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112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

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

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

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

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

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

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

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

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

Steer Clear of Cliches

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

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

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

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

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

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

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

Environment

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

Science & Technology

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

Social Media

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

Parenting & Family

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

Entertainment

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

Arts & Humanities

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

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

Do Your Research

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

Understand Your Audience

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

Have Someone Read Your Speech

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

Practice Makes Perfect

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

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

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105 Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics for Any Project

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General Education

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Are you struggling to find good persuasive speech topics? It can be hard to find a topic that interests both you and your audience, but in this guide we've done the hard work and created a list of 105 great persuasive speech ideas. They're organized into ten categories and cover a variety of topics, so you're sure to find one that interests you.

In addition to our list, we also go over which factors make good persuasive speech topics and three tips you should follow when researching and writing your persuasive speech.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

What makes certain persuasive speech topics better than others? There are numerous reasons, but in this section we discuss three of the most important factors of great topics for a persuasive speech.

It's Something You Know About or Are Interested in Learning About

The most important factor in choosing and creating a great persuasive speech is picking a topic you care about and are interested in. You'll need to do a lot of research on this topic, and if it's something you like learning about, that'll make the process much easier and more enjoyable. It'll also help you sound passionate and informed when you talk, both important factors in giving an excellent persuasive speech.

It's a Topic People Care About

In fourth grade, after being told I could give a persuasive speech on any topic I wanted to , I chose to discuss why the Saguaro cactus should be the United State's national plant. Even though I gave an impassioned talk and drew a life-size Saguaro cactus on butcher paper to hang behind me, I doubt anyone enjoyed the speech much.

I'd recently returned from a family vacation to Arizona where I'd seen Saguaro cacti for the first time and decided they were the coolest thing ever. However, most people don't care that much about Saguaro cacti, and most people don't care what our national plant is or if we even have one (for the record, the US has a national flower, and it's the rose).

Spare yourself the smattering of bored applause my nine-old self got at the end of my speech and choose something you think people will be interested in hearing about. This also ties into knowing your audience, which we discuss more in the final section.

It Isn't Overdone

When I was in high school, nearly every persuasive speech my classmates and I were assigned was the exact same topic: should the drinking age be lowered to 18? I got this prompt in English class, on standardized tests, in speech and debate class, etc. I've written and presented about it so often I could probably still rattle off all the main points of my old speeches word-for-word.

You can imagine that everyone's eyes glazed over whenever classmates gave their speeches on this topic. We'd heard about it so many times that, even if it was a topic we cared about, speeches on it just didn't interest us anymore.

The are many potential topics for a persuasive speech. Be wary of choosing one that's cliche or overdone. Even if you give a great speech, it'll be harder to keep your audience interested if they feel like they already know what you're going to say.

An exception to this rule is that if you feel you have a new viewpoint or facts about the topic that currently aren't common knowledge. Including them can make an overdone topic interesting. If you do this, be sure to make it clear early on in your speech that you have unique info or opinions on the topic so your audience knows to expect something new.

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105 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

Here's our list of 105 great persuasive speech ideas. We made sure to choose topics that aren't overdone, yet that many people will have an interest in, and we also made a point of choosing topics with multiple viewpoints rather than simplistic topics that have a more obvious right answer (i.e. Is bullying bad?). The topics are organized into ten categories.

Arts/Culture

  • Should art and music therapy be covered by health insurance?
  • Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
  • Should all national museums be free to citizens?
  • Should graffiti be considered art?
  • Should offensive language be removed from works of classic literature?
  • Are paper books better than e-books?
  • Should all interns be paid for their work?
  • Should employees receive bonuses for walking or biking to work?
  • Will Brexit hurt or help the UK's economy?
  • Should all people over the age of 65 be able to ride the bus for free?
  • Should the federal minimum wage be increased?
  • Should tipping in restaurants be mandatory?
  • Should Black Friday sales be allowed to start on Thanksgiving?
  • Should students who bully others be expelled?
  • Should all schools require students wear uniforms?
  • Should boys and girls be taught in separate classrooms?
  • Should students be allowed to listen to music during study hall?
  • Should all elementary schools be required to teach a foreign language?
  • Should schools include meditation or relaxation breaks during the day?
  • Should grades in gym class affect students' GPAs?
  • Should teachers get a bonus when their students score well on standardized tests?
  • Should children of undocumented immigrants be allowed to attend public schools?
  • Should students get paid for getting a certain GPA?
  • Should students be allowed to have their cell phones with them during school?
  • Should high school students be allowed to leave school during lunch breaks?
  • Should Greek life at colleges be abolished?
  • Should high school students be required to volunteer a certain number of hours before they can graduate?
  • Should schools still teach cursive handwriting?
  • What are the best ways for schools to stop bullying?
  • Should prostitution be legalized?
  • Should people with more than one DUI lose their driver's license?
  • Should people be required to shovel snow from the sidewalks in front of their house?
  • Should minors be able to drink alcohol in their home if they have their parent's consent?
  • Should guns be allowed on college campuses?
  • Should flag burning as a form of protest be illegal?
  • Should welfare recipients be required to pass a drug test?
  • Should white supremacist groups be allowed to hold rallies in public places?
  • Should assault weapons be illegal?
  • Should the death penalty be abolished?
  • Should beauty pageants for children be banned?
  • Is it OK to refuse to serve same-sex couples based on religious beliefs?
  • Should transgender people be allowed to serve in the military?
  • Is it better to live together before marriage or to wait?
  • Should affirmative action be allowed?
  • Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
  • Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples' Day?

Government/Politics

  • Should the government spend more money on developing high-speed rail lines and less on building new roads?
  • Should the government be allowed to censor internet content deemed inappropriate?
  • Should Puerto Rico become the 51st state?
  • Should Scotland declare independence from the United Kingdom?
  • Whose face should be on the next new currency printed by the US?
  • Should people convicted of drug possession be sent to recovery programs instead of jail?
  • Should voting be made compulsory?
  • Who was the best American president?
  • Should the military budget be reduced?
  • Should the President be allowed to serve more than two terms?
  • Should a border fence be built between the United States and Mexico?
  • Should countries pay ransom to terrorist groups in order to free hostages?
  • Should minors be able to purchase birth control without their parent's consent?
  • Should hiding or lying about your HIV status with someone you're sleeping with be illegal?
  • Should governments tax soda and other sugary drinks and use the revenue for public health?
  • Should high schools provide free condoms to students?
  • Should the US switch to single-payer health care?
  • Should healthy people be required to regularly donate blood?
  • Should assisted suicide be legal?
  • Should religious organizations be required to pay taxes?
  • Should priests be allowed to get married?
  • Should the religious slaughter of animals be banned?
  • Should the Church of Scientology be exempt from paying taxes?
  • Should women be allowed to be priests?
  • Should countries be allowed to only accept refugees with certain religious beliefs?
  • Should public prayer be allowed in schools?

Science/Environment

  • Should human cloning be allowed?
  • Should people be allowed to own exotic animals like tigers and monkeys?
  • Should "animal selfies" in tourist locations with well-known animal species (like koalas and tigers) be allowed?
  • Should genetically modified foods be sold in grocery stores?
  • Should people be allowed to own pit bulls?
  • Should parents be allowed to choose the sex of their unborn children?
  • Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?
  • What is the best type of renewable energy?
  • Should plastic bags be banned in grocery stores?
  • Should the United States rejoin the Paris Agreement?
  • Should puppy mills be banned?
  • Should fracking be legal?
  • Should animal testing be illegal?
  • Should offshore drilling be allowed in protected marine areas?
  • Should the US government increase NASA's budget?
  • Should Pluto still be considered a planet?
  • Should college athletes be paid for being on a sports team?
  • Should all athletes be required to pass regular drug tests?
  • Should professional female athletes be paid the same as male athletes in the same sport?
  • Are there any cases when athletes should be allowed to use steroids?
  • Should college sports teams receive less funding?
  • Should boxing be illegal?
  • Should schools be required to teach all students how to swim?
  • Should cheerleading be considered a sport?
  • Should parents let their children play tackle football?
  • Will robots reduce or increase human employment opportunities?
  • What age should children be allowed to have a cell phone?
  • Should libraries be replaced with unlimited access to e-books?
  • Overall, has technology helped connect people or isolate them?
  • Should self-driving cars be legal?
  • Should all new buildings be energy efficient?
  • Is Net Neutrality a good thing or a bad thing?
  • Do violent video games encourage players to become violent in real life?

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3 Bonus Tips for Crafting Your Persuasive Speech

Of course, giving a great persuasive speech requires more than just choosing a good topic. Follow the three tips below to create an outstanding speech that'll interest and impress your audience.

Do Your Research

For a persuasive speech, there's nothing worse than getting an audience question that shows you misunderstood the issue or left an important piece out. It makes your entire speech look weak and unconvincing.

Before you start writing a single word of your speech, be sure to do lots of research on all sides of the topic. Look at different sources and points of view to be sure you're getting the full picture, and if you know any experts on the topic, be sure to ask their opinion too.

Consider All the Angles

Persuasive speech topics are rarely black and white, which means there will be multiple sides and viewpoints on the topic. For example, for the topic "Should people be allowed to own pit bulls?" there are two obvious viewpoints: everyone should be allowed to own a pit bull if they want to, and no one should be allowed to own a pit bull. But there are other options you should also consider: people should only own a pit bull if they pass a dog training class, people should be able to own pit bulls, but only if it's the only dog they own, people should be able to own pi tbulls but only if they live a certain distance from schools, people should be able to own pit bulls only if the dog passes an obedience class, etc.

Thinking about all these angles and including them in your speech will make you seem well-informed on the topic, and it'll increase the quality of your speech by looking at difference nuances of the issue.

Know Your Audience

Whenever you give a speech, it's important to consider your audience, and this is especially true for persuasive speeches when you're trying to convince people to believe a certain viewpoint. When writing your speech, think about what your audience likely already knows about the topic, what they probably need explained, and what aspects of the topic they care about most. Also consider what the audience will be most concerned about for a certain topic, and be sure to address those concerns.

For example, if you're giving a speech to a Catholic organization on why you think priests should be allowed to marry, you don't need to go over the history of Catholicism or its core beliefs (which they probably already know), but you should mention any research or prominent opinions that support your view (which they likely don't know about). They may be concerned that priests who marry won't be as committed to God or their congregations, so be sure to address those concerns and why they shouldn't worry about them as much as they may think. Discussing your topic with people (ideally those with viewpoints similar to those of your future audience) before you give your speech is a good way to get a better understanding of how your audience thinks.

More Resources for Writing Persuasive Speeches

If you need more guidance or just want to check out some examples of great persuasive writing, consider checking out the following books:

  • Lend Me Your Ears: Great Speeches in History by William Safire—This collection of great speeches throughout history will help you decide how to style your own argument.
  • The Essentials of Persuasive Public Speaking by Sims Wyeth—For quick direct tips on public speaking, try this all-purpose guide.
  • Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World's Top Minds by Carmine Gallo—This popular book breaks down what makes TED talks work and how you can employ those skills in your own presentations.
  • We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Make Good Art by Neil Gaiman—These two recent speeches by contemporary writers offer stellar examples of how to craft a compelling (and engaging) argument.

Conclusion: Persuasive Speech Ideas

Good persuasive speech topics can be difficult to think of, but in this guide we've compiled a list of 105 interesting persuasive speech topics for you to look through.

The best persuasive speech ideas will be on a topic you're interested in, aren't overdone, and will be about something your audience cares about.

After you've chosen your topic, keep these three tips in mind when writing your persuasive speech:

  • Do your research
  • Consider all the angles
  • Know your audience

What's Next?

Now that you have persuasive speech topics, it's time to hone your persuasive speech techniques. Find out what ethos, pathos, logos, and kairos are and how to use them here .

Looking to take your persuasive technique from speech to sheets (of paper)? Get our three key tips on how to write an argumentative essay , or learn by reading through our thorough breakdown of how to build an essay, step by step .

Want a great GPA? Check out our step-by-step guide to getting good grades in high school so you can have a stellar transcript.

Interested in learning about other great extracurricular opportunities? Learn more about job shadowing , community service , and volunteer abroad programs.

Still trying to figure out your courses? Check out our expert guide on which classes you should take in high school.

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points?   We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download them for free now:

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

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

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150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics for Students in 2024

April 1, 2024

Do you know that moment in your favorite film, when the soundtrack begins to swell and the main character stands up and delivers a speech so rousing, so impassioned, it has the entire room either weeping or cheering by the time it concludes? What distinguishes the effectiveness of such a speech is not only the protagonist’s stellar delivery but also the compelling nature of the subject matter at hand. Choosing an effective persuasive speech topic is essential for guaranteeing that your future speech or essay is as moving as these . If this sounds like a tall order, have no fear. Below you’ll find a list of some of the best and most interesting persuasive speech topics for high school students to tackle, from the playful (“Pets for President”) to the serious (“Should We Stop AI from Replacing Human Workers?”).

And if you’re craving more inspiration, feel free to check out this list of Great Debate Topics , which can be used to generate further ideas.

What is a Good Persuasive Speech?

Before we get to the list, we must address the question on everyone’s minds: what is a persuasive speech, and what the heck makes for a good persuasive speech topic? A persuasive speech is a speech that aims to convince its listeners of a particular point of view . At the heart of each persuasive speech is a central conflict . Note: The persuasive speech stands in contrast to a simple informative speech, which is intended purely to convey information. (I.e., an informative speech topic might read: “The History of Making One’s Bed,” while a persuasive speech topic would be: “Why Making One’s Bed is a Waste of Time”—understand?)

And lest you think that persuasive speeches are simply assigned by your teachers as a particularly cruel form of torture, remember that practicing your oratory skills will benefit you in all areas of life—from job interviews, to business negotiations, to your future college career in public policy or international relations . Knowing how to use your voice to enact meaningful change is a valuable skill that can empower you to make a difference in the world.

Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic

The ideal persuasive speech topic will inspire the audience to action via both logical arguments and emotional appeals. As such, we can summarize the question “what makes a good persuasive speech topic?” by saying that the topic must possess the following qualities:

  • Timeliness and Relevance . Great persuasive speech topics grapple with a contemporary issue that is meaningful to the listener at hand. The topic might be a current news item, or it might be a long-standing social issue. In either case, the topic should be one with real-world implications.
  • Complexity . A fruitful persuasive speech topic will have many facets. Topics that are controversial, with some gray area, lend themselves to a high degree of critical thinking. They also offer the speaker an opportunity to consider and refute all counterarguments before making a compelling case for his or her own position.
  • Evidence . You want to be able to back up your argument with clear evidence from reputable sources (i.e., not your best friend or dog). The more evidence and data you can gather, the more sound your position will be. In addition, your audience will be more inclined to trust you.
  • Personal Connection. Do you feel passionately about the topic you’ve chosen? If not, it may be time to go back to the drawing board. This does not mean you have to support the side you choose; sometimes, arguing for the opposing side of what you personally believe can be an effective exercise in building empathy and perspective. Either way, though, the key is to select a topic that you care deeply about. Your passion will be infectious to the audience.

150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Should tech companies regulate the development of AI systems and automation to protect humans’ jobs?
  • Should we limit screen time for children?
  • Is it ethical for AI models like Dall-E to train themselves on artists’ work without the artists’ permission?
  • Should the government regulate the use of personal drones?
  • Is mass surveillance ethical? Does its threat to civil liberties outweigh its benefits?
  • Are virtual reality experiences a valuable educational tool?
  • Do the positive effects of powerful AI systems outweigh the risks?
  • Do voice assistants like Siri and Alexa invade individuals’ privacy?
  • Are cell phone bans in the classroom effective for improving student learning?
  • Does the use of facial recognition technology in public violate individuals’ privacy?
  • Should students be allowed to use ChatGPT and other AI tools for writing assignments?
  • Should AI-generated art be allowed in art shows or contests?
  • Who holds responsibility for accidents caused by self-driving cars: the driver or the car company?

Business and Economy

  • Should we do away with the minimum wage? Why or why not?
  • Is it ethical for companies to use unpaid internships as a source of labor?
  • Does the gig economy benefit or harm workers?
  • Is capitalism the best economic system?
  • Is it ethical for companies to use sweatshops in developing countries?
  • Should the government provide free healthcare for all citizens?
  • Should the government regulate prices on pharmaceutical drugs?
  • Should the government enact a universal base income?
  • Should customers be required to tip a minimum amount in order to ensure food service workers make a living wage?
  • Should someone’s tattoos or personal appearance factor into the hiring process?
  • Should US workers have more vacation time?
  • Is big game hunting beneficial for local communities?
  • Should we legalize euthanasia?
  • Is it ethical to use animals for medical research?
  • Is it ethical to allow access to experimental treatments for terminally ill patients?
  • Should we allow genetic engineering in humans?
  • Is the death penalty obsolete?
  • Should we allow the cloning of humans?
  • Is it ethical to allow performance-enhancing drugs in sports?
  • Should embryonic stem cell collection be allowed?
  • Do frozen IVF embryos have rights?
  • Should state and federal investigators be allowed to use DNA from genealogy databases?
  • Should the government limit how many children a couple can have?
  • Is spanking children an acceptable form of discipline?
  • Should we allow parents to choose their children’s physical attributes through genetic engineering?
  • Should we require parents to vaccinate their children?
  • Should we require companies to give mandatory paternal and maternal leave?
  • Should children be allowed to watch violent movies and video games?
  • Should parents allow their teenagers to drink before they turn 21?
  • Should the government provide childcare?
  • Should telling your children about Santa Claus be considered lying?
  • Should one parent stay home?
  • Should parental consent be required for minors to receive birth control?
  • Is it an invasion of privacy for parents to post photographs of their children on social media?

Social Media

  • Should social media platforms ban political ads?
  • Do the benefits of social media outweigh the downsides?
  • Should the government hold social media companies responsible for hate speech on their platforms?
  • Is social media making us more or less social?
  • Do platforms like TikTok exacerbate mental health issues in teens?
  • Should the government regulate social media to protect citizens’ privacy?
  • Is it right for parents to monitor their children’s social media accounts?
  • Should social media companies enact a minimum user age restriction?
  • Should we require social media companies to protect user data?
  • Should we hold social media companies responsible for cyberbullying?
  • Should schools ban the use of social media from their networks?
  • Should we be allowed to record others without their consent?
  • Do online crime sleuths help or hurt criminal investigations?

Education – Persuasive Speech Topics 

  • Would trade schools and other forms of vocational training benefit a greater number of students than traditional institutions of higher education?
  • Should colleges use standardized testing in their admissions processes?
  • Is forcing students to say the Pledge a violation of their right to freedom of speech?
  • Should school districts offer bilingual education programs for non-native speakers?
  • Should schools do away with their physical education requirements?
  • Should schools incorporate a remote learning option into their curriculum?
  • Should we allow school libraries to ban certain books?
  • Should we remove historical figures who owned slaves from school textbooks and other educational materials?
  • Should we have mixed-level classrooms or divide students according to ability?
  • Should grading on a curve be allowed?
  • Should graphic novels be considered literature?
  • Should all students have to take financial literacy classes before graduating?
  • Should colleges pay student athletes?
  • Should we ban violent contact sports like boxing and MMA?
  • Should sports leagues require professional athletes to stand during the national anthem?
  • Should sports teams ban players like Kyrie Irving when they spread misinformation or hate speech?
  • Should high schools require their athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
  • Should the Olympic committee allow transgender athletes to compete?
  • Should high schools ban football due to its safety risks to players?
  • Should all high school students be required to play a team sport?
  • Should sports teams be mixed instead of single-gender?
  • Should there be different athletic standards for men and women?
  • In which renewable energy option would the US do best to invest?
  • Should the US prioritize space exploration over domestic initiatives?
  • Should companies with a high carbon footprint be punished?
  • Should the FDA ban GMOs?
  • Would the world be a safer place without nuclear weapons?
  • Does AI pose a greater threat to humanity than it does the potential for advancement?
  • Who holds the most responsibility for mitigating climate change: individuals or corporations?
  • Should we be allowed to resurrect extinct species?
  • Are cancer screening programs ethical?

Social Issues – Persuasive Speech Topics

  • College education: should the government make it free for all?
  • Should we provide free healthcare for undocumented immigrants?
  • Is physician-assisted suicide morally justifiable?
  • Does social media have a negative impact on democracy?
  • Does cancel culture impede free speech?
  • Does affirmative action help or hinder minority groups in the workplace?
  • Should we hold public figures and celebrities to a higher standard of morality?
  • Should abortion be an issue that is decided at the federal or state level?
  • Should the sex offender registry be available to the public?
  • Should undocumented immigrants have a path to amnesty?
  • Do syringe services programs reduce or increase harmful behaviors?
  • Should there be a statute of limitations?
  • Should those who are convicted of a crime be required to report their criminal history on job and housing applications?

Politics and Government

  • Is the Electoral College still an effective way to elect the President of the US?
  • Should we allow judges to serve on the Supreme Court indefinitely?
  • Should the US establish a national gun registry?
  • Countries like Israel and China require all citizens to serve in the military. Is this a good or bad policy?
  • Should the police force require all its officers to wear body cameras while on duty?
  • Should the US invest in the development of clean meat as a sustainable protein source?
  • Should the US adopt ranked-choice voting?
  • Should institutions that profited from slavery provide reparations?
  • Should the government return land to Native American tribes?
  • Should there be term limits for representatives and senators?
  • Should there be an age limit for presidential candidates?
  • Should women be allowed in special forces units?

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Should schools have uniforms?
  • Can video games improve problem-solving skills?
  • Are online classes as effective as in-person classes?
  • Should companies implement a four-day work week?
  • Co-ed learning versus single-sex: which is more effective?
  • Should the school day start later?
  • Is homework an effective teaching tool?
  • Are electric cars really better for the environment?
  • Should schools require all students to study a foreign language?
  • Do professional athletes get paid too much money?

Fun Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Should we allow pets to run for public office?
  • Does pineapple belong on pizza?
  • Would students benefit from schools swapping out desks with more comfortable seating arrangements (i.e., bean bag chairs and couches)?
  • Is procrastination the key to success?
  • Should Americans adopt British accents to sound more intelligent?
  • The age-old dilemma: cats or dogs?
  • Should meme creators receive royalties when their memes go viral?
  • Should there be a minimum drinking age for coffee?
  • Are people who make their beds every day more successful than those who don’t?

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

  • Is the movie ranking system an effective way to evaluate the appropriateness of films?
  • Should the government place a “health tax” on junk food?
  • Is it ethical to create artificial life forms that are capable of complex emotions?
  • Should parents let children choose their own names?
  • Creating clones of ourselves to serve as organ donors: ethical or not?
  • Is it ethical to engineer humans to be better and more optimized than nature intended?
  • Should we adopt a universal language to communicate with people from all countries?
  • Should there be a penalty for people who don’t vote?
  • Should calories be printed on menus?
  • Does tourism positively or negatively impact local communities?
  • When used by non-Natives, are dreamcatchers cultural appropriation?
  • Should companies require their employees to specify pronouns in their signature line?
  • Should commercial fishing be banned?
  • Are cemeteries sustainable?
  • Is it okay to change the race, culture, and/or gender of historical figures in movies or TV shows?

I’ve Chosen My Topic, Now What?

Once you’ve selected your topic, it’s time to get to work crafting your argument. Preparation for a persuasive speech or essay involves some key steps, which we’ve outlined for you below.

How to Create a Successful Persuasive Speech, Step by Step

  • Research your topic. Read widely and smartly. Stick to credible sources, such as peer-reviewed articles, published books, government reports, textbooks, and news articles. The right sources and data will be necessary to help you establish your authority. As you go, take notes on the details and nuances of your topic as well as potential counterarguments. Research the counterarguments, too.
  • Choose an angle. For example, if you chose the topic “Should we limit screen time for children?” your speech should come down firmly on one side of that debate. If your topic is frequently debated, such as abortion, capital punishment, gun control, social media, etc. try to find a niche angle or new research. For example, instead of “Should abortion be legal?” you might consider “Should you be able to order abortion pills online?” Another example: “Should the death penalty be banned?” might become “How long is it ethical for someone to stay on death row?” If you do some digging, even the most cliche topics have incredibly interesting and relatively unexplored sub-topics.
  • Create an outline. Your outline should include an introduction with a thesis statement, a body that uses evidence to elaborate and support your position while refuting any counterarguments, and a conclusion. The conclusion will both summarize the points made earlier and serve as your final chance to persuade your audience.
  • Write your speech. Use your outline to help you as well as the data you’ve collected. Remember: this is not dry writing; this writing has a point of view, and that point of view is yours . Accordingly, use anecdotes and examples to back up your argument. The essential components of this speech are logos (logic), ethos (credibility), and pathos (emotion) . The ideal speech will use all three of these functions to engage the audience.

How to Practice and Deliver a Persuasive Speech

  • Talk to yourself in the mirror, record yourself, and/or hold a practice speech for family or friends. If you’ll be using visual cues, a slide deck, or notecards, practice incorporating them seamlessly into your speech. You should practice until your speech feels very familiar, at least 5-10 times.
  • Practice body language. Are you making eye contact with your audience, or looking at the ground? Crossing your arms over your chest or walking back and forth across the room? Playing with your hair, cracking your knuckles, or picking at your clothes? Practicing what to do with your body, face, and hands will help you feel more confident on speech day.
  • Take it slow. It’s common to talk quickly while delivering a speech—most of us want to get it over with! However, your audience will be able to connect with you much more effectively if you speak at a moderate pace, breathe, and pause when appropriate.
  • Give yourself grace. How you recover from a mistake is much more important than the mistake itself. Typically, the best approach is to good-naturedly shrug off a blip and move on. 99% of the time, your audience won’t even notice!

Good Persuasive Speech Topics—Final Thoughts

The art of persuasive speaking is a tricky one, but the tips and tricks laid out here will help you craft a compelling argument that will sway even the most dubious audience to your side. Mastering this art takes both time and practice, so don’t fret if it doesn’t come to you right away. Remember to draw upon your sources, speak with authority, and have fun. Once you have the skill of persuasive speaking down, go out there and use your voice to impact change!

Looking for some hot-button topics in college admissions? You might consider checking out the following:

  • Do Colleges Look at Social Media?
  • Should I Apply Test-Optional to College?
  • Should I Waive My Right to See Letters of Recommendation?
  • Should I Use the Common App Additional Information Section?
  • High School Success

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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75 Persuasive Speech Topics and Ideas

October 4, 2018 - Gini Beqiri

To write a captivating and persuasive speech you must first decide on a topic that will engage, inform and also persuade the audience. We have discussed how to choose a topic and we have provided a list of speech ideas covering a wide range of categories.

What is persuasive speech?

The aim of a persuasive speech is to inform, educate and convince or motivate an audience to do something. You are essentially trying to sway the audience to adopt your own viewpoint.

The best persuasive speech topics are thought-provoking, daring and have a clear opinion. You should speak about something you are knowledgeable about and can argue your opinion for, as well as objectively discuss counter-arguments.

How to choose a topic for your speech

It’s not easy picking a topic for your speech as there are many options so consider the following factors when deciding.

Familiarity

Topics that you’re familiar with will make it easier to prepare for the speech.

It’s best if you decide on a topic in which you have a genuine interest in because you’ll be doing lots of research on it and if it’s something you enjoy the process will be significantly easier and more enjoyable. The audience will also see this enthusiasm when you’re presenting which will make the speech more persuasive.

The audience’s interest

The audience must care about the topic. You don’t want to lose their attention so choose something you think they’ll be interested in hearing about.

Consider choosing a topic that allows you to be more descriptive because this allows the audience to visualize which consequently helps persuade them.

Not overdone

When people have heard about a topic repeatedly they’re less likely to listen to you as it doesn’t interest them anymore. Avoid cliché or overdone topics as it’s difficult to maintain your audience’s attention because they feel like they’ve heard it all before.

An exception to this would be if you had new viewpoints or new facts to share. If this is the case then ensure you clarify early in your speech that you have unique views or information on the topic.

Emotional topics

Emotions are motivators so the audience is more likely to be persuaded and act on your requests if you present an emotional topic.

People like hearing about issues that affect them or their community, country etc. They find these topics more relatable which means they find them more interesting. Look at local issues and news to discover these topics.

Desired outcome

What do you want your audience to do as a result of your speech? Use this as a guide to choosing your topic, for example, maybe you want people to recycle more so you present a speech on the effect of microplastics in the ocean.

Jamie Oliver persuasive speech

Persuasive speech topics

Lots of timely persuasive topics can be found using social media, the radio, TV and newspapers. We have compiled a list of 75 persuasive speech topic ideas covering a wide range of categories.

Some of the topics also fall into other categories and we have posed the topics as questions so they can be easily adapted into statements to suit your own viewpoint.

  • Should pets be adopted rather than bought from a breeder?
  • Should wild animals be tamed?
  • Should people be allowed to own exotic animals like monkeys?
  • Should all zoos and aquariums be closed?

Arts/Culture

  • Should art and music therapy be covered by health insurance?
  • Should graffiti be considered art?
  • Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
  • Should automobile drivers be required to take a test every three years?
  • Are sports cars dangerous?
  • Should bicycles share the roads with cars?
  • Should bicycle riders be required by law to always wear helmets?

Business and economy

  • Do introverts make great leaders?
  • Does owning a business leave you feeling isolated?
  • What is to blame for the rise in energy prices?
  • Does hiring cheaper foreign employees hurt the economy?
  • Should interns be paid for their work?
  • Should employees receive bonuses for walking or biking to work?
  • Should tipping in restaurants be mandatory?
  • Should boys and girls should be taught in separate classrooms?
  • Should schools include meditation breaks during the day?
  • Should students be allowed to have their mobile phones with them during school?
  • Should teachers have to pass a test every decade to renew their certifications?
  • Should online teaching be given equal importance as the regular form of teaching?
  • Is higher education over-rated?
  • What are the best ways to stop bullying?
  • Should people with more than one DUI lose their drivers’ licenses?
  • Should prostitution be legalised?
  • Should guns be illegal in the US?
  • Should cannabis be legalised for medical reasons?
  • Is equality a myth?
  • Does what is “right” and “wrong” change from generation to generation?
  • Is there never a good enough reason to declare war?
  • Should governments tax sugary drinks and use the revenue for public health?
  • Has cosmetic surgery risen to a level that exceeds good sense?
  • Is the fast-food industry legally accountable for obesity?
  • Should school cafeterias only offer healthy food options?
  • Is acupuncture a valid medical technique?
  • Should assisted suicide be legal?
  • Does consuming meat affect health?
  • Is dieting a good way to lose weight?

Law and politics

  • Should voting be made compulsory?
  • Should the President (or similar position) be allowed to serve more than two terms?
  • Would poverty reduce by fixing housing?
  • Should drug addicts be sent for treatment in hospitals instead of prisons?
  • Would it be fair for the government to detain suspected terrorists without proper trial?
  • Is torture acceptable when used for national security?
  • Should celebrities who break the law receive stiffer penalties?
  • Should the government completely ban all cigarettes and tobacco products
  • Is it wrong for the media to promote a certain beauty standard?
  • Is the media responsible for the moral degradation of teenagers?
  • Should advertising be aimed at children?
  • Has freedom of press gone too far?
  • Should prayer be allowed in public schools?
  • Does religion have a place in government?
  • How do cults differ from religion?

Science and the environment

  • Should recycling be mandatory?
  • Should genetically modified foods be sold in supermarkets?
  • Should parents be allowed to choose the sex of their unborn children?
  • Should selling plastic bags be completely banned in shops?
  • Should smoking in public places be banned?
  • Should professional female athletes be paid the same as male athletes in the same sport?
  • Should doping be allowed in professional sports?
  • Should schools be required to teach all students how to swim?
  • How does parental pressure affect young athletes?
  • Will technology reduce or increase human employment opportunities?
  • What age should children be allowed to have mobile phones?
  • Should libraries be replaced with unlimited access to e-books?
  • Should we recognize Bitcoin as a legal currency?
  • Should bloggers and vloggers be treated as journalists and punished for indiscretions?
  • Has technology helped connect people or isolate them?
  • Should mobile phone use in public places be regulated?
  • Do violent video games make people more violent?

World peace

  • What is the safest country in the world?
  • Is planetary nuclear disarmament possible?
  • Is the idea of peace on earth naive?

These topics are just suggestions so you need to assess whether they would be suitable for your particular audience. You can easily adapt the topics to suit your interests and audience, for example, you could substitute “meat” in the topic “Does consuming meat affect health?” for many possibilities, such as “processed foods”, “mainly vegan food”, “dairy” and so on.

After choosing your topic

After you’ve chosen your topic it’s important to do the following:

  • Research thoroughly
  • Think about all of the different viewpoints
  • Tailor to your audience – discussing your topic with others is a helpful way to gain an understanding of your audience.
  • How involved are you with this topic – are you a key character?
  • Have you contributed to this area, perhaps through blogs, books, papers and products.
  • How qualified are you to speak on this topic?
  • Do you have personal experience in it? How many years?
  • How long have you been interested in the area?

While it may be difficult to choose from such a variety of persuasive speech topics, think about which of the above you have the most knowledge of and can argue your opinion on.

For advice about how to deliver your persuasive speech, check out our blog  Persuasive Speech Outline and Ideas .

100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students

  • Homework Tips
  • Learning Styles & Skills
  • Study Methods
  • Time Management
  • Private School
  • College Admissions
  • College Life
  • Graduate School
  • Business School
  • Distance Learning
  • M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
  • B.A., History, Armstrong State University

If you are planning a persuasive speech, you should think about a topic that can engage your audience. For this reason, you may want to consider a few topics before settling on the one that allows you to be more descriptive and entertaining.

Another important factor when picking a persuasive speech topic is to choose one that can provoke your audience. If you stir up a little emotion in your audience members, you'll keep their attention.

The list below is provided to help you brainstorm. Choose a topic from this list, or use it to generate an idea of your own. It could even be an idea that opposes the proposed example. For instance, instead of arguing American workers should be guaranteed a three-day weekend by law, you could argue why this shouldn't be the case.

How to Pick a Good Persuasive Speech Topic

Persuasive speeches are generally meant to convince an audience to agree with an idea you present. The topics can range from political to scientific or societal, and professional to personal—or even fun. They can be almost anything.

Just remember, a persuasive speech is different than a persuasive essay because you are presenting to an audience. So as you decide on a topic, think about your audience and decide on a subject matter that will be appropriate, compelling, and engaging to discuss. Perhaps it's a timely issue attracting a lot of news coverage, or maybe you want to be motivational and encourage a healthy activity. Whatever it is, structure your argument with a hook to capture attention , a clear definition of the topic or issue, and finally, your proposed solution or opinion.

100 Examples of Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Argumentative Speech Topics and ideas: A Complete Guide

An argumentative speech is a persuasive speech. Here, speakers try to encourage audiences to alter their views on a controversial issue.

Though they are alike in some manner, persuasive and argumentative speech contains different goals.

A persuasive speech focuses on sharing a perspective and asking the public to think it over. An argumentative speech aims to alter the viewpoint already detained by the audience.

This type of speech is challenging. So, the speaker should pick up the topic that he is confident at and come up with a strong argument.

When you are involved in debates with family or friends, you obviously tend to win or lose. The way you argue shows your capability to compel facts and concepts in support of a topic.

While losing an argument, chances are you only used the standpoint supporting your situation. In a perfect argumentative speech, there should be a strong claim and the points to support it.

For an argumentative speech, find a concrete and controversial argument to use as your foundation. These speeches generally focus on the topics discussed at the moment by society. Most of the topics of argumentative speech are derivative of political discussion.

This is most commonly noticed in the media. The selected topic might be social, religious, ethical, or political by nature. The public must be confident to revise their long-held values. They might ask to change detained convictions relevant to the recent evidence.

In fact, picking up a topic that is debatable is important to develop good speech. The topic should not include something which is already demonstrated or verified.

Instead, it should be logical enough to convince the audience. The speaker should come up with a strong opinion to make his speech realistic to the audience.

To be able to argue in a reasonable and logical way is a fine life skill. It helps to stand up for what you think is correct and let others give attention to your viewpoints.

For instance, if the topic includes “eating egg and milk affects your healthiness”. You evaluate the opponent and create your own topic like “Eating egg and milk does not affect your health”. Yet, you have to give strong points to support your answer.

Table of Contents

Terms to Present Argumentative Speech

Claims of fact, claims of value, claims of policy, 1. pick up debatable topic, 2. take a strong standpoint, 3. give some supportable arguments, 4. refute alternate positions, tips for delivering an argumentative speech:, 1. look for your topic, 2. recognize your standpoint, 3. carry out the research, 4. know who your opposition is, 5. know the facts, 6. choose the topic of your interest, list of argumentative speech topic, argumentative speech topics about economy, argumentative speech topics about science, argumentative speech topics about environment, argumentative speech topics about family, argumentative speech topics about technology, argumentative speech topics about health, argumentative speech topics about history, argumentative speech topics about politics, argumentative speech topics about religion, argumentative speech topics about sports, argumentative speech topics about relationships, argumentative speech topics about law, argumentative speech topics about life, argumentative speech topics about ethics,  conclusion.

These are some terms that help you to present an ideal argumentative speech:

  • Claim – This is the main term that you should focus on. Try to give a strong standpoint. Support on the point, position, and the issue you are talking about. Do not forget the main purpose of the speech.
  • Grounds – Grounds are the key information or the facts that you use to make your point more powerful and reliable. Make sure that the details you give are an appropriate reason for your claims in the initial place.

Argumentative Speech is based on:

It starts with the reality relevant to the evidence. For an instance, you drink too much alcohol and do not exercise. Then, you will surely put up the weight. If you control your drinks, then you can maintain the weight.

Claims of value include the belief something is correct or incorrect, good or bad. For an instance, punishing children is wrong. It does not improve the habits of your children.

Here you can also state “Punishing children is right”. They will think properly before doing anything wrong

Claims of the policy are taken from the course of action. For an instance, you should be able to vote through a driving license. There is a precise rule for the policy. It is realistic and superior compared to the current system.

Every child should learn different languages in school. It is vital to introduce teachers to the value of beginning foreign language experience.

While initiating the argumentative speech, get ready with strong arguments. You desire to give an influential impact right in front. Also, you might wish to leave a good impression on the audience hearing your speech.

Stay away from personal attacks. If you make the argument too boring, there will be a higher chance of losing your audience.

Besides, argumentative speech needs a powerful viewpoint on the topic that you are delivering. Remember, the goal is not to win your audience but to win the argument. You have to stand on your own point with an appropriate reason.

Essential components of an Argumentative speech:

The main goal of an argumentative essay is to influence others in your opinions. Generally, an argumentative speech addresses an audience with opposite opinions on a specific subject.

Here are four essential elements to focus on when developing an argumentative essay:

While picking up a topic, you should select the topic with more than a single side. For an instance, there is no way to discuss the topic of human smell with the nose. It is familiar fact that has no other strong points to discuss against.

While preparing for an argumentative speech, take a strong standpoint. Try to stick with the stance. This makes your speech powerful. Make sure you do not confuse the audience with any irrelevant points.

A good argument needs to have reasonable and convincing evidence. Better support your statement with information, figures, examples, and some relevant opinions. Also, argumentative speech does not contain unproven opinions. Make sure you research and present the argument that is a relevant argument.

At the end of a strong argumentative speech, you have to refute alternate positions. By dealing with the opponent, make some powerful arguments. Try to work on some common and stronger viewpoints.

  • Look for a concrete and controversial argument to use as your base.
  • Arrange your points properly. Arranging the points can be helpful while planning your thoughts and presenting them
  • Give most of your time for research. Better research on your topics along with the topics which your opposition is likely to pick up.

How to develop an effective Argumentative Speech?

After picking up a fine controversial topic, you should work on some powerful points. Those points must make your speech influential. Start developing an outline that translates into better argumentative speech.

These are some points to consider while working on an argumentative speech:

From absorption to health, you can find many types of topics that you feel comfortable presenting.

At first, think about the topic that you are supporting. Are you supporting abortion or speaking against it? Most of the speaker loves to speak against abortion but should be confident to speak on the topic.

Better verify and try to prove the facts using some examples or supportive words. This makes your speech more powerful and interesting. Consider determining whether you are attempting to take the topic.  

You can definitely find the people who have worked for or else against the topic that you picked up earlier.

For this, you have to carry out the research well. But, this does not mean you have to copy from them. Just take your idea and use them in a better way. This helps to know what step you should take to move forward to make a good flow of the argument.

Each argumentative speech contains both for and against the side. The best probable approach that you can use is to know your opponent. Knowing how your opponent thinks and the points they use makes you easy to perform.

An argumentative speech might be weak if you do not provide any facts. For a good outcome, you need facts supporting your argument on the controversial topic. If you ignore this you might be in a problem while presenting the speech.

Be sure, you know and give the facts, and make your points strong. These facts reduce your risk of looking unprepared and unprofessional.

You cannot give a better outcome without passion. To present superior argumentative speech, you should have an interest in the topic. Better select the topic of your interest. This helps you to work and perform better. If you do not trust yourself and your topic, no one will as well.

Deciding on an arguable topic is essential to developing an effective argumentative speech. Better do not pick up the topic which needs great logic for convincing the audience.

You should have an extreme desire in the topic with a deep opinion on the subject. If he cannot fulfill these criteria, he might not provide influencing arguments.

Argumentative Speech Topics and ideas

Find here the List of Argumentative Speech Topics. They are great for developing arguments for debates, persuasive speech, and argumentation.

Argumentative Speech Topics about Education

  • Mobile phones should be banned in schools for both students and teachers.
  • Exams should be abolished.
  • Exam scores do not reflect student performance.
  • Mandatory dress code.
  • Studying of foreign languages should begin from kindergarten age.
  • College students should have freedom to choose their own courses.
  • Sex education should be required in all schools.
  • Benefits of attending a single-sex school.
  • Essays do not demonstrate student’s knowledge on a topic.
  • Home education should only be allowed for medical reasons.
  • Education should be free to anyone.
  • Teachers should have mandatory re-training every 5 years.
  • Testing and choice are undermining education.
  • Grades are not important.
  • Bilingual education.
  • CPR and first aid techniques should be a mandatory course.
  • State colleges should be free to attend.
  • Teachers should wear uniforms or obey a dress code.
  • Why educational computer games should be used in school
  • Music education should be placed back into schools
  • Student Debts
  • Do colleges put too much stock in standardized test scores?
  • Price of Education and textbooks
  • Popular literature is not as valuable as classical literature.
  • Smoking and drinking on campus
  • Workers should get four weeks paid vacation each year.
  • The illegal immigrant workforce is good for the economy.
  • Christmas is just a way for businesses to increase sales.
  • Rich people should have tax breaks.
  • Decreasing wealth tax is good for the economy.
  • Salaries of actors, professional athletes and CEOs should be regulated and capped.
  • Government aid for students should be based purely on academic performance.
  • Taxes should be imposed on unhealthy foods to combat obesity.
  • Paying the waiter hourly rate below minimum wage is unfair.
  • Mortgage Crisis
  • Consumer Debt
  • Outsourcing jobs to foreign countries
  • Equal pay for equal work
  • Fuel Prices
  • How nuclear power shaped the 21st century in electrical generation.
  • Space exploration is a waste of money.
  • Genetic Research is destroying humanity.
  • NASA space landing on the moon was a hoax.
  • Media’s effect on teen suicide.
  • Stem cell research and the guidelines that control it.
  • Hunting is good for the environment.
  • Food shortage / world hunger.
  • Crimes against the environment should be tougher.
  • Vegetarianism is an ecologically thoughtful lifestyle.
  • Destruction of the world’s forest is justified by a human need for land and food.
  • Racing industry should be forced to use environmentally-friendly fuel.
  • Working from home is good for the environment.
  • Genetically modified food should be the answer to the world’s hunger problem.
  • The government should support and subsidize alternative energy sources.
  • Alternative Energy and Hybrid Vehicles can help save our planet.
  • Nuclear power is better than solar power.
  • Future of recycling.
  • Advantages of recycling water.
  • Alternative Fuels.
  • Every family with children filing for divorce must go through a mandatory ‘cooling off’ period.
  • Couples should be banned from adopting overseas.
  • Future parents should take parenting classes and pass tests before having a child.
  • Physical punishment is good practice for raising children.
  • Do curfews keep teens out of trouble?
  • Does access to condoms prevent teen pregnancy?
  • Violent video games and toys should not be allowed.
  • Technology is making people less creative.
  • Human beings are becoming slaves of modern technology.
  • Does technology limit creativity?
  • Technology makes us lose most of our traditions and culture.
  • New technologies create new problems.
  • Positive effects of technology on society.
  • Modern technology has increased material wealth but not happiness.
  • Social Networking Sites had an impact on changing us for the worse.
  • Internet censorship is unnecessary.
  • Whether the internet has made research easier and more convenient.
  •  Life was better when technology was less and more simple.
  • Online friends are more effective than real friends.
  • Internet Privacy.
  • Torrents and internet pirating.
  • Social networks are killing sincere relationships.
  • Organ donation should be mandatory.
  • Health risks of smoking are exaggerated.
  • Vaccinations should be compulsory.
  • Veganism is an unhealthy way to raise kids.
  • Breast-feeding is one of the most important things a mother can give to a child.
  • Terminally ill patients should be allowed to use heroin.
  • Knowing your ancestry is important for health.
  • All farmers should go organic.
  • Lapses in food safety as a result of a complex interplay of factors.
  • Music Therapy.
  • The need of teen depression prevention.
  • Drug addiction is a sickness.
  • Running is unhealthy.
  • Fast food, soda, chips and other unhealthy food should be heavily taxed.
  • Bread is bad for your health.
  • Child obesity.
  • Any products that are believed to cause cancer should have a  warning label.
  • The only difference between normal and organic food is the cost.
  • Dangers of herbal remedies.
  • Smoking a pipe is more harmful than smoking cigarettes.
  • Denying health insurance on a basis of a pre-existing condition is against human rights.
  • Athletes who are caught using steroids should be banned from the professional sport for life.
  • Stretching before and after exercise is overrated.
  • A vegetarian diet is as healthy as a diet containing meat.
  • Eating meat and dairy is bad for your body.
  • GMOs are bad for health and should be avoided at any cost.
  • Why slavery was good for society back in the 1800s.
  • Adolf Hitler was a great leader.
  • Slavery and its effects on global economic developments.
  • Why Reagan’s “War on Drugs” had negative effects.
  • Many Caribbean people do not understand their heritage and history.
  • Famous people (actors, athletes) should not be allowed to become politicians.
  • The War in Iraq was justified.
  • Invading other countries, as long as for good cause, is justified.
  • Illegal immigrants should get an asylum.
  • Democracy is the best form of government.
  • Why should we trust Official Statistics?
  • War as an instrument of foreign policy.
  • Voting should be compulsory for all citizens.
  • Compulsory military service is good for society and the country.
  • Voting age should be lowered.
  • Terrorism is a major issue in the world because innocent people are affected.
  • The assassination can never be justified.
  • Why electronic voting is not effective.
  • Downsides of multiculturalism
  • Can racial profiling be useful?
  • Churches should be required to pay taxes.
  • Racialist blames are often used as a great excuse to shut down dialogue.
  • The world would be a more peaceful place without religions.
  • Life after death.
  • Evolution vs. Creationism.
  • There should be no religion in schools.
  • Islamic Fundamentalism.
  • Religion is a force for evil.
  • Students should learn about world religions in public schools.
  • Jehovah witnesses.
  • Why hockey should allow fights.
  • Not all great sportsmen can be good coaches. 
  • For athletes: Discipline is more important than talent.
  • Female athletes train better with female coaches.
  • Chess is not a sport.
  • Should players’ jerseys display ads?
  • Should there be a set age range for basketball players?
  • Can gambling be legalized as a professional sport?
  • Spousal Abuse.
  • Polygamy creates healthy relationships.
  • Gender equality is a myth.
  • Having sex with a prostitute is not cheating.
  • Does age matter in relationships? What age is appropriate for dating?
  • Men should be forced to take paternity leave from work.
  • Gender does not affect learning.
  • Guns should be made illegal.
  • Minors should be tried for murder at any age.
  • Social Security and Medical Reform are non-negotiable ways out of the debt crisis.
  • Gay couples should have the same rights as heterosexual couples.
  • Plastic surgery should be illegal for anyone under 18.
  • Identity Theft.
  • Ban on smoking in public places is undemocratic.
  • Euthanasia should be legalized.
  • Prostitution should be legalized.
  • The taboo on recreational drugs is unjustified.
  •  Driving speed limits should be lifted in areas with low accident risk.
  • DUI offenders should give up their driver license for a year.
  • Laws to protect the victims of domestic abuse should be enforced.
  • Making drugs illegal creates an environment for crime and violence.
  • Fast Food advertisements and promotions should be banned.
  • Retirement should be made compulsory at the age of 60.
  • Cell phones and driving.
  • Billboards should not be allowed on interstate highways.
  • Acceptance of all types of people.
  • Today’s world is a dangerous place to live in.
  • People don’t enjoy what they have. They constantly seek for more.
  • Benefits of having friends.
  • Modern offices should have facilities for an afternoon nap.
  • Would you rather be lucky, rich, or intelligent?
  • Reality television makes people stupid and should be regulated.
  • Has television become out-dated?
  • Watching television makes people smarter.
  • Banning some books and movies can help society.
  • Assisted Suicide.
  • Genetic Research.
  • Is human cloning ethical?
  • The Ethics of Capital Punishment.
  • Euthanasia is not morally acceptable.
  • Abortion is inhumane and murder.
  • Abortions should be legal in cases of rape and incest.
  • DNA experiments on human embryos are unethical and should not be allowed.
  • Torture is an acceptable measure to prevent terrorism.
  • Wearing fur is unethical.
  • Cultural treasures should be returned to their countries of origin.
  • Do animals have rights? Using animals for scientific research is inhumane.
  • Spaying and neutering pets should be mandatory.
  • Zoos, aquariums, and circus violate animal rights and should be shut down.
  • Should scientists bring back extinct species through cloning?
  • Hunting is unethical and should not be allowed.
  • Doctors are better than Lawyers Are beauty pageants exploitative?
  • Feminism is bad for society.
  • The Miss America pageant is sexist.

The above-mentioned topics and tips for argumentative speech should help you prepare and deliver an argumentative speech. If you have any suggestions or feedback, please let me know in the comment below.

write a speech topics

125+ Persuasive Speech Topics To Amaze Your Audience

write a speech topics

Reviewed by:

Former Admissions Committee Member, Columbia University

Reviewed: 5/31/24

This article provides a comprehensive list of persuasive speech topics and answers to some of your frequently asked questions about speech topics. 

Persuasive writing is hard, and it’s even harder to try to come up with an engaging topic that interests you and your audience. 

Not only do you have to convince your audience to take your side on subjects that are often pretty divisive, but you also have to persuade them to take your side of the argument. The first step to making a successful persuasive speech that will amaze your audience is having a strong topic.  

Keep reading for 125+ persuasive speech topics.

125+ Topics for a Persuasive Speech

Persuasive speech ideas are harder to come up with than you may think. There is a fine balance between interesting your audience, being interesting to you, unique, and fresh, all while being thought-provoking without being outright offensive.

Here is a breakdown of various topics for persuasive speeches, organized by categories, to inspire you. 

1. Arts & Culture

Art and culture are always hot topics among individuals and groups. There are many interesting arguments and stances on both topics, and many people have strong opinions about them. 

See below for prompts for persuasive speeches about art and culture: 

  • Is graffiti art? 
  • Should art classes be mandatory for all students?
  • Should we keep reading classic literature that is offensive? 
  • Should there be a distinction between ‘high’ and ‘low’ literature?
  • Are romcoms and erotica series like Fifty Shades of Grey empowering for women?
  • Is reading actually more beneficial than watching TV or playing video games?
  • Is there any benefit or relevance to teaching high school students Shakespeare?
  • Should video games be considered a high form of entertainment?
  • Are biographical movies of deceased musicians and artists ethical?
  • Is modern music really worse than older music?
  • Should paparazzi be banned and unable to sell their photos?

Topics in arts and culture are always fun to debate and discuss because you have the opportunity to talk about your favorite pieces of media!

2. Economics

Economics is a hotly debated topic. There is no shortage of compelling, engaging arguments involving economics. 

Here are some good persuasive speech ideas on the topic of economics: 

  • Is capitalism a functional, ethical economic system? 
  • Should everyone, despite their income, be taxed at the same rate?
  • Can we introduce another economic system to our society? 
  • Should each state, the federal government, or individual companies be responsible for setting a living wage?
  • Should the minimum wage be doubled?
  • Should everyone adapt to the four-day workweek?
  • Should people who make under a certain amount per year not be taxed at all?
  • Should governments encourage and reward people for shopping locally? 
  • Should advertisements be banned during TV and media programming aimed at kids?
  • Has modern consumerism gone too far?

Economics is a great topic for a persuasive speech because it affects our everyday lives in so many ways. There are tons of research and perspectives to help support your argument. 

3. Education

Many people feel strongly about education, and many sides and perspectives come into play: teachers, parents, students, student athletes, and more. 

Here is a list of some engaging topics to write a persuasive speech on:

  • Should post-secondary education be free?
  • Should taking a year off between high school and college be mandatory?
  • Is it fair to take cell phones away from kids in middle/high school while they are in class?
  • Should school uniforms be mandatory in all high schools?
  • Should cursive writing still be taught in schools?
  • Do frats and sororities actually serve their purpose? 
  • Should programming and coding be introduced to young students?
  • Should school lunches be free?
  • Is college/university necessary anymore?
  • Does the education system prepare students for adult life?
  • Should gyms be mandatory for all students?
  • Do schools need to do a better job at teaching students a second language?
  • Should schools teach sign language?
  • What age should students be taught sex ed?
  • Should distant learning be encouraged or avoided at all costs?

Education is another great topic to write a speech about because it intersects with economics, culture , and politics . These topics will guarantee an engaged audience. This is a popular topic for high school students who are learning about tuition and scholarships at their top colleges! 

4. Environment

Since the release of Al Gore’s “An Inconvenient Truth” and Greta Thunberg’s unapologetic activism, climate change has been at the forefront of many political, economic, and cultural conversations. 

If environmental issues spark your interest, consider writing on one of the topics below:

  • Can we ever live in a truly ‘green’ and environmentally friendly society?
  • Should water bottles be banned?
  • Are businesses responsible for implementing environmentally friendly production and products?
  • Should there be a carbon tax?
  • Should electric cars be mandatory in the near future?
  • Should we switch over to entirely renewable energy?
  • Do low-income families have the same duties to be eco-conscious as high-income families do? Should plastic bags and single-use plastic be completely banned?
  • Should car racing be banned?
  • Should fast fashion be banned?

The environment and climate change are becoming, if not already, some of the most pressing issues of our day. 

Ethics may be one of the most difficult topics to write a persuasive speech about because they tend to involve sensitive subject matter. However, ethics are also some of the most compelling and complex topics to explore. 

Here are some potential topics for a persuasive speech about ethics:

  • Is animal testing ethical?
  • Is drinking coffee unethical?
  • Are animal shelters that allow euthanization ethical?
  • Should more people try to adopt a vegetarian/vegan diet?
  • Is the death penalty ethical? 
  • Can racism ever truly be eliminated?
  • Can the prison system genuinely contribute to the improvement and rehabilitation of individuals?
  • Should justice systems and incarceration facilities focus on rehabilitation over punishment? 
  • Should cosmetic plastic surgery be covered by insurance?
  • Are morals objective or subjective?
  • Should zoos and circuses be banned?
  • Should fur coats be illegal?
  • Are censorship laws ethical?
  • Is it ethical to genetically modify an embryo? 
  • How should we address the homelessness crisis, and who is responsible for it? 
  • Should minors who commit violent crimes be charged and tried as adults?

Tackling a persuasive speech on ethics is a challenge, as many of these topics are complex and sensitive. It can also be difficult to wrap up a speech on such huge ethical debates. 

However, these topics also provide some of the most riveting and energizing debates—if you’re up to the challenge, you should definitely try to tackle one of these topics. 

From fitness to food prices to economic privilege, there are tons of debatable topics regarding health. Here are just some of the potential topics you can write a speech on:

  • Are individuals solely responsible for their own health?
  • Should prescription medications be free?
  • Should sugary drinks like pop be taxed at higher rates?
  • Should Starbucks be allowed to advertise its high-calorie and high-sugar drinks?
  • Should the government regulate the prices of fruits and vegetables?
  • Should fast food restaurants regulate and reduce their portions?
  • Should gym memberships be free?
  • Should the government change and restructure the work week to reduce stress?
  • Should nurses be paid more?
  • Should smoking be banned?
  • Should insurance companies fully cover rehabilitation stays for health issues like eating disorders?

People have varying opinions and understanding of health, which makes these topics very engaging and interesting to write about.

7. Politics

It goes without saying that almost every political issue is debatable. 

  • Do we actually live in a truly democratic society?
  • Should there be a minimum wage or a living wage?
  • Should the legal voting age be decreased?
  • Does the pay gap exist?
  • Are younger politicians more effective?
  • Should there be stricter gun laws?
  • Should Presidents be able to serve more than two terms?
  • Should everyone get the day off work to go vote?
  • Should political party funding be regulated?
  • Should political smear campaigns be banned?
  • Is there a political bias in mainstream media?
  • Should you date someone with opposing political views? 
  • Is the government spending too much on the military sector?

Politics is all about persuading people to take a side, which makes it a strategic topic for delivering a moving, persuasive speech. 

Sports is another big topic that people care a lot about. There are sports-related matters that are questioned everywhere: sports on TV, the Olympics, college sports and athletics, and athletic sponsorships . 

Below is a list of captivating sports topics for a persuasive speech: 

  • Should the pay for professional teams be based on audience viewership? 
  • Are professional sports getting too violent? 
  • Are athletes overpaid?
  • Is cheerleading empowering or exploitative? 
  • Should children be allowed to compete in competitive sports?
  • Should we continue spending millions of dollars on the Olympic Games?
  • Do people put too much importance on high school and college football?
  • Should alcohol and tobacco ads be banned during sports?
  • Is betting on sports teams ethical?
  • Should high school and college athletes be paid?

Sports is a topic that people don’t often think of as controversial. However, your audience is bound to be engaged and contemplating your argument as you present your speech. 

9. Technology

As the world increasingly moves to online spaces, and technology advances faster than ever before, technology is another hot topic that people have a lot of thoughts and opinions on. 

  • Should all workplaces offer hybrid/remote work?
  • Should we pursue Artificial Intelligence?
  • Do we need to put resources into traveling to space?
  • Should parents monitor their children’s online activity?
  • Is it okay for phones to use facial recognition and fingerprint technology?
  • Is technology actually addicting?
  • Can we blame technology for increased stress and anxiety?
  • Are security cameras and body cameras an invasion of privacy? 
  • Should the internet be surveilled or managed?
  • Should video game chats be surveilled or even banned?
  • Are machines replacing human labor? 
  • Should cloning be outlawed/banned?

As technology continues to advance and expand into our personal lives, it is a great topic to write a unique persuasive speech on. 

Having a unique and creative speech topic discussing one of your interests can make it stand out more! Think about extracurriculars you participate in, podcasts you enjoy, or fascinating facts you’ve learned. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box. 

  • What makes a hero?
  • Are we headed toward World War 3?
  • Did humans really land on the moon?
  • Are serial killers born or made?
  • Can good and evil be separated neatly?
  • Is cancel culture a positive or negative thing?
  • Can money buy happiness?
  • How to become a millionaire
  • How to become more confident
  • How to live to be 100
  • How to survive an apocalypse
  • Do extraterrestrial beings exist?
  • Why students should start investing at 16
  • The true history of… (event of your choice, such as the Chernobyl disaster, the Black Plague, Salem Witch Trials, etc.)

Exploring these diverse and intriguing topics will not only capture your audience's attention but also allow you to share your passions with your peers! 

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

The best persuasive speech topics are topics that are not overdone and that the speaker is genuinely passionate about and knowledgeable about. 

Persuasive topics should also be a bit controversial (this does not mean offensive) because the topic and speech itself should be thought-provoking. The more people are emotionally invested in the topic, the better. 

For example, while you can try to persuade your audience that strawberry ice cream is better than chocolate ice cream, it’s unlikely that many people have a strong emotional investment in that topic. Without an emotional investment, audiences will be sitting listening to your speech, thinking: “So what?” 

On the other hand, a topic like “Should government set limits on how many children a family can have in overpopulated countries?” is emotionally charged and truly matters to people. 

Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic

Let's take a look at the key components that make up a great persuasive speech topic.

Timeliness and Relevance

Consider what's on people's minds right now. Your topic should be something they care about, whether it's in the news or a long-standing issue. It needs to feel important and connected to their lives. Picking a timely and relevant topic grabs your audience's attention and makes them more interested in what you have to say.

When choosing a topic, aim for something that has layers to it. Controversial topics or ones with lots of different opinions are good because they make people think. By exploring all the different angles of your topic, you can make your speech more engaging and show that you understand it well.

In today's world, facts matter more than ever. It's not enough to simply state your opinion; you need to back it up with solid evidence. Rely on numbers, data, and information from reliable sources to support what you're saying. When you do this, people trust you more and are more likely to believe what you're saying.

Personal Connection

Passion is a powerful tool in persuasion - so choose a topic that you truly care about. Passion is evident in your speech and ultimately makes it more interesting. Your enthusiasm rubs off on the audience, and they're more likely to pay attention. Feeling connected to your topic makes your speech more powerful and convincing.

How to Create a Compelling Persuasive Speech 

Let's delve into the process of creating a compelling persuasive speech.

Understanding Your Audience

Before diving into your speech, take the time to understand your audience. What motivates them? What are their goals and values? Tailoring your message to resonate with their interests and concerns will greatly enhance its impact.

Focus on Key Goals

Keep your speech focused by selecting just one to three key goals to address. Trying to cover too much ground can overwhelm your audience and dilute your message. Instead, hone in on the most important points you want to convey.

Address Objections Head-On

Anticipate objections that your audience might have and incorporate them into your speech. Acknowledging and addressing these concerns demonstrates empathy and builds credibility, making your argument more persuasive.

Start with a Compelling Story

Capture your audience's attention from the outset by starting with a compelling story. Make it relatable and relevant to your message to draw listeners in and set the tone for the rest of your speech.

Practice, Practice, Practice

The key to delivering a persuasive speech with confidence is practice. Rehearse your speech until you know it inside and out, focusing on the flow of your ideas rather than memorizing every word. This will allow you to speak naturally and authentically.

Maintain Eye Contact

Engage your audience by maintaining eye contact throughout your speech. This creates a connection and keeps listeners attentive and engaged. Don't just stare at one person; instead, scan the room and make brief eye contact with various individuals.

Reinforce Your Points with Repetition

Repetition is a powerful tool for reinforcing your message. After explaining each key point, circle back and reiterate it to drive it home. This helps ensure that your audience remembers and internalizes your main ideas.

Leave a lasting impression by ending your speech with a strong closing statement. Summarize your key points and reiterate your main message with conviction. This final flourish will leave your audience inspired and motivated.

Embrace Feedback

Be open to feedback from your audience, and graciously accept both praise and criticism. Use feedback as an opportunity to refine your message and improve your delivery. By embracing feedback, you can continuously hone your persuasive skills and become an even more effective communicator.

After reading through all the possible topics you can write a persuasive speech on, you may still have some questions before you get going. Let’s get into them.

1. What Are Some Easy Persuasive Topics?

Any persuasive topic can be easy to write about if you are passionate about your stance. The more passionate and knowledgeable you are about your topic, the easier it will be to research and write. 

There are also easy, persuasive topics that are more lighthearted than controversial, which some people may find easier to debate and write about. Some easy persuasive topics include: 

  • Should everyone have a three-day weekend?
  • Should every public place have free Wi-Fi?
  • Does social media do more harm than good?
  • Should kids get paid for getting high grades?
  • Do we need more holidays?

These topics are all fun to debate, which makes it easy to write a persuasive speech or essay. Whereas some persuasive topics can be complex and sensitive, the topics listed above are pretty straightforward, which makes them easier to discuss than more complex topics. 

2. What Is a Good Speech Persuasive Topic For School?

A good start to finding a good persuasive speech topic for school is looking for a topic that involves something related to school. For example, you can look into talking about school uniforms, class sizes, tuition and scholarships, and school sports, just to name a few. 

Having a speech topic related to school is a good idea for school because your audience (teachers and peers) are directly in that environment as well. This means they will likely be more engaged as the topic, whether they agree or disagree, is relevant to their everyday lives. 

3. What are Three Examples of a Persuasive Speech Topic?

Any of the above topics listed in this article are examples of speech topics. Three specific examples that have not been listed are:

  • Is social media to blame for the rates of depression and anxiety among youth?
  • Do young adult romance novels encourage harmful and toxic relationships with their target audience?
  • Should children under 18 have total control over medical decisions made about their bodies?

These topics are examples of speech topics because you need to take a clear stance in order to answer the question. The point of a persuasive speech is to convince or persuade the audience that your side of the argument is valid and should be considered, so the topic needs the individual to take a specific stance. 

As briefly touched upon before, your topic needs to interest your audience for a successful persuasive speech. While you should make sure your topic isn’t overdone, you don’t want to go with something too ‘safe’ as that will most likely bore your audience. 

Final Thoughts

Coming up with a topic for a persuasive speech may be the most difficult part of the writing process. 

Read over our list of topics and pick out a few topics that genuinely interest you. From there, do some preliminary research on each topic and see which one has the strongest evidence to support your argument. Then, you’ll be good to start writing your persuasive speech that will amaze your audience!

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50 Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

What is it that makes these EASY persuasive speech topics?

I have several pages on this site devoted to persuasive speeches, but this one is all about crafting your statement as efficiently as possible.

An EASY topic is one that...

  • You already know well.  If you know your subject thoroughly - and you don't need to spend hours researching the topic - then you'll instantly and significantly reduce your workload! Bringing your personal experiences to your speech makes it easier to write, and makes your presentation more engaging for your listeners. Try making a list of subjects you're interested in, and a topic idea may even jump out at you! 
  • You feel strongly about. There's nothing harder than trying to persuade someone they should feel a certain way about something if you're 'wishy-washy' on how you feel about it yourself! Real passion comes across in your words, which are more forceful and credible as a result.

Technically, then, an easy persuasive speech topic for one individual may not be so easy for another.

The list I have put together for you here, however, is of topics with broad appeal, subjects about which most of us have a strong opinion and PLENTY to say!

In each case, I have stated merely the topic itself - it is up to you to decide whether you will try to persuade your audience to be FOR or AGAINST the claimed idea.

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics - 1-12 Related to Schools

  • All school children should wear a uniform
  • Exams give little indication of a student's real ability
  • Advertising in schools should be banned
  • Homeschooling is better than traditional education
  • Schools should ban soda
  • Schools should not serve French fries
  • Single-sex schools are better than mixed/co-ed
  • School is not the place for sex education
  • Students should be allowed to leave school at 14 to learn a trade
  • Going to college is not the key to a prosperous future
  • All students should master a 2nd language
  • History textbooks do not tell the truth (discuss how the perception of historical events may vary around the world)

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics - 13-27 Related to Family Life

  • Breastfeeding is better than bottle (formula) feeding
  • Parents should be held legally responsible for the things their children do
  • Under 18s should be allowed to drink alcohol at home with parental consent
  • Every workplace should provide child-care
  • Encouraging women to work is destroying the traditional family
  • Punish parents who fail to give children a healthy diet
  • We are over-scheduling our kids
  • Parents should never pry into their teens' rooms/belongings
  • Today's kids have it easier than their parents/grandparents
  • Dads are more fun than moms! (Keep this light-hearted)
  • Eating together as a family is important
  • A woman's place is in the home! (This is a provocative title, so be funny or surprising in your speech)
  • Older teenagers should contribute to household expenses
  • We should value our old people rather than cast them aside
  • It takes a village to raise a child

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics - 28-36 Funny/Light Hearted Ideas

  • A Mac is better than a PC!
  • Why [fill in the blank] is the best movie ever!
  • Why everyone should visit [fill in the blank] (talk about somewhere you love)
  • Mustaches should be banned
  • Google is taking over the world
  • Santa Claus is real!
  • Games like Candy Crush are making us stupid
  • Batman is cooler than Spiderman
  • McDonald's is better than Burger King

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics - 37-50 Miscellaneous Ideas

  • Plus size people should pay for two seats on public transport
  • The government should not censor information given online
  • Love is more powerful than hate
  • Immigrants should be required to speak the language of the country to which they're moving
  • We need more female construction workers!
  • You should buy local produce whenever possible
  • What doesn't kill you makes you stronger
  • Money can't buy happiness
  • A dog is man's best friend
  • All hospitals should allow pets to be brought in to see their owners
  • Criminals should be forced to make restitution to their victims, rather than to society in general
  • Lying isn't always wrong
  • Base discipline on rewards rather than punishment
  • Facebook has improved life for many people

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50 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

50 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

  • 5-minute read
  • 13th January 2023

Some find writing a persuasive speech to be intimidating, but it’s an opportunity to share your position on a topic you care about and to invite listeners to support (or at least appreciate) your way of thinking. You’ll benefit from a clear position, credible evidence, and careful consideration of your audience.

Your first step is to pick a topic. Whether you’re a teacher creating an assignment or a student deciding what to speak about, our list of 50 suggested persuasive speech topics and tips are a good starting place.

Choosing a Topic

●  It’s more enjoyable to research and write a speech about a topic that genuinely holds your interest. It’ll make for better delivery, too. Passion is contagious! On the other hand, boredom and a lack of enthusiasm come through easily in vocal tone.

●  Avoid tired, overdone issues. If you’ve heard it all before, there’s a good chance your audience has, too. Pick something current and relevant to your listeners . If you go with a popular topic, try to approach it from a fresh angle.

●  Issues that contain multiple viewpoints are preferable to simplistic good/bad debates. Most reasonable people would agree that “bullying is bad.” But they might learn something new if you share recent research on bullying and offer different approaches to tackling it.

Let’s look at some interesting speech topics, categorized by subject.

Should free speech on the internet be restricted?

At what age should children have access to smartphones?

Does texting hinder interpersonal skills?

Should parents limit their children’s screen time?

Should laws prohibit using devices while driving?

Is there a link between device usage and decreased mental health?

Should the number of US Supreme Court Justices be increased?

Should voting be compulsory?

Should Election Day in the US change from Tuesday to the weekend?

Should the electoral college system be abolished?

Should election procedures be standardized in all states?

Should the Senate filibuster be abolished?

Should the death penalty be legal?

Should states be allowed to have different abortion laws?

Should the legal age to own an assault rifle be raised?

Should the US conduct a voluntary gun buyback program?

Are governments doing enough to address climate change?

Is student loan forgiveness fair?

Should the US invest in high-speed rail similar to those in Japan and Europe?

Should plastic bags be banned in grocery stores?

What is the greatest threat to international stability?

What can be done to prevent cyber threats?

Is the two-party political system of the US failing?

Should the US adopt a single-payer universal health care system?

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Should minimum wage be a factor in the cost of health care?

Is healthcare a human right?

Should access to abortion be required by healthcare providers?

Do school shooter drills damage students’ mental health?

Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?

Should employers offer incentives and bonuses to employees who bike or walk to work?

Do school uniforms offer any advantages?

Are school dress codes gender biased?

Are standardized test scores given too much importance in schools?

Do college entrance exams privilege those with higher socio-economic status?

Should teachers be allowed to keep firearms in their classrooms as protection against active shooters?

Should indigenous languages be taught in schools?

Should immigrants have access to free language classes?

Should books ever be banned in schools?

Should elementary schools be required to teach a foreign language?

Should schools be cellphone free?

Should volunteering before graduation be compulsory?

Should school cafeterias serve more plant-based foods?

Should parents let their children play tackle football?

Should college sports teams receive less money?

Should there be more female priests or pastors of churches?

Should churches and other religious organizations pay taxes?

Should all priests be allowed to marry?

Should prayer be permitted in public schools?

On balance, does religion create more conflict or foster peace?

Should there be exceptions to the freedom to practice any religion?

Persuasion Isn’t All or Nothing

People often think persuasion means getting others to agree with you, but persuasion is more nuanced than that. You might persuade someone to go beyond sympathy and act. You might highlight the gray areas of a typically black and white debate.

When total agreement is out of reach, you can settle for agreement in part. Consider your audience thoughtfully when you decide on your goals and remember that you have options.

Step Up with Confidence

We hope these suggested persuasive speech topics have the wheels of your mind turning. Whether it’s for a speech or an argumentative essay , getting your ideas on paper and editing them is a necessary part of the process. Our editors are here to help you confidently put out your best work. Submit a free sample today .

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370+ Speech Writing Topics For Students

Discover our guide with great speech writing topics for debate speeches, persuasive speeches, informative speeches, and much more. Get answers below.

Writing and delivering a speech can be nerve-wracking, especially for the first time. Explore our top speech writing topics for college and high school students and get answers to your frequently asked questions about how to choose a speech topic and overcome anxiety surrounding public speaking. For tips on how to write a speech , check out our guide!

How to Prepare For Public Speaking 

Persuasive speech topics, informative speech topics, speech topics on environment and nature , speech topics on science and health , speech topics about technology , motivational speech topic ideas, speech topics on friendship , speech topics on family , speech topics on sports , debate speech topic ideas , speech topics on politics , speech topics on social issues , business speech topics , personal speech topics , special occasion speech topics  , travel speech topics, speech topics on education , psychology speech topics , funny speech writing topics , what are the different types of persuasive speech , what are some effective and easy ways to fight a fear of public speaking.

College and high school students often find themselves giving a speech for the first time, which can be stressful if you’ve never done public speaking before. Students can prepare ahead of time in several different ways to help set the stage for success – here are just a few:   

  • Learn the fundamentals of giving a good speech. This includes understanding the elements of a speech, such as the introduction, body, and conclusion. Each section should flow smoothly into the next and build upon the main point. Pay close attention to which words you choose and how your delivery comes across.
  • Practice makes perfect. Try to find opportunities to speak in front of an audience in different situations, even if it’s just in front of family, friends, or in front of a mirror. It can also help to record yourself so you can listen back and identify areas that need improvement. The more practice you have, the more confident you’ll feel when it comes time to give your speech.
  • Use relaxation techniques before giving your speech. You can start by taking some deep breaths and focusing on exhaling slowly. You can also try progressive muscle relaxation, which involves tensing and relaxing different muscle groups in your body several times until your muscles begin to relax on their own naturally. You can also check out these quick writing topics .

Speech Writing Topics: Persuasive speech topics

  • The dangers of social media. 
  • How to improve American healthcare. 
  • The problems with plastic bags. 
  • How cell phones lessen the quality of life. 
  • Why criminals need rights. 
  • If students should be required to study art. 
  • How the war on drugs harms communities of color.
  • If schools should ban certain types of books. 
  • If statues of slave owners should be removed from public property. 
  • If more practical subjects should be taught in school instead of algebra. 
  • If religion causes fighting and wars. 
  • If outlawing drugs makes them more desirable. 
  • If taking photographs of children in public should be illegal. 
  • How making food a reward sets the stage for eating disorders. 
  • If men should be granted paternity leave when they have or adopt a baby. 
  • If routine circumcision should be banned in the United States. 
  • How artificial intelligence stands to change the world. 
  • How American prisons are a form of modern-day slavery. 
  • Why the media needs more cultural and racial diversity. 
  • If restaurants have an obligation to purchase produce from local farmers. 
  • Global Warming & Climate Change 
  • Renewable Energy Benefits 
  • Problems In The American Education System 
  • Harmful Ingredients In Fast Food
  • Animal Testing, Zoos, And Other Forms of Animal Cruelty 
  • The Difference Between Real Life And Reality Shows
  • The Issue Of Indoor Pollution
  • Unethical Fast Fashion Practices 
  • The Benefits Of Journal Writing 
  • The Dangers Of Texting And Driving 
  • The Benefits Of Gender-Affirming Care For Trans People 
  • The History Of Racism In America 
  • The Dangers Of Hazing In College 
  • How Natural Disasters Develop With Climate Change 
  • How To Think Critically When Watching The News 
  • Homelessness Statistics And Trends In America 
  • The Use Of Color Psychology In Marketing  
  • The Physical Effects Of Tattoo Ink 
  • The Psychological Impacts Of Beauty Pageants  
  • How Social Media Affects The Brain
  • How best to protect endangered animals. 
  • If having pet birds is ethical. 
  • If vegetable gardens should replace grass lawns. 
  • The impact of plastic disposables on the environment. 
  • The most efficient type of renewable energy. 
  • How increasing train travel can benefit both people and the environment.
  • If zoos should be strictly regulated or banned. 
  • The impact of fracking on the environment. 
  • If animal testing should be outlawed. 
  • If the government needs to allocate more resources to national wildlife preserves. 
  • The deforestation crisis. 
  • Air pollution and the impact of poor air quality on human health. 
  • If people should be allowed to own certain types of exotic animals and keep them as pets. 
  • How to reduce the presence of microplastics in the ocean. 
  • How drilling for oil impacts water aquifers and sources of clean, fresh water in America. 
  • If all grocery stores should stop using plastic bags. 
  • If parents should be allowed to choose their child’s sex and physical characteristics 
  • If vaccinations should be mandatory. 
  • If private corporations have a responsibility to create sustainable products. 
  • The impact of robots on the environment. 
  • If cloning animals and humans is moral. 
  • Whether physician-assisted suicide and compassionate euthanization should be legalized.
  • If cigarette smoking should be outlawed. 
  • If minors should be allowed to purchase birth control without parental permission. 
  • If sugary drinks should be taxed to discourage overconsumption. 
  • If America should have a single-payer healthcare system. 
  • The importance of adequate mental health care for high school students. 
  • Racial bias in the American healthcare system. 
  • If women face higher rates of being denied adequate pain control by healthcare providers.
  • If cannabis is harmful or helpful for certain medical conditions. 
  • If fast food restaurants have a responsibility to offer more affordable healthy food options. 
  • The role of relaxation in physical and mental health. 
  • If organ donation should be mandatory. 
  • How to address the obesity epidemic in America. 
  • If doctors should be paid according to their patient outcomes. 
  • How to reduce the cost of prescription medications for the average person. 
  • The benefits of laughing on physical and mental health. 
  • If breastfeeding should be more normalized in America. 
  • Sources of indoor air pollution and its impact on physical health. 
  • If food additives in America are unsafe. 
  • How technology can improve daily life. 
  • The consequences of biological warfare. 
  • How the advancement of robotics will impact the human population. 
  • If the internet is more dangerous than it is beneficial. 
  • The role of social media and online bullying in teen suicide. 
  • Practical applications for 3D printing. 
  • The future of self-driving cars. 
  • The differences and similarities between computers and the human brain. 
  • If colonizing the moon is possible and beneficial or harmful to the human species. 
  • How cell phones affect the human body. 
  • If humans can be grown in an artificial womb. 
  • If text messaging jargon is having a negative impact on human language. 
  • How technology has changed over the years for the better or worse. 
  • The impact of cryptocurrency on world economics. 
  • Using virtual reality to augment mental health treatment. 
  • The intersection of artificial intelligence and animatronics.
  • The future applications of nanotechnology. 
  • The applications of drones in global military efforts. 
  •  If dependence on technology is a danger to humanity. 
  • The impacts of Wi-Fi signals on human health. 

Motivational speech topic ideas

  • Women’s Empowerment 
  • The Me Too Movement 
  • Overcoming Peer Pressure 
  • The Value Of Community Service 
  • Mental Health And Wellness 
  • Productivity And Time Management 
  • How To Own Up To Mistakes And Learn From Them 
  • The Benefits Of Meditation 
  • Money Management 
  • Taking Time For Yourself 
  • How To Become A Winner 
  • How To Be A Better Role Model
  • Turning Failures Into Successes 
  • Handling Rejection Gracefully 
  • How To Work Smarter Instead Of Harder 
  • Why Time Is More Valuable Than Money 
  • Setting Effective Goals 
  • How To Break Bad Habits 
  • How To Cope When Bad Things Happen 
  • Thinking And Speaking Positively
  • How mental health can affect friendships and other relationships.
  • Tips for managing conflicts with friends. 
  • How to communicate special needs effectively to friends. 
  • The qualities of a good friend. 
  • Signs of a toxic friendship and how to get out of one. 
  • How people from different generations can be friends. 
  • If sororities and fraternities promote friendships or cause problems. 
  • How to help a friend who is experiencing thoughts of self-harm. 
  • What loyalty and dependability mean in a friendship. 
  • How to hold friends accountable for wrongdoing without destroying the friendship. 
  • What can be done about bullying that occurs inside a friend group? 
  • If friends have a responsibility to report dangerous behavior. 
  • If men and women can be friends. 
  • If it’s a good idea to develop a friendship with someone before dating them and why. 
  • The benefits of keeping in touch with your childhood or high school friends. 
  • If groups of single parents can become friends and raise their children together. 
  • How friends can help each other succeed in life. 
  • The challenges of maintaining friendships as a busy adult. 
  • What gifts would you get your friends if money was no object? 
  • How to avoid jealousy in a friendship. 
  • Signs of toxic family dynamics and how to get out of harmful cycles. 
  • The definition and impact of generational trauma. 
  • Qualities of a strong and healthy family dynamic. 
  • How parents can build a loving family and home life. 
  • Communication tips for family members. 
  • If families with young children should limit their screen time. 
  • The benefits of going on family vacations. 
  • The best ways to balance work and family commitments.
  • The importance of staying in touch with family members who are far away. 
  • How having a family can enrich someone’s life. 
  • If you should be required to donate a lifesaving organ or blood to a family member. 
  • If children should be required to take care of elderly parents. 
  • If the Christian religion promotes misogyny within conservative families. 
  • If the number of children a couple can have should be regulated by the government. 
  • If parents should be held accountable for crimes committed by their children. 
  • If couples should be required to take parenting classes before starting a family. 
  • How spanking causes brain damage in young children. 
  • Misconceptions new parents have about raising kids in modern society. 
  • What it means to go “no contact” with a parent and why adult children choose to leave their families.
  • What a “chosen family” is and how people develop familial relationships outside of their blood relatives. 
  • What Is Good Sportsmanship?
  • Professional Sports Salaries 
  • How Sports Impact Human Psychology
  • Sports And Mental Development 
  • Benefits Of Childhood Sports 
  • How Sports Teach Morals 
  • Do International Sports Promote World Peace?
  • Why Dance Is A Sport 
  • Should School Sports Be Mandatory?
  • What Competitive Sports Teach About Life 
  • Sports and Performance Enhancing Drugs 
  • Trans People In Sports 
  • The Role Of Social Media In Sports 
  • How Sports Build Social Skills
  • How Losing At Sports Teaches Life Lessons 
  • Are Professional Sports Too Commercialized Now? 
  • Sports And Virtual Reality 
  • The Future Of College Sports 
  • What Players Want Sports Coaches To Know 
  • Sports And Disabilities 
  • Violent Video Games 
  • The Death Penalty 
  • Human Rights Issues 
  • Obesity in America
  • Mass Shootings In Public Places 
  • Alcohol Has A Greater Negative Impact On Society Than Cannabis 
  • The War Against Drugs 
  • Cellphone Policies In Schools 
  • Religious Indoctrination Is Child Abuse 
  • Police & Qualified Immunity 
  • Regulating Senior Drivers 
  • Affirmative Action 
  • Stem Cell Research 
  • Peaceful Protests 
  • Contraceptive Regulation 
  • Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) 
  • Arranged Marriages 
  • Censorship 
  • Animal Breeding 
  • The Adoption Industry 
  • If America is not a true democracy. 
  • If corporations should be allowed to donate to political campaigns. 
  • If celebrities should be able to run for public office. 
  • If poverty should be a government priority. 
  • The prevalence of political corruption in America. 
  • If the voting age should be raised in America. 
  • If the United States should fund wars between other countries. 
  • If national voter ID laws would disenfranchise minority voters. 
  • The definition and prevalence of domestic terrorism in America. 
  • Why it’s important for young people to vote. 
  • If far-right influencers promote dangerous ideals. 
  • If the government should spend less money on the military and wars. 
  • If Social Security benefits should be preserved for future generations. 
  • If Americans should get to vote for who serves on the Supreme Court. 
  • If Congress should have term limits. 
  • If the Electoral College should be abolished. 
  • How minorities are represented in Congress. 
  • If private for-profit prisons should be banned or heavily regulated. 
  • If the police should be required to operate their body cameras at all times. 
  • If people imprisoned for marijuana offenses should be let out in states where cannabis is now legal. 
  • Abortion 
  • Free Education In America 
  • Right To Marry 
  • Racism And Poverty In America 
  • Food Deserts And Malnutrition 
  • Substance Abuse And Crime Rates 
  • The Right To Housing 
  • Wage Inequality 
  • Crime Recidivism Reduction 
  • Child Labor 
  • Agricultural Integrity 
  • Taxing Religious Institutions 
  • Prostitution 
  • Minimum Wage 
  • Common Sense Gun Control Laws 
  • Gender And Sexual Orientation Discrimination 
  • Violence In Media 
  • Paid Maternity And Paternity Leave In America 
  • What skills do entrepreneurs need to be successful? 
  • How to motivate and engage employees at work. 
  • Top indicators of business success. 
  • How to make money using your passion. 
  • The importance of good financial planning for businesses. 
  • How companies can create loyal customers for life. 
  • Why businesses need to create a powerful brand image in today’s competitive market. 
  • Tips for people who want to start their own business. 
  • How to create a home office. 
  • Why do some companies have high turnover rates? 
  • If incentivized customer reviews are unethical. 
  • If businesses should be held responsible for false advertising. 
  • If businesses should be allowed to lobby people in Congress. 
  • Ethical marketing practices for new businesses. 
  • How to balance owning a business and starting a family. 
  • Women entrepreneurs in America. 
  • Do companies have a responsibility to help manage inflation?
  • The disparity between CEO and employee pay. 
  • If the existence of billionaires is ethical. 
  • How businesses can cultivate positive company culture. 
  • The scariest thing you ever did and how you overcame your fear. 
  • A difficult decision you had to make and why you made the choice you did. 
  • Your favorite teacher and what you learned from them. 
  • Something you learned about yourself that improved your life. 
  • A regret that you have and what you wish you would have done instead and why. 
  • Something valuable you broke or lost and how it made you feel. 
  • Someone you admire in your personal life and what they taught you. 
  • Your ambitions and why you want to achieve them. 
  • A family member you looked up to as a child and why. 
  • The most exciting thing you’ve ever done and if you would do it again. 
  • The type of job you want to hold in the future and why. 
  • Specific expertise you hold and how it can provide value to your community. 
  • Charities or social initiatives you support and why. 
  • What your favorite motivational quote is and why. 
  • Something that makes you unique and distinguishes you from other people. 
  • The historical figure you most look up to and why. 
  • A time you failed at something you tried but learned an important lesson from the experience. 
  • A close call you had with something and how the situation might have turned out differently. 
  • Somewhere you would visit in the world and why you would go there. 
  • Something you learned watching television or listening to the radio that changed your life. 
  • Graduation Speeches 
  • Valedictorian Speeches
  • Independence Day Speeches 
  • Wedding Toasts
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  • How travel can be educational. 
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  • Top reasons people travel. 
  • How to manage travel frustrations like missed flights and canceled reservations. 
  • What to do if there’s an emergency while traveling. 
  • Ethical tourism in poor countries. 
  • How to get to know a country’s customs when traveling. 
  • The impact of traveling on the economy. 
  • How American tourism impacts politics. 
  • The intersection between travel and religion. 
  • How the COVID-19 pandemic affected the travel industry. 
  • What travel means to you. 
  • If young children should be allowed to travel to dangerous places. 
  • How to navigate currency exchange issues when traveling. 
  • How COVID-19 impacted public education in America. 
  • The benefits of e-learning for children of different ages and education levels. 
  • If corporal punishment should be allowed in schools with or without parental consent. 
  • If sodas and energy drinks should be allowed in high schools. 
  • The different types of learning styles and how these play a role in public education. 
  • The impact of public school on child socialization. 
  • If schools should abolish homework policies. 
  • How elementary and middle schools should treat young trans students. 
  • The role of the Internet in American education today. 
  • How schools can provide more support to students with learning disabilities. 
  • If special education in schools is actually beneficial to students who are struggling in class. 
  • Comparing American schools to educational institutions in other countries. 
  • If students should be taught sex education in schools and if so, to what degree? 
  • If high school students should have access to condoms at school. 
  • If college should be free. 
  • Why teachers of all grade levels don’t make enough money in America. 
  • If a student’s grades are an indicator of their intelligence. 
  • If students should be required to learn etiquette at a certain age. 
  • If public education institutions should implement school uniform policies. 
  • If the pressures of school have a negative impact on kids who should be enjoying their childhood. 
  • The definition of trauma and how it impacts young children. 
  • How emotional abuse impacts psychological development in children. 
  • How dissociative disorders work to protect the brain from the impact of severe trauma. 
  • How reverse psychology works. 
  • The greatest contribution to modern psychology in history. 
  • How people with different personality disorders experience the world. 
  • The psychological relationship between parents and their children. 
  • The intersection between sleep and psychology. 
  • The differences between psychology and psychiatry. 
  • How psychologists benefit society and human development. 
  • How child psychology differs from adult treatment modalities. 
  • How psychological treatment has changed over the years. 
  • If basic psychology should be a required high school or college course. 
  • How violent movies and television impact human psychology.
  • How short and long-term memories form. 
  • The impact of bullying on child psychological development. 
  • The psychological impact of childhood neglect. 
  • If antidepressants are overprescribed.
  • The comorbidity of trauma and personality disorders. 
  • If birth order affects a child’s psychological development. 

Looking for more? You might also be interested in our list of the best report writing topics .

  • How Trix cereal discriminates against rabbits by making their cereal for kids. 
  • If plants have feelings and if vegans are committing acts of vegetable cruelty. 
  • Why the grass might literally be greener on the other side of a fence. 
  • How to be good at being lazy. 
  • Why lying well can be considered a talent. 
  • How being annoying can be considered an art. 
  • How to fail at a job interview. 
  • Tell a story about a joke that didn’t go over well. 
  • Compare Instagram to real life. 
  • If regifting is an ethical practice.
  • Why clothing companies don’t put pockets in women’s clothes. 
  • Why bad pickup lines work better than traditionally good pickup lines. 
  • Why a cartoon character should be elected President. 
  • A practical guide to surviving the zombie apocalypse. 
  • If internet surfing counts as an aerobic workout. 
  • Why kids shouldn’t have to clean their rooms. 
  • The worst business slogans and why. 
  • The correct way to offend someone. 
  • How to cheat at the game of Life. 
  • A list of the worst gifts ever. 

If you liked this post, you might also find these essays about being a student helpful.

The three main types of persuasive speeches are value-based, policy-based, and emotional-based. Value-based speeches argue a certain concept based on its merits, while a policy persuasive speech argues for a certain course of action. Emotional-based speeches seek to elicit a certain response from the audience by evoking an emotional reaction.

Some people find that focusing on their breathing helps to calm their nerves, while others find visualization exercises like picturing the audience in their underwear to be a helpful way to diffuse the tension. Others say that simply accepting that they will be nervous and embracing that feeling is the best way to get through it.  

Looking for more? Check out our round-up of the best inspirational books !

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333 Informative Speech Topics To Rock Your Presentation

A powerful presentation covers a compelling topic that sparks your interest and hooks the audience. Use this master list to find your next great speech idea.

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You have been assigned a speech, presentation, or essay, but you have no clue what to talk about. A powerful presentation begins with a compelling topic that sparks your interest and hooks the audience. But you also need to discuss something you feel excited to research and discuss. 

This guide contains 333 informative speech topics for your next presentation, plus pro tips for delivering the best presentation possible.

What Is An Informative Speech?

Informative speeches aim to teach or instruct the audience about a topic. They include objective information and fact-based research but can incorporate a unique perspective, compelling storytelling , or a powerful take-home message. Unlike a celebratory wedding toast or an inaugural speech , informative speeches are written specifically to educate.

The six key types of informative speeches are: 

  • Definition speeches : This speech aims to explain a concept or theory. For example, a speech topic starting with “What is…?” is usually a definition-type informative speech. 
  • Explanatory speeches : These speeches explain how something works. For example, an explanatory speech could explain how your brain processes information or how an electric car works. 
  • Demonstrative speeches : These classic “how-to’s” show the audience how to perform a task and often include a visual presentation. For example, students could teach their classmates how to be more productive or cook a healthy meal.  
  • Comparative speeches : When a speaker compares or contrasts two alternative things, they help the audience understand the similarities or differences between two topics. For example, a comparative speech may weigh the pros and cons of private versus public schools. 
  • Descriptive speeches : This informative speech describes a person, place, or thing and explains why the subject is essential. For example, a student may teach their classmates about a historical figure, or an entrepreneur may give a descriptive speech about the specifics of their product idea.
  • Persuasive informative speeches : Although persuasive speeches are often categorized separately, some informative speeches can cross over into persuasion by using evidence to convince the audience why a particular method or perspective is better than its alternatives. For example, a salesperson may give a presentation to convince clients to buy their services, or a mental health advocate may give a speech to persuade people to do yoga more regularly. 

How To Pick An Informative Speech Topic: The Five W’s

Whether you want to give a top-notch school speech assignment or a groundbreaking TED Talk , the best informative speeches have one thing in common: they deliver a purposeful message with a captivating delivery. You must understand the basic who, what, when, where, and why to pick the perfect topic. 

  • Who: Before you start looking for topics, you should know who your audience is. A college speech class is a far different audience than a room of conference attendees. Consider what your audience is interested in, why they should care about your speech and their level of knowledge about the topic. If you talk about something too basic, they may be bored, but if you discuss something too technical, they may have difficulty understanding your speech. 
  • What: Consider your passions and existing knowledge about a subject. The “what” of your speech is the meat of the presentation. Imagine a three-circle Venn diagram. The three circles are labeled: “things I am interested in,” “things my audience cares about,” and “things I can research.” The center point where these three circles overlap is the sweet spot for your speech topic. 
  • When (Length): The length of your speech can drastically impact how in-depth you dive into the topic. A five-minute speech should cover a niche topic or a high-level concept. A thirty-minute to an hour-long presentation can teach about a more detailed topic. 
  • Where: If you’re giving a speech in a meeting room at an office, your performance will likely be very different from speaking on stage in a large auditorium. Consider where you will be speaking and what kind of technology (projector, large screen, whiteboard, etc.) you will have available. The geographic location of your speech can also determine your selection of a local or regional topic relevant to the community. 
  • Why: Most importantly, you should know the purpose of your speech. If your goal is to get a good grade, it may help you pay more attention to following the teacher’s rubric. If your goal is to convince the audience to make a lifestyle change or donate to an important cause, you should structure your speech with the core “why” in mind. 

The best speeches combine a simple message with charismatic delivery, an easily digestible structure, and something the audience can relate to. The essence of a great speech is that it arouses something in the audience, such as the motivation to take action or to see things in a new way.

List of Informative Speech Topics: 333 Ideas to Spark Your Creativity

In an informative speech, it is essential to have plenty of evidence or data to support your claims. But even the most well-researched presentation can feel hollow without the passion for delivering it authentically. 

As you explore ideas for your speech, you should naturally gravitate toward intriguing and exciting topics. Giving a speech about something you think your teacher or colleagues will like (rather than what you’re truly interested in) could ultimately be inauthentic or boring. Take note of what makes your heart beat a little faster and follow that curiosity . 

Easy Informative Speech Topics

If you’re in a pinch, choose a speech topic that doesn’t require extensive explanations to get the point across. It may be a good idea to avoid anything controversial or technical. Instead, choose a straightforward demonstrative or descriptive topic with a wide range of online information.

  • How to improve your communication skills
  • The most memorable speeches in history
  • Why you should buy an electric car 
  • The most popular cars of the year
  • How to read body language  
  • Top habits of successful people
  • The most famous actors in history
  • The benefits of time in nature
  • Lesser known presidents
  • Most popular breeds of dogs
  • The worst natural disasters in the world 
  • How to eat healthier  
  • Harmful impacts of technology
  • How to survive without electricity 
  • The richest people in the world 
  • The top companies in the world
  • Child geniuses and prodigies
  • How does sugar influence the body?
  • The history of Disneyland
  • How to break bad habits
  • Top beauty products for younger skin
  • How to do your homework faster 
  • How to be more productive  
  • High school students should do these 5 things before graduating
  • Why high school students should take a gap year before college
  • The best healthy snacks 
  • Why you should go vegan
  • How to be more confident  
  • How to start a business
  • Fashion through the decades 

Pro Tip : Start your speech with an attention-grabbing hook that draws the audience in to listen. Try not to start by mentioning a technical difficulty (“Is this microphone working?”) or saying a lackluster nicety (“Thanks for having me.”).

Instead, try starting with:

  • A story: “I’m here for a reason. And It’s an interesting story….”
  • A big idea: “The single most important thing I want to share with you today is….”
  • A quirky one-liner or interesting fact: “You might have always thought….”

Here is a guide on How to Start a Speech: Best and Worst Speech Openers . 

You can also watch our video to learn the best (and worst) speech openers:

Informative Speech Topics for College

If public speaking isn’t scary enough, college speech classes can be brutal. You want to impress your professor without thoroughly embarrassing yourself in front of your peers. These topics are scholarly without being boring. 

  • How you can reduce your carbon footprint
  • Different forms of learning
  • The truth about microplastics and possible alternatives
  • How to ace a college test 
  • Why schools shouldn’t give homework 
  • America’s fastest-growing cities
  • The differences between female and male communication
  • The best marketing tactics
  • The importance of education for a country’s economy 
  • Ethical questions of artificial intelligence
  • Unique ways to stop global climate change
  • How to live to be 100
  • Benefits of E-learning
  • History of education in America
  • How to eradicate poverty
  • The real picture of foster care in America
  • How to decide on a college major
  • Pros and cons of the current education system
  • Economics of urban versus rural development
  • The history of agriculture 
  • How ancient Egyptians built the pyramids
  • How to prevent the top 5 leading causes of death in America
  • Understanding industrial hemp
  • Pros and cons of remote work
  • How college students can become millionaires by age 50 with monthly investing
  • How to start an organic garden
  • Private vs. public school
  • The importance of discipline
  • The most useful websites for college students
  • Where does public university funding come from

Fun Informative Speech Topics

Most people don’t realize that playful topics like video games and reality TV can still be informative. These less serious subjects have the potential to become great speeches that invoke laughter, excitement, or new perspectives. 

  • Can procrastination be good for you?
  • Myth or reality? We only use 10% of our brains
  • The funniest commercials of all time
  • Bizzare sports you didn’t know existed 
  • How snake venom attacks the body
  • What will humans look like in the future? 
  • Weirdest medical facts
  • The strangest phobias 
  • Secrets to a great relationship
  • The fastest cars in the world 
  • What causes hiccups
  • Evidence of life on Mars 
  • The world history of tattoos 
  • Why college students love fast food 
  • The evolution of video games 
  • How cryptocurrency can change finance 
  • Where do stereotypes come from?
  • The most bizarre conspiracy theories 
  • The most influential musicians of our time
  • Top craziest amusement park rides in the world
  • The most fun things to do when you’re bored
  • History of tattoo art
  • The seven wonders of the world
  • How to survive an annoying roommate
  • The truth about reality shows
  • How to create a bucket list
  • The secrets behind the best TV shows 
  • Weirdest foods taste surprisingly delicious
  • How to talk to people you don’t like 

Interesting Informative Speech Topics

The most viral TED Talks combine a compelling or unique idea with exceptional nonverbal delivery. These interesting topics are sure to get your audience thinking.

  • The neuroscience of attraction
  • Mind-blowing facts about volcanoes
  • The psychology of selling things 
  • Why you should turn your lawn into a garden
  • Proof that aliens are real/fake 
  • How to start a business for under $100
  • The history of America from a minority perspective 
  • How technology affects our brains
  • What would happen to the economy if everyone grew their own food?
  • The science and ethics of genetic modification 
  • How the electric car originated 
  • Elon Musk’s rise to success 
  • What is neuro-linguistic programming (NLP)?
  • How deaf people talk with emotion 
  • Why smiles are contagious 

Informative Speech Topics About Science

From biology to chemistry to genetics, science encompasses many subjects. Where modern technology meets cutting-edge discoveries, these topics are for inquisitive researchers who want to dig into the data. 

  • How your brain works
  • History of space exploration
  • How solar panels work
  • The evolution of plants
  • Fascinating origins of plant medicines
  • How DNA evidence is used
  • How galaxies are formed 
  • How science is influenced by corporations 
  • Why dinosaurs really went extinct
  • The oldest fossils ever found 
  • How does the human brain work?
  • The effects of music on the brain  
  • The life of Albert Einstein
  • How earthquakes can be predicted
  • The craziest scientists in history
  • What is CRISPR?
  • Potential cures for cancer 
  • What is epigenetics?

Pro Tip : Google Scholar and PubMed are two excellent resources for peer-reviewed scientific literature. Accredited institutions conduct these studies and have undergone the rigor of the scientific method. They even include easy copy-and-paste citations if you need to turn in a bibliography with your speech.

Informative Speech Topics about Animals 

From cuddly pets to the alien-like mystery creatures of the deep ocean, animals are universally fascinating. 

  • How to train a dog
  • The most dangerous animals in the ocean
  • How elephants use plants to medicate themselves 
  • The science behind the fastest animals in the world
  • Can depression be treated with emotional support animals?
  • Comparing reptiles versus mammals
  • The strongest animal in the world
  • Top 10 strangest animals on Earth
  • Comparing human and primate brains
  • Animals that have their own languages
  • Ethical questions with animal testing
  • What causes animals to become extinct? 
  • How to adopt a cat
  • Pros and cons of the pet adoption system
  • Is it kind to keep a monkey as a pet?

Informative Speech Topics Sports

Fitness, sports medicine, and professional sports teams are just scraping the surface regarding this subject. You can talk about the inspiring life of your favorite player or game history. The speech topics are perfect for anyone who loves to sweat and cheer.

  • How sports teach kids discipline 
  • The importance of physical activity for stress relief
  • Why companies should promote workplace fitness programs  
  • Top-paying careers in sports 
  • How people with disabilities can still play sports
  • Football culture in the American south 
  • The importance of sports for children’s socialization
  • The role of sports and masculinity in young boys 
  • Gambling problems in sports
  • What makes a great sports coach? 
  • The best football players of all time 
  • How yoga can complement workouts
  • How to prevent sports injuries 
  • The best physical therapy for college athletes
  • The life of Michael Jordan
  • Game-changing athletes in history 
  • Lebron James’ secret to success  
  • How Jackie Robinson transformed baseball 
  • The best nutrition for athletes, based on science
  • Top vegan athletes in the world 
  • Why cheerleading is/isn’t a real sport
  • Controversial moments in the Olympics 
  • Modern controversies about transgender athletes 
  • The most extreme sports in the world
  • How hockey changed my life
  • Pros and cons of CrossFit
  • Why swimming is one of the healthiest workouts
  • How adult hobby sports can improve socialization
  • Daily exercise improves mental health 
  • The best at-home workouts
  • Top marketing strategies used by the Super Bowl
  • How the Olympics promotes international peace 
  • Should pro athletes have salary caps?
  • How college athletes go pro
  • Top female athletes in the world
  • Interesting sports from around the world
  • Why height is not the most important factor in basketball
  • Why soccer is the most popular international sport
  • Why women’s soccer gets less media coverage than men’s
  • The best solo sports for introverts 
  • How handicapped people can still play sports 
  • The most inspirational handicapped athletes 

Bonus Tip: Level Up Your Speech With Stage Presence

Did you know that public speaking is actually a skill? Many people struggle with stage anxiety because they feel they ‘missed the memo’ on public speaking or they are lacking because they do not have a natural stage presence. Not true!

Stage presence and public speaking are skills you need to be taught—very few people have them naturally. 

Watch our video to learn 7 steps to overcome stage fright and beat performance anxiety:

Here are all the aspects of public speaking you can master.

  • How to make a first impression with an audience
  • How to have stage presence
  • Powerful body language
  • How to speak with a commanding voice
  • What to do with your hands while speaking

For every speaking skill you add to your toolbox, the less speaking anxiety you will feel.

If you want help really diving into your presentation skills, be sure to sign-up for our course…

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Master Your People Skills

  • Create a Memorable Presence
  • Communicate with Confidence
  • Achieve Your Goals

Have a question about the presentation or People School? Email Science of People support .

Cultural Informative Speech Topics

Learning about different cultures can drastically expand your viewpoint of the world. These speech ideas cover everything from language to ancient history to pop culture. 

  • How to learn about local culture while traveling
  • The importance of workplace culture
  • How to build a positive corporate culture 
  • How social media connects and promotes culture 
  • The oldest cultures in the world 
  • Modern versus traditional gender roles 
  • How women have transformed corporate leadership 
  • The dangers of hustle culture
  • How social media culture impacts self-esteem
  • How to learn from watching movies
  • The rise of podcasts and their role in modern culture 
  • The role of social media in business 
  • How immigrants maintain cultural traditions in their new countries
  • Ancient archeological artifacts you’ve never heard of
  • Native American spiritual traditions
  • Holy herbs and plants across global cultures
  • How to make an African tribal basket
  • The portrayal of black culture in the media
  • Culture of Scandinavia
  • Burial rituals in ancient Mesopotamia 
  • History and meaning of the Om symbol
  • The history of Buddhism
  • How to show respect in Japanese culture
  • The cultural history of African Americans 
  • Chinese traditional foods 
  • Top 10 foreign dishes you have to try before you die
  • The most important spiritual symbols in the world
  • Generational differences in Mexican culture
  • The symbolism of marigolds in Mexican traditions
  • What is Dia De Los Muertos?  

Want to radically improve your presentation skills? Watch our video for 10 presentation ideas:

Informative Speech Topics About History

They say, “history repeats itself.” Consider giving a unique or lesser-known perspective about historical events for a thought-provoking speech. Use museum artifacts and first-hand accounts to guide your points. 

  • The Civil Rights Movement
  • The oldest civilizations in the world
  • Nelson Mandela’s historical impact
  • The truth about colonization and Thanksgiving 
  • How the Industrial Revolution impacted the environment 
  • The real story of the Titanic 
  • The craziest criminals in history  
  • What caused the Great Depression? 
  • What schools get wrong about black history 
  • Religion during the age of the Aztecs
  • Archeological evidence of aliens
  • Ancient history of dogs and wolves 
  • What caused the Salem witch trials?
  • The American Revolution
  • The role of Christianity in slavery
  • Human rights violations throughout history
  • How life changed for Native Americans after colonization 
  • The role of urbanization on the changing American landscape
  • The cowboy era: myths and truths 
  • The American Constitution
  • The most influential people in world history
  • Forming of the United Nations
  • What caused World War I?
  • Financial panics and recessions throughout history
  • The Prohibition era 
  • What led to consumerism in society? 
  • The Vietnam War
  • The California Gold Rush
  • The true story of Pocahontas
  • Little-known facts about Mexican history

Informative Speech Topics About Music

Music is the soundtrack to our lives. Beyond mere entertainment, its impact dives into the roots of culture, identity, and brain function. Here are some exciting ways to incorporate your love of music into an informative speech. 

  • How music can help mental health 
  • Why you should learn an instrument
  • How listening to music improves your productivity
  • Genres of music 
  • Links between classical music and IQ
  • Why do people bond over music 
  • Rarest instruments in the world
  • The easiest instruments to play
  • Best country musicians of all time
  • How hip hop music has shaped culture in America
  • Evolution of rap and hip hop 
  • The origins of rock n’ roll in southern blues music
  • The history of opera
  • The best electronic dance music
  • The impact of reggae music
  • How punk rock got its start 
  • How folk music shaped Appalachia 
  • Country music hall of fame
  • Must-see musical landmarks around the world
  • Importance of gospel music
  • The ethics of sampling other artist’s music
  • How music shapes subculture 
  • Has social media made record companies obsolete?
  • The importance of musical education in public schools
  • Music as a form of protest
  • How sad music helps you overcome heartbreaks
  • Why music shapes generations
  • How dancing can change your mindset
  • From the phonograph to iPhone: History of music machines

Health Informative Speech Topics

The ever-changing landscape of health offers a wealth of resources. Leave an impact on your audience by inspiring them to improve their eating habits or approach healthy living in a new way. Be sure to find the right sources for these speeches to make sure you are citing correct health science.

  • How to extend your lifespan 
  • Links between diet and mental illnesses 
  • How to cook healthy food on a budget 
  • Why a daily walk outside can transform your health
  • History of herbal medicine 
  • Let food be thy medicine: From Hippocrates to modern day food pyramid
  • Why you should do yoga for 15 minutes a day
  • Benefits and drawbacks of a vegetarian diet
  • The healthiest fruits in the world 
  • What is really in processed food?
  • Is weight lifting or cardio better for burning fat?
  • How agriculture affects our health
  • The gut microbiome
  • The dangers of pesticides in our food system
  • How soil health impacts human health 
  • Who controls the food system? 
  • The science behind keto diets
  • The dangers of low-fat diets
  • Top 5 best foods for brain function
  • The daily habits of the healthiest people in the world
  • Differences in definitions of health
  • European versus American food ingredients 
  • The role of fats in brain function 
  • How to fix a headache
  • The benefits of magnesium
  • The best supplements, according to science 
  • The main signs of a stroke
  • The chronic disease epidemic in America 
  • How to lose weight the healthy way
  • Why you should avoid eating seed oils
  • Why you should stop eating gluten 
  • How to prevent arthritis
  • The real causes of diabetes
  • Is meat actually bad for you? Pros and cons
  • How to stop the mental health epidemic 
  • How dental health impacts your digestion
  • Amazing benefits of black seed oil
  • The Harvard Longevity Project: Why happy people live longer
  • Ancient health remedies from around the world
  • Why you should eat fermented foods
  • Causes of cancer and how to prevent it
  • Why people should donate their organs
  • Effects of radiation
  • The healthiest cultures in the world 
  • Why obesity is a modern problem
  • How to have stronger bones
  • Healthcare access for minorities
  • Why fast food restaurants are addictive
  • Pros and cons of salt
  • How to overcome stress
  • The dangers of e-cigarettes
  • People need to drink more water
  • The insurance and healthcare system in America
  • How friendships improve your health
  • Why couples should exercise together
  • Benefits of dark chocolate
  • Dangerous food additives you’ve never heard of
  • Easy ways to improve your nutrition
  • How to reverse hair loss
  • Secrets to have healthy hair
  • Benefits and drawbacks of stem cell research 
  • Why you should stop drinking soda
  • How to reduce asthma attacks
  • Health benefits of ginger
  • Why you should drink tea

Key Takeaways: Find Inspiration for a Speech

Any informative topic can be used to craft a speech, but a showstopping presentation requires thinking outside the box and approaching your speech from a unique point of view. Before you settle on a topic for your next speech, be sure that your speech idea is:

  • Authentically interesting : Discussing something that doesn’t spark your interest is no use. Choose a topic or idea that you actually care about for an authentic and passionate delivery. 
  • Relevant to your audience : If you don’t know your audience, you might as well be speaking to a wall. Professional presenters understand the general knowledge level of their audience and what information will be valuable or interesting to them. 
  • Easy to research : Obscure topics can be alluring and challenging to research. Choose a topic that has plenty of information available in books or online. Be sure to use reputable sources and cite them when necessary.
  • The proper length : The depth and detail of your speech ultimately depend on the length of time you have to talk. Pick a subject that you can thoroughly describe in the allotted time frame.  

Once you narrow down a few of your favorite topic ideas, start brainstorming how you want your speech to impact the audience. Use these 10 Presentation Ideas That Will Radically Improve Your Presentation Skills , such as:

  • Why you should save the best for first and last
  • How to design epic presentation slides
  • Why you shouldn’t over-rehearse
  • How to own the stage 

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How to Write an Inspirational Speech: 6 Things to Consider

  • The Speaker Lab
  • July 31, 2024

Table of Contents

An inspirational speech can ignite a fire within, propelling us toward personal growth and profound change. By exploring what exactly makes these speeches impactful, you’ll learn how to harness this power for your own speeches. Together, we’re going to dissect the elements that resonate with audiences and provide real strategies for crafting messages that stick.

This read is more than just about feeling inspired; it’s about equipping yourself with the tools to empower others through your words, creating ripples of positive change across communities.

Life Lessons from Influential Commencement Addresses

To leave your mark through speaking means understanding your target audience profoundly enough so you know exactly what will strike a chord with them. In each of the addresses below, the speaker completes both of these tasks. Let’s take a look.

Embracing a Growth Mindset

The words of wisdom that echo across the quad during commencement season are not just about celebrating an end, but more so about the promise of new beginnings. Take Jim Carrey’s 2014 speech at Maharishi University , where he urged graduates to choose love over fear and see life’s possibilities beyond limitations—a classic nod to fostering a growth mindset.

Overcoming Fear of Failure

Equally powerful was J.K. Rowling’s commencement speech on failure and imagination delivered in 2008. She reminded us that hitting rock bottom can become the solid foundation on which we rebuild our lives, urging students to understand that fear of failure should never deter them from pursuing their beautiful dreams.

Changing Perspectives

David Foster Wallace’s “This Is Water” speech , delivered in 2005, pushed grads to think differently about their day-to-day realities by choosing how they perceive others and their experiences—insisting it’s what could liberate them from living mechanically.

Nurturing Relationships

Inspirational speeches often stress connections with those around us as key components for success post-graduation. Take Denzel Washington’s address to Pennsylvania grads . In his commencement speech , Washington encouraged grads with advice distilled down to two words: “Fall forward.” As Washington explained, this advice suggests that embracing mistakes is a stepping stone toward progress rather than a stumbling block.

Find Out Exactly How Much You Could Make As a Paid Speaker

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Creating An Inspirational Message That Resonates

Inspiring individuals requires tapping into universal truths about human experience, truths that remind us all what it means to be alive. Famous motivational speakers know this well. They blend inspiring personal stories with these universal truths in order to inspire their audiences. By using vivid examples from your own life, you can help listeners visualize overcoming their challenges too.

Harnessing Personal Narratives for Emotional Connection

The magic often starts with personal stories. When speakers share their journeys, they create windows through which listeners can see themselves reflected. These narratives carry emotional weight because they are genuine experiences—not mere anecdotes. Take Jim Carrey’s aforementioned commencement address, where he recounted his father’s influence on his career choices, transforming laughter into lessons about risk-taking and authenticity.

However, personal stories need not always be grandiose tales of triumph or sorrow—they can also be simple moments that highlight universal truths. Think about J.K Rowling who spoke candidly about her failures during her Harvard commencement address in 2008, reminding us all that setbacks can set the stage for greater successes ahead.

Techniques and Strategies Used in Inspirational Speeches

To really captivate an audience, you must master storytelling within motivational speaking. Steve Jobs’ iconic Stanford commencement speech was a masterpiece of structure—beginning with connecting dots backwards from life events then progressing towards urging graduates to “stay hungry” and “stay foolish.” His talk demonstrated how shaping content strategically could leave lasting imprints on minds long after graduation day.

Drawing from personal stories like Jobs did is both compelling and transformative because it gives real context people can connect with. Learn more about how to develop your personal story here.

Mastering the Artistry Behind Inspirational Speeches

When you step up to deliver an inspirational speech, it’s not just about what you say; it’s how you bring your words to life. To captivate and move your audience, mastering both content and delivery is key.

Preparing Your Narrative Arc for Maximum Effect

To weave a tale that keeps listeners on the edge of their seats, structure is crucial. Begin with crafting a compelling opening that grabs attention. It’s like setting out on a journey—start strong so they’ll follow anywhere you lead them. Next comes building momentum by layering anecdotes, facts, and emotional peaks like crescendos in music. Each point should drive home your message more deeply than the last.

The art lies in closing with line that makes your audience think. Consider how Jobs ended his commencement address, where he left us pondering how to “live before we die.” That final note should echo in minds long after applause fades.

An engaging body language coupled with vocal delivery can transform even mundane sentences into profound messages. Take Eric Thomas for example. His dynamic energy propels every word straight to the heart of listeners, showing us motivational speaking isn’t just heard but felt throughout one’s being.

Inspiration also springs from vulnerability as seen through Brené Brown, who touched many hearts by sharing her own struggles during her powerful talks on leadership. So when preparing your speech script keep these strategies at hand: Engage early, build steadily, and leave them reflecting upon something greater than themselves. This is what makes an inspirational speech truly unforgettable.

The Ripple Effect of a Single Inspirational Speech

Imagine the waves created by a single pebble tossed into a still pond. That’s what an inspiring talk can do—send ripples of change throughout communities and even across the globe. The power lies in how these speeches connect with us on a human level, often weaving personal stories with universal truths.

Catalyzing Change One Word at a Time

An inspirational speech serves as more than just words; it’s a catalyst for transformation. Think about Steve Jobs’ 2005 address where he urged us to live before we die or J.K. Rowling’s 2008 narrative on failure and imagination that has shaped countless lives since then. These are not mere anecdotes but lessons that compel action and thought long after the applause fades.

Examples like these underline why fostering connection through vulnerability is crucial when delivering your own memorable speech. Among other things, fostering connection can

  • Create lasting impact: Your words have the potential to influence thoughts, behaviors, careers—even destinies.
  • Evoke emotion: Share personal tales tied with relatable challenges. They make your audience feel inspired because they see themselves reflected within your journey.
  • Inspire collective movements: When you speak truth laced with sincerity—the kind found in Brené Brown’s talks on vulnerability—people work together towards common goals

The Role of Vulnerability in Inspirational Speeches

When leaders bare their souls, they forge a connection that’s hard to break. Brené Brown’s talk on the power of vulnerability taught us just that—that leaders who show their true selves can inspire like no other. They bring out our own hopes and fears, and suddenly we’re all in this together.

The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership

Vulnerability isn’t about losing; it’s about opening up new possibilities for growth. A leader admitting to mistakes or sharing personal challenges doesn’t weaken their stance—it humanizes them. When you hear someone at the top say “I’ve been there,” you listen differently. You lean in closer because here is someone speaking your language, walking your path.

Consider how one vulnerable statement can ripple through an audience, turning passive listeners into active participants ready for change. It’s about creating space where others feel safe enough to share and grow as well—a community built on collective courage rather than individual bravado.

To experience more of this profound impact firsthand, explore talks by renowned speakers, each demonstrating vulnerability with finesse—and notice how quickly walls come down when defenses do too.

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Mobilizing Teams with Passionate Sports Rally Cries

Picture the scene: a locker room buzzing with anticipation, every player’s heart racing. The coach steps in—think Denzel Washington as Coach Boone in “Remember The Titans”—and with passionate rhetoric, he does more than just talk strategy; he unites them under one cause.

Sports figures have long understood that to mobilize teams towards victory, you need to tap into their emotions and spirit. It’s not just about the physical game but also igniting that inner flame which turns players into champions. And they do this using powerful rally cries—a blend of motivation and conviction—that push athletes beyond their limits.

Unpacking the Ingredients of Powerful Motivational Talks

Athletes thrive on teamwork and unity—the kind forged by shared experiences both on and off the field. But what cements these bonds are often words delivered at critical junctures: halftime huddles or pre-game pep talks where coaches become conduits for courage.

To create such indelible moments through speech is no small feat. It requires knowing your audience intimately; understanding what drives them collectively as well as individually. Coaches who master this craft transform mere individuals into tightly-knit units pulsing with collective purpose.

With eloquent yet forceful words, they remind us all why we play the game: For love of sport itself, yes, but even more so for each other. Learn more about crafting impactful speeches here .

FAQs on Inspirational Speeches

What is the most inspirational speech ever.

The “I Have a Dream” by Martin Luther King Jr. often tops lists as the most stirring oration.

What is an inspirational speech?

An inspirational speech moves people, sparking motivation and driving them to action or change.

What are examples of motivational speech?

J.K. Rowling’s Harvard address and Steve Jobs’ Stanford talk serve as classic examples of rousing speeches.

What is an inspirational or inspiring speech?

Arousing emotions, challenging beliefs—that’s what sets apart truly moving talks from everyday chatter.

Unlock the power of an inspirational speech by starting with your story and blending it with universal truths. As you speak, let vulnerability be your strength; this connects us all.

Inspire growth by sharing struggles and triumphs alike. Remember Jobs’ resilience, Rowling’s journey—lives changed through words that strike.

Your speech can echo beyond today—it can ripple into lives unfurled. Speak from the heart to start movements that just might change the world.

  • Last Updated: July 26, 2024

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Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

243 Easy and Simple Speech Topics

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Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

easy simple speech topics

If you have interest and knowledge in a specific subject, it makes for an easy speech topic. If a subject is not complex, it makes for an easy subject. If you have interest and knowledge on a simple non-complex topic, that makes for a really easy speech topic.

If time doesn’t allow for much preparation or research, what’s best is to stick with something you know. This will cut down significantly on your workload because you already know most of what there is to know.

In this article:

Family, Friends, Relationships

Government and the law, miscellaneous, easy and simple speech topics on popular subjects.

education

  • Teachers should be required to take basic skills tests every few years to keep their certification
  • Less professional advertisements in schools
  • Why single-sex public schools are better than co-ed
  • SAT scores for college applicants
  • Student cyber bullies should be expelled from school
  • Hazing on college campuses is a problem
  • Higher education is a basic need for succeeding in life today.
  • Schools should not serve french fries and soda
  • Students that study online cheat more.
  • Classic literature should only be for college students.
  • Every student in every school should wear a uniform
  • Students should be placed in trade schools after getting a basic education
  • Exam scores have little indication on a student’s abilities
  • History textbooks don’t tell the whole truth
  • Learning about all world religions in schools is important
  • Homeschooling is better than traditional education
  • Phones are distracting students from learning
  • Going to college has little bearing on a successful future
  • Students should learn and be fluent in a second language
  • Mandatory community service for students to graduate high school
  • Should tablets and other technology replace books?
  • Schools should educate on proper nutrition from start to finish
  • Regulating the music at school dances to eliminate cursing
  • The impact of gym class on students

family

  • Dual parent households benefit children more.
  • Couples are wrong to stay together for the kids.
  • Family must always come first.
  • Parents need to stop forcing their own dreams on their children.
  • Live together before getting married.
  • Married couples must have date nights.
  • Breastfeeding is better than formula feeding
  • Discipline should be based on rewards, not punishment
  • Divorce doesn’t damage children.
  • Lower cost childcare or childcare provided at every workplace
  • Make help more readily available to single pregnant mothers
  • Never borrow money from friends.
  • Pros and cons of abstinence
  • Imposing a curfew on kids 17 and under
  • Parents should be accountable for not providing a healthy diet to their children
  • Kids having jam-packed schedules isn’t good for them
  • Long distance relationships don’t work.
  • It’s not good to be an only child.
  • Families eating together is important
  • Kids today are being made to be selfish, disrespectful, and entitled
  • Teenagers should contribute to household expenses
  • The need for parental consent to give teen girls birth control
  • Restrictions on how many children one family can have
  • Free counseling to at-risk youth
  • Parents right to give consent for their child to drink at home under supervision
  • Should parents respect kids privacy at all times?
  • How it takes a village to raise a child
  • Parent’s responsibility to discuss sex education
  • Video game violence causing violent kids
  • Imposing better and more affordable options for the aging community

animals

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  • Dogs are better pets than cats.
  • Exotic animals are not pets.
  • Neutering pets is a must.
  • Humans have turned pit bulls into monsters.
  • Zoos do not give animals enough space.
  • Adopt don’t shop is key to getting a pet.
  • Birds are not meant to live in cages.
  • Dolphins are intelligent creatures.
  • Zoos cause more harm than good
  • Euthanize dogs that have bitten more than once
  • Ban slaughter houses for horses
  • Why dogs are man’s best friend
  • Not allowing people to keep exotic animals as pets
  • Pit bulls aren’t the problem , it’s their owners

government and the law

  • Two child max rule should apply worldwide.
  • Smoking in all public places should be illegal worldwide.
  • Legalize abortion for rape and incest cases.
  • Buyers should be punished even harsher than poachers.
  • Cosmetic surgery should be regulated.
  • Equal punishment and less protection for celebrities who break the law
  • Impose bi-annual drivers tests for people over 60
  • People on welfare should be drug tested to receive welfare, and at random to keep it
  • Moral and legal stance on capital punishment
  • Immigrants should be required to speak the primary language of the country they wish to immigrate to
  • Red light cameras at every traffic light
  • Everyone having access to affordable or even free universal health care
  • The government is no longer “by the people and for the people”
  • Impose stricter federal restrictions on internet content
  • Making self-defense courses available to the public
  • Regulate automobile emissions
  • All weapons must be registered with the police
  • The government shouldn’t censor information given online
  • Stricter punishments for driving drunk
  • No death penalty for juveniles
  • Higher standards held for the President
  • Weeding out the dirty politicians
  • Protecting the quality of drinking water in America
  • Criminals should pay restitution to their victims rather than to society
  • Eliminate cursing on day-time television
  • Restrictions on garbage output to reduce pollution and carbon footprint
  • Legal issues are the best sources to find suggestions for persuasive speech topics.
  • There is a need for more prisons.
  • Human rights must be respected.

health

  • People need to visit dentists more often.
  • Fast foods must be more expensive than healthier foods.
  • Music has healing power.
  • Fast food restaurants are not responsible for obesity.
  • Eating fruit is healthier than drinking fruit juice.
  • Medical marijuana isn’t a cure.
  • Vegan diets are too extreme.
  • Benefits of drinking 2L of water per day is a myth.
  • Calcium doesn’t make teeth stronger.
  • Losing weight is easy, keeping it off is not.
  • Aging cannot be reversed.
  • Fat isn’t bad for you.
  • Electronic cigarettes are harmful.
  • Diet pills do not work.
  • Balanced sugar-free nutrition is an effective treatment for ADHD.
  • Hospitals should allow owners of pets to have their pets brought in
  • Buying local goods is better for the economy and for our health
  • The impact of consuming all organic foods on our bodies
  • The benefits of alternative medicine vs. Western medicine
  •  HIV and AIDS testing done annually for Health Care Professional 
  • Fast food and the war on obesity
  • Morbidly obese people should have to pay more for public transportation
  • Healthcare should include a gym membership and nutrition counseling
  • The negative implications of Facebook
  • Television programs must be censored before broadcasting.
  • Talking during movies at the theater is rude behavior.
  • How the paparazzi hinders free press
  • The good and bad when it comes to Google
  • The paparazzi are the real stalkers.
  • Celebrities get away with everything.
  • Video games are not evil.
  • Downloading copyrighted MP3s is piracy.
  • Sex and violence on television is harmful to children.
  • Ad spots in news programs should be banned.
  • News media should give equal attention to all politicians.
  • There is nothing real about reality TV.
  • Social media should be blocked at work places.
  • Fake news writers should be punished.
  • Word of mouth will always be the best form of advertising.
  • TV’s will soon be a thing of the past.
  • Romantic movies set unrealistic standards.
  • Ads aimed at children should be strictly regulated.
  • Television has become the number two news source after the internet and tv will be further downsized.
  • Beer advertisements promote irresponsible drinking and ought to be banned from the communal street views.
  • Harry Potter books are popular even among adults.
  • News reporters earn money because of people who make a mess of their lives.
  • No news is good news!
  • Books should never be burned in public.
  • Advantages of having a three-day weekend instead of a two-day weekend
  • Why everyone should visit Disney World
  • Allow married women to enter Miss World and Miss Universe pageants.
  • There couldn’t be enough beauty contests for children!
  • Beauty contests degrade women.
  • Some market toys provoke and promote violent behavior.
  • Mac is better than PC
  • Santiago de Chile tourists must be made aware of pickpocketers. (or another city)
  • Love is far more powerful than hate
  • Make free public wi-fi available
  • Bike-sharing programs
  • Stealing from the rich to give to the poor is not nobel.
  • The morals behind lying
  • Silly games like Candy Crush are making people less intelligent
  • Using hands-free devices while driving
  • Using lie detector tests for employment purposes
  • What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger
  • Money can’t buy happiness
  • Is Batman a real superhero?
  • Why there aren’t more female construction workers
  • Lie detector tests are inaccurate.
  • Organic food tastes better.
  • Alternative power is the answer to our energy crisis.
  • It’s immoral to genetically design babies.
  • Every property needs to have at least one tree.
  • Nursery rhymes need to be looked at better.
  • Hostels are not a place for children.
  • Plant fruit trees on sidewalks.
  • Religion and science can go hand in hand.
  • Everyone should know how to swim.
  • Not wearing a seat belt a personal choice.
  • Opposites will always attract.
  • Climate change is always changing.
  • Not enough is done to end world hunger.
  • Battery farming is unethical.
  • People shouldn’t be paying for drivers licenses.
  • Smokers make the most acquaintances.
  • First impressions are always right.
  • Cash should be abandoned completely.
  • Allow mind reading during poker.
  • Minimum wage is too low.
  • Security cameras are an invasion of privacy.
  • Clients don’t want birthday messages from businesses.
  • Allow casual dress clothes in the workplace.
  • Make public transport free.
  • The welfare system doesn’t work.
  • Organ donors should be paid.
  • All kids on a winning team should get a trophy.
  • Illegal immigrants don’t harm the economy.
  • Humans are vegetarian by nature.
  • Self-driving cars will cause fewer accidents.
  • It is time to include internet slang to dictionaries.
  • Teens are unfairly stereotyped.
  • Group homes are better than foster care.
  • Guns don’t kill people.
  • Fracking is dangerous.
  • Money isn’t the root of all evil.
  • Being homeless is a choice.
  • The school curriculum is too overloaded.
  • Graffiti is art.
  • Priests shouldn’t be giving marriage counseling.
  • Everyone must be taught to do CPR.
  • Juvenile crime is dealt with incorrectly.
  • Older generations were crueler.
  • Royal families are not needed in this day and age.
  • Fame will always be bad for children.
  • Prisoners must not be allowed tovote.
  • Yearly HIV tests for all health professionals.
  • Being skinny is no longer cool.
  • Lego’s are not gender bias.
  • The drought in Cape Town will happen in other parts of the world too.
  • Employees know more than employers.
  • Adoption records should be opened.
  • Affirmative action is false competition in the workspace.
  • Aids tests should be required in federal prisons – for all inmates and the prison guards too.
  • The millimeter wave scanner at airports security zones strikes out all privacy that we fought for.
  • Water management in our home really does matter.
  • Why you should only buy fair trade.
  • Hundred percent airline safety is an utopia.
  • Helping runaways is a crime.
  • Help addicted popstars immediately and save them.
  • Hands free cell phone use in cars must be promoted better.
  • Drivers quickly forget their drivers education.
  • The driving age for teens should be raised to 18.
  • The 1st Amendment is not a shield for hate groups.
  • Reducing crime is a utopia.
  • Impose trade and social sanctions on countries that do not prohibit child labor.
  • More cold cases will be solved if investigators make use of DNA available.
  • Ban the sale of guns at shops and stores.
  • Saying what you want must not include hate speech.
  • Immigrants must learn the language of the country they move to.
  • Refund or rebate extra taxes collected plus interest on it to those who paid.
  • Help the homeless down the streets and persuade them to look for work.
  • Cell phone use is dangerous while driving.
  • How Christopher Columbus discovered the Americas.
  • History of our National Anthem and rituals.
  • Paying off mortgage debt early is a good investment.
  • Global awareness makes us responsible citizens of the world.

Nothing really stand out? No problem. Start by writing a list of things that interest you. Keep going until you find something you know a good deal about and that you could talk about forever. Choose something that will get your blood boiling, that you feel strongly about, even if others don’t. You’ll likely convert some people to your way of thinking just by the way you speak about your chosen topic.

No matter what topic you choose, always be credible and purpose-driven. Giving false facts is a big “no-no” and so is being wishy-washy with you speech. Give it meaning, give it purpose.

Just remember, what may be  easy speech topics to one person, isn’t always easily understood by someone else. So keep that in mind when persuading your audience.

613 Original Argumentative Speech Topics Ideas

The Best Microphone Stands and Desktop Boom Arms of 2022

8 thoughts on “243 Easy and Simple Speech Topics”

which topic is best topic in the world?

Thanks a lot It helped me in debate competition

Oof! that was quite a lot of reading, but it helped me greatly! I’m in a speech contest (middle grade, I’m in Canada).

Nice Idea to Easy and Simple Speech for Student Great Work well done

Thanks a lot it’s helpful

Last year I was super motivated to do a speech, and I came first in my school, with the topic of beach and ocean pollution. But know i’m not even motivated at all. Any suggestions of what I should do?

when your watching a movie with your parents and it gets to a sex scene and you tryna act cool: yes, the floor is very nice

My school has the best topics from this website UWU

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Special Occasion Speech Writing Guide and Topic Ideas

Updated 16 Jul 2024

As high-school or college student, you may have been asked to write special occasion speech for an important event or person. In such case, it is not difficult as teacher or college professor usually provide with speech outline. Yet, what to do when it’s needed for work anniversary, retirement, birthday or an important event? Things may get complex as speech is always great responsibility and it is important to write it in a correct and original way!

Turning to our writing experience, we came up with special guide that will make you understand all types of special occasion speeches. Moreover, we also provide writing checklist together with classic outline to help amazing speech ideas flow!  

special occasion speech

Special Occasion Speech Topics Checklist

Before starting with special occasion speech ideas or brainstorming options, you may already know topic well, yet it’s still important to ensure that you choose the best ideas and turn them into memorable talk. Below is a checklist of points to consider while preparing:

  • What is an occasion you are getting ready for?
  • What is your role in this particular occasion?
  • Who is target audience? Should you turn to professionals in any field?
  • How much time will you have?
  • Should it be formal or informal in style?
  • What is main purpose of your talk?
  • Think about best time for your performance at an event. What would be the most appropriate moment?
  • What should be avoided while speaking of sensitive occasion?
  • Would it be better to speak on behalf of an organization or yourself?
  • Would it be possible to include personal story or work-related anecdote?

Look through this speech writing checklist! Answering these basic writing questions, you will work on ideas and make sure that every important aspect is properly addressed!

Types of Special Occasion Speeches

While writing toast for birthday or special teacher who is retiring may seem clear. But there are many more special occasions that require particular attention. From informative speech ideas that deal with certain subject and help your audience understand facts and ideas to acceptance speeches, there are rules that should be followed to leave professional impression. In our writing guide, we will review five most complex types with a short definition for each.

  • Commemorative Speech and Tribute - is ceremonial speech because it aims at paying a tribute and praise a person, an organization, institution, special occasion, great idea, or a group of people who did something special. Try to use one of our unique commemorative speech ideas . Speak about values and how much work or effort have gone into that.
  • Commencement Speech - is for college or university students who graduate. During such an occasion, degrees and diplomas are being presented students, so it can include special definitions or talk of achievements. It usually concerns past, present, or assumptions towards future.
  • Acceptance Speech - is given when someone is accepting praise, being honored or receives an award. So, it is advisable to speak of those who have made it possible with a special tribute and give words of thanks. Free your emotions!
  • Farewell Speech - sometimes also called retirement, refers to an individual that leaves position or place. It is often addressed to public figures or educators. What has to be mentioned are career achievements and even reasons a person may have had for leaving. Ensure that no privacy or sensitive issues are violated.
  • Toast Speech - best example would be best man's talk at wedding ceremony. As one raises a glass in honor of someone, such talk should be always to the point, engaging, and not too long to keep audience interested and entertained. It is a right place to tell short story and why a person or people in question are special. Remember to keep it brief!
Read also: Good Demonstration Speech Topics : 50 Best & Unique Ideas

Of course, these are far from all types of special occasion speeches, yet we tried to mention the most common and complex ones. Writing a special occasion speech can be daunting, but seeking assignment help can provide you with the guidance and support needed to craft a memorable and impactful speech. Let us proceed with topic ideas for any occasion now!

Need more help with your speech?

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Special Occasion Topics - Writing Details

Since you came here to learn how to write a special occasion speech, we decided to give you the writing details and samples for each speech type. Remember that these are only the basic examples and you can always turn to the pre written speech services or review free speech essays if you struggle to come up with excellent ideas.

  • Farewell . If it is you who are leaving or retiring, thank fellow employees and the management for cooperation, their support, friendship, and the great ideas shared. Ensure to wish them all the best and tell of how much all the work has meant to you. Tell of your future plans and of how much you will rely on everything that you have learned as an employee. Now if someone else is retiring or leaving, start by thanking that person and include story that highlights traits of that individual.
  • Tribute should tell of why a person or an occasion is special and what has moved you personally and inspired for a positive change. If you are talking to the audience, be sure to ask questions that you may answer on your own by highlighting the importance of a tribute. Tell of what you have learned and do not forget to tell that it is a common achievement.
  • Informative . In this particular case, you have to start with an introduction for your audience, so that they know what your topic is about. Do not be afraid to be clear, but keep it short to 5-7 sentences. Next, tell of an occasion or a reason for gathering. Make an argument, support it with your own case study or research. Mention opposite opinions, conclude with main key points but in different words.
  • Wedding Ceremony. Secret here is that it should not be too long. It is a good occasion to tell a story, mention a funny, but not embarrassing fact. Do not be generic and never focus on the usual wishes. Make it memorable instead and tell of true friendship and love by citing a movie or a book quote. Be funny and free!  
  • Persuasive Speech. Start with an unusual fact or an assumption that will make your audience attentive. Continue by telling about your facts, ideas, conducted research results. If possible, use examples, pictures, tables, graphics to support your words. It is the best case to be creative. Do not make it too complex, but use emotions and logic to persuade the audience and make them trust you!
  • Festive - From the birthday parties to Christmas celebrations, this talks should be funny, as well as entertaining. If you aim for younger audience, be sure to include traditions or customs. Tell of charity events, how much important it is to help everyone feel safe and warm. In case with birthday speech, tell what person means to you. Speak of his or her unique qualities, focus on what they can do best - good accountant, amazing teacher or talented musician. The key is to praise hero of occasion! He or she should feel special on this very day.
  • Awards / Graduation talk may seem overly complex and it is where most college and university students in the United States usually get stuck. The secret here is to talk not only of achievements, but to start with a list of reasons why this or that major has been chosen. You can even talk of the freedom that American students have in terms of education compared to the rest of the world. Make it special, memorable, and do not forget to thank those who have made it possible.
Read also: Picking the Right Persuasive Speech Topics

Special Occasion Speech Outline Example

It is a well-known fact that there is no universal recipe for a perfect special occasion speech template, yet we want to provide you with an example to keep your brain and heart inspired!

Mrs. Jones - More Than an English Teacher (Awards and Tribute Speech)

  • Introduction and the main thesis (underlined)

Why do I consider myself a good writer? I believe that it takes a good English teacher to inspire and teach a student how to write. Mrs. Jones, a wonderful lady with the kind eyes and a soft-spoken voice, is the one who walked an extra mile to inspire me because you cannot guide a student if he or she is not inspired. As I receive the writer's award, it is her award and I want to pay a tribute to a wonderful person, Mrs. Annie Jones. She is a sum of empathy, care, courage, and professionalism that started by making sure that you are interested and motivated before you start to learn. Thanks to her, I learned not only how to write, but how to feel total responsibility for what I write and why.

  • Body Paragraphs (Main Thesis Statements)

A . She always started the lessons by asking the students about how they felt and if they could relate to the task.

She never discriminated the students by the level of skills and knowledge. She always told of her own life and frequently read aloud to make students listen.

B . Checking our assignments, she actually discussed the flaws with students, providing criticism but never hurting our feelings.

As a result, I learned how to be outspoken and sincere.

C . As I started to write professionally, she still treated me the same, always remembering each of my childhood question and concern.

Her attitude made me feel confident about my skills. Most of all, she has always been a true friend and a genuine supporter.

  • Conclusion Paragraph

As I accept this award, I want to thank her and everyone of you for making it possible because I am learning by cooperation, by your feedback and sincerity. As we write, we communicate and work hard to become better. I shall do my best to be worthy of such high praise and will always remember of how it started and why I became an inspired writer. I thank you all, but first of all, thank you, dear Mrs. Jones!

Use this special occasion speech outline as an example to succeed in your own writing of a talk for any event!

An Extra Bit of Speech Writing Help

Even with all the topic ideas and outlines, most college students and casual people in the United States struggle while preparing for occasions! Well, even Hillary Clinton worries about her speech events and works days and nights with assigned experts. At EduBirdie, we provide the speech writing help  because it is tailored to every specific need. Every customer can choose an expert writer by subject who will know exact definition and terminology.

Let us not forget that writing of a good special occasion speech is something that you will be remembered by. So, why even risk when you can ask our experts for any service from proofreading to finding good toast ideas? Finally, turning to the EduBirdie experts, you can stop worrying about the deadlines and grammar, as we work 24/7 and provide editing and plagiarism check services, too. A special occasion speech has to be, well, special, and we always try our best to make every customer satisfied!

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Interesting speech topics for students

180 unique speech topic ideas from 5 broad areas

By:  Susan Dugdale  

What are the most interesting and unique speech topics for students? Or for yourself? How, and where do you find them?

Let's answer those questions, and more.

On this page you'll find:

write a speech topics

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So what are the best GOOD original speech ideas?

3 essential elements of interesting speeches.

Image: retro drawing of puzzled girl thinking. Text: What's an interesting speech topic? Comical novels? Cats? The history of chocolate?

Speech topics become interesting that way because they fulfill three essential requirements.

  • You are genuinely enthusiastic about the subject. You love the topic and want to find out more about it.
  • The subject will appeal to your audience. It has relevance for them. They'll want to know about it. 
  • The twist, angle, or perspective you bring to the topic is different - one the audience will not have heard before.

If you can tick off all three aspects your speech is much more likely to be interesting for everyone, yourself included.

Put your spin on these interesting speech topics

The five topic areas below are broad. I have suggested some potentially good speech ideas in each of them. You'll find those under the area's introductory overview.

Use my suggestions as a beginning point: a trigger to get  your own creative juices going. With luck you'll find exactly the topic you need to inspire you. (I sincerely hope so!)

Social media themed topics

Online social media like Facebook (recently re-branded as Meta Platforms), Twitter (which has now become X), Pinterest, Instagram, Whatsapp, and Tik Tok have been with us a comparatively short time. Yet their growth has been astronomical!

Facebook, the first of them, made its public debut in 2004, 17 years ago, and according to its Wikipedia page , has 2.85 billion monthly active users, as of 31 March 2021 .  Its use as a vehicle to reach people all over the world is extraordinary. The power and influence Facebook users have been able to exert is unparalleled. As a society we've never seen this before.

Twitter (X), Pinterest,  Instagram, Whatsapp and Tik Tok although newer players share, to a lesser degree, similar capacities.

Older electronic media, TV and radio, couldn't reach into the personal private lives in the same intimate one to one, person to person way. Neither could print.

What do these changes mean for society?  What will happen to old-fashioned face-to-face communication skills?

Look over these topics carefully. What aspects of them you'd find interesting to explore?

Our increasing reliance on varying forms of online communication is new and our scientists, psychologists, and doctors are only beginning to understand its impact on our behavior.

Image: young girl with badge showing Facebook thumbs up icon on her tee-shirt. Background text: Please like me, please like me, please like me...

50 interesting social media speech topics

  • Social media kills face to face conversation skills.
  • Texting is necessary for social survival.
  • An online friend can be just as real as an offline one.
  • Social media breaks down real-time relationships.
  • How did people build and maintain networks BEFORE  social media?
  • What is the real value of social media? Three points.
  • How to avoid being cyber bullied.
  • Rules for forming online friendships.
  • Spelling skills are dead. Long live txt speak!
  • What will be the next major social media development?
  • Rules for using social media responsibly.
  • Publicly "liking" or "not liking" a person's posts can cause anxiety.
  • What is real news and what is false? How do you know?
  • Three excellent community building uses of social media.
  • Social media is addictive.
  • Social media encourages and supports racialism.
  • Social media companies are not responsible for how people use them.
  • Social media dissolves social, economic and cultural barriers.
  • How private is personal information on social media?
  • Fake personas and social media.
  • There is not enough fact checking on social media.
  • It is too easy to post without thinking on social media.
  • There is too much content on social media. It overwhelms.
  • What is the impact of social media on business?
  • Having an opinion does not make a person an expert.
  • Social media makes it easy to help someone immediately.
  • Social media brings people with similar interests together.
  • Social media encourages the need for instant gratification.
  • Some social media challenges should never be accepted.
  • There should be an user age limit on social media platforms.
  • Getting news from social media is unreliable.
  • Censorship is impossible on social media.
  • How do politicians use social media?
  • What is a social media echo chamber?
  • How can social media undermine democracy?
  • Social media can be, and is, used for mass surveillance.
  • Social media can be a time waster.
  • Social media makes people dissatisfied with their lives.
  • The rise of cancel culture: what it is, how it works.
  • Why people share things they shouldn't.
  • How using emoticons is replacing using words.
  • How social media is used in hiring and firing people.
  • How social media stunts personal creativity.
  • How social media allows a person to find their voice.
  • Using social media improves fine motor skills.
  • How social media is used in peer-support programs.
  • Should social media companies be held accountable? 
  • What is the impact of not being social media?
  • How to become an influencer.
  • Outline the main differences between two or three social media platforms.

Visiting yesterday: historical speech topics

The importance of history is frequently debated. Those against digging around in their own or anybody else's past often use the saying "Life is best lived looking forward" to explain their stance.

What they want to avoid is becoming stuck in history, bogged down by old traditions or beliefs that inhibit a person in some way. "That was then, this is now", they say.

Crimes against humanity: ethnic cleansing, genocide, state sanctioned terrorism, racial discrimination, and religious persecution are all examples of attitudes and events people often want to leave in the past.

The main reason for that is because untangling them, acknowledging and accepting responsibility where required, and finding an equitable way to move forward can be exceedingly difficult for all concerned.

And yet, if we don't examine and learn from the past, surely we'll do similar things over and over again.

Those who believe that understanding and knowing our history is important say, to use the words of Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard, that "Life can only be understood backwards; but it must be lived forwards."

They argue that to know who we are, what we are doing, where we are going, and how our actions may impact on other people, other communities, countries, or the world, we need to thoroughly understand our past. That means looking carefully at the lives and times of our ancestors. 

I believe understanding our "yesterdays" helps us build better "todays" - richer futures for everyone. 

Attitudes change and as they do, so too does what society accepts as "normal". 

A brief shorts story

To illustrate here's a simple and these days, non-controversial example.

Something as ordinary as a woman wearing shorts was quite extraordinary in the 1940s and 50s. Women who wore them were considered fast: very unladylike.

And some American city councils actually went so far as to ban women from wearing them in public.

Image: 1950s pin up golfer girl wearing a pair of shorts. Text: When wearing shorts was taboo

The  United States Golf Association went further. They decreed neither men nor women could wear them while participating in tournaments: a rule that remained until the 1980s.

(In my family, my  Grandmother was forbidden to leave the house in them.)

Can you imagine what life would be like for women if we'd held on to that? 

Today we have moved on. A woman wearing a pair of shorts is no longer a disgrace or committing a crime. *

(Click this National Public Radio link  When wearing shorts was taboo  to find out more. It's a fascinating peek into the past.)

* I am fortunate to live in a country where women are free to wear what they choose. However there are many places in the world where they are not.

This 2020 study from Washington Pew Research Center is interesting reading:  Women in many countries face harassment for clothing deemed too religious – or too secular .

Family focused and community speech topics

The topics here are focused around the history of family and community life.

Dive into them and you may just find them compelling - really interesting. They'll give you new insights and maybe, an appreciation, of what went before, and what you have now. 

Image-retro 1950s-children crossing the road going to school. Text: Historical Myths Number 63 - School days! The happiest days of your life!

45 interesting historical speech topics

  • What Grandma/Grandpa did for fun and recreation 50 years ago.
  • What Grandma/Grandpa did to earn a living when they finished their schooling.
  • At the same age as I am now my parents were doing XXX and my grandparents were doing XXX (compare and contrast across 3 generations).
  • Were there differences between education for boys and for girls 50 + years ago? If so, what were they? 
  • Our town's history - why it was built where it is, who lived there.
  • What type of jobs did men and women typically do 50+ years ago?
  • The biggest manmade or natural disaster in our local history.
  • Headline stories from our local newspapers 50+ years ago.
  • How festivals and important events (birthdays, weddings, Christmas, Easter...) were celebrated in my family many years ago.
  • Food fads or food fashions - how have they changed over the years? TV dinner anyone? What about a smoothie?
  • Prepare a typical 1950s desert as a demonstration speech.
  • How has food preparation changed over the last 25 years? Over the last 100 years?
  • Check out the family photographs. How has clothing changed through the years? For babies? For girls? For boys? For adults?
  • Ask your grandparents about what household chores they did on a regular basis. How does that compare with what you do?
  • Did your grandparents get an allowance? If so, how much was it, and what did they do with it?
  • What are differences between the house or apartment that your grandparents grew up in and the one you live in?
  • What household items held pride of place 50+ years ago?  
  • The history of my first and last name - where it came from, what it means and how it's changed over the years.
  • A walk through a typical 1950s/1960s/1970s school day. Were they really "the best days of our lives"?
  • How has classroom discipline changed over the last 100 years?
  • How have the subjects taught in schools changed over the last 50+ years?
  • What school activities and sports were common 50+ years ago? 
  • Word fashion (the current slang) - what's in, what's out. Examples from bygone eras and present day.
  • The origin of local place names - how places get their names, why they stick, or change.
  • What jobs are no longer needed in your area because of modern technology?
  • How has going shopping changed over the last 3 decades?
  • Have attitudes around money and possessions changed over the last 50 + years in your community?  
  • How did the area you live in cope with the 1918 Spanish Flu Epidemic? How does that compare with what happened during the height of the Covid Pandemic?
  • What is the predominant cultural background of the community you live in?
  • What languages are part of the linguistic history of your area? In what ways are they seen and heard today?
  • What traditions have been passed down the generations in your family or community?
  • What service organizations were active in the community 50 + years ago? What did they do? How did they help?
  • What religions were practiced in your community 50 + years ago?  Has that changed? How?
  • What were attitudes in your community towards people who were seen as 'different' 50 + years ago?
  • What were the most common ways of meeting new people and socializing 50 + years ago in your community?
  • Tell the history of an local historic building or monument. 
  • What was the latest music 20/50/100 years ago?
  • What were the biggest social issues 50 + years ago in your area? Have things changed?
  • How have historical events directly affected your family and community?
  • What were the commonest methods of transport 50 + years ago in the area. What changes have there been?
  • Tell the story of a local character or hero.
  • What were the major natural features of the landscape in your area before towns and cities were built?
  • What were the native animals, birds, trees and other plants in the area  a long time ago? Has that changed? 
  • How have people changed the local natural landscape? For better? Or for worse? 
  • This day in history - a slice of major events from around the world for the date you are giving your speech.

Just plain weird: unusual speech topics

Things, natural or man-made, are often labeled weird or strange because we have never seen, considered or experienced them before. These "new" things become objects of fascination triggering responses varying from awe to disgust. Either way, "good" or "bad" weird jolts a person out their accepted ordinary/normal world, challenging them to consider something different.

Weird things, old and new, can be really interesting and stimulating!

Image: tiger-budgie Text: 100% pure weird

61 weird speech topic suggestions

Quirky clothing/body adornment fashions : some very old, some much newer!

Show and tell the story behind:

  • powdered wigs - why men and women wore them
  • bustles - Why did women wear especially shaped padding ( bustles ) to hold out their skirts at the back?
  • crinolines - Why would a woman from the Victorian era want to wear a wide, bell-shaped, steel-hooped cage under her skirts?
  • panniers - Why did women in the 18th century broaden their skirts at the sides with panniers? 
  • chopines - The first platform shoes, popular in 16th & 17th century. Were they worn to avoid the dirt in the streets or for prestige?
  • lotus shoes - tiny jeweled slippers to fit the bound feet of Chinese women. Find out more: The consequence of foot binding . 
  • cod pieces - a male garment originally worn to conceal and protect genitals dating from the 15th century that became something so much more  
  • corsets - a garment worn by men and women to support and shape the body. In the 19th century their wide-spread use by women caused them major health issues.
  • bombasts - a 16th century practice of wearing padded clothing to enhance/exaggerate the body's natural shape
  • the cockade - a symbol of freedom - originally worn by French soldiers
  • ruffs - a detachable collar that grew larger and more elaborate
  • winkle picker shoes - Who were the men who wore them?   The history of winkle pickers 
  • body piercings - the different types of piercings, and their origin
  • tattoos -trace its history across cultures, its meanings, the wide spread use of tattoos, how to remove a tattoo
  • statement jewelry - the history of jewelry to show status  - wedding rings, engagement rings, crowns, chains of office, the use of precious stones

Are they hoarders or collectors? Why do some people collect things like: unopened bottles of coca cola, album covers, newspapers, playing cards, cigarette packets, menus, garden ornaments, old pens, comics, paper table napkins, autographs, branded memorabilia eg. McDonalds happy toys, Barbie dolls, hair clips, salt and pepper shakers ...

Find out. Do an interview. Take some photos.

Weird beliefs - research and present one or two beliefs you find the strangest. Who believed them?  When were they believed? Where? What country? Can you explain the reason why? 

  • that cigarettes were good for health
  • that the earth was flat and you could fall off its edge
  • that trains went so fast they literally rattled people's brains, making them insane
  • that washing hands before surgery was unnecessary
  • that some races and cultures are superior to others
  • that eugenics (controlled breeding in humans) is an acceptable way to eliminate inheritable characteristics seen as undesirable 
  • that disease was spread by smell
  • that the sun was the center of the universe
  • that seatbelts in cars were unnecessary
  • that a woman's role in life is to make her husband happy

Very strange animals, birds, fish or insects - what are the weirdest, where do they live, what do they eat? 

Here's ten remarkable creatures to get you started.

  • axolotls (Mexican Walking Fish)
  • flightless cormorants
  • long wattled umbrella birds
  • assassin bugs
  • stick insects
  • shoebill storks

Weird inventions - What was it? Who invented it? When, where and why?

Some inventions are truly weird. They were when they were thought up and made, and they still are now. Others were thought weird at first but today are regarded as impossible to live without. 

Investigate any of these:

  • The bicycle - It was considered a dangerous fad.
  • Talkies - talking in the movies. That was thought a gimmick.
  • Mono-wheeled motorbikes
  • Automobiles
  • The saluting device for perfect salutations
  • The hug me pillow and other 'clever' devices, like hairy stockings
  • Electric lamps or light bulbs
  • Personal computers
  • Vaccinations

Strange sports : where are they played, when, by whom, and how. For example:

  • wife carrying
  • egg and cheese rolling (two separate sports)

(The oddness of a sport is often a matter of perspective. If you've never heard of it, or seen it played before, then it may seem weird to you. However to the people involved, either as participants or observers, the sport is accepted as normal, frequently without question.)  

  • Fact or fiction? Choose an interesting true story to retell that seems unbelievable.
  • Trivia: little bits of often useless information. Why does it fascinate? 
  • Research and present little known awe inspiring facts about the functioning of our bodies. 
  • Urban myths - what are they, examples, how are they spread and why are they believed?
  • Weird people. Find out about famous eccentrics: people who have decided to live life on their own terms. 
  • Why do records like the largest man in the world, the longest fingernails, or the greatest number of pies eaten in an hour fascinate people?
  • How many other people share your name? Where are they in the world and what do they do?
  • Weird coincidences - Is it fate, the super-natural at work, or is it really a series of freak coincidences? 
  • Weird professions - passed and present. For example being employed as a rat catcher, chimney sweep, mud lark, lamp lighter, bicycle courier, doula, video game tester, mobile app developer 
  • Weird buildings - For example, the basket building in USA,  the egg shaped office building in India, or the bubble house in France.

Trading places

Image: vintage drawing of a man swinging from a rope upside down. Text: Good life lessons - getting a different perspective, looking from another angle.

Age old wisdom says there would be fewer misunderstandings and arguments if we learned to see the world from the each others perspectives. We would be less quick to judge, more tolerant and more understanding if we saw and felt how it was to walk in the shoes of another person.

Looking from a different perspective broadens and deepens our thinking.

The 5 topic suggestions below span personal through to major world events. Ask yourself, how would it be if I was there or, if this person was me? What would I think? What would I feel?

5 from another perspective speech topics 

  • In XXX {insert the name of a country eg Japan, Samoa, Chile} in XXX {insert the year or century eg the 19th century} a day in the life of a person my age would be ...
  • A day in my Mother's/Father's life at the same age I am now. Where did your parents live? Town or country? In a house or an apartment? How did they get to school? What did they study? What chores did they have to do daily?  
  • Retell an historical event as if you were there and part of it. Choose an event you find interesting eg. the fall of the Berlin Wall, granting women the right to vote, the death of Martin Luther King ...
  • Tell how a major invention or medical break-through changed lives as if you were there. Eg. the development of the smart phone, bionic prosthesis, laser surgery ...  
  • If I was {insert a word of your choice - eg. homeless, physically disabled in some way - blind, deaf, reliant on a mobility scooter ...} my experience of the world would be changed. How? What issues would you face? How would you meet them?

What were the beginnings or the origins of...?

There is a story behind everything and some of them are really interesting!

For instance the Christmas tradition of kissing under mistletoe (a plant that grows on trees) dates way back to the time of the Druids who thought it had mystical powers. It was supposed to bring good luck and keep evil spirits away.

In Norse mythology it signified love and friendship, hence the kissing! And, dear reader, of course there is more to find out. Enough to prepare an interesting, entertaining speech.

The same applies to all the other topic suggestions below.

Image: traditional Xmas card. Text: Christmas traditions: carols, food, presents, trees ...

19 speech topics exploring origins

  • Christmas celebrations or any aspect of them eg. cards, carols, gift giving, special food ...
  • Easter celebrations (or any other widely observed customary celebration)
  • Table manners or eating etiquette. How do "good" table manners vary from culture to culture? Why were they developed in the first place? 
  • Common sayings eg. "to be born with a silver spoon in one's mouth" or "the salt of the earth"
  • Types of music eg. rock and roll, jazz, hip hop ...
  • Types of art eg. folk art, sculpture, pottery, theater ...
  • Postal stamps or money
  • Softball, grid iron or any other sport
  • The current governmental system
  • Zodiac signs
  • Beauty Queen pageants
  • Modern warfare
  • Education - schooling in your country or your area
  • Card or board games 
  • Advertising
  • Television soaps. What's the story behind those long running TV serials?
  • Print - books, newspapers
  • Journalism - where did it start?
  • Language - how does it develop?

Avoiding the procrastination trap

The time is now! 

Having looked through all these potentially  good speech  topics  please don't fall into the  procrastination trap!

Tomorrow - (definition) - When everything finally gets done. Eg. I'll do this speech tomorrow!

Make yourself a  short list  of at least  three possibilities  and thinking about your audience, the main purpose of your speech and your personal interest or enthusiasm for each of them, whittle your list down to the best one.

Points you'll want to consider as part of your decision making are:

  • the time you have to prepare your speech
  • how much you know about the topic already. Do you need to do lots of research, or some? Is the research easy to do?
  • the angle you intend to use - is it persuasive, informative, humorous, unconventional, potentially shocking or upsetting, quirky? How does that fit with your audience's needs and if your speech is for a classroom assignment, the guidelines you have been given?

More places to find interesting speech topics

If you really are stuck for a topic that resonates with you check these sources out.

  • magazines for specialist opinion pieces
  • the top news sites, blogs - for commentary on political events, natural disasters, social issues
  • radio - community, country and world news plus commentary and analysis
  • television for documentaries and indepth reportage
  • bulletin boards in your own community - for current topical events eg a meeting to discuss the implication of closing the local mine or the impact of raising the cost of public transport
  • your family and friends
  • Listening to the conversations around you and observing closely what you see.
  • This site! Click this link - speech topics - to find many more pages full of interesting speech ideas.

How to get better grades for your speech

What does your teacher long to hear.

I taught high-school level English for many years and over that time listened to hundreds of speeches.

Those students I gave an A grade to got them because their:

  • topic was interesting. They'd either found an original angle to present known material or found a "new" topic.
  • speech was tailored for the audience. It was relevant to them and personalized.
  • presentation was well structured. It had a good opening, body and conclusion.
  • delivery had been rehearsed. They knew their speech. The use of props or additional material was appropriate and well integrated into the flow of the speech.
  • audience listened and enjoyed what they heard.

You are welcome to use my  speech evaluation checklist  as a guide to help you prepare an A grade speech of your own.

To prepare, structure & deliver your speech use these pages:

  • how to write a speech  You'll find full explanations and examples of the step by step process needed to get you safely from choosing your topic to presenting the speech itself.
  • voice image   Did you know your voice is an important part of giving your speech? The quality of your voice can make the difference between being listened to and not. Go to the  voice image   page. Read and follow the links to find out how you can optimize your vocal delivery.

write a speech topics

  • vocal variety Use tone, pitch, pause and pace to deliver your speech effectively. An interesting speech topic is a great start. It would be shame to waste it and the work you've done through weak delivery!
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Where Harris stands on Israel, abortion, climate change, education and the economy

write a speech topics

[Editor's note: An earlier version of this story misstated Harris' proposed 2019 climate plan investment levels. The correct estimate is nearly seven times more than Biden's current proposal.]

Vice President Kamala Harris has emerged as the Democratic party’s presidential frontrunner after Joe Biden dropped his reelection bid Sunday.

Most Democrats have backed Harris, who announced her 2024 campaign for president shortly after Biden penned a letter explaining his decision to exit the 2024 race. Depending on who you ask, Harris is viewed as a moderate or a progressive reformer.

A former prosecutor, Harris was elected San Francisco’s district attorney with a “tough on crime” message in 2003 and worked in that role for seven years. She became the state’s attorney general in 2011 and served until 2017, when she was elected to represent California in the U.S. Senate.

Text with USA TODAY: Sign-up now and get answers to all your election questions.

More: Election 2024 live updates: Endorsements rush in for Harris; Trump attacks begin

Harris launched her own unsuccessful presidential campaign at a rally in her hometown of Oakland, California in 2019. She dropped her bid for the White House and joined President Joe Biden’s ticket in August the following year. In 2021, she was sworn in as vice president.

Decades in the public spotlight and on the public record, here is what we know about where Harris stands on key issues:

Foreign Policy

As Biden’s second-in-command, Harris has largely stood behind his foreign policy positions, but there are signs she could be tougher on Israel over the war in Gaza than the president.

Harris has not given reason to believe she will deviate much from Biden on issues relating to China , for example. She is also unlikely to sway from supporting Ukraine. Harris said earlier this year that Russia has committed “crimes against humanity” in Ukraine over the last two years.

Harris has not directly opposed Biden’s staunch support for Israel, but has expressed sympathy for the more than 38,000 Palestinian lives lost during the conflict. She was one of the first high-profile members of his administration to call for an immediate temporary cease-fire in March. She acknowledged the “immense scale of suffering” in Gaza and said the Israel-Hamas war is a “humanitarian catastrophe” for innocent civilians.

Harris’ support for women’s access to abortions has been a focal point of her tenure as the country’s first female vice president. She embarked on a nationwide Reproductive Freedoms Tour earlier this year to draw attention to attacks on abortion access following the Dobbs decision . She attended her first stop in Wisconsin on Jan. 22, the 51st anniversary of Roe v. Wade .

Harris proposed federal protections that would limit state abortion restrictions during her first presidential campaign. Under her proposal, states would need to clear laws regulating abortion with the Department of Justice, which would need to confirm they are constitutional before taking effect, she explained in 2019 .

“How dare these elected leaders believe they are in a better position to tell women what they need, to tell women what is in their best interest?” Harris asked during a visit to a Minnesota Planned Parenthood clinic in March. “We have to be a nation that trusts women.”

Harris has traveled on an Economic Opportunity Tour this summer to defend the Biden administration’s economic policy and attack former President Donald Trump’s economic agenda.

While on tour, she touted legislation passed during Biden’s time in office, including the American Rescue Plan and Inflation Reduction Act . Harris has tried to emphasize that wage increases have outpaced inflation since the pandemic and made the case that Trump has plans to give more tax cuts to the rich.

“Donald Trump gave tax cuts to billionaires,” she said in a June social media post . “President Joe Biden and I are investing in the middle class and making sure billionaires and big corporations pay their fair share.”

The vice president has made clear that climate change is a key issue a Harris administration would seek to address.

While running for president in 2019, she proposed a climate plan with a $10 trillion price tag — nearly seven times more than the $1.6 trillion Biden has invested in addressing the issue. She also called for a ban on fracking.

As a senator, she co-sponsored the Green New Deal , which called for a dramatic increase in the production of renewable fuels, including wind, solar, and hydropower sources. The 10-year mobilization plan pushed for a transition to energy systems less reliant on generating greenhouse gases, which are the primary contributors to climate change.

Harris has been an advocate inside the Biden administration pushing for the president to forgive student loan debt , which became a staple of his domestic policy agenda.

As a senator, she co-sponsored Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders’ legislation to make two-year college free for all students and waive tuition for middle-class students attending four-year public universities.

At a Pride Month event last year, she criticized Florida’s 2022 “Don’t Say Gay” law banning educators from discussing sexual orientation and gender identity in elementary and middle school classrooms. Shortly after she announced her presidential campaign Sunday, the American Federation of Teachers endorsed Harris.

Rachel Barber is a 2024 election fellow at USA TODAY, focusing on politics and education. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter, at @rachelbarber_

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Mastering the Brother of the Bride Speech: A Comprehensive Guide

Brother of the bride.

August 1, 2024

brother of the bride speech

  • Founder of Bridesmaid for Hire
  • Creator of the #1 Speech & Vow Writing Tools
  • Author of Always a Bridesmaid (for Hire)
  • Creator of 1-800-Bridesmaid

Hi! I'm Jen Glantz

Giving a brother of the bride speech is a big deal. It’s your chance to celebrate your sister, crack a few jokes, and maybe even shed a tear or two. But let’s be real – it can also be pretty nerve-wracking. Don’t worry, though. We’ve got your back with this guide that’ll walk you through crafting and delivering a speech that’ll have everyone laughing, crying, and raising their glasses.

Use these resources:   Our #1 Brother of the Bride Speech Generator l  Brother of the Bride Speech Examples

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Talk to your sister about what she wants in your speech
  • Know your audience and tailor your words accordingly
  • Stick to a clear structure: intro, body, and conclusion
  • Practice, practice, practice to nail your delivery
  • Add personal stories and appropriate humor
  • Throw in some relevant stats or current events for context
  • Consider getting help from Bridesmaid for Hire if you’re feeling overwhelmed

Preparation: Setting the Stage for Your Brother of the Bride Speech

Before you start writing, you’ve got to do some groundwork. This means chatting with your sister, figuring out who’s going to be listening, and getting your thoughts in order. Trust me, a little prep goes a long way in making sure your speech hits all the right notes.

Setting the Stage for Your Brother of the Bride Speech

Initial Discussions with the Bride

First things first – talk to your sister. She’s the star of the show, after all. Find out what she’s hoping for from your speech. It’ll save you both some headaches down the road.

Length and Tone Preferences

Most brother of the bride speeches run between two to five minutes. But check with your sister – she might want you to keep it short and sweet or give you the green light to go a bit longer. Also, ask if she’s hoping for laughs, tears, or a mix of both. According to Wedding Words , keeping it between two to five minutes is pretty standard.

Off-limit Topics

Here’s a pro tip: ask your sister if there’s anything she absolutely doesn’t want you to mention. Ex-boyfriends, embarrassing childhood stories, that time she got caught sneaking out… you get the idea. Better safe than sorry! 

Audience Awareness: Knowing Your Crowd

Weddings bring together all sorts of people. You’ve got grandma in the front row, your sister’s college buddies at the back, and everyone in between. Keep this mix in mind when you’re writing your speech.

Mixed Generations

You want to hit that sweet spot where both Aunt Edna and your sister’s bestie from work are entertained. Mix in some heartfelt moments with lighter jokes to keep everyone engaged.

Cultural Sensitivities

If there are guests from different cultural backgrounds, be mindful of that. What’s hilarious in one culture might not land well in another. When in doubt, keep it universal. Remember, you’re the bride’s brother , so you’ve got a unique perspective to share!

Writing a Memorable Brother of the Bride Speech

Alright, now we’re getting to the meat of it. Your speech needs a solid structure to keep everyone hooked. Think of it like a good story – you need a catchy beginning, an interesting middle, and a killer ending.

ElementDescriptionIntroductionBriefly introduce yourself and your relationship to the bride.BodyShare personal anecdotes, highlight the bride’s qualities, and mention the groom.ConclusionOffer well-wishes and raise a toast to the couple.

Writing a Memorable Brother of the Bride Speech

Introduction: Starting Strong

First impressions matter, folks. Your opening lines set the tone for the whole speech. Make ’em count!

Opening Line

Keep it short and snappy. You could go with something simple like, “Hey everyone, I’m Jake, the bride’s big brother.” Or if you’re feeling cheeky, try, “Hi all, I’m Sam – you know, the better-looking sibling.” Just remember to read the room!

Body of the Speech: Crafting Your Narrative

This is where you get to share those juicy stories and heartfelt moments. Talk about your relationship with your sister, what makes her awesome, and throw in a good word about the groom too.

Childhood Memories

Sharing childhood memories is a great way to give everyone a glimpse into your relationship. Maybe you’ve got a funny story about building pillow forts or how she always stole your Halloween candy. Just keep it light and fun!

The Bride’s Growth

Take a moment to reflect on how your sister has grown over the years. Maybe she went from a shy kid to a confident woman, or perhaps she’s always been the family firecracker. Whatever it is, highlight those qualities that make her special.

Relationship with the Groom

Don’t forget to mention the groom! Share your first impressions or a funny story about when you realized he was “the one” for your sister. It’s all about showing why they’re great together.

Conclusion: Ending with a Bang

Wrap it up with some heartfelt wishes for the couple. This is your chance to get a little sappy (in a good way) and maybe even raise a toast.

Express Well-wishes

Keep it sincere and simple. Something like, “Here’s to a lifetime of love, laughter, and adventure for you both” works well.

Raise a Toast

Get everyone involved! You could say, “Let’s all raise a glass to the happy couple – Sarah and Mike, may your love story be one for the ages!”

10 Brother of the Bride Speech Examples

James’s speech for his sister emily.

Hey everyone, I’m James, Emily’s big brother. Em, remember when we were kids and I told you there was a monster under your bed? Well, I lied. The real monster was me stealing your Halloween candy. But look at you now, all grown up and marrying Michael. Mike, you’re getting an amazing woman – she’s smart, funny, and makes a mean lasagna. Just don’t ask her to parallel park. Emily, I couldn’t be prouder of the person you’ve become. You’ve always been there for me, and I know you two will always be there for each other. To Emily and Michael!

Alex’s Toast to His Sister Sophia

Good evening, I’m Alex, Sophia’s little brother. Soph, you’ve always been my role model. You taught me how to ride a bike, how to talk to girls (badly, I might add), and how to stand up for myself. Now you’re teaching me about love by marrying Daniel. Dan, you’re one lucky guy. You’re getting a woman who can quote every line from “Friends” and makes the world’s best chocolate chip cookies. Sophia, I’m so happy you found someone who makes you smile the way Daniel does. May your life together be filled with laughter, love, and endless Netflix marathons. Cheers!

Ryan’s Speech for His Sister Jessica

Hi everyone, I’m Ryan, Jessica’s twin brother. Jess, we’ve been through everything together – first day of school, first breakup, first hangover. But today’s a first I’m experiencing all on my own – watching my sister get married. Tom, you’re getting the best partner in crime anyone could ask for. She’s loyal, adventurous, and always up for a good time. Just don’t let her plan your road trips – we once ended up in Canada trying to get to Florida. Jess, I’m so proud of you and the life you’re building with Tom. Here’s to a lifetime of happiness and misadventures!

brother of the bride speech generator

David’s Toast to His Sister Rachel

Hello all, I’m David, Rachel’s older brother. Rach, I still remember the day mom and dad brought you home from the hospital. I asked if we could return you for a puppy. Boy, am I glad they said no. You’ve grown into an incredible woman, and I’m honored to call you my sister. Mark, you’re a lucky man. You’re marrying someone who can binge-watch an entire season of “Grey’s Anatomy” in one sitting and still get up for a 5 AM run. Rachel, Mark, may your love story be even more epic than McDreamy and Meredith’s. Congratulations!

Matthew’s Speech for His Sister Olivia

Hey everyone, I’m Matthew, Olivia’s younger brother. Liv, you’ve always been the overachiever of the family – straight A’s, captain of the debate team, and now, marrying the amazing Sarah. Sarah, welcome to the family. Fair warning: our holiday dinners involve heated Monopoly games and dad’s questionable karaoke. Olivia, I’ve always looked up to you, and seeing you with Sarah, I understand why. You two bring out the best in each other. May your marriage be filled with love, laughter, and plenty of board game victories. To Olivia and Sarah!

Christopher’s Toast to His Sister Emma

Good evening, I’m Christopher, Emma’s big brother. Em, remember when you were five and declared you were going to marry Leonardo DiCaprio? Well, I think you’ve done even better with Jake. Jake, you’re getting a woman who can recite all of “Titanic” by heart and makes a mean margarita. Just don’t let her near your hair with scissors – trust me on this one. Emma, seeing you with Jake makes me believe in true love. You two fit together like peanut butter and jelly. May your life be as sweet as your favorite desserts. Congratulations!

Daniel’s Speech for His Sister Ava

Hi all, I’m Daniel, Ava’s little brother. Ava, you’ve always been my protector – from playground bullies to bad breakups. Now, it’s time for me to pass that job on to Sam. Sam, you’re marrying a woman who can change a tire faster than a NASCAR pit crew and bake a soufflé that would make Gordon Ramsay weep. Just don’t challenge her to karaoke – she thinks she can sing. She can’t. Ava, Sam, your love is an inspiration. May your life together be an endless adventure. Here’s to the happy couple!

William’s Toast to His Sister Isabella

Hello everyone, I’m William, Isabella’s older brother. Izzy, from the moment you were born, you’ve been a force of nature. You’ve never been afraid to speak your mind or chase your dreams. Now, you’re embarking on your greatest adventure yet with Max. Max, you’re getting a partner who can debate politics like a senator and dance like no one’s watching. Fair warning: she’s always watching. Isabella, Max, your love story is like something out of a rom-com – minus the awkward misunderstandings. May your marriage be filled with passion, understanding, and lots of dance parties. Cheers!

Benjamin’s Speech for His Sister Charlotte

Good evening, I’m Benjamin, Charlotte’s twin brother. Char, we’ve shared everything – birthdays, friends, even chicken pox. But today, I’m happy to share you with Noah. Noah, you’re marrying a woman who can solve a Rubik’s cube in under a minute and burns water trying to boil it. It’s a package deal, my friend. Charlotte, seeing you with Noah reminds me of what true partnership looks like. You balance each other perfectly. May your life together be filled with love, laughter, and plenty of takeout. To Charlotte and Noah!

Thomas’s Toast to His Sister Grace

Hey everyone, I’m Thomas, Grace’s little brother. Gracie, you’ve always been the family’s golden child – perfect grades, perfect job, and now, perfect husband in Ethan. Ethan, welcome to the family. You’re getting a woman who can quote Shakespeare and belt out Beyoncé with equal passion. Just don’t let her convince you to try her experimental cooking. Grace, Ethan, your love is like a fine wine – it only gets better with time. May your marriage be filled with joy, growth, and many, many date nights. Congratulations to the happy couple!

Delivery Techniques: From Practice to Perfection for Your Brother of the Bride Speech

Alright, you’ve got your speech down on paper. Now it’s time to nail the delivery. Don’t worry, with a bit of practice, you’ll be ready to rock it!

brother of the bride speech

Practice: Rehearse Like a Pro

Practice makes perfect, right? Well, in this case, it at least makes you feel a whole lot more confident when you’re up there.

TechniqueDescriptionMirror PracticeObserve your body language and facial expressions.Feedback SessionsGet constructive feedback from friends or family.RehearsalPractice regularly to build confidence.

Mirror Practice

Stand in front of a mirror and give your speech. It might feel a bit weird at first, but it’s a great way to check your body language and facial expressions. Are you slouching? Frowning? Smiling at the right moments? This is your chance to fine-tune all that.

Feedback Sessions

Grab a friend or family member (preferably someone who’ll be brutally honest) and practice your speech for them. Ask for their thoughts – was it too long? Too short? Did the jokes land? Their feedback can be super helpful in polishing your speech.

Public Speaking Tips: Engaging Your Audience

Public speaking can be scary, I get it. But with a few tricks up your sleeve, you’ll have everyone hanging on your every word.

Managing Nervousness

Feeling jittery? Take a deep breath. Seriously, it helps. And remember, everyone’s rooting for you. They want to hear what you have to say about your sister and her new spouse.

Eye Contact

Don’t just stare at your notes or fixate on one person (creepy!). Try to make eye contact with different people throughout the room. It helps you connect with the audience and makes you seem more confident. Plus, it’s a great way to gauge reactions and adjust your delivery if needed.

Personalization and Humor: Making It Unique and Memorable

This is your chance to make the speech truly yours. Add in those personal touches and sprinkle in some humor to keep things fun and engaging.

Personalizing Your Speech: Adding Personal Touches

Your unique perspective as the brother of the bride is what makes this speech special. Don’t be afraid to let your personality shine through!

Unique Anecdotes

Share stories that only you could tell. Maybe it’s about the time you and your sister got stuck in a tree trying to rescue a cat, or how she always beat you at video games. These personal moments are what people will remember.

Inside Jokes

A few inside jokes can add a nice personal touch, but don’t go overboard. You want most of the audience to be in on the laughter, not feeling left out.

Incorporating Appropriate Humor: Balancing Laughs and Tears

A good brother speech usually has a mix of funny and touching moments. It’s all about finding the right balance.

Light-hearted Jokes

Keep your jokes light and fun. For example, “I always thought I’d be the first to get married. Turns out, Sarah beat me to it… just like she beat me at everything else growing up!”

Sensitive Topics

Steer clear of anything that might embarrass your sister or offend guests. When in doubt, leave it out. Remember, you want people laughing with you, not at your sister or her new spouse.

This video is a great example of how to balance humor and heart in a wedding speech. Notice how the speaker keeps things light but still manages to convey genuine emotion.

Extra Ideas for Your Brother of the Bride Speech 

Want to add a bit of oomph to your speech? Throw in some relevant stats or current events. It can make your speech feel more relatable and up-to-date.

Extra Ideas for Your Brother of the Bride Speech 

Incorporating Statistics: Making Your Speech Relatable

A well-placed statistic can add some interesting context to your speech. For instance, did you know that according to ToastWiz , a wedding speech should ideally be between 5-7 minutes long to keep the audience engaged? See? Now you’ve got a fun fact to share!

Mentioning Current Events: Staying Relevant

Referencing current events can make your speech feel fresh and timely. For example, you could mention how a brother of the bride speech recently went viral on TikTok for revealing a 20-year-old family secret. It got over three million views! ( Independent ) Just maybe don’t reveal any family secrets of your own, okay?

Conclusion and Tie-back to Bridesmaid for Hire

Giving a brother of the bride speech is no small feat, but with the right prep and mindset, you’ve got this! And hey, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, there’s no shame in getting a little help.

Professional Support: How Bridesmaid for Hire Can Help

Sometimes, you need a pro in your corner. That’s where Bridesmaid for Hire comes in. They offer speechwriting services and public speaking coaching to help you nail your speech.

Personalized Speechwriting

Need help putting your thoughts into words? Bridesmaid for Hire can work with you to craft a speech that’s uniquely yours. They’ll make sure it hits all the right notes while still sounding like you. Use this resource:   Our #1 Brother of the Bride Speech Generator 

Public Speaking Coaching

If the thought of speaking in front of a crowd makes you break out in a cold sweat, don’t worry. Bridesmaid for Hire offers coaching to help boost your confidence and polish your delivery.

Learnings Recap

Alright, let’s do a quick rundown of what we’ve covered:

  • Chat with your sister about her expectations for your speech
  • Practice until you feel confident in your delivery
  • Add personal stories and appropriate humor to make it memorable

Final Thoughts

Giving a brother of the bride speech is a pretty big deal. It’s your chance to celebrate your sister, welcome your new brother-in-law, and maybe even get a few laughs. By following this guide, you’ll be well on your way to delivering a speech that’ll have everyone talking (in a good way!).

Remember, at the end of the day, it’s all about showing your love and support for your sister. So take a deep breath, speak from the heart, and don’t forget to raise that glass. You’ve got this!

And hey, if you need a little extra help, don’t hesitate to reach out to the pros at Bridesmaid for Hire. They’re there to make sure your sister’s big day (and your big speech) go off without a hitch.

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‘One of the Truly Awful and Self-Indulgent Performances of Our Time’: The Best and Worst Moments From Night 4 of the Convention

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By New York Times Opinion

Did the night help Trump?

Welcome to Opinion’s commentary for Night 4 of the Republican National Convention. In this special feature, Times Opinion writers rate the evening on a scale of 0 to 10: 0 means the night was a disaster for Donald Trump; 10 means it could lead to a big polling bump. Here’s what our columnists and contributors thought of the event, which culminated in Trump’s acceptance speech.

Best Moment

Kristen Soltis Anderson, contributing Opinion writer Donald Trump gave a compelling and moving description of what it was like to be under fire and pledged to represent all of America, not just half of America. That may be easier said than done.

David Brooks, Times columnist The first 20 minutes of the Trump speech. If he’d done the story about the assassination attempt and then added 15 minutes of policy, he would be cruising toward victory. He could have plausibly argued that he is a changed man.

Jane Coaston, contributing Opinion writer Hulk Hogan’s speech was his best performance since he beat Macho Man Randy Savage at WrestleMania V.

Matthew Continetti, fellow at the American Enterprise Institute Trump’s account of the attempt on his life was gripping. He displayed a vulnerability and humility that most people had never seen before. And when he kissed the fireman’s helmet of Corey Comperatore, the husband and father who was killed during last weekend’s shooting, Trump created yet another indelible image. It won’t be soon forgotten.

David French, Times columnist Trump’s tribute to Comperatore was touching and appropriate. Placing his uniform on the stage was a powerful visual reminder of the loss.

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  27. How to Write a Memorable Brother of the Bride Speech

    Extra Ideas for Your Brother of the Bride Speech Want to add a bit of oomph to your speech? Throw in some relevant stats or current events. It can make your speech feel more relatable and up-to-date. Incorporating Statistics: Making Your Speech Relatable. A well-placed statistic can add some interesting context to your speech.

  28. Opinion

    Wehner Once Trump really got going, his speech was rambling and narcissistic, filled with lies and nearly endless. It was a fusion of his stump speech and a text speech, making it incoherent and ...