people’s minds and their self-esteem.

Should marijuana be legalized?

Access to birth control is a right which is beyond the reaches of the law.

Should there be a stricter law on firearms ownership and use?

Online dating or real dates.

Sex education at schools: for or against.

Do you need to have a university degree to success in today’s society?

Home-schooling vs conventional schooling.

Is learning a sign language as crucial as learning a foreign language?

Television is outdated entertainment in the era of advanced technologies.

Photoshopped images have a negative impact on self-esteem.

Topic: Economics and Science

Is feminist economics a thing of the past?

What is an ideal restricting of pay scales: performance-based wages or hour-based structure?

Does Illegal immigration affect economies?

The environmental impact and the economic profits of cutting down trees

Is there a connection between science and religion?

Medical research on animal: Ban or not to ban?

Are humans solely reasonable for climate change?

Are alternative courses of medicine reliable in curing disease?

Topic: Sport and Lifestyle

Video games should be considered a sport.

Weightlifting is an unnatural sport for women.

Sports involving animals should be banned.

Betting on sports should be considered illegal.

Is chess a sport at all?

French fries and cola should be banned in school cafeterias.

Is vegetarianism harmful to health?

Does hypnosis help?

Are security cameras a violation of the concept of private space?

Once you have gone so far and got the end of the article, here is a little advice for you: to not to lose all credibility, pick a topic you care about but do not choose the one you are close-minded about. So, if you are a feminist, vegetarian or chess player, it is better to write about “unicorns and rainbows” rather than men, meat or chess sport.

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Writing Tips

50 Argumentative Essay Topics for Students

4-minute read

11th June 2022

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

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

● Does texting hinder interpersonal communication skills?

● Should there be laws against using devices while driving?

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

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

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

● Is AI helping or hurting society?

● Should cyber-bullying carry legal consequences?

● Should Supreme Court justices be elected?

● Is war always a political decision?

● Should people join a political party?

● Is capitalism ethical?

● Is the electoral college an effective system?

● Should prisoners be allowed to vote?

● Should the death penalty be legal?

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

● Is healthcare a fundamental human right?

● Should vaccinations be mandated for children?

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

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

● Should abortion be legal?

● Is it ethical to perform medical experiments on animals?

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

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

Mental Healthcare

● What causes the stigma around mental health?

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

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

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

● Discuss the effect of physical activity on mental health.

● Should sports be segregated by gender?

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

● Are professional athletes overpaid?

● Should college athletes be paid?

● Should sports betting be legal?

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

● Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?

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

● Should schools be required to offer art courses?

● Is art necessary to society?

● Should schools require uniforms?

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

● Do standardized tests effectively measure intelligence?

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

● Should higher education be free?

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

● Are children better off in two-parent households?

● Should LGBTQ+ partners be allowed to adopt?

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

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

● Does helicopter parenting help or hurt children?

● Should parents monitor their children’s Internet use?

Proofreading & Editing

An argument could also be made for the importance of proofreading your essay ! The reader can focus more on your message when your writing is clear, concise, and error-free, and they won’t question whether you’re knowledgeable on the issues you’re presenting. Once you have a draft ready, you can submit a free trial document to start working with our expert editors!

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How to Write a Discursive Essay: Tips to Succeed & Examples

So, you need to accomplish your discursive essay writing. The typical questions most students ask are: How do you write it? What is discursive essay?

Our specialists will write a custom essay specially for you!

A discursive essay is an academic paper that involves a discussion on a particular topic. It is usually assigned to college students. You may be required to write a paper wherein you have to do one of the following:

argue for the issue or against it;
present your points of view on both sides;
provide your unprejudiced opinion on that matter.

Don’t panic!

Check out the tips from  Custom-writing.org  experts below. They will assist you in discursive writing and encourage you to examine essay examples. Moreover, in this article, you’ll also learn about different types of discursive essay, and its introduction, main body, and conclusion structure.

❓ What Is It?
🏁 Main Types

Introduction

Basic Don’Ts
✏️ Frequent Questions

❓ What Is a Discursive Essay?

First of all, let’s figure out what the discursive essay is.

You may think it’s similar to the argumentative essay. Yes, but there’s a difference between them in the structure and purpose of these two types of assignments:

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We will take a detailed look at how to structure a discursive essay later, and now let’s find out what are the types of this assignment.

Keep reading!

🏁 Discursive Essay: Main Types

You have to think more critically and more in-depth when reviewing all viewpoints and aspects of discursive writing. Check these three main types of essay writing:

Opinion Essay  requires the author’s opinion on an issue which is stated in the introductory paragraph. It should be clearly presented and followed by reasons and supporting examples. Also, this essay paper should contain an opposing argument that comes before the conclusion. The writer must explain to readers why the mentioned argument is considered to be unconvincing. The writer’s opinion should be restated/summarized in the conclusion.
For and Against Essay  provides readers with a thorough debate on the topic with the help of opposing points of view. Each point should be discussed objectively and described in details. The introductory paragraph puts the issue under consideration. The main body of this essay paper should present examples, reasons, and arguments supported by justifications. The author’s own opinion with balanced reflections on the topic should be stated only in conclusion.
Essay Suggesting Solution to a Problem  discusses problems and finds the main solutions. The introduction paragraph explicitly declares a problem and analyses its causes and consequences. The main body of the essay should offer some suggestions for a possible solution to the problem and potential state consequences or expected results. In conclusion, author’s opinion should be distinctly summarized.

📑 How to Write a Discursive Essay

Well, it’s time to talk about the structure of a discursive essay. Like most of the assignments, a discursive paper starts with an introduction and ends with a conclusion:

The first question you may ask is how to start a discursive essay introduction. Simple!

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Give your readers a hook – something that would sound interesting to them.
Provide a short explanation of the problem. You may use quotations, as well as rhetorical questions.
Show your readers both sides of the arguments and sum up.

You may be wondering…

Is there something I should avoid in my discursive essay introduction?

Yes. No stereotypes and generalizations, please!

The next step under formal essay writing you should take is to compose the body.

Tips on how to write a discursive essay.

There are a few points you should remember:

Get an originally-written paper according to your instructions!

First and foremost: stay unprejudiced . Assess all of the aspects of an issue. Leave your feelings behind or for another essay type.
Second: build your argumentation . If you have several arguments for your viewpoint—provide them in separate paragraphs. This will help you to keep your essay comprehensible and distinct. Don’t forget to submit supporting evidence.
Third: write the body of an essay in an alternate manner. What does it mean? If your first paragraph supports the paper’s argument, then in the second paragraph you should write something in the opposite of it. Such a combination of supporting and opposite paragraphs will make your essay look apparent, and well researched. Besides, it will help you to remain neutral.
Fourth: include topic sentences and evidence . Write a summary of the argument at the beginning of the paragraph. It will allow the reader to easier understand what the paragraph is about. Provide evidence to show that you’re not making the facts up.

Well, you’ve almost finished your writing. Now you should focus on the last section. Keep reading, and you will learn how to write a conclusion for a discursive essay.

In the last section, you should summarize your article including the main points, specified in the body paragraphs.
You may also logically express your opinion. Remember: it should resonate with your evidence stated in the body paragraphs.
Don’t repeat findings, just summarize them.

Keep it short. Your conclusion length should not exceed one paragraph.

👍 Do’s and Don’ts

Do you want more discursive essay writing tips? Fine! Just check them below:

Basic Do’s of a Discursive Essay

Write in formal, impersonal style.
Introduce each point in a separate paragraph
Use topic sentences for each paragraph
Write well-developed paragraphs
Give reasons and examples for each point
Use sequencing
Use linking words and phrases
Make references to other sources and make sure that you follow proper citation style
Identify used sources

Basic Don’Ts of a Discursive Essay

Don’t use short forms, like I’ll, don’t, they’ve
Don’t use informal/colloquial language, for example: old as the hills, ain’t, gonna, etc.
Don’t use very emotional language, since it might make your discursive article look prejudiced
Don’t use over-generalizations. Extending the features of some elements from a group more than it is reasonable will lead to generous and inaccurate conclusions.
Don’t express your personal opinion too insistently
Don’t refer to statistics without proper referencing (check our citation guides )
Don’t use personal examples, leave it for a personal experience essay

Well, now you know what discursive essay means, what are its main types, and how to structure it.

Discursive Essay Topics

Discussion of risk factors that impact human health.
Discuss the necessity of understanding cultural heritage to provide efficient health care.
Analyze different opinions on withdrawing patients’ treatment.
Examine different views on the Civil War .
Discuss what hostile emotional states are and how they impact human life.
Discuss the meaning of metaphors used by Virgil in Aeneid .
Describe different opinions on telehealth in nursing homes.
The ethicality of stem cell technology.
Explore the effectiveness of motivational interviewing .
Discuss how people present themselves online .
Discuss the reasons for Coca-Cola’s marketing success.
Analyze the food safety issues and the ways to improve the situation.
Examine the essential meaning of sleep for people’s physical and mental health.
Explore various complications of working with groups .
Discussion of the modern issues with virtue ethics .
Describe different views on the definition of love .
Give the for and against arguments considering food security technologies .
Discuss how the concept of the American dream is presented in the film The Great Gatsby .
Analyze the influence of family problems on children and suggest ways to improve the situation.
Present the various points of view on the ethical concepts of Buddhism .
Examine the attitudes towards the problem of homelessness and the suggested ways of its solution.
Explore different opinions on the American revolution and its consequences.
Discuss various policies and views around the globe on abortion .
Discussion of the history of food foraging in different communities.
Multiple thoughts on civility on the Internet .
Analyze arguments on the effectiveness of hand sanitizers .
Discuss the importance of visual aids in learning.
Present and evaluate the theories of international development .
Discuss how to prevent the spread of the West Nile Virus (WNV).
Is embracing renewable energy sources beneficial for both environment and the global economy?
Examine the correctness of the statement that the ideology of pleasure is the foundation of social activism .
Discussion of the ethical dilemma of population control.
Discuss the ethics of experimental studies .
Analyze the topic of gun violence and gun control laws.
Explore the reasons for opioid crises in the US.
Give arguments for and against random drug testing .
Discuss the problem of endangered species .
Express your opinion on the necessity of parents to be included in children’s education .
Present your attitude towards working in a bureaucratic organization .
Discuss the issue of the nursing shortage and suggest a solution.
Give different viewpoints on the definition of beauty .
Analyze the problem of police misconduct .
Discuss the description of violence of African people in literature .
Examine the views on Gardner’s multiple intelligence theory .
Describe the various opinions on mysticism and express your attitude towards it.
Discuss the diverse standpoints on spirituality .
Is nature protection an urgent problem?
Analyze different ideas on physical privacy at work .
Discussion on the Jewish heritage in nursing.
Examine the views on the meaning of life .

Good luck with your discussions and discursive essays! Be sure to check out the articles on our blog for more academic wisdom. By the way, on the Custom-Writing website, you may find the best essay topics for your academic writing.

And don’t forget to share your opinion in the comments below.

✏️ Discursive Essay FAQ

There is no one definitely correct answer to this question. Like any other essay, the text should have a clear structure with an introduction, body, and conclusion. The most important thing is that the overall book needs to be cohesive, persuasive, and exciting to read.

An example of a step by step guide is:

1. Take a closer look at the topic, think about the points to cover.

2. Choose the most relevant points and compose the Body of the essay.

3. Add an appropriate Introduction and Conclusion.

To write a good conclusion, you need to have the rest of the essay finished. Does the body of your essay present well-structured points? Great, then see what you can conclude based on that. If possible, make a connection between the introduction and the conclusion.

To ensure that your essay has a perfect structure, start with creating an outline. Based on such a plan, you can present your points step by step. Your text should have a relevant introduction, several points in the main body (with examples), and a logical conclusion.

🔗 References

Writing an Opinion Essay: Grace Fleming, ThoughtCo
How to Write a Good Argumentative Essay: Easy Step-by-Step Guide: Master Class
Ending the Essay: Conclusions: Harvard College Writing Center
Academic Writing Style: University of Southern California
Cite Your Sources: Library Guides at University of California, Santa Cruz
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How to Write a Discursive Essay

November 17, 2023

A discursive essay is a type of academic writing that presents both sides of an argument or issue. Unlike an argumentative essay where you take a clear stance and defend it, a discursive essay allows you to explore different perspectives and provide an objective analysis. It requires careful research, critical thinking, and the ability to present logical arguments in a structured manner.

In a discursive essay, you are expected to examine the topic thoroughly, present evidence and examples to support your points, and address counterarguments to demonstrate a balanced understanding of the issue. The purpose is not to persuade the reader to take a particular side, but rather to present a comprehensive view of the topic. By mastering the art of writing a discursive essay, you can effectively convey complex ideas and contribute to meaningful discussions on various subjects.

What’s different about writing a discursive essay

Writing a discursive essay differs from other types of essays in several ways. Here are some key differences to consider when approaching this particular form of academic writing:

Explores multiple perspectives: Unlike an argumentative essay, a discursive essay examines different viewpoints on a given topic. It requires you to gather information, analyze various arguments, and present a balanced view.
Structured presentation: A discursive essay follows a clear structure that helps organize your thoughts and arguments. It typically consists of an introduction, several body paragraphs discussing different arguments, and a conclusion.
Impartiality and objectivity: While other essays may require you to take a stance or defend a particular position, a discursive essay aims for objectivity. You should present arguments and evidence without bias and demonstrate a fair understanding of each viewpoint.
Importance of research: Good research is essential for a discursive essay. You should gather information from reliable sources, consider various perspectives, and present evidence to support your ideas.
Addressing counterarguments: In a discursive essay, it is crucial to acknowledge and address counterarguments. By doing so, you show a comprehensive understanding of the topic and strengthen your own argument.
Use of transitions: To maintain coherence and provide a smooth flow of ideas, appropriate transitions should be used to link paragraphs and signal shifts between arguments.

By recognizing these key differences and adapting your writing style accordingly, you can effectively write a discursive essay that engages the reader and presents a well-rounded discussion of the topic.

Step-by-Step Discursive Essay Writing Guide

Selecting a topic.

Selecting a topic for a discursive essay is a crucial first step in the writing process. Here are some considerations to help you choose an appropriate and engaging topic:

Relevance: Select a topic that is relevant and holds significance in the current context. It should be something that sparks interest and discussion among readers.
Controversy: Look for topics that have multiple perspectives and controversial viewpoints. This will allow you to explore different arguments and present a balanced analysis.
Research opportunities: Choose a topic that offers ample research opportunities. This ensures that you have access to reliable sources and enough material to support your arguments.
Personal interest: It is easier to write about a topic that you are genuinely interested in. Consider your own passion and areas of expertise when selecting a subject for your essay.
Scope and depth: Ensure that the chosen topic is neither too broad nor too narrow. It should provide enough scope for thorough analysis and discussion within the word limit of your essay.

Remember, the topic sets the foundation for your discursive essay. Take time to consider these factors and select a topic that aligns with your interests, research capabilities, and the potential to present a well-rounded discussion.

Possible Discursive Essay Topics:

The impact of social media on society.
Should euthanasia be legalized?
Pros and cons of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
The influence of technology on human interactions.
Is homeschooling more beneficial than traditional schooling?
The effects of climate change on the environment.
Should animal testing be banned?
The advantages and disadvantages of globalization.
The ethics of capital punishment.
The legalization of marijuana: pros and cons.

Write the Thesis Statement

The thesis statement in a discursive essay serves as the central argument or main claim that sets the tone for the entire essay. It typically appears in the introductory paragraph and guides the reader’s understanding of the essay’s purpose and direction. Here are some key points to consider when crafting an effective thesis statement for a discursive essay:

Clear stance: The thesis statement should clearly express your position or viewpoint on the topic. It should present a concise statement that reflects your overall argument or analysis.
Controversy: The thesis statement should highlight the controversy or debate surrounding the topic. It should indicate that there are multiple perspectives to be explored and that you will discuss them in a balanced manner.
Specificity: The thesis statement should not be too vague or general. It should address a specific aspect of the topic that you will focus on in your essay.
Clarity: The thesis statement should be clear and easy to understand. It should provide a clear sense of direction for the reader, indicating the main points that will be discussed in the essay.
Strong and compelling: The thesis statement should be strong and compelling, capturing the attention of the reader. It should be a statement that provokes thoughtful analysis and discussion.

By considering these factors, you can develop a thesis statement that effectively sets the tone for your discursive essay and captures the essence of your argument or analysis.

Conducting Research

Conducting thorough research is a critical step in writing a discursive essay. Here are some essential tips to help you effectively gather information and sources:

Define your research question: Clearly define the question or issue you want to explore in your essay. This will guide your research and help you stay focused.
Use a variety of sources: Gather information from a diverse range of sources, such as books, scholarly articles, reputable websites, and academic journals. This will ensure a well-rounded and comprehensive understanding of the topic.
Evaluate the credibility of sources: Assess the reliability and credibility of each source before including it in your essay. Consider factors such as author credentials, publication date, peer-reviewed status, and the reputation of the source.
Take organized notes: As you read and review your sources, take organized notes to keep track of key points, quotes, and references. This will make it easier to cite sources accurately later.
Analyze and synthesize information: Analyze the information you have gathered and synthesize it into coherent arguments. Identify common themes, patterns, and conflicting viewpoints that will form the basis of your essay.
Address counterarguments: Remember to consider and address counterarguments in your research. Engaging with opposing viewpoints will strengthen your arguments and demonstrate a well-rounded understanding of the topic.

By following these research strategies, you can gather reliable and varied sources to support your discursive essay, ensuring a balanced and well-informed discussion of the topic.

Writing the Introduction

The introduction sets the tone and direction for a discursive essay, providing context and background information on the topic. Here are some key elements to include when writing the introduction to a discursive essay:

Grab the reader’s attention: Use a hook or attention-grabbing statement to draw the reader in and generate interest in the topic.
Introduce the topic: Clearly state the topic and provide some background information to contextualize the issue.
Define key terms: Define any key terms related to the topic that may be unfamiliar to the reader.
Present the thesis statement: Clearly state your main argument or claim, which sets the tone for the rest of the essay.
Outline the structure: Briefly outline the main points or arguments that will be addressed in the essay.
Write in a discursive style: Use a discursive style of writing in the introduction that presents multiple viewpoints on the topic.

By including these elements, you can craft an effective introduction to your discursive essay that engages the reader, establishes the context for the topic, and clearly presents your thesis statement. Remember to present a balanced analysis of multiple viewpoints, maintaining the discursive style of the essay.

Presenting Arguments and Counterarguments

Presenting arguments and counterarguments is a crucial aspect of writing a discursive essay. Here are some strategies to effectively structure and present your arguments and counterarguments:

Identify key arguments: Begin by identifying the main arguments or perspectives related to the topic. These arguments will form the basis of your essay and provide a framework for your analysis.
Develop supporting evidence: Gather relevant evidence, examples, statistics, or expert opinions to support each argument. This evidence should be well-researched and credible to strengthen your claims.
Present arguments in a logical order: Organize your arguments in a logical and coherent manner. You can choose to present each argument separately, dedicating individual paragraphs to each one or use a point-counterpoint approach where you counter each argument with a counterargument.
Address counterarguments: Acknowledge and include counterarguments in your essay to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Refute counterarguments by presenting contrasting evidence or providing a persuasive rebuttal.
Provide balanced analysis: While presenting arguments and counterarguments, ensure a balanced analysis that gives due weight to each viewpoint. Avoid bias and strive for objectivity by presenting evidence from various perspectives.
Use transition words and phrases: Utilize appropriate transition words and phrases to guide the reader through the presentation of arguments and counterarguments. Examples include “on the one hand,” “however,” “in contrast,” “nevertheless,” etc.

By following these strategies, you can effectively present arguments and counterarguments in your discursive essay, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the topic and engaging the reader in a thoughtful analysis.

Writing the Body Paragraphs

When writing the body paragraphs of a discursive essay, it’s important to present a balanced and well-structured analysis of the topic. Here are some key strategies to consider:

Organize your paragraphs: Each body paragraph should focus on a single argument or idea. Start with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main point of the paragraph.
Provide evidence and examples: Support your arguments with evidence, facts, statistics, or examples from credible sources. This will enhance the validity and persuasiveness of your arguments.
Use logical reasoning: Present clear and coherent reasoning to connect your evidence with your main argument. Use logic and critical thinking to explain the relevance and significance of your evidence.
Consider opposing viewpoints: Acknowledge potential counterarguments and address them within your body paragraphs. Refute counterarguments using logical and evidence-based reasoning.
Use paragraphs for different viewpoints: If you’re discussing multiple perspectives or arguments within the same essay, dedicate separate paragraphs to each viewpoint. Clearly indicate transitions between paragraphs to maintain a coherent flow.
Include topic sentences and transitions: Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence that clearly states the main idea. Use transitional words and phrases to guide the reader smoothly from one paragraph to the next.

Remember, in a discursive essay, the body paragraphs should explore various arguments and perspectives related to the topic, providing a balanced analysis and supporting evidence. By following these strategies, you can construct well-organized and compelling body paragraphs for your discursive essay.

Incorporating Evidence and Examples

Effectively incorporating evidence and examples is crucial in a discursive essay to support your arguments and strengthen your analysis. Here are some strategies to consider when integrating evidence:

Choose credible sources: Gather evidence from reputable and reliable sources such as scholarly articles, books, authoritative websites, or academic journals. This ensures the validity and credibility of the evidence.
Use a variety of evidence: Draw from a range of sources to provide a well-rounded perspective on the topic. This can include facts, statistics, expert opinions, case studies, or historical examples.
Provide context: When presenting evidence, provide context to help the reader understand its significance. Explain the relevance of the evidence to your argument and how it supports your main points.
Analyze and interpret evidence: Avoid simply regurgitating evidence. Instead, analyze and interpret it, explaining how it supports your argument and contributes to your overall analysis.
Quote and paraphrase effectively: When using direct quotes, ensure they are relevant and support your argument. Use accurate paraphrasing to summarize and restate ideas from your sources.
Cite your sources correctly: Properly cite your sources using a citation style appropriate for your academic field, such as APA, MLA, or Chicago. This gives credit to the original authors and avoids plagiarism.

By incorporating evidence and examples effectively, you can provide a solid foundation for your arguments in a discursive essay, enhancing your credibility and persuasiveness.

Addressing Counterarguments

Addressing counterarguments is an essential component of a discursive essay as it demonstrates critical thinking and strengthens your overall argument. Here are some strategies to effectively address counterarguments:

Identify counterarguments: Identify the main counterarguments or opposing viewpoints related to your topic. This shows that you have considered different perspectives on the issue.
Understand the counterarguments: Thoroughly analyze and understand the counterarguments before addressing them. This will help you develop a strong response based on evidence and reasoning.
Refute the counterarguments: Present a persuasive rebuttal to counterarguments by providing evidence or logical reasoning that challenges or disproves them.
Anticipate objections: Address potential objections or criticisms that readers might have. Proactively refute these objections by providing additional evidence or presenting alternative perspectives.
Acknowledge validity: Recognize the validity of certain counterarguments or aspects of opposing viewpoints. This demonstrates fairness and strengthens your overall argument by showing that you have carefully considered all sides.
Use transitional phrases: Use transitional phrases such as “however,” “although,” or “on the other hand,” to seamlessly introduce counterarguments and your responses.

By effectively addressing counterarguments, you can strengthen your own argument and demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the topic. Engaging with opposing viewpoints in a fair and persuasive manner enhances the overall credibility and impact of your discursive essay.

Concluding the Discursive Essay

Concluding your discursive essay is an opportunity to summarize your main points and leave a lasting impression on the reader. Here are some strategies to effectively conclude your essay:

Restate your thesis statement: Begin your conclusion by restating your thesis statement in a concise and clear manner. This reminds the reader of your main argument and reinforces its significance.
Summarize your main points: Provide a brief summary of the main points you discussed in the body paragraphs. This helps to reinforce the key arguments and evidence presented throughout the essay.
Emphasize the significance of your argument: Highlight the importance and relevance of your argument in relation to the broader context or real-world implications. This helps to leave a lasting impact on the reader.
Address counterarguments: Briefly acknowledge the counterarguments you addressed in the essay and reiterate why your main argument is stronger or more compelling.
Offer a final thought or call to action: Conclude your essay by offering a final thought, reflection, or call to action that encourages the reader to further consider the topic or take action.
Provide closure: End your conclusion by providing a sense of closure to the essay. This can be achieved by offering a conclusive statement or returning to an anecdote or example mentioned earlier in the essay.

By following these strategies, you can effectively conclude your discursive essay, leaving a strong and memorable impression on the reader while summarizing the key points and reinforcing the significance of your argument.

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How to choose discursive essay topics?

Description

Writing a discursive essay is one thing, but searching for discursive essay topics is another thing altogether. It is by far one of the most difficult and most exhausting things to do. Writing a discursive essay is one of the most challenging things you will have to do as a student. The best of the best get in a fix when they have to write a discursive essay. However, this should not be a problem for you now as there are many sources available to help you through the process. Sites like Uniresearchers are very beneficial for students who are looking for professional help with their essay writing or simple things like choosing discursive essay topics.

A discursive essay is one of the most interesting types of essays you will have to write. It is the kind of essay where the writer picks a debatable topic and defends his side throughout his write-up. When you are required to write such essays, it is advisable that you clearly state which side you are on beforehand. It is very important to pick just the right topic for your discursive essay topics. This is very important. You should pick such discursive essay topics which have both sides which can be defended. Also, you must pick such discursive essay topics whose results are not too obvious. Otherwise, there is no point in writing a discursive essay. However, you should not be too stressed out about choosing your discursive essay topics.

Let us now look at some points which will help you pick discursive essay points for your perfect essay.

Brainstorm and generate new and original topics. Pick a topic that fuels all your emotions and revs you. Pick a topic you have a strong affinity for. You must believe in the topic you choose. This will help you in writing your essay well. Not only that, it will also enable you to debate better. If you believe in a certain topic, you must write about it. This is important. You need to be passionate about your choice of topic and must also strongly believe in it.

Avoid topics which are too overdone

This is a very important point. Under all circumstances, you must avoid the topics that are too overdone or have been incessantly repeated. The readers are constantly looking for topics which are interesting and fresh. There is absolutely no space for monotony in topics and content these days. Choose topics which are fresh and trending. These topics are guaranteed to spark the interest of readers. Choose only those topics which are very innovative. Otherwise, your essay will become just another addition to the pile of monotonous essays .

Be very specific

Choose a topic which is very specific. It should not be too general or too overwhelming. Then again, avoid monotony at all costs. The topic you choose should be very specific and highly debatable. The area of the debate should not be too wide. In fact, it should be the complete opposite. The topic for your essay should be crisp and specific. If you choose a topic which has a very wide scope, then it is very likely that you will switch or stray away from your main topic.

Pick an informative topic

Make sure that the topic you choose should be informative. In other words, it should be easy to research and find information on that topic. Also, make sure that whatever your source is, it should be credible and genuine. If your sources are not credible, it may affect and challenge your credibility as a writer. If your content is not genuine, you will face a lot of backlash from your audiences.

Pick a cutting-edge topic

Choose a topic that is edgy and daring. Select a topic that fuels a fire in the minds of people who read about it or the readers of your essay. Your topic should be such that it must have staunch supporters who strongly believe in the topic. Also, the topic should also have fierce opponents as well. It is only when a topic has both supporters and opponents it becomes a good debatable topic. All in all, the main problem of your topic should remain unsolved at all costs. It is only then that the debate will keep going.

Now that you have read all these points, you are fully equipped to pick suitable discursive essay topics. However, if you feel at any point in time that you need professional help, then you can always seek help from Uniresearchers .

20+ Impressive Higher English Discursive Essay Topics

Best Ways to Pick the Higher English Discursive Essay Topics

What is higher english what do you understand, how to choose higher english discursive essay topics, amazing higher english discursive essay topics suggestions, experts assistance for choosing best essay discursive topic.

When it comes to choosing the higher English discursive essay topics ? Then it becomes one of the hectic tasks for the students. During the time of writing the discursive essay topic, it helps to provide the rare opportunity that students can walk the fine line that helps them to separate a discursive essay from the other sections like the argumentative or the persuasive essay. On the other hand, when we talk about certain key points for the same, the discursive essay might help to resemble the other essay types we discussed previously. They are still very distinct from it. While writing an argumentative essay convinces the students of an argument, but when it comes to the discursive essay seeks to examine the arguments on the opposing sides of the issue.

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If you are one of those students who have studied in a country other than the UK, you may wonder what higher English is. Is it a course or here talking about the level? First, let us clarify that it is one of the sections that help students dive into the definition of some of the courses. In the UK, higher English is one of the courses for the students, particularly in England and Scotland. It helps to determine the English language and the literature very deeply. Below are some tips students can learn by studying higher English. They are:

Higher English as an independent subject
Additionally, other higher science programs

Most of the time, discursive essay examples higher English is one of the sections that help to focus on the students' advanced reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. By the end of the course, students should be able to do the following mentioned things:

They can able to use the complex languages
Students can able to apply the literature knowledge in life
Understand the base of the language operation

Every student is required to write an impressive and catchy discursive higher English essay, but specific issues arise in their academic life. One of them is choosing a unique and catchy for the higher English discursive essay topics . Suppose you are also one of those students facing a problem selecting the topic, then go through the below-mentioned tips. Here we discuss how students can choose the best topic for their write-up.

Also Read: How to Write Discursive Essay | Everything You Need to Know

Once you are done knowing what is higher English discursive essay. Then it is time to move to the challenging part of selecting the topic. Below mentioned are the useful tips that students can use for choosing the topic for their topic. Also, you can ask for discursive essay examples higher English .

Motive of Writing

With the help of the discursive essay, students can present all the arguments that can convince their readers that the writer is talking about the right scenario and the relevant things. This is why you choose the topic you can elaborate on and persuade. Also, they can choose law essay writing service .

Pick the Theme Wisely

When choosing the topic, make sure that the topic is appropriate and relevant for the professor, who will go through the same and grade the paper as the requirements. Focus on covering all the pointers to meet the expectation of the professor.

Utilise the Resources

First, evaluate that you have enough information on your chosen topic. Also, choose the things that are compelling essays. Finally, check for the possible relevant and trustworthy sources for the statement you will use in the essay writeup.

The above are some tips students can use to choose the best higher English discursive essay . These helpful tips make it easy for students to pick the best topic. However, if you still have doubts and cannot choose a reliable topic, we are providing some suggestions for higher English discursive essay topics that students can use for their writeup.

Below mentioned are the higher E nglish discursive essay examples . Let’s have a look

The importance of literacy
Football has a direct influence on English culture.
Every school should teach foreign languages.
High schools should teach both abstinence and safe.
To ensure discipline, school uniforms should be required.
People should give off smoking.
Eating disorders in adolescent females are a serious problem that should not be overlooked.
In education, motivation theories are quite successful.
Their self-esteem greatly influences students' health.
Because alcohol harms teenage health, parents should keep an eye on their children's alcohol usage.
Children and teens should not remain silent in the face of domestic violence.
Sports betting should be prohibited by the government.
We should drink plenty of water.
The reduction of the generation gap is critical for good family interaction.
High school athletes should be subjected to drug tests.
Cheating on college examinations should be penalised severely since it is discouraging.
The advantages of active listening are critical in exhibiting excellent performance at work.
Every student should evaluate the time management practices of their peers.
Sleep is vital since sleep loss impacts college students' academic performance.
Should fast food be considered "food"?
A healthy way of life and eating should become the standard for everyone.
Alternative energy sources are critical to the planet's survival.

Above are some suggestions for choosing the d iscursive e ssay i deas f or h igher English . If you are still not able to grasp the concept and not able to choose the best one for your write-up, then get the consultation of our expert writer . They will help you in completing the essay within a short period. So let’s get a consultation with professionals.

Several students stuck with choosing the right higher English discursive essay topics . At that time Assignment Desk is the saviour for students. They provide assignment writing help to students. You can consult professional writers if you are also going through the same scenario or not getting a solution for educational issues. They have vast knowledge and rich experience in providing the best essay writing services. Also, many students in the UK take assistance from experts to complete their work within the given period. Experts will offer a wide range of topics to students.

With the help of those suggestions, students can choose the best one for their essay help online and secure higher academic grades.

Additionally, at some point, students face issues in drafting the whole write-up. So, in this case, also they can take consultation from an academic writing service provider. So what are you waiting for? Want help with essay writing tasks? Get reliable consultation.

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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?

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?

Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest

Students > Essay Contests > Atlas Shrugged

✓ Open to all high school, college, and graduate students worldwide.

Annual Grand Prize

June 14, 2024

Summer Entry Deadline

Book Length

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We’ll email you more information about this year’s contest—including instructions on how to enter. In the meantime, please let us know at [email protected] if you have any questions. We’re happy to help.

What is Atlas Shrugged?

The astounding story of a man who said that he would stop the motor of the world—and did.

Tremendous in scope, breathtaking in its suspense, Atlas Shrugged is unlike any other book you have ever read. It is a mystery story, not about the murder of a man’s body, but about the murder—and rebirth—of man’s spirit.

How It Works

Every three months there is a new seasonal entry round, with its own unique essay prompt. You may compete in any or all of these entry rounds.

The top three essays from each season will be awarded a cash prize. The first-place essay from each season will advance to compete for the annual grand prize.

The first-place essay from each season will be eligible to contend for the annual first-place title, with the opportunity to secure a grand prize of $25,000.

Challenging Essay Topics

Each entry round features a unique topic designed to provoke a deeper understanding of the book’s central themes and characters.

Essays must be written in English only and be between 800 and 1,600 words in length.

Questions? Write to us at [email protected] .

Summer Prompt
Fall Prompt
Winter Prompt

The essay prompt for our fall entry period has not yet been determined. We will post it here as soon it’s available.

The essay prompt for our winter entry period has not yet been determined. We will post it here as soon it’s available.

Grand Prize

Master our grading standards.

Essays are judged on whether the student is able to justify and argue for his or her view, not on whether the Institute agrees with the view the student expresses.

Our graders look for writing that is clear, articulate, and logically organized. Essays should stay on topic, address all parts of the selected prompt, and interrelate the ideas and events in the novel.

Winning essays must demonstrate an outstanding grasp of the philosophic meaning of Atlas Shrugged .

Organization

Understanding, contest timeline, discover the power of atlas shrugged.

Atlas Shrugged is a mystery novel like no other. You enter a world where scientists, entrepreneurs, artists, and inventors are inexplicably vanishing—where the world is crumbling.

And what you discover, by the end, is an uplifting vision of life, an inspiring cast of heroes, and a challenging new way to think about life’s most important issues.

Learn more and request a free digital copy of the book today.

Learn from Past Winners

Curious to know what makes for a winning essay in the Atlas Shrugged contest? Check out some of the essays written by our most recent grand-prize winners.

To varying degrees, they all display an excellent grasp of the philosophic meaning of Atlas Shrugged .

Click here to see the full list of 2022 contest winners.

Jacob Fisher

Graduate Student

Stanford University

Stanford, California

United States

Mariah Williams

Regis University

Denver, Colorado

Nathaniel Shippee

University of Illinois

Chicago, Illinois

Samuel Weaver

St. John’s College

Annapolis, Maryland

Patrick Mayles

Graduate student

Universidad Nacional de Colombia

Christina Jeong

College Student

University of Notre Dame

Notre Dame, Indiana

Improve Your Writing Skills

Other than endorsing perfect punctuation and grammar in English, the Ayn Rand Institute offers no advice or feedback for essays submitted to its contests. However, we do recommend the following resources as ways to improve the content of your essays.

The Atlas Project

Writing: a mini-course.

Sign Up for Contest Updates!

Want to stay up-to-date on any new developments to the contest? Sign up to our email list below.

We’ll send you periodic reminders about the contest deadlines, as well as helpful resources to ensure you get the most out of your experience reading and writing about Ayn Rand’s Atlas Shrugged .

Great! Let's get you a copy of the book.

Atlas Shrugged is a mystery novel like no other. You enter a world where scientists, entrepreneurs, artists, and inventors are inexplicably vanishing—where the world is crumbling.

What you discover, by the end, is an uplifting vision of life, an inspiring cast of heroes, and a challenging new way to think about life’s most important issues.

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Then, when you're ready to submit your essay, just return to our platform. Your saved entry will be right where you left off. So, why wait? Take the first step, and start your entry today.

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IMAGES

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COMMENTS

30 Professor Recommended Discursive Essay Topics (Updated for 2022)
Writing is the least important, particularly with the advent of voice dictation on smart phones. Many linguists disagree, asserting that writing is the exact skill which helps connect speaking and listening. Explore. #25 English is one of the hardest/easiest languages to learn.
50 Unique Discursive Essay Topics for Students
To find the right topic for your discursive essay, you can consider the following factors: Brainstorm: To generate some effective topic ideas for your essay, try brainstorming with your friends. This process is used in various professions (including creative writing) worldwide to find innovative ideas. People try many ways to brainstorm for ideas.
155 Hot Discursive Essay Topics To Use Right Now
Focused and Catchy. When your lecturer checks the essay, the topic is what you will get first, and, therefore, you should make it catchy. This makes the reader want to go deeper into the paper and see what you have to say. A good topic is also likely to earn you a higher grade. Next, we will highlight the main essay ideas, starting with higher ...
Discursive Essay Topics & Ideas 2022
Discursive Essay Topics & Ideas 2022. Published by Alvin Nicolas at November 16th, 2022 , Revised On November 3, 2023. A discursive essay is a form of an academic essay in which you express your beliefs or points of view in favour of or against the issue. Even at times, this essay would allow you to impartially offer your points of view on all ...
187 Impressive Higher English Persuasive Essay Topics [2024]
187 Impressive Higher English Persuasive Essay Topics [2024] by IvyPanda Updated on: Dec 28th, 2023. 17 min. 50,125. Persuasive essay writing is a popular assignment for students in high school and college alike. This is not surprising. After all, it is a basic of the learning process.
Discursive Essay Topic Ideas For College Students: Top 20 Examples
Choosing a discursive essay topic that addresses a significant problem or raises awareness about an important cause can make a real difference. By discussing topics like mental health, social justice, or environmental sustainability, students can contribute to creating a positive impact on society. 6. Personal growth.
50 Powerful Discursive Essay Topics With Unique Writing Tips
Discursive Essay Topics with Unique Writing Tips-The writing process creates a student's technical knowledge and skills, so discursive essay topics are a popular form of evaluation at community colleges. Further writing potential is accumulated as an ability of learners, insightful, inclusive, and problem-solving knowledge and skills are assessed.
20 Discursive Essay Topics That Make the Grade
No problem. Check out these 20 discursive essay topics from the areas of health/wellness, science/technology, the environment, social media, and four unique topics on the lighter side. You can even check out some sample discursive essays for inspiration.
150 Excellent Discursive Essay Topics for Students To Consider
Write the discursive essay in a formal third-person speech. When writing this essay, use the right choice of words and formal language conventions. Avoid using emotional writing style and clichés to exaggerate your opinions. Follow the standard essay structure that contains separate sections for the introduction, body, and conclusion.
Discursive Essay [Topics, Examples, Ideas]
Check topics for discursive essays and higher English discursive essay topics. Read top advice from professionals [+Examples] ... 27 September 2022 в 15:06 Hailey Hamblin. I really like how they give profound meaning into what they write, and how it makes the reader feel. I know that it makes me feel alive and interested in reading more.
How to Write a Discursive Essay with Impact and Authority
Language and Style: Formal Tone: Maintain a formal and objective tone throughout the essay. Clarity and Coherence: Ensure that your ideas are presented clearly and that there is coherence in your argumentation. Varied Sentence Structure: Use a variety of sentence structures to enhance readability and engagement. 6.
Planning a Discursive Essay
Planning. Use previous chapters to explore your chosen topic through concept mapping (Chapter 18) and essay outlining (Chapter 19), with one variance; you must include your proposed claims and counter claims in your proposed paragraph structures. What follows is a generic model for a discursive essay. The following Chapter 27 will examine this ...
How to Write a Good Discursive Essay
The points you use while writing a discursive essay need to flow smoothly so that readers could see a logical organization of the work. For this, you can use transition words that'll make your paper easily readable and crisp. For example, if you want to list some points, opt for such words as firstly, to begin with, secondly, lastly, finally ...
30 Discursive Essay Topics to Nail That Essay in Style
Introduction. Body paragraph 01: argument and supporting examples. Body paragraph 02: counter-argument and supporting examples. Body paragraphs 03 to 06: following the same argument and counter-argument structure. Conclusion. Pro tip 01: Never forget to run a thorough plagiarism check after you have finished writing the essay.
Discursive Essay Topics ― How to Choose the Right One?
Choosing a topic is the first step to writing an essay. You need to select a topic that will interest you. It has to be something you are interested in and can write about. You've come to the ideal place if you're looking for a topic for a research paper. There are countless options available, including cases in politics, science, and more!
How to Write a Discursive Essay
The discursive essay discusses ideas and opinions on a topic without the aim of persuading the reader to take a given view. It is your unbiased presenting of differing viewpoints that allows the reader to decide which is best. This allows you to present the topic from several viewpoints, showing the pros and cons of them all.
The Best Discursive Essay Topics
Discursive Essay Topics: "Do" and "Do Not". 1. Use Impersonal Constructions. In your discursive essay, you are going to look at the two sides of the debate, so you do not want to begin the argument by saying "I think this, I think that", and then use the same personal construction exploring the other side of the debate, when these ...
50 Argumentative Essay Topics for Students
These essays discuss issues around a range of topics, including science, technology, politics, and healthcare. Whether you're a teacher looking for essay topics for your students or a student tasked with developing an idea of your own, we've compiled a list of 50 argumentative essay topics to help you get started! 50 Argumentative Essay Topics.
How to Write a Discursive Essay: Tips to Succeed & Examples
Start with an introduction to the topic. Discuss each essay question in a single paragraph. Begin each paragraph with a powerful issue sentence. Paragraphs with one point usually followed by a counterpoint paragraph. Its style is general for essays as the reader should understand what you stand for.
How to Write a Discursive Essay
Identify key arguments: Begin by identifying the main arguments or perspectives related to the topic. These arguments will form the basis of your essay and provide a framework for your analysis. Develop supporting evidence: Gather relevant evidence, examples, statistics, or expert opinions to support each argument.
How to choose discursive essay topics?
Description. Writing a discursive essay is one thing, but searching for discursive essay topics is another thing altogether. It is by far one of the most difficult and most exhausting things to do. Writing a discursive essay is one of the most challenging things you will have to do as a student. The best of the best get in a fix when they have to write a discursive essay.
20+ Impressive Higher English Discursive Essay Topics
Additionally, other higher science programs. Most of the time, discursive essay examples higher English is one of the sections that help to focus on the students' advanced reading, writing, listening and speaking skills. By the end of the course, students should be able to do the following mentioned things: They can able to use the complex ...
130 New Prompts for Argumentative Writing
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 ...
Atlas Shrugged Essay Contest
Check out some of the essays written by our most recent grand-prize winners. To varying degrees, they all display an excellent grasp of the philosophic meaning of Atlas Shrugged. Click here to see the full list of 2022 contest winners. 2022. Jacob Fisher. Graduate Student. Stanford University. Stanford, California.

Essay Examples

30 Professor Recommended Discursive Essay Topics (Updated for 2019)

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Discursive Essay Topics & Ideas 2022

Topic Selection!

Discursive Essay Topics

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How to write a discursive essay?

187 Impressive Higher English Persuasive Essay Topics [2024]

❓ What Is Higher English?

📃 References

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Why choosing a good discursive essay topic is crucial for college students

2. Showcasing your knowledge

3. Encouraging critical thinking

4. Reflecting societal issues

5. Making a difference

6. Personal growth

Top 20 Discursive Essay Topic Ideas for College Students

2. The role of online gaming in shaping the behavior of young individuals

3. The importance of teaching financial literacy in schools

4. The impact of marketing on children’s behavior and choices

5. The benefits and drawbacks of online education