argumentative essay topic for high school

114 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2023

April 25, 2023

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

What is an Argumentative Essay

An argumentative essay is an essay that uses research to present a reasoned argument on a particular subject . As with the persuasive essay , the purpose of this essay is to sway the reader to the writer’s position. A strong persuasive essay makes its point through diligent research, evidence, and logical reasoning skills.

Argumentative Essay Format

A strong argumentative essay will be based on facts, not feelings. Each of these facts should be supported by clear evidence from credible sources . Furthermore, a good argumentative essay will have an easy-to-follow structure. When organizing your argumentative essay, use this format as a guide: introduction, supporting body paragraphs, paragraphs addressing common counterarguments, and conclusion.

In the introduction , the writer presents their position and thesis statement —a sentence that summarizes the paper’s main points. The body paragraphs then draw upon supporting evidence to back up this initial statement, with each paragraph focusing on its own point. In the counterargument paragraph , the writer acknowledges and refutes opposing viewpoints. Finally, in the conclusion , the writer restates the main argument made in the thesis statement and summarizes the points of the essay. Additionally, the conclusion may offer a final proposal to persuade the reader of the essay’s position.

For more tips and tricks on formatting an argumentative essay, check out this useful guide from Khan Academy.

How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step

• Choose your topic. Use the list below to help you pick a topic. Ideally, the topic you choose will be meaningful to you.
• Once you’ve selected your topic, it’s time to sit down and get to work! Use the library, the web, and any other resources to gather information about your argumentative essay topic. Research widely but smartly. As you go, take organized notes, marking the source of every quote and where it may fit in the scheme of your larger essay. Remember to look for possible counterarguments.
• Outline . Using the argumentative essay format above, create an outline for your essay. Brainstorm a thesis statement covering your argument’s main points, and begin to put together the pieces of the essay, focusing on logical flow.
• Write . Draw on your research and outline to create a solid first draft. Remember, your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect. (As Voltaire says, “Perfect is the enemy of good.”) For now, focus on getting the words down on paper.
• Edit . Be your own critical eye. Read what you’ve written back to yourself. Does it make sense? Where can you improve? What can you cut?

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

Family argumentative essay topics.

• Should the government provide financial incentives for families to have children to address the declining birth rate?
• Should we require parents to provide their children with a certain level of nutrition and physical activity to prevent childhood obesity?
• Should parents implement limits on how much time their children spend playing video games?
• Should cellphones be banned from family/holiday gatherings?
• Should we hold parents legally responsible for their children’s actions?
• Should children have the right to sue their parents for neglect?
• Should parents have the right to choose their child’s religion?
• Are spanking and other forms of physical punishment an effective method of discipline?
• Should courts allow children to choose where they live in cases of divorce?
• Should parents have the right to monitor teens’ activity on social media?
• Should parents control their child’s medical treatment, even if it goes against the child’s wishes?

Education Argument Essay Topics

• Should schools ban the use of technology like ChatGPT?
• Are zoos unethical, or necessary for conservation and education?
• To what degree should we hold parents responsible in the event of a school shooting?
• Should schools offer students a set number of mental health days?
• Should school science curriculums offer a course on combating climate change?
• Should public libraries be allowed to ban certain books?
• What role, if any, should prayer play in public schools?
• Should schools push to abolish homework?
• Are gifted and talented programs in schools more harmful than beneficial due to their exclusionary nature?
• Should universities do away with Greek life?
• Should schools remove artwork, such as murals, that some perceive as offensive?
• Should the government grant parents the right to choose alternative education options for their children and use taxpayer funds to support these options?
• Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling for children’s academic and social development?
• Should we require schools to teach sex education to reduce teen pregnancy rates?
• Should we require schools to provide comprehensive sex education that includes information about both homosexual and heterosexual relationships?
• Should colleges use affirmative action and other race-conscious policies to address diversity on campus?
• Should the government fund public universities to make higher education more accessible to low-income students?
• Should the government fund universal preschool to improve children’s readiness for kindergarten?

Government Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the U.S. decriminalize prostitution?
• Should the U.S. issue migration visas to all eligible applicants?
• Should the federal government cancel all student loan debt?
• Should we lower the minimum voting age? If so, to what?
• Should the federal government abolish all laws penalizing drug production and use?
• Should the U.S. use its military power to deter a Chinese invasion of Taiwan?
• Should the U.S. supply Ukraine with further military intelligence and supplies?
• Should the North and South of the U.S. split up into two regions?
• Should Americans hold up nationalism as a critical value?
• Should we permit Supreme Court justices to hold their positions indefinitely?
• Should Supreme Court justices be democratically elected?
• Is the Electoral College still a productive approach to electing the U.S. president?
• Should the U.S. implement a national firearm registry?
• Is it ethical for countries like China and Israel to mandate compulsory military service for all citizens?
• Should the U.S. government implement a ranked-choice voting system?
• Should institutions that benefited from slavery be required to provide reparations?
• Based on the 1619 project, should history classes change how they teach about the founding of the U.S.?

Bioethics Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the U.S. government offer its own healthcare plan?
• In the case of highly infectious pandemics, should we focus on individual freedoms or public safety when implementing policies to control the spread?
• Should we legally require parents to vaccinate their children to protect public health?
• Is it ethical for parents to use genetic engineering to create “designer babies” with specific physical and intellectual traits?
• Should the government fund research on embryonic stem cells for medical treatments?
• Should the government legalize assisted suicide for terminally ill patients?

Social Media Argumentative Essay Topics

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

Religion Argument Essay Topics

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

Science Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the world eliminate nuclear weapons?
• Should scientists bring back extinct animals?
• Should we hold companies fiscally responsible for their carbon footprint?
• Should we ban pesticides in favor of organic farming methods?
• Is it ethical to clone animals for scientific purposes?
• Should the federal government ban all fossil fuels, despite the potential economic impact on specific industries and communities?
• What renewable energy source should the U.S. invest more money in?
• Should the FDA outlaw GMOs?
• Would the world be safe if we got rid of all nuclear weapons?
• Should we worry about artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence?

Sports Argument Essay Topics

• Should colleges compensate student-athletes?
• How should sports teams and leagues address the gender pay gap?
• Should youth sports teams do away with scorekeeping?
• Should we ban aggressive contact sports like boxing and MMA?
• Should professional sports associations mandate that athletes stand during the national anthem?
• Should high schools require their student-athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
• Should transgender athletes compete in sports according to their gender identity?
• Should schools ban football due to the inherent danger it poses to players?

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should sites like DALL-E compensate the artists whose work it was trained on?
• Is social media harmful to children?
• Should the federal government make human exploration of space a more significant priority?
• Is it ethical for the government to use surveillance technology to monitor citizens?
• Should websites require proof of age from their users?
• Should we consider A.I.-generated images and text pieces of art?
• Does the use of facial recognition technology violate individuals’ privacy?

Business Argument Essay Topics

• Should the U.S. government phase out the use of paper money in favor of a fully digital currency system?
• Should the federal government abolish its patent and copyright laws?
• Should we replace the Federal Reserve with free-market institutions?
• Is free-market ideology responsible for the U.S. economy’s poor performance over the past decade?
• Will cryptocurrencies overtake natural resources like gold and silver?
• Is capitalism the best economic system? What system would be better?
• Should the U.S. government enact a universal basic income?
• Should we require companies to provide paid parental leave to their employees?
• Should the government raise the minimum wage?
• Should antitrust regulators break up large companies to promote competition?
• Is it ethical for companies to prioritize profits over social responsibility?
• Should gig-economy workers like Uber and Lyft drivers be considered employees or independent contractors?
• Should the federal government regulate the gig economy to ensure fair treatment of workers?
• Should the government require companies to disclose the environmental impact of their products?

In Conclusion – Argument Essay Topics 

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

Looking for more fresh and engaging topics for use in the classroom? Also check out our 85 Good Debate Topics for High School Students .

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Lauren Green

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Argumentative Research Topics

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

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

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

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

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

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101 Argument Essay Prompts for High School

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

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

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

Here are 101 Argument Essay Prompts:

Argument essay topics teens love.

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

Argument Essay  Prompts About Technology

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

Argument Essay  Topics about the Environment

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

Argument Essay  Prompts about Entrepreneurship

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

Teaching Argument Essay: Instructional Unit

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

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

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

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

Argument Essay  Topics about Animals

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

Argument Essay  Prompts about Sports

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

Argument Essay Topics about School

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

Argument Essay  Prompts about Teens and Politics

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

Argument Essay  Topics about Vehicles

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

Argument Essay  Prompts about Space and Space Exploration

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

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

Need argument essay instructional materials?

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

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Interesting High School Argumentative Essay Topics

September 21, 2022

Argumentative essays are meant to convince the readers concerning the facts, value conclusions, and arguments shared by the writer. The main elements that should be considered when writing good argumentative essays include establishing facts that support the main arguments.

The Second element is to clarify the values relevant to the intended audience.

There is also a need to ensure that the values and facts are placed coherently and cohesively; this requires students to prioritize their ideas and edit them in the right sequence. Many high school students find argumentative essay writing a major challenge.

They do not know how to ensure that their points are persuasive enough.

Argumentative Essay Writing

It is important to know that writing essays should not be a matter of informing the readers of what they know, ensuring that they believe and be convinced of the issues being presented. For one to write argumentative essays, a student needs to present the objectives of their analysis by presenting the topic’s key ideas, concepts, and issues.

This is the introduction part that will help the reader know the controversial issues of the subject. The opening section will also give the readers a clue about the position the writer is supporting; this is possible by writing a thesis statement.

Waste a Lot of Time

Essay writing is challenging, but the other most important thing is the topics you select for your essays. Many students can usually write their essays and term papers effectively. Still, they waste a lot of time on the title, thinking that it makes their deadlines closer which can cost their academic lives difficult in the long term.

It would help if you found some interesting high school argumentative essay topics before writing your essays and term papers.

Here is a high school argumentative essay topic list:

Essay Topics for High School Students:

• Is there life after demise?
• How much is too much homework?
• Are school uniforms good or bad idea?
• Does television influence your intellect?
• Is our society male-dominated, or do we practice equal sharing?
• Should fathers get paid paternity leave from work as well?
• Is there any dissimilarity between illegal drugs and cigarettes?
• Is keeping newspaper reporters’ sources a secret ethical?
• Is global warming real? And Global warming, fact or fiction.
• Since some religious groups are not resistant to atheists, should nonbelievers be large-minded of such religious communities?
• Is cloning good or bad?
• Should abortion be legal?
• Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Do we follow a fair taxation system?
• Arguments for and against euthanasia.
• Should cell phones be allowed in schools?
• Are prisons the only way to eliminate crime?
• Can curfews help keep teenagers out of trouble?

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50 Argumentative Essay Topics

Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo. 

• M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
• B.A., History, Armstrong State University

An argumentative essay requires you to decide on a topic and take a position on it. You'll need to back up your viewpoint with well-researched facts and information as well. One of the hardest parts is deciding which topic to write about, but there are plenty of ideas available to get you started.

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

Students often find that most of their work on these essays is done before they even start writing. This means that it's best if you have a general interest in your subject, otherwise you might get bored or frustrated while trying to gather information. (You don't need to know everything, though.) Part of what makes this experience rewarding is learning something new.

It's best if you have a general interest in your subject, but the argument you choose doesn't have to be one that you agree with.

The subject you choose may not necessarily be one that you are in full agreement with, either. You may even be asked to write a paper from the opposing point of view. Researching a different viewpoint helps students broaden their perspectives. 

Ideas for Argument Essays

Sometimes, the best ideas are sparked by looking at many different options. Explore this list of possible topics and see if a few pique your interest. Write those down as you come across them, then think about each for a few minutes.

Which would you enjoy researching? Do you have a firm position on a particular subject? Is there a point you would like to make sure to get across? Did the topic give you something new to think about? Can you see why someone else may feel differently?

50 Possible Topics

A number of these topics are rather controversial—that's the point. In an argumentative essay, opinions matter and controversy is based on opinions, which are, hopefully, backed up by facts.   If these topics are a little too controversial or you don't find the right one for you, try browsing through persuasive essay and speech topics  as well.

• Is global climate change  caused by humans?
• Is the death penalty effective?
• Is our election process fair?
• Is torture ever acceptable?
• Should men get paternity leave from work?
• Are school uniforms beneficial?
• Do we have a fair tax system?
• Do curfews keep teens out of trouble?
• Is cheating out of control?
• Are we too dependent on computers?
• Should animals be used for research?
• Should cigarette smoking be banned?
• Are cell phones dangerous?
• Are law enforcement cameras an invasion of privacy?
• Do we have a throwaway society?
• Is child behavior better or worse than it was years ago?
• Should companies market to children?
• Should the government have a say in our diets?
• Does access to condoms prevent teen pregnancy?
• Should members of Congress have term limits?
• Are actors and professional athletes paid too much?
• Are CEOs paid too much?
• Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
• Do violent video games cause behavior problems?
• Should creationism be taught in public schools?
• Are beauty pageants exploitative ?
• Should English be the official language of the United States?
• Should the racing industry be forced to use biofuels?
• Should the alcohol drinking age be increased or decreased?
• Should everyone be required to recycle?
• Is it okay for prisoners to vote (as they are in some states)?
• Is it good that same-sex couples are able to marry?
• Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school ?
• Does boredom lead to trouble?
• Should schools be in session year-round ?
• Does religion cause war?
• Should the government provide health care?
• Should abortion be illegal?
• Are girls too mean to each other?
• Is homework harmful or helpful?
• Is the cost of college too high?
• Is college admission too competitive?
• Should euthanasia be illegal?
• Should the federal government legalize marijuana use nationally ?
• Should rich people be required to pay more taxes?
• Should schools require foreign language or physical education?
• Is affirmative action fair?
• Is public prayer okay in schools?
• Are schools and teachers responsible for low test scores?
• Is greater gun control a good idea?
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300 Questions and Images to Inspire Argument Writing

Recent Student Opinion and Picture Prompts, categorized by topic, to help students discover the issues that matter to them.

By The Learning Network

Update: This list is available as a PDF .

If you’ve taught argument writing with our resources in the past, you already know we ask a fresh question every day as part of our long-running Student Opinion series . Teenagers around the world are invited to visit and post their thoughts on topics including politics, medical ethics, fashion, sports and entertainment.

We’ve rounded up lists of these prompts in the past, but this year we’re doing something new: Below you can find a categorized collection of all our recent, relevant Student Opinion questions, but alongside them we’re also including related Picture Prompts. These short, image-based forums are accessible to learners of all ages, but still provide engaging jumping-off points to help students make and support claims.

For instance, let’s say your class is interested in meme culture. A Student Opinion question asks, “ Do Memes Make the Internet a Better Place? ” and invites students to read and weigh in on a New York Times article that examines the role of memes in how teenagers process world events. Over 700 students have already submitted their thoughts .

But if you scan the “Technology and Social Media” category below, you’ll see we also have a Picture Prompt that asks a more direct, concrete question: “ What are your favorite memes? ” For many, that may be a fun, comfortable place to start.

So give your students both “voice and choice” by inviting them to find the questions and format that speak to them. All the prompts below are still open for comment. We look forward to seeing which ones inspire the most passionate arguments, and we invite your class to submit the results to our Eighth Annual Editorial Contest .

Argumentative Prompt Topics

Technology & social media, coronavirus, college & career, mental & physical health, race & gender, parenting & childhood, ethics & morality, government & politics, other questions.

Article-Based Prompts

1. How Worried Should We Be About Screen Time During the Pandemic? 2. How Do You Feel About Cancel Culture? 3. Do Memes Make the Internet a Better Place? 4. Does Online Public Shaming Prevent Us From Being Able to Grow and Change? 5. How Young Is Too Young to Use Social Media? 6. Where Should We Draw the Line Between Community Health and Safety and Individual Liberty and Privacy? 7. Do You Think Online Conspiracy Theories Can Be Dangerous? 8. What Do You Think of the Decision by Tech Companies to Block President Trump? 9. Should the Adults in Your Life Be Worried by How Much You Use Your Phone? 10. Is Your Phone Love Hurting Your Relationships? 11. Do You Trust Facebook? 12. Do You Think Recreational Drones Are Safe? 13. Should Kids Be Social Media Influencers? 14. Does Grammar Still Matter in the Age of Twitter? 15. Should Texting While Driving Be Treated Like Drunken Driving? 16. How Do You Think Technology Affects Dating?

Image-Based Prompts

17. Online Video Games : Does more need to be done to make online gaming communities safer? 18. A Computer in Everything : Do “smart” devices worry you? 19. Snail Mail : Do you think handwritten cards and letters still have value in the digital age? 20. Cyberbullying : Should social media companies do more to prevent online harassment? 21. Phone Manners : Are there times when you think using your phone while you’re with other people is rude? 22. Alarm Clocks : Are there any “dumb” devices that you think are better than “smart” devices? 23. Phone Warnings : Should tech devices come with addiction advisories? 24. Phones in Church : Are there some places where phones just don’t belong? 25. Driverless Cars : What do you think about driverless cars? 26. Texting While Walking : Should looking at your phone while crossing the street be illegal? 27. Device Addiction? : As a society, are we too addicted to our devices? 28. ‘A Man Needs His Nuggs’ : What do you think of Carter Wilkerson’s quest, and its results? 29. Soothing Video Games : Can video games intended to calm the mind be fun? Worthwhile? 30. Our Lives on Social Media : How much do you think we can judge our collective happiness by what is posted on social media? 31. ‘Bracelet of Silence’ : Would you wear privacy armor? 32. Baby Yoda : What are your favorite memes? 33. Tesla’s ‘Cybertruck’ : What do you think of this “pickup of the future”? 34. The ‘Bird Box’ Challenge : What do you think of social media challenges like this one?

35. Should Media Literacy Be a Required Course in School? 36. Should Schools Be Able to Discipline Students for What They Say on Social Media? 37. How Should Schools Hold Students Accountable for Hurting Others? 38. Should Schools Provide Free Pads and Tampons? 39. Can Empathy Be Taught? Should Schools Try to Help Us Feel One Another’s Pain? 40. When the Pandemic Ends, Will School Change Forever? 41. Should Schools Change How They Grade Students During the Pandemic? 42. Should Students Be Monitored When Taking Online Tests? 43. Should There Still Be Snow Days? 44. How Should Racial Slurs in Literature Be Handled in the Classroom? 45. Should Teachers Be Allowed to Wear Political Symbols? 46. Should Schools or Employers Be Allowed to Tell People How They Should Wear Their Hair? 47. Are Straight A’s Always a Good Thing? 48. Should Schools Teach You How to Be Happy? 49. How Do You Think American Education Could Be Improved? 50. Should Schools Test Their Students for Nicotine and Drug Use? 51. Can Social Media Be a Tool for Learning and Growth in Schools? 52. Should Facial Recognition Technology Be Used in Schools? 53. Should Your School Day Start Later? 54. Should Yearbooks Include Political News? 55. How Should Senior Year in High School Be Spent? 56. Should Teachers Be Armed With Guns? 57. Is School a Place for Self-Expression? 58. Should Students Be Punished for Not Having Lunch Money? 59. Is Live-Streaming Classrooms a Good Idea? 60. Should Gifted and Talented Education Be Eliminated? 61. What Are the Most Important Things Students Should Learn in School? 62. Should Schools Be Allowed to Censor Student Newspapers? 63. Do You Feel Your School and Teachers Welcome Both Conservative and Liberal Points of View? 64. Should Teachers and Professors Ban Student Use of Laptops in Class? 65. Should Schools Teach About Climate Change? 66. Should All Schools Offer Music Programs? 67. Does Your School Need More Money? 68. Should All Schools Teach Cursive? 69. What Role Should Textbooks Play in Education? 70. Do Kids Need Recess? 71. Should Public Preschool Be a Right for All Children?

72. Graduation in a Pandemic : Is your school doing enough to honor seniors? 73. Most Challenged Books : Are there books that don’t belong in schools or public libraries? 74. Mascot : If you could choose one mascot to represent your school, what would it be? 75. Math : How do you feel about math? 76. Sleep Deprivation : Do you think school should start later for teenagers? 77. Standardized Tests : Is there too much testing at your school? Why or why not? 78. Teacher Walkouts : Do you think teachers should be paid more? Why or why not? 79. Mermaid School : If there could be a special school that would teach you something you really want to learn, what would that school be?

Article-Based Prompts 80. What Weaknesses and Strengths About Our World Are Being Exposed by This Pandemic? 81. As Coronavirus Cases Surge, How Should Leaders Decide What Stays Open and What Closes? 82. How Should We Balance Safety and Urgency in Developing a Covid-19 Vaccine? 83. Do You Want Your Parents and Grandparents to Get the New Coronavirus Vaccine? 84. Do You Think People Have Gotten Too Relaxed About Covid? 85. How Do You Feel About Mask-Slipping?

86. Surge : How should the United States keep the coronavirus pandemic at bay? 87. Masks : What “civic rules” do you think we should all follow now? 88. Paid to Laugh : Would you attend a live TV show taping — if you got money for it? 89. Dolly’s Donation : How do you feel about celebrity philanthropy? 90. Crowds and Covid : How do you feel about crowds during the pandemic? 91. Going Nowhere Fast : Would you take a flight to nowhere?

92. Should Students Be Required to Take the SAT and ACT to Apply to College? 93. Should National Service Be Required for All Young Americans? 94. What Is Your Reaction to the College Admissions Cheating Scandal? 95. Is the College Admissions Process Fair? 96. Should Everyone Go to College? 97. Should College Be Free? 98. Are Lavish Amenities on College Campuses Useful or Frivolous? 99. Should ‘Despised Dissenters’ Be Allowed to Speak on College Campuses? 100. How Should the Problem of Sexual Assault on Campuses Be Addressed? 101. Should Fraternities Be Abolished? 102. Is Student Debt Worth It? 103. Do Other People Care Too Much About Your Post-High School Plans? 104. Should All Young People Learn How to Invest in the Stock Market?

105. Jack-of-All-Trades : Is it better to focus on one thing early in life and get really good at it?

106. Should Students Get Mental Health Days Off From School? 107. Is Struggle Essential to Happiness? 108. Does Every Country Need a ‘Loneliness Minister’? 109. Should Schools Teach Mindfulness? 110. Should All Children Be Vaccinated? 111. What Do You Think About Vegetarianism? 112. Do We Worry Too Much About Germs? 113. What Advice Should Parents and Counselors Give Teenagers About Sexting? 114. Are Emotional-Support Animals a Scam? 115. Do You Believe in Manifesting?

116. Optimism : Is your glass half-empty or half-full? 117. Cursing : Is it ever OK, useful or even healthy to curse? Or is it always inappropriate? 118. Anger Rooms : Do you think places like this are a good idea?

119. What Is Your Reaction to the Days of Protest That Followed the Death of George Floyd? 120. How Should Parents Teach Their Children About Race and Racism? 121. Is America ‘Backsliding’ on Race? 122. Should All Americans Receive Anti-Bias Education? 123. Should All Companies Require Anti-Bias Training for Employees? 124. Should Columbus Day Be Replaced With Indigenous Peoples Day? 125. Is Fear of ‘The Other’ Poisoning Public Life? 126. Justice Ginsburg Fought for Gender Equality. How Close Are We to Achieving That Goal? 127. What Should #MeToo Mean for Teenage Boys? 128. Should There Be More Boy Dolls? 129. Should the Boy Scouts Be Coed? 130. What Is Hard About Being a Boy?

131. Fashion-Show Diversity : What other industries or aspects of life need more diversity? 132. A Town’s New Seal : Why do you think Whitesboro, N.Y., decided to change its seal? 133. Gender Expectations : Do you ever find gender expectations or norms confining? 134. Women’s History Month : What does this holiday mean to you? 135. Boys and Men : What does it mean to “be a man”? 136. Women in Movies : Should some movies dominated by male actors be remade with largely female casts? 137. Unisex Clothing : Should clothing labeling be unisex? 138. Feminism : Do you consider yourself a feminist? 139. Gender and ‘Genderless’ : Do you think that gender is binary?

140. What Are the Greatest Songs of All Time? 141. Should Museums Return Looted Artifacts to Their Countries of Origin? 142. How Do You Feel About Censored Music? 143. What Role Should Celebrities Have During the Coronavirus Crisis? 144. Can You Separate Art From the Artist? 145. Are There Subjects That Should Be Off-Limits to Artists, or to Certain Artists in Particular? 146. Should Art Come With Trigger Warnings? 147. Should Graffiti Be Protected? 148. Is the Digital Era Improving or Ruining the Experience of Art? 149. Are Museums Still Important in the Digital Age? 150. In the Age of Digital Streaming, Are Movie Theaters Still Relevant? 151. Is Hollywood Becoming More Diverse? 152. What Stereotypical Characters Make You Cringe? 153. Do We Need More Female Superheroes? 154. Do Video Games Deserve the Bad Rap They Often Get? 155. Should Musicians Be Allowed to Copy or Borrow From Other Artists? 156. Is Listening to a Book Just as Good as Reading It? 157. Is There Any Benefit to Reading Books You Hate?

158. Hologram Musicians : Which departed artists would you like to see perform live? 159. Movie Theaters : In the age of digital streaming, are movie theaters still relevant? 160. ‘The Image of the Revolution’ : What is it about this photograph that makes it so powerful? 161. Book Covers : What are your favorite book covers? Why? 162. Fashion Trends : What are your favorite fashion trends? What trends do you hate? 163. Fashion Comebacks : What trends from the past would you like to see revived? 164. Murals : Can art be an act of resistance? 165. An 18-Karat Throne : Is this art? 166. A Hug Seen Around the World : Why do you think this image became so popular so quickly? 167. The Role of Public Broadcasting : Do you think programs like “Sesame Street” make the U.S. smarter, stronger and safer? 168. Best Books? : What have you read and loved this year?

169. Should Girls and Boys Sports Teams Compete in the Same League? 170. Should College Athletes Be Paid? 171. Are Youth Sports Too Competitive? 172. Is It Selfish to Pursue Risky Sports Like Extreme Mountain Climbing? 173. How Should We Punish Sports Cheaters? 174. Should Technology in Sports Be Limited? 175. Should Blowouts Be Allowed in Youth Sports? 176. Are Some Youth Sports Too Intense? 177. Does Better Sports Equipment Unfairly Improve Athletic Ability? 178. Is It Offensive for Sports Teams and Their Fans to Use Native American Names, Imagery and Gestures?

179. Brady’s Big Move : How do you feel about Tom Brady leaving the Patriots? 180. Tiger Woods Wins : What are the greatest comebacks in history? 181. Referees : Do sports officials deserve more respect? 182. $430 Million Deal : Is any athlete worth that amount of money? 183. Super Bowl Commercials : Was it smart for advertisers to steer clear of controversy in 2019? 184. Champions : What team in any sport would you like to see win a championship? 185. The Outspoken N.B.A. : Should all sports leagues treat political speech as a right for their players? 186. Gymnastics on Horseback : What is the world’s most difficult sport? 187. Tackle Football : Should children under the age of 12 play tackle football, in your opinion? 188. Breakdancing : Should dance be an Olympic event? 189. Coed Sports : Do you think women and men should compete against each other in sports? 190. Super Bowl Halftime Performer : Whom would you choose to perform at the Super Bowl, and why? 191. Colin Kaepernick’s Protest : What do you think of this protest?

192. Should Parents Track Their Children? 193. Who Should Decide Whether a Teenager Can Get a Tattoo or Piercing? 194. Is It Harder to Grow Up in the 21st Century Than It Was in the Past? 195. Is Childhood Today Over-Supervised? 196. How Should Parents Talk to Their Children About Drugs? 197. What Should We Call Your Generation? 198. Do Parents Ever Cross a Line by Helping Too Much With Schoolwork? 199. What’s the Best Way to Discipline Children? 200. What Are Your Thoughts on ‘Snowplow Parents’? 201. Should Stay-at-Home Parents Be Paid? 202. When Do You Become an Adult?

203. Household Chores : Do you think children should help out around the house? 204. Spy Cams : Should parents use smart devices to keep tabs on their children when they’re home alone? 205. Adults With Rainbow Hair : Are there some trends adults just should not try? 206. Parenting Skills : Should parents say “no” more often when their children ask for new things?

207. Should Students Be Monitored When Taking Online Tests? 208. What Makes a Great Leader? 209. Is It OK to Laugh During Dark Times? 210. Is It Immoral to Increase the Price of Goods During a Crisis? 211. Would You Allow an Ex-Prisoner to Live With You? 212. Would You Return a Lost Wallet? (What if It Had Lots of Money in It?) 213. Is It Wrong to Focus on Animal Welfare When Humans Are Suffering? 214. Is Animal Testing Ever Justified? 215. Should We Be Concerned With Where We Get Our Pets? 216. Is This Exhibit Animal Cruelty or Art? 217. Should Extinct Animals Be Resurrected? If So, Which Ones? 218. Why Do Bystanders Sometimes Fail to Help When They See Someone in Danger? 219. Is It Ethical to Create Genetically Edited Humans? 220. Should Reporters Ever Help the People They Are Covering? 221. Is It OK to Use Family Connections to Get a Job? 222. Is $1 Billion Too Much Money for Any One Person to Have? 223. Are We Being Bad Citizens If We Don’t Keep Up With the News? 224. Should Prisons Offer Incarcerated People Education Opportunities? 225. Should Law Enforcement Be Able to Use DNA Data From Genealogy Websites for Criminal Investigations? 226. Should We Treat Robots Like People?

227. World’s Big Sleep Out : What lengths would you go to in support of a worthy cause? 228. Tipping : Do you leave a tip whenever you’re asked to? 229. Cash Reward : Should you accept a cash reward for doing the right thing? 230. Cheating : Would you tell if you caught your classmates cheating? 231. Do Not Resuscitate : Should doctors have tried to revive this man? 232. Hitler and History : Should the bunker where Hitler killed himself be a tourist attraction? 233. Solving Global Problems : As the head of a global foundation, what problem would you solve?

234. Should the Death Penalty Be Abolished? 235. If You Were a Member of Congress, Would You Vote to Impeach President Trump? 236. Who Do You Think Should Be Person of the Year for 2020? 237. Should the United States Decriminalize the Possession of Drugs? 238. What Would You Do First if You Were the New President? 239. Does Everyone Have a Responsibility to Vote? 240. How Should We Remember the Problematic Actions of the Nation’s Founders? 241. Do You Care Who Sits on the Supreme Court? Should We Care? 242. Is the Electoral College a Problem? Does It Need to Be Fixed? 243. Are Presidential Debates Helpful to Voters? Or Should They Be Scrapped? 244. Is Your Generation Doing Its Part to Strengthen Our Democracy? 245. Should We All Be Able to Vote by Mail? 246. What Issues in the 2020 Presidential Race Are Most Important to You? 247. Do You Think the American Dream Is Real? 248. Should Plastic Bags Be Banned Everywhere? 249. Does the United States Owe Reparations to the Descendants of Enslaved People? 250. Do You Think It Is Important for Teenagers to Participate in Political Activism? 251. Should the Voting Age Be Lowered to 16? 252. What Should Lawmakers Do About Guns and Gun Violence? 253. Should Confederate Statues Be Removed or Remain in Place? 254. Does the U.S. Constitution Need an Equal Rights Amendment? 255. Should National Monuments Be Protected by the Government? 256. Should Free Speech Protections Include Self Expression That Discriminates? 257. How Important Is Freedom of the Press? 258. Should Ex-Felons Have the Right to Vote? 259. Should Marijuana Be Legal? 260. Should the United States Abolish Daylight Saving Time? 261. Should the U.S. Ban Military-Style Semiautomatic Weapons? 262. Should the U.S. Get Rid of the Electoral College? 263. What Do You Think of President Trump’s Use of Twitter? 264. Should Celebrities Weigh In on Politics? 265. Why Is It Important for People With Different Political Beliefs to Talk to Each Other? 266. Should Athletes Speak Out On Social and Political Issues?

267. Government Buildings : Should they all look like the Lincoln Memorial? 268. Oprah for President : Would you vote for her if you could? 269. Peaceful Protesting : In what ways can you demonstrate peacefully to express your views? 270. Student Climate Strikes : What issues do you think deserve more attention? 271. Pennies : Should the United States get rid of the penny? 272. Mandatory Voting? : Should citizens who are 18 or older be required to vote? 273. Dabbing in Congress : Should this teenager have dabbed in his father’s official swearing-in photo? 274. Baby Bonds : Should the government give money to babies?

275. We Document Life’s Milestones. How Should We Document Death? 276. Does Reality TV Deserve Its Bad Rap? 277. Do Marriage Proposals Still Have a Place in Today’s Society? 278. Should We Rethink Thanksgiving? 279. How Do You Decide What News to Believe, What to Question and What to Dismiss? 280. Should the Week Be Four Days Instead of Five? 281. Should Public Transit Be Free? 282. How Important Is Knowing a Foreign Language? 283. Is There a ‘Right Way’ to Be a Tourist? 284. Should Your Significant Other Be Your Best Friend? 285. What Do You Think of the #WalkUpNotOut Movement?

286. Teenage Drivers : What do you think of Georgia’s decision to issue driver’s licenses without road tests? 287. Snow Days : How do you feel about winter weather? 288. Fortune Tellers : Do you believe in psychics? 289. Big City, Small Town : Which would you rather live in? Why? 290. Game Show Winner : Would you ever want to be a contestant on a game show? 291. Fast-Food Buffet : Is this the feast of your dreams or your nightmares? 292. Public Libraries : Are libraries still relevant and important today? 293. Trans Fats : Should trans fats be banned around the world? 294. Dolls : If you could have your favorite toy company make a doll of someone, who would it be and why? 295. Creepy Clowns : How do you feel about clowns? 296. Tattoos : How do you feel about tattooing in general? 297. Brushing Beagle : What are the best dog breeds, in your opinion? 298. U.F.O.s : Do you believe that U.F.O.s are signs of alien life? 299. Small Talk : Do you have the gift of gab? 300. Lottery Winnings : Would you want to win the lottery? Why or why not?

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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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20+ Argumentative Essay Topics for High School

by  Antony W

May 31, 2023

The first step to writing a high school-level argumentative essay is to determine what topics interest and singling out an idea that would be worth exploring.

In our experience, choosing arguable and educational topics tends to be challenging for most students than writing the essay itself. So we’ve put together a list of 20+ topic ideas to make it easy for you to get started right away.

Key Takeaways

• Having to look through a list of revenant topics can take much of your time, but it’s a worthwhile approach for identifying an area to focus on.
• Topic selection can be an intense process, but preliminary research can go a long way to help you choose the right area to focus your effort and attention.
• Once you have a suitable topic in mind, you can use the academically approved structure to write the essay. 

If you already have a topic but need help to complete the essay, click here to order . We’ll connect you with a professional writer with years of experience in writing argumentative essays. Plus, our custom writing service focuses on timely delivery and quality papers.

20+ High School Argumentative Essay Topics

The following is a list of 30+ argumentative essay topics that are interesting enough to explore if you’re at high school level:

Easy Essay Topics about Environment

• Should we aim to eliminate single-use plastics?
• To what extent are humans accountable for global climate change?
• Do electric cars truly live up to their environmental claims?
• How does vegetarian food affect the environment?
• Is the United States taking sufficient measures to combat global climate change?
• Can nuclear waste be securely stored?
• 10. Is the US making adequate efforts to decrease CO2 emissions?

Technology Essay Topics for High School Level

• Social media is harmful to high school children and always has grave consequences.
• Does technology make people more dependent, and if so, how significant is this issue?
• Should we consider the Internet as a public utility, and what are the implications of such a designation?
• Students must not have the permission to have phones in class let alone bring them to school.
• Should there be a legal age limit for social media use?
• Should the United States increase its investment in the space program?

Essay Topics that Focus on Human Ethics and Society

• Is the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports justifiable or unethical?
• Should the government abolish death penalty or maintain it as a form of punishment?
• Is censorship of art and media necessary for society or an infringement on freedom of expression?
• Should social media platforms be liable for the spread of fake news and misinformation?
• Is homeschooling a better alternative to traditional public education?
• Is the government responsible for providing healthcare to its citizens?
• Should recreational marijuana use be legalized or remain illegal?
• Is affirmative action necessary for promoting diversity in higher education and employment?
• Should the minimum wage be increased or kept the same?
• Is gun control an effective solution for reducing gun violence in society?

Argumentative Essay Topics Related to School

• Does the school dress code discriminate against certain genders?
• Should school uniforms be mandatory for students?
• Is a year-round school calendar better than the traditional one?
• Is homework an essential part of a student’s education?
• Should teachers be flexible with accepting late assignments?

Our experts can help you to write a high school level argumentative essay on any topic. You simply have to pay for argumentative writing and we will connect you with the best writer to help you get the work done.

Interesting High School Essay Topics

• Should flag burning be permissible?
• Can parents face legal consequences for their children’s truancy?
• Do social media have a negative impact on relationships?
• Should the government mandate businesses to prioritize diversity in hiring?
• Do you support raising the minimum wage?
• Is college education necessary for everyone?
• Is climate change a significant and genuine threat?
• Do wind farms provide benefits to the environment and the economy?
• Is it unsafe to use DNA for genealogy purposes?
• Should parents have the right to refuse medical treatment for their children?
• Is the US falling behind other countries regarding education?
• Do the actions of a nation’s leader influence the actions of its citizens?
• Should schools be required to provide art courses?
• Should all new vehicles be electric?
• Will AI have a positive or negative impact on the world?
• Should schools permit certain types of personal expression?

General Argumentative Essay Topics for High School

• Are e-readers inferior to printed books?
• Should college education be free for all?
• Do you think beauty standards should be more inclusive?
• Are all college majors equally valuable?
• Is social media harmful to children?
• Has technology redefined the concept of magic?
• Is climate change the most significant global threat?
• Should everyone have access to free healthcare?
• How effective are anti-discrimination laws in protecting disabled students?
• Is an online degree as valid as a degree from a traditional university?
• Is it a conflict of interest for a professor to require their students to purchase their own book?

Science Argumentative Essay Topics for High School

• Is social media exacerbating the mental health crisis, despite its potential to connect people?
• Are social media companies responsible for addressing the negative impact on their users?
• Should there be more regulations governing social media influencers?
• Is it appropriate to ban the use of Photoshop?
• Is modern technology enabling us to become more self-sufficient or more dependent? (While YouTube provides a wealth of knowledge, we rely heavily on GPS for navigation…)
• Does technology facilitate or impede modern-day communication?
• Is technology helping or harming the development of social and communication skills?
• Should the government allocate more funds to space exploration or focus on addressing issues on Earth?

About the author 

Antony W is a professional writer and coach at Help for Assessment. He spends countless hours every day researching and writing great content filled with expert advice on how to write engaging essays, research papers, and assignments.

My English Pages | Learn English Grammar Online

200 argumentative topics for high school students, table of contents, introduction.

• Argumentative writing
• 200 Argumentative Topics for High School
• How to Use the 200 Argumentative Topics for High School

Teaching argumentative writing in high school can be both dynamic and rewarding, especially when equipped with a reservoir of captivating essay prompts. As teachers, you may have witnessed the transformative power of allowing students to choose their own topics. This clearly fosters a genuine connection between students and their writing endeavors. The autonomy to select subjects that align with their interests not only sparks enthusiasm but also cultivates a sense of ownership over their compositions.

In this blog post, we will offer you 200 good argumentative writing topics for high school students.

Before that, let’s first see briefly what argumentative essays are!

Argumentative Writing

The purpose of  argumentation  (also called persuasive writing) is to prove the validity of an idea, or point of view, by presenting sound reasoning, discussion, and argument that thoroughly convinces the reader. Persuasive writing is a type of argumentation with the additional aim to urge the reader to take some form of action. Examples include:

• Critical review

After understanding what argumentative writing is, let’s explore 200 argumentative topics for high school students.

200 Argumentative Topics For High School

Here are 200 argumentative topics for high school students. Designed to stimulate critical thinking and encourage dynamic discussions, these prompts cover a diverse range of subjects, allowing students to explore issues that resonate with their interests and convictions.

• The role of individuals in combating climate change.
• Should single-use plastics be banned to protect the environment?
• The impact of deforestation on biodiversity and climate change.
• The effectiveness of renewable energy sources in reducing carbon emissions.
• Should governments prioritize conservation over economic development?
• The consequences of overfishing on marine ecosystems.
• The role of agriculture in contributing to environmental degradation.
• Is nuclear energy a sustainable and viable alternative to fossil fuels?
• The importance of environmental education in schools.
• The impact of air pollution on public health and the environment.
• Should there be stricter regulations on industrial emissions?
• The role of government in protecting endangered species.
• The benefits and drawbacks of electric vehicles in reducing pollution.
• Is eco-tourism a sustainable solution for promoting conservation?
• The impact of urbanization on natural habitats and wildlife.
• Should there be a global effort to reduce meat consumption for environmental reasons?
• The role of the fashion industry in contributing to environmental waste.
• The importance of recycling and waste reduction in communities.
• Should governments invest more in public transportation to reduce carbon emissions?
• The consequences of water pollution on ecosystems and human health.
• Should school uniforms be mandatory?
• Are standardized tests an accurate measure of a student’s abilities?
• Is the use of technology in classrooms more beneficial or detrimental to learning?
• Should students have a say in the curriculum and textbooks used in their schools?
• Is homeschooling more effective than traditional schooling?
• Should physical education be a mandatory class in high school?
• Is the grading system fair to all students?
• Should schools eliminate the practice of giving homework?
• Are single-sex schools more effective in promoting learning?
• Is it appropriate for teachers to use social media to connect with students?
• Should high school start later in the day to accommodate teenagers’ sleep patterns?
• Is it ethical for schools to conduct drug tests on students?
• Should sex education be mandatory in high schools?
• Is the use of cell phones in schools beneficial or disruptive?
• Should schools teach financial literacy as a mandatory subject?
• Is the traditional college education still relevant in the digital age?
• Should there be a limit to the number of extracurricular activities students can participate in?
• Is the portrayal of historical events accurate in school textbooks?
• Are online classes a viable alternative to traditional classroom education?
• Should schools ban sugary drinks and snacks to promote healthier eating habits?
• Is the use of corporal punishment effective in disciplining students?
• Should schools include trigger warnings in their curriculum for sensitive content?
• Should students be allowed to choose their own teachers?
• Is art and music education as important as other academic subjects?
• Should the school year be extended to provide more learning time?
• Is the emphasis on STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) subjects justified?
• Should students be allowed to grade their teachers?
• Is there a need for stricter gun control measures in schools?
• Should high schools offer vocational training as an alternative to college preparation?
• Is it fair for schools to use standardized tests to evaluate teacher performance?
• Should schools have mandatory drug testing for students participating in extracurricular activities?
• Should teachers be allowed to carry concealed weapons in schools?
• Is it appropriate for schools to monitor students’ social media activity?
• Should schools provide free condoms to students?
• Is the use of artificial intelligence in education beneficial or concerning?
• Should schools eliminate the use of textbooks in favor of digital resources?
• Should high schools offer classes on mindfulness and mental health?
• Is affirmative action in college admissions fair or discriminatory?
• Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
• Is online learning more effective than traditional classroom learning?
• Should schools teach students about cryptocurrency and blockchain technology?
• Should schools have mandatory classes on climate change and environmental sustainability?
• Is the concept of “trigger warnings” in classrooms a form of censorship?
• Should schools implement dress codes to address issues of modesty and professionalism?
• Is there a need for stricter regulations on school bullying?
• Should schools teach students about personal finance and budgeting?
• Is the use of electronic devices affecting students’ attention spans?
• Should schools prioritize vocational training over traditional academic education?
• Is homeschooling a suitable option for students with learning disabilities?
• Should the government allocate more funding to arts education in schools?
• Should schools have mandatory mental health screenings for students?
• Is it ethical for schools to track students’ online behavior?
• Should schools implement restorative justice programs as an alternative to traditional disciplinary measures?
• Should high schools have mandatory classes on digital literacy and online safety?
• Is the practice of assigning grades for physical education fair to all students?
• Should schools ban the use of smartphones during school hours?
• Is it appropriate for schools to teach controversial topics, such as sex education and evolution?
• Should schools offer classes on coding and computer programming?
• Is it fair for schools to suspend students for off-campus behavior?
• Should schools provide free meals to all students, regardless of income?
• Is the emphasis on standardized testing hindering students’ creativity?
• Should schools have mandatory classes on diversity and inclusion?
• Is there a need for more inclusive representation in school textbooks?
• Should schools eliminate the practice of ranking students based on GPA?
• Is the use of surveillance cameras in schools an invasion of privacy?
• Should schools incorporate virtual reality technology into the curriculum?
• Is there a need for stricter regulations on the advertising of unhealthy foods in schools?
• Should schools teach students about the history and impact of social media?
• Is it ethical for schools to use facial recognition technology for security purposes?
• Should schools provide free menstrual products to students?
• Is the emphasis on college attendance as the ultimate goal limiting students’ career options?
• Should schools implement mindfulness and meditation programs for stress reduction?
• Is it fair for schools to expel students for disciplinary reasons?
• Should schools eliminate the use of standardized testing in college admissions?
• Is the portrayal of gender roles in school materials outdated?
• Should schools teach students about the history and impact of artificial intelligence?
• Is there a need for more comprehensive sex education in schools?
• Should schools have mandatory classes on media literacy?
• Is it appropriate for schools to monitor students’ internet use at home?
• Should schools provide free condoms and contraception to students?
• Is the use of tracking systems for student performance effective or detrimental?
• Should schools teach students about the ethical implications of technology?
• Is it fair for schools to implement random drug testing for all students?
• Should schools have mandatory classes on the history and impact of video games?
• Is the concept of “no homework” policies effective in promoting student well-being?
• Should schools provide free hygiene products to students?
• Is there a need for more emphasis on critical thinking skills in the curriculum?
• Should schools eliminate the use of letter grades in favor of narrative evaluations?
• Is the practice of assigning homework over school breaks fair to students?
• Should schools teach students about the history and impact of social justice movements?
• Is the use of tracking systems for student behavior ethical or invasive?
• Should schools incorporate mindfulness and meditation into physical education classes?
• Is it appropriate for schools to regulate students’ off-campus behavior?
• Should schools provide free vision and dental screenings to students?
• Is the emphasis on college degrees as a measure of success outdated?
• Should schools have mandatory classes on responsible internet use?
• Is the use of technology in classrooms narrowing or expanding students’ learning experiences?
• The impact of social media on interpersonal relationships.
• Should standardized testing be the primary measure of a student’s academic ability?
• The role of technology in isolating individuals from face-to-face interactions.
• Is the criminal justice system fair and just for all citizens?
• The influence of pop culture on societal norms and values.
• Should the voting age be lowered or raised?
• The effects of income inequality on social mobility.
• Mandatory community service for high school students: pros and cons.
• The impact of climate change on vulnerable communities.
• Is censorship justified in the interest of national security?
• The role of schools in addressing mental health issues among students.
• Should school uniforms be mandatory to promote a sense of unity?
• The pros and cons of affirmative action in college admissions.
• How does media portrayal contribute to gender stereotypes?
• The impact of immigration policies on society and the economy.
• Is the death penalty an effective deterrent to crime?
• The role of government in addressing poverty and homelessness.
• Should recreational drug use be decriminalized?
• The influence of advertising on body image and self-esteem.
• The ethics of genetic engineering and designer babies.
• Should schools teach comprehensive sex education?
• The impact of gun control laws on reducing crime rates.
• The role of religion in shaping societal values and morality.
• Is social media activism effective in bringing about real change?
• The impact of globalization on cultural diversity.
• Should the government regulate the content of video games and movies?
• The role of education in promoting tolerance and acceptance.
• Is homeschooling a viable alternative to traditional schooling?
• The effects of fast fashion on the environment and labor conditions.
• Should the government provide free healthcare for all citizens?
• The impact of artificial intelligence on employment opportunities.
• Is there a need for stricter regulations on technology companies?
• The importance of diversity in educational curricula.
• The impact of income tax policies on economic equality.
• Should juvenile offenders be tried as adults in certain cases?
• The role of the media in shaping public opinion.
• Is there a correlation between socioeconomic status and academic success?
• The impact of social pressure on body image and mental health.
• Should schools implement mindfulness and meditation programs?
• The influence of parental involvement on a child’s academic performance.
• The role of government in addressing climate change.
• Is there a need for stricter regulations on social media platforms?
• The impact of artificial intelligence on job displacement.
• Should there be stricter regulations on the advertising of unhealthy foods?
• The role of education in fostering critical thinking skills.
• The importance of open communication in parent-teen relationships.
• Should parents be more lenient or strict in setting rules for teenagers?
• The impact of technology on parent-teen communication and relationships.
• Is it necessary for parents to be friends with their teenagers?
• The role of trust in building a healthy parent-teen relationship.
• Should parents have a say in their teenager’s choice of friends?
• The influence of parental involvement on academic success and motivation.
• Is it appropriate for parents to monitor their teenager’s online activities?
• The impact of cultural differences on parent-teen relationships.
• Should teenagers have more autonomy in decision-making?
• The role of conflict resolution in strengthening parent-teen bonds.
• Is it important for parents to set a good example for their teenagers?
• The influence of parenting styles on the development of teenagers.
• Should parents be more supportive of teenagers’ independence and self-expression?
• The impact of societal expectations on parent-teen relationships.
• The role of genetics in predisposing individuals to addiction.
• Should addiction be classified as a disease or a behavioral issue?
• The impact of social media and technology addiction on mental health.
• Are punitive measures or rehabilitation more effective in addressing drug addiction?
• The legalization of certain drugs as a strategy to combat addiction.
• The correlation between childhood trauma and the development of addiction later in life.
• Should addiction treatment be mandatory for individuals convicted of drug-related offenses?
• Exploring the link between mental health disorders and substance abuse.
• The effectiveness of harm reduction strategies in addressing addiction.
• Should there be stricter regulations on the marketing and advertising of addictive substances?
• The role of prescription medications in the opioid epidemic.
• Should employers implement drug testing as part of the hiring process?
• The impact of socioeconomic factors on addiction rates and access to treatment.
• The controversy surrounding supervised injection sites as harm reduction measures.
• Should addiction education be integrated into school curricula?
• The role of peer support in addiction recovery.
• Examining the stigma associated with addiction and its impact on seeking help.
• The debate over medically assisted treatment (MAT) for opioid addiction.
• Should there be mandatory addiction screenings in primary healthcare settings?
• Exploring the effectiveness of 12-step programs in addiction recovery.

The above list of argumentative topics for high school serves as a valuable opportunity for your students to cultivate essential skills in  critical thinking , effective argumentation, and the ability to comprehend diverse perspectives.

How To Use The 200 Argumentative Topics For High School

Engaging your high school students with the provided argumentative topics is an effective way to foster critical thinking and hone their skills in persuasive writing. Here are practical steps and tips to maximize the impact of these topics in your classroom:

• Encourage students to choose a topic that genuinely interests them. Personal investment in the subject matter enhances motivation and engagement.
• Provide guidance on the importance of selecting a debatable issue that allows for multiple perspectives and diverse arguments.
• Emphasize the significance of thorough research to substantiate their arguments. Encourage the use of credible sources, data, and real-world examples.
• Guide students on evaluating the reliability of sources, distinguishing between opinion and evidence, and citing references appropriately.
• Teach students the art of crafting a clear and concise thesis statement that encapsulates their stance on the chosen topic.
• Emphasize the importance of a thesis that is debatable, specific, and serves as the foundation for the entire essay.
• Guide students in organizing their essays with a clear introduction, body paragraphs that present distinct arguments, and a compelling conclusion.
• Encourage them to use logical progression and transitional phrases to enhance the flow of their arguments.
• Stress the importance of acknowledging opposing viewpoints and incorporating counterarguments. This strengthens their position and demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the topic.
• Teach students how to refute counterarguments effectively, reinforcing the validity of their own stance.
• Implement peer review sessions where students exchange drafts and provide constructive feedback to enhance each other’s essays.
• Foster a collaborative environment for discussing different perspectives and refining arguments through group discussions.
• Consider incorporating oral presentations to complement written essays, promoting effective communication skills.
• Encourage students to articulate their arguments verbally, fostering confidence and the ability to defend their positions.
• Emphasize the iterative nature of the writing process. Encourage students to reflect on feedback, revise their essays, and refine their arguments.
• Highlight the value of continuous improvement in writing skills through revision.
• Create opportunities for students to present their arguments to the class, fostering a culture of open dialogue and respectful discussion.
• Celebrate the diversity of perspectives within the classroom and emphasize the importance of considering alternative viewpoints.
• Supplement the topics with relevant articles, videos, or guest speakers to enrich students’ understanding and inspire deeper exploration.

In conclusion, offering a diverse array of argumentative topics for high school students is a catalyst for intellectual growth and skill development. These thought-provoking subjects serve as a bridge, connecting students to critical thinking, evidence-based reasoning, and persuasive communication.

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130 Argumentative Essay Topics: Tips on How Choose the Best One

Defining What Is an Argumentative Essay

Imagine the following scenario: You just got into an argument with your friend over climate change. You said that this is an actual issue that poses significant threats to our environment and world population. Your friend, on the other hand, argued that climate change is not real, saying that it's a natural occurrence that has happened several times during world history. You got home, had time to reflect on the debate, and came up with several good reasons for your position. Oh! The things you could have said to clearly express and defend your stance... Now you're annoyed with the constant monologue running through your mind, reflecting upon the previous debate.

What if you documented the arguments that came to you afterward? Much like jotting them down on a piece of paper and giving some direction to your ideas. We say it would have made a brilliant work with fresh ideas and fiery passion.

That's exactly why you should practice argumentative essay writing. It will enhance your reasoning skills while allowing you to become more quick-witted. By doing this, you won't have to listen to your friends defending their stance while you lack your own arguments to contribute to the debate.

To persuade the reader of their position in an argumentative essay, the author must choose a position on a certain subject or problem and provide evidence to support it. This kind of essay is frequently required in high school or college classes to sharpen students' analytical abilities and motivate them to engage in challenging discussions.

So, let's take on a mission of fully understanding how to write an argumentative essay with a clear structure and endless topic ideas. We promise that after reading this article, you'll become an unshakable debater!

Three Common Argumentative Essay Models

First, let's start with the three most prevalent models of argumentative writing. Knowing this will guide you toward structuring your essay in your preferred style. The options are:

• Toulmin model - Most commonly used model out of the three, the Toulmin model starts with an introduction, moves on to a thesis or claim, and then provides information and proof to back up that argument. This type of essay usually includes rebuttals of opposing points. This approach performs effectively when there is no undeniable truth or perfect answer to an issue.
• Rogerian model - Created by Carl R. Rogers, the Rogerian model of argument assesses a debate and offers a compromise between opposing sides. This paradigm emphasizes cooperation and teamwork. It recognizes that an argument can be seen from a variety of angles. The Rogerian model starts with an introduction, moves to acknowledge opposing views, then states the author's main claims. Before the conclusion, it tries to provide a middle ground by carefully considering all sides of the argument.
• Classical (Aristotelian) model- In the traditional paradigm, all sides of an argument are examined, and the side with the most convincing evidence is shown to be correct. This approach effectively convinces a listener to take a side in an argument by combining Ethos, Pathos, and Logos.

Proper Argumentative Essay Outline

This is not something new that you should be scared of - an essay outline that consists of classic five paragraphs and employs a sacred triangle of introduction, body, and conclusion. But still, in an argumentative essay outline, you should find something unique to this kind of paper. Let's examine these specifics more closely below with the help of our argumentative essay writing service :

Introduction

Your first task while writing argumentative essays is to grab the reader's attention with an eye-catching fact, story, or quotation that will work as a hook. Then continue by giving background information and outlining the problem at hand while clearly articulating your case and your point of argument.

• Background information
• Thesis statement

I. Introduction

The argumentative essay introduction should grab the reader's attention and provide background information. The introductory paragraph should also include a thesis statement, the main argument the essay will present, and support. For example:

• Hook : Did you know that over 50% of Americans believe in aliens?
• Background: UFO sightings and conspiracy theories have been around for decades.
• Thesis: Despite the lack of concrete evidence, extraterrestrial life is a real possibility that should be explored further.

Body Paragraphs

The body section is where you confidently roll up your sleeves and give direction to your discussion. In the first paragraph, give your best argument in favor of your thesis, using examples, data, or expert opinions. Then, evaluate the data and describe how it backs up your claim. Remember to confront and disprove any potential opposing viewpoints. You might use the same strategy in the second body paragraph for a different argument supporting your thesis.

Consider the opposing position and offer arguments in the third and fourth paragraphs. Lastly, dispute the counterargument and explain why your argument is more powerful.

• First supporting point
• Explanation
• Counterargument
• Second supporting point

To wrap up, restate your major idea and summarize your supporting points. Explain why your point is important and what it means for the reader. To end on a strong note, encourage the reader to act or think more deeply about the subject.

• Restate thesis
• Significance
• Call to action

Tips for Choosing Argumentative Essay Topics

Making a captivating and thought-provoking argumentative essay requires picking a strong topic. Here are six genuine suggestions to assist you through the process:

• Keep your audience in mind - Consider the audience for your essay, and attempt to guess what they would think about the topic you wish to cover. Think about if your audience would find it fascinating.
• Take a risk - Pick a highly debatable subject you think others would want to steer clear of. It will distinguish your topic from other ordinary argumentative essay topics. Make sure you can, however, present the reasoning for all sides of the controversy.
• Consider your surroundings - Consider things that are either negative aspects or taboos in your environment. Dare to discuss and debate such problems.
• Select an arguable topic - To avoid writing a dissertation; your topic should be in the middle of being both wide and narrow. Establish your paper's objectives. What point of view or hypothesis are you trying to support? Before you start writing, make an effort to clearly state your aim. If you cannot explain your goal effectively, try to free-write on your subject.
• Provide logical and persuasive evidence - Ensure that your proof is appropriately documented. Be certain to introduce and explain the relevance of the evidence you use in an easy-to-understand way. Avoid assuming that your evidence will speak for itself and that your readers will draw the conclusions you want from it. Describe the significance of each piece of evidence, how it clarifies or supports your claim, and why it is relevant. Include evidence in your work and use it wisely to support your arguments.
• Draft your essay - Make sure you include a lot of supporting material presented clearly and fairly, address the opposing viewpoint, and pay close attention to how your essay is organized. Ensure your argumentative essay structure is appropriate for your issue and audience, address and rectify any logical errors, and use appropriate transitions to make it easier for the reader to understand your argument.

Meanwhile, if you'd rather have a PRO craft your paper, you can always buy argumentative essay on our platform.

Examples of Argumentative Essay Topics

Choosing the proper topic for your argumentative essay might be a major difficulty. You should always ensure that your chosen topic is interesting and worthwhile. Your school may occasionally provide you with a selection of subjects, but sometimes you may struggle to choose the topic.

Consider your struggle to be over in the following sections; our persuasive essay writing service will help you find the best argument topics for your upcoming argumentative essay.

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle Schoolers

Let's start with some easy argumentative essay topics for middle school students.

• Explain whether or not students should have schoolwork on weekends.
• Do you believe that the government should determine your school lunch?
• Should students have to take gym classes?
• Do you believe that children should have automatic screen time limits or should parents limit screen time manually?
• Describe your position on whether or not school uniforms should be required.
• Should violent video games be banned in the United States?
• How unhealthy are hot dogs?
• Why or why not should the electoral college be abolished?
• Should the school day be prolonged to accommodate a long weekend?
• Do you believe that prerequisite art classes should be mandatory for all college degrees?

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School Students

As you advance your education, you may also pick up more complex topics and open up a meaningful debate. So, here is a list of argumentative essay topics for students in high school.

• Do you think the FDA is effectively policing what is put into our food?
• What age do you consider the right age to start using social media?
• Do you believe a civics test is required for 12th-grade students to pass to graduate?
• Should professional athletes be permitted to use medications that improve performance?
• Should high school students receive free breakfast?
• At what point should children begin doing chores?
• Do you believe using electronic voting machines makes the electoral process fair?
• Do we have the power to affect climate change? Or is it far bigger and more powerful than we are?
• Should the legal age to vote be reduced?
• Should bottled water be prohibited if environmental protection is so important?

Argumentative Essay Topics for College Students

College students have more freedom when it comes to choosing a topic of choice and freely expressing their opinions. Here are some interesting topics for an essay to delve right into:

• Should the United States continue with daylight saving time, or should it be eliminated?
• Should superior grades guarantee scholarship eligibility?
• Has artificial intelligence overstepped its bounds?
• Should there be no tuition fees for a public college education?
• Do we need additional professional sports teams in the United States?
• Should social media companies be allowed to collect data from their users?
• Should there be a certain number of Supreme Court justices?
• Are actors and sportsmen in the entertainment industry paid more than they deserve?
• Should someone deny medical care due to their religious convictions?
• Why is the Second Amendment part of the US Constitution that causes the greatest controversy?

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

Touching upon controversy makes the best argumentative essay topics for writing. To add a little spice to your paper, consider the following options:

• Diversity Promotes Tolerance in Society
• Electronic Voting Is Ineffective Because There Is Too Much Fraud
• There is No More Free Journalism
• People Getting Addicted Isn't Caused by Entertainment
• Reality television fosters unrealistic expectations.
• Serving in the military is dangerously romanticized
• People's tax payments do not match the benefits they receive.
• Given the effects of COVID, further funding for mental health services is necessary.
• American Women Have the Same Chances as Men
• Pollution Prevention Is Not Realistic Under the Present Circumstances

Funny Argumentative Essay Topics

You may prefer to debate over funny topics. Here are some choices that will make humorous argumentative essay titles.

• Which is preferable, the night owl or the morning person?
• Do we have alien visitors, and if so, what do they want from us?
• Should the employer impose strict nap requirements?
• Is it OK to wear socks and flops together?
• Should scooters take the place of all public transportation?
• Can you eat pizza with a fork and knife?
• Should we mandate dancing breaks during the working day?
• Should we launch an initiative to promote cuddling as the new handshake?
• Is it moral to routinely tease your loved ones?
• Should we ban jeans and allow only pajamas to be worn in public?

If you want similar ideas for your next assignment, ask us - ' do my essay topics,' and we'll provide many more funny titles.

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Topics for Argumentative Speech

Here are some topics for argumentative speech from our speech writing service . With these options, you may as well confidently sign up for an inspirational TED talk!

• What Opinions Do You Have About Cancel Culture?
• Does being publicly shamed online prevent us from evolving and changing?
• Phone etiquette: Do you ever feel awkward using your phone among other people?
• How much, in your opinion, can we infer about our overall satisfaction from what is shared on social media?
• Should Schools Need a Course in Media Literacy?
• Does Teaching Happiness in Schools Make Sense?
• Are there any books that shouldn't be found in public or school libraries?
• What would you study if there was a unique school that taught you the things you truly wanted to learn?
• Should Every Young Person Learn How to Trade Stocks?
• Is Adversity a Prerequisite for Happiness?

Argument Topics on Social Media 

The most efficient argumentative essay title examples relate to social media and online trends. Try the following alternatives:

• Describe and analyze some of the issues that social media brings to society.
• Social media has gained increasing acceptance in classrooms over time. Discuss while pointing up positives and drawbacks.
• Describe the role that social media has had in the radicalization of society.
• Talk about some ethical issues that become moot when creating a social media account.
• Discuss how employing social media may assist in increasing your brand's overall value.
• The importance of social media in contemporary marketing and for kids and teens.
• What does social media weaponization entail?
• What are the psychological harms that social media causes?
• What impact does comedy have on mental health in online forums?
• What effects do social media have on how people communicate?

Argument Topics on Music

Maybe you'd enjoy an argumentative essay topic on music? Say no more! We have a special place for it in our hearts, and we couldn't wait to share them with you!

• Why Should a Musician Hire Another Person to Compose Music for Them?
• How the Making of Music Affects People's Thoughts
• Should performers utilize their platforms to speak out on social and political issues?
• Is live music more significant and true to its origins than recorded music?
• Can one use music as a means of expression and free speech?
• Is it morally required of musicians to utilize their platform to promote social and political change?
• Why music education should be a mandatory topic in schools.
• Why pursuing a profession in music is meaningful and beneficial.
• Why it's important to acknowledge and encourage the achievements made by women in music.
• Why it's important to promote and preserve vanishing musical traditions.

Health Argumentative Essay Topics

What about a health-related topic for argumentative essay? Choose one of the below and contribute to the meaningful conversation in medicine!

• Who carries out the main work, doctors or nurses?
• Oversleeping has no negative effects on the body.
• There should be restrictions on human medical testing.
• Physical and mental health demand different levels of care.
• Should the use of antibiotics be systematically and carefully regulated?
• Are health campaigns useful strategies for preventing and controlling disease?
• Should only those with healthy lives be eligible for organ transplants?
• Should the US proclaim obesity the biggest threat to the country's health?
• Should there be any regulation of US healthcare costs to increase access?
• Should genetic engineering be permitted as a kind of therapy for terminal illnesses?

Argument Topics on Science and Technology

For more up-to-date examples of argumentative essay topics, here are some ideas on science and technology:

• Do children's IQs differ depending on their socioeconomic status?
• Are humans becoming more or less lazy as a result of technology?
• Can we ever settle on Mars?
• Do technological advances imply a weakening of the force of nature?
• Can physicians ever be replaced by computers or robots?
• Should people work on AI development?
• Is the digitization of healthcare beneficial?
• Should people be allowed to own their own DNA?
• Will the use of robots improve our quality of life?
• What potential advancements in cloud storage are there?

Argument Topics on Sports

We couldn't possibly miss the argumentative essay example topics on sports. Sports are a huge part of our everyday life no matter nation or gender. Examine the topic ideas below; we're sure you'll find something inspiring:

• Why cheerleading belongs in the Olympic Games.
• Colleges should prioritize wellness initiatives above athletics.
• Are amateurs the only ones who practice non-contact versions of American football?
• What character traits are important in professional football?
• Could there be a place for women in the NFL?
• Is it appropriate for national teams to hire players from other nations?
• Why is women's soccer less well-liked than that played by men?
• Are the wages of soccer players too high?
• Is coordination more important in soccer than stamina?
• Is the current FIFA ranking system accurate?

Argument Topics on Government

As the government is a crucial part of our society, we believe exploring, criticizing, or favoring some political policies, figures, or systems can make the best topic for an essay:

• How should the government oversee online safety and privacy?
• Are protests and strikes effective ways to affect how the government works?
• Should more be done by the government to control and combat the rising issue of wealth inequality?
• Is choosing the president of the United States through the electoral college a successful process?
• Should the government be able to control and restrict access to weapons?
• Should more be done by the government to advance and defend the rights of underrepresented groups?
• Which political party do you favor in your nation and why?
• Offer advice on the finest and most efficient strategy to deal with corruption.
• Which political development or circumstance in the past year most affected you?
• Should the amount of money given to political campaigns be capped to prevent rich people from exerting too much influence?

Argument Topics on TV, Movies, Video Games

Last but not least, mainstream mediums of entertainment, TV, movies, or video games can also make some effective arguable topics:

• Do aggressive behavior and violence in society rise due to violent video games?
• Is it damaging when mental illness is portrayed in TV and film?
• Is the movie business doing enough to combat whitewashing?
• Is binge-watching television programs a safe pastime?
• Indie films: A subgenre or a way of thinking?
• The Ethics of Making Documentary Films
• Documentary Films: The Potential to Influence Humanity
• The Psychosocial Effects of Walt Disney's Heroes
• Are augmented reality and video games getting too immersive?
• Should parents be held accountable for watching their kids' graphic or violent media exposure?

Final Words

After researching a variety of excellent essay themes, you might wish to write a well-researched paper on your favorite. Don't forget that we are always ready to help you with all types of writing projects, from selecting an argumentative essay topic to perfecting the cause and effect essay structure . Contact us with your ' write a research paper for me ' request and let us take some of the pressure off your shoulders!

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College Minor: Everything You Need to Know

14 fascinating teacher interview questions for principals, tips for success if you have a master’s degree and can’t find a job, 14 ways young teachers can get that professional look, which teacher supplies are worth the splurge, 8 business books every teacher should read, conditional admission: everything you need to know, college majors: everything you need to know, 7 things principals can do to make a teacher observation valuable, 3 easy teacher outfits to tackle parent-teacher conferences, 100+ argumentative essay topics.

Are you a student looking for argumentative essay topics? If so, we have you covered. Below you will find a list of the best argumentative essay topics.

Argumentative Essay Topics (General)

• Do you think that abortion should be made illegal?
• Do you think that animal testing should be banned?
• Is the #metoo movement a great thing?
• Do you think that manufacturers are responsible for the effects of the chemicals used in creating their products?
• Do you think that illegal immigrants be granted residency?
• Is there a fake news problem? What is the source?
• Do you believe that “big pharma” has people’s best interests at heart?
• Is the death penalty a just punishment?
• Are there moral concerns that make genetic cloning illegal?
• What Do you think that people do to stop human trafficking?

Argumentative Essay Topics About Politics

• Which political party has the right ideology?
• What Do you think that be done to reduce income inequality?
• Is paying down the US deficit the most essential issue of our time?
• Do you believe that the Federal Reserve needs to stop printing money because it creates an unsustainable bubble?
• Is capitalism the best economic system?
• Is socialism the best economic system?
• Is America ready for a female president?
• Do you think that an elected leader represents the interests of their own political party, or is it best to try to compromise?
• What modern political decision has created the most change?
• Do you believe that campaign finance reform works?

Argumentative Essay Topics About Society & Culture

• When will LGTBQ individuals experience equality?
• Is healthcare a fundamental human right?
• Do you think that TV censors explicit content because programmers must produce family-friendly programming?
• Social media brings us together and pulls us apart; Do you believe that the great outweighs the bad or vice versa?
• Is a gap year time for exploration and reflection or a year-long vacation?
• Many states have begun to decriminalize the possession of certain drugs like marijuana; is this a great idea?
• Equality is part of lawmaking, but do you believe that it works in practice?
• Do you think that people have the right to own a gun?
• In cases of terminal illness, Do you think that a patient should be able to request medically assisted suicide?
• Do you think that smoking should be illegal?
• What is the best way to foster positive conversation about controversial issues?

Argumentative Essay Topics About History

• Many people think that we learn from the past, but there are many patterns in history. Do you think history repeats itself?
• How did the US Civil War make the nation best or worse?
• Thomas Jefferson made considerable contributions to the founding of America, both as a writer and a politician. However, he didn’t live a perfect life. Was he a hero?
• Do you believe that our modern perspective changes the “truth” of what happened during major historical events?
• Pick a past decade and discuss if lower socio-economic classes had opportunities at that time.
• Did the handling of Native Americans leave a moral stain on the US?
• Slavery was a foundational part of the American colonies and, later, the United States. So how did this injustice change the nation?
• What factors led to the rise of Naziism in Germany and to the Holocaust?
• The plague destroyed the population of Europe and changed the course of history. So what was its biggest lesson?

Argumentative Essay Topics for Kids in Elementary School

• Do you think that there be commercials in kids’ programs?
• Do you believe that homework help kids learn?
• Do you think that school should be all year?
• Do schools treat girls and boys the same way?
• Do you think that parents limit screen time?
• Do you think that school start before eight o’clock in the morning?
• Do you think that kids be able to vote in national elections?
• Is it best to read fiction or nonfiction?
• Is it best for kids to have distance learning or be in school?
• Do parents treat all their kids the same way, or do they treat the oldest and youngest differently?
• Do you think that kids have the same teacher every year or switch teachers each year?
• Do you think that video games be a sport?
• Are schools doing enough to stop bullying?
• Do you think that kids have homework on weekends?
• Is it best if three generations of a family live together?
• Are hot dogs bad for you?
• Do you think that school lunch should include vegetables, even if Many kids don’t like them?
• Is it okay to eat dessert before dinner?

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School

• Do you think that middle schoolers have jobs like babysitting or mowing lawns?
• Are beauty pageants a great idea?
• Are violent video games bad?
• Do you think that parents be able to say whether kids can dye their hair?
• Do you believe that social media do more harm than good?
• Do middle schoolers have too much homework?
• Do you think that teachers get paid more?
• Is life more challenging for your parent’s generation or yours’?
• Why is your favorite musical artist best than anyone else?
• Do you think that kids read age-appropriate books, or is it okay to read grown-up books?
• Do you think that there be ratings (like G, PG, and R) for movies?
• Is it best to ride the bus or walk to school?
• Is school lunch great for kids?
• Do you believe an hour of reading or an hour of exercising is better?
• Do you think that gym class should be required?
• Do you think that kids get paid for getting excellent grades?
• Is it best to have class over the computer or in person?
• Is cyberbullying as big of a problem as in-person bullying?
• Do you think that all cars be electric?

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School

• Do you think that people be allowed to burn the flag?
• Do you think that parents get in trouble for truancy if kids don’t go to school?
• Is social media bad for relationships?
• Do you think that businesses be required to hire for diversity?
• Are women and men treated equally?
• Do you think that the minimum wage should be raised?
• Do you think that everyone should go to college?
• Is climate change a real threat?
• Are wind farms benefitting the environment and economy?
• Do you think that people be allowed to wear fur of any kind?
• Is it a bad idea to use your DNA for genealogy?
• Do you think that parents should decide they don’t want medical treatment for their kids?
• Is the United States falling behind other nations in terms of education?
• Do the actions of a nation’s leader influence the actions of the people?
• Do you think that the electoral college should be abolished?
• Do you think that schools be required to offer art courses?
• Do you think that all new cars be electric?
• Will AI help the world or hurt it?
• Do you think that high school pupils work during the school year?
• Are there forms of personal expression that you think should be allowed in schools?

Argumentative Essay Topics for College

• Are men and women equally emotional?
• Are printed books best than e-readers?
• Do you think that the drinking age should be lowered?
• Are parents responsible for childhood obesity?
• Do you think that college should free?
• Do you think that beauty standards be more inclusive?
• Are all college majors equally essential?
• Is social media bad for kids?
• Has technology changed our definition of magic?
• Is it worth exploring space?
• Do you think that all internships be paid?
• Do you think that income should be tied to the cost of a degree?
• Is climate change the biggest threat to the world?
• Is feminism still essential?
• Has society made the needed reparations for slavery?
• Do you believe that elections should be decided by the popular vote?
• Should everyone be entitled to free health care?
• Do anti-discrimination laws protect disabled pupils?
• Is a degree from an online college or university as legitimate as a degree from a brick-and-mortar university?
• Is it a conflict of interest for an instructor or professor to require pupils to purchase his book?

100+ Persuasive Essay Topics

2023 best online doctorate in educational technology.

Matthew Lynch

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50 Argumentative Essay Topics For High School Students

Let’s face it, if you’re planning to be an ‘A’ student, you’ve got to give it all. Writing is a skill which is highly expected from students to master. Students in middle and high school are required to write all kinds of essays such as persuasive, argumentative, etc. as a part of their academic curriculum. To pick the right topic for essays in subjects such as Science , English, Philosophy is crucial to writing a meaningful essay. Let’s first learn about an argumentative essay:

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

General Education

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

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

What Is a Persuasive Essay?

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

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

All persuasive essays have the following:

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

What Makes a Good Persuasive Essay Topic?

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

It’s a Topic You Care About

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

You Have Enough Evidence to Support Your Argument

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

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

It’s a Manageable Topic

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

List of 113 Good Persuasive Essay Topics

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

Arts/Culture

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

Government/Politics

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

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

Tips for Writing a Strong Persuasive Essay

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

Do Your Research

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

Make Your Thesis Perfect

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

Consider the Other Side

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

Summary: Persuasive Essay Ideas

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

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

• Do your research
• Make your thesis perfect
• Consider the other side

What's Next?

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

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

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

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

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• How to write an argumentative essay | Examples & tips

How to Write an Argumentative Essay | Examples & Tips

Published on July 24, 2020 by Jack Caulfield . Revised on July 23, 2023.

An argumentative essay expresses an extended argument for a particular thesis statement . The author takes a clearly defined stance on their subject and builds up an evidence-based case for it.

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Table of contents

When do you write an argumentative essay, approaches to argumentative essays, introducing your argument, the body: developing your argument, concluding your argument, other interesting articles, frequently asked questions about argumentative essays.

You might be assigned an argumentative essay as a writing exercise in high school or in a composition class. The prompt will often ask you to argue for one of two positions, and may include terms like “argue” or “argument.” It will frequently take the form of a question.

The prompt may also be more open-ended in terms of the possible arguments you could make.

Argumentative writing at college level

At university, the vast majority of essays or papers you write will involve some form of argumentation. For example, both rhetorical analysis and literary analysis essays involve making arguments about texts.

In this context, you won’t necessarily be told to write an argumentative essay—but making an evidence-based argument is an essential goal of most academic writing, and this should be your default approach unless you’re told otherwise.

Examples of argumentative essay prompts

At a university level, all the prompts below imply an argumentative essay as the appropriate response.

Your research should lead you to develop a specific position on the topic. The essay then argues for that position and aims to convince the reader by presenting your evidence, evaluation and analysis.

• Don’t just list all the effects you can think of.
• Do develop a focused argument about the overall effect and why it matters, backed up by evidence from sources.
• Don’t just provide a selection of data on the measures’ effectiveness.
• Do build up your own argument about which kinds of measures have been most or least effective, and why.
• Don’t just analyze a random selection of doppelgänger characters.
• Do form an argument about specific texts, comparing and contrasting how they express their thematic concerns through doppelgänger characters.

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An argumentative essay should be objective in its approach; your arguments should rely on logic and evidence, not on exaggeration or appeals to emotion.

There are many possible approaches to argumentative essays, but there are two common models that can help you start outlining your arguments: The Toulmin model and the Rogerian model.

Toulmin arguments

The Toulmin model consists of four steps, which may be repeated as many times as necessary for the argument:

• Make a claim
• Provide the grounds (evidence) for the claim
• Explain the warrant (how the grounds support the claim)
• Discuss possible rebuttals to the claim, identifying the limits of the argument and showing that you have considered alternative perspectives

The Toulmin model is a common approach in academic essays. You don’t have to use these specific terms (grounds, warrants, rebuttals), but establishing a clear connection between your claims and the evidence supporting them is crucial in an argumentative essay.

Say you’re making an argument about the effectiveness of workplace anti-discrimination measures. You might:

• Claim that unconscious bias training does not have the desired results, and resources would be better spent on other approaches
• Cite data to support your claim
• Explain how the data indicates that the method is ineffective
• Anticipate objections to your claim based on other data, indicating whether these objections are valid, and if not, why not.

Rogerian arguments

The Rogerian model also consists of four steps you might repeat throughout your essay:

• Discuss what the opposing position gets right and why people might hold this position
• Highlight the problems with this position
• Present your own position , showing how it addresses these problems
• Suggest a possible compromise —what elements of your position would proponents of the opposing position benefit from adopting?

This model builds up a clear picture of both sides of an argument and seeks a compromise. It is particularly useful when people tend to disagree strongly on the issue discussed, allowing you to approach opposing arguments in good faith.

Say you want to argue that the internet has had a positive impact on education. You might:

• Acknowledge that students rely too much on websites like Wikipedia
• Argue that teachers view Wikipedia as more unreliable than it really is
• Suggest that Wikipedia’s system of citations can actually teach students about referencing
• Suggest critical engagement with Wikipedia as a possible assignment for teachers who are skeptical of its usefulness.

You don’t necessarily have to pick one of these models—you may even use elements of both in different parts of your essay—but it’s worth considering them if you struggle to structure your arguments.

Regardless of which approach you take, your essay should always be structured using an introduction , a body , and a conclusion .

Like other academic essays, an argumentative essay begins with an introduction . The introduction serves to capture the reader’s interest, provide background information, present your thesis statement , and (in longer essays) to summarize the structure of the body.

Hover over different parts of the example below to see how a typical introduction works.

The spread of the internet has had a world-changing effect, not least on the world of education. The use of the internet in academic contexts is on the rise, and its role in learning is hotly debated. For many teachers who did not grow up with this technology, its effects seem alarming and potentially harmful. This concern, while understandable, is misguided. The negatives of internet use are outweighed by its critical benefits for students and educators—as a uniquely comprehensive and accessible information source; a means of exposure to and engagement with different perspectives; and a highly flexible learning environment.

The body of an argumentative essay is where you develop your arguments in detail. Here you’ll present evidence, analysis, and reasoning to convince the reader that your thesis statement is true.

In the standard five-paragraph format for short essays, the body takes up three of your five paragraphs. In longer essays, it will be more paragraphs, and might be divided into sections with headings.

Each paragraph covers its own topic, introduced with a topic sentence . Each of these topics must contribute to your overall argument; don’t include irrelevant information.

This example paragraph takes a Rogerian approach: It first acknowledges the merits of the opposing position and then highlights problems with that position.

Hover over different parts of the example to see how a body paragraph is constructed.

A common frustration for teachers is students’ use of Wikipedia as a source in their writing. Its prevalence among students is not exaggerated; a survey found that the vast majority of the students surveyed used Wikipedia (Head & Eisenberg, 2010). An article in The Guardian stresses a common objection to its use: “a reliance on Wikipedia can discourage students from engaging with genuine academic writing” (Coomer, 2013). Teachers are clearly not mistaken in viewing Wikipedia usage as ubiquitous among their students; but the claim that it discourages engagement with academic sources requires further investigation. This point is treated as self-evident by many teachers, but Wikipedia itself explicitly encourages students to look into other sources. Its articles often provide references to academic publications and include warning notes where citations are missing; the site’s own guidelines for research make clear that it should be used as a starting point, emphasizing that users should always “read the references and check whether they really do support what the article says” (“Wikipedia:Researching with Wikipedia,” 2020). Indeed, for many students, Wikipedia is their first encounter with the concepts of citation and referencing. The use of Wikipedia therefore has a positive side that merits deeper consideration than it often receives.

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An argumentative essay ends with a conclusion that summarizes and reflects on the arguments made in the body.

No new arguments or evidence appear here, but in longer essays you may discuss the strengths and weaknesses of your argument and suggest topics for future research. In all conclusions, you should stress the relevance and importance of your argument.

Hover over the following example to see the typical elements of a conclusion.

The internet has had a major positive impact on the world of education; occasional pitfalls aside, its value is evident in numerous applications. The future of teaching lies in the possibilities the internet opens up for communication, research, and interactivity. As the popularity of distance learning shows, students value the flexibility and accessibility offered by digital education, and educators should fully embrace these advantages. The internet’s dangers, real and imaginary, have been documented exhaustively by skeptics, but the internet is here to stay; it is time to focus seriously on its potential for good.

If you want to know more about AI tools , college essays , or fallacies make sure to check out some of our other articles with explanations and examples or go directly to our tools!

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An argumentative essay tends to be a longer essay involving independent research, and aims to make an original argument about a topic. Its thesis statement makes a contentious claim that must be supported in an objective, evidence-based way.

An expository essay also aims to be objective, but it doesn’t have to make an original argument. Rather, it aims to explain something (e.g., a process or idea) in a clear, concise way. Expository essays are often shorter assignments and rely less on research.

At college level, you must properly cite your sources in all essays , research papers , and other academic texts (except exams and in-class exercises).

Add a citation whenever you quote , paraphrase , or summarize information or ideas from a source. You should also give full source details in a bibliography or reference list at the end of your text.

The exact format of your citations depends on which citation style you are instructed to use. The most common styles are APA , MLA , and Chicago .

The majority of the essays written at university are some sort of argumentative essay . Unless otherwise specified, you can assume that the goal of any essay you’re asked to write is argumentative: To convince the reader of your position using evidence and reasoning.

In composition classes you might be given assignments that specifically test your ability to write an argumentative essay. Look out for prompts including instructions like “argue,” “assess,” or “discuss” to see if this is the goal.

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117 Great Persuasive Essay Topics for High School Level Students

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

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

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

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

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

50 Simple Essay Topics for High School

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

50 Persuasive topic ideas for high school

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

12 Controversial Topics for School

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

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

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

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

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

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

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101 Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

Use your words to sway the reader.

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

School and Education Persuasive Essay Topics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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