Introduce the topic.
Provide background information.
Present the thesis statement or main argument.
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An argumentative essay presents a specific claim or argument and supports it with evidence and reasoning. Here’s an outline for an argumentative essay, along with examples for each section: 3
1. Introduction :
Example: “Did you know that plastic pollution is threatening marine life at an alarming rate?”
Example: “Plastic pollution has become a global environmental concern, with millions of tons of plastic waste entering our oceans yearly.”
Example: “We must take immediate action to reduce plastic usage and implement more sustainable alternatives to protect our marine ecosystem.”
2. Body Paragraphs :
Example: “The first step towards addressing the plastic pollution crisis is reducing single-use plastic consumption.”
Example: “Research shows that plastic straws alone contribute to millions of tons of plastic waste annually, and many marine animals suffer from ingestion or entanglement.”
Example: “Some argue that banning plastic straws is inconvenient for consumers, but the long-term environmental benefits far outweigh the temporary inconvenience.”
Example: “Having addressed the issue of single-use plastics, the focus must now shift to promoting sustainable alternatives.”
3. Counterargument Paragraph :
Example: “While some may argue that individual actions cannot significantly impact global plastic pollution, the cumulative effect of collective efforts must be considered.”
Example: “However, individual actions, when multiplied across millions of people, can substantially reduce plastic waste. Small changes in behavior, such as using reusable bags and containers, can have a significant positive impact.”
4. Conclusion :
Example: “In conclusion, adopting sustainable practices and reducing single-use plastic is crucial for preserving our oceans and marine life.”
Example: “It is our responsibility to make environmentally conscious choices and advocate for policies that prioritize the health of our planet. By collectively embracing sustainable alternatives, we can contribute to a cleaner and healthier future.”
A claim is a statement or proposition a writer puts forward with evidence to persuade the reader. 4 Here are some common types of argument claims, along with examples:
Understanding these argument claims can help writers construct more persuasive and well-supported arguments tailored to the specific nature of the claim.
If you’re wondering how to start an argumentative essay, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you with the argumentative essay format and writing process.
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Here are eight strategies to craft a compelling argumentative essay:
Let’s consider a sample of argumentative essay on how social media enhances connectivity:
In the digital age, social media has emerged as a powerful tool that transcends geographical boundaries, connecting individuals from diverse backgrounds and providing a platform for an array of voices to be heard. While critics argue that social media fosters division and amplifies negativity, it is essential to recognize the positive aspects of this digital revolution and how it enhances connectivity by providing a platform for diverse voices to flourish. One of the primary benefits of social media is its ability to facilitate instant communication and connection across the globe. Platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram break down geographical barriers, enabling people to establish and maintain relationships regardless of physical location and fostering a sense of global community. Furthermore, social media has transformed how people stay connected with friends and family. Whether separated by miles or time zones, social media ensures that relationships remain dynamic and relevant, contributing to a more interconnected world. Moreover, social media has played a pivotal role in giving voice to social justice movements and marginalized communities. Movements such as #BlackLivesMatter, #MeToo, and #ClimateStrike have gained momentum through social media, allowing individuals to share their stories and advocate for change on a global scale. This digital activism can shape public opinion and hold institutions accountable. Social media platforms provide a dynamic space for open dialogue and discourse. Users can engage in discussions, share information, and challenge each other’s perspectives, fostering a culture of critical thinking. This open exchange of ideas contributes to a more informed and enlightened society where individuals can broaden their horizons and develop a nuanced understanding of complex issues. While criticisms of social media abound, it is crucial to recognize its positive impact on connectivity and the amplification of diverse voices. Social media transcends physical and cultural barriers, connecting people across the globe and providing a platform for marginalized voices to be heard. By fostering open dialogue and facilitating the exchange of ideas, social media contributes to a more interconnected and empowered society. Embracing the positive aspects of social media allows us to harness its potential for positive change and collective growth.
Writing a winning argumentative essay not only showcases your ability to critically analyze a topic but also demonstrates your skill in persuasively presenting your stance backed by evidence. Achieving this level of writing excellence can be time-consuming. This is where Paperpal, your AI academic writing assistant, steps in to revolutionize the way you approach argumentative essays. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use Paperpal to write your essay:
Paperpal not only simplifies the essay writing process but also ensures your argumentative essay is persuasive, well-structured, and academically rigorous. Sign up today and transform how you write argumentative essays.
The length of an argumentative essay can vary, but it typically falls within the range of 1,000 to 2,500 words. However, the specific requirements may depend on the guidelines provided.
You might write an argumentative essay when: 1. You want to convince others of the validity of your position. 2. There is a controversial or debatable issue that requires discussion. 3. You need to present evidence and logical reasoning to support your claims. 4. You want to explore and critically analyze different perspectives on a topic.
Argumentative Essay: Purpose : An argumentative essay aims to persuade the reader to accept or agree with a specific point of view or argument. Structure : It follows a clear structure with an introduction, thesis statement, body paragraphs presenting arguments and evidence, counterarguments and refutations, and a conclusion. Tone : The tone is formal and relies on logical reasoning, evidence, and critical analysis. Narrative/Descriptive Essay: Purpose : These aim to tell a story or describe an experience, while a descriptive essay focuses on creating a vivid picture of a person, place, or thing. Structure : They may have a more flexible structure. They often include an engaging introduction, a well-developed body that builds the story or description, and a conclusion. Tone : The tone is more personal and expressive to evoke emotions or provide sensory details.
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You’ve spent quite a bit of time in your English classes writing argumentative essays . You’ve even gotten pretty good at writing on the topics your instructor assigns. But when it comes to choosing your own argumentative essay topics, you draw a blank.
It’s not that there aren’t any good topics to choose from. It’s that you start over-thinking it, wondering if each topic is too cliche, overdone, or just not good enough.
Chances are, all you need to do is relax and find a topic you’re passionate about and, of course, one that’s debatable.
The name of the essay says it all— argumentative . It would be a lot easier to write an essay on something that people generally agree on, certainly. But that’s not really the point of an argumentative essay.
It’s important to choose debatable argumentative essay topics. You need opposing points that you can counter with your own points.
The world isn’t black and white—there are a lot of gray areas. This is good because it means there are a lot of topics you can choose from.
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I’ve listed 70 argumentative essay topics below, phrased as questions, to help get you started. I’ve separated the topics into five categories—legal, moral, social, media, and family. And I’ve even included a helpful link for each topic.
Feel free to use the topics for your own essay or as inspiration to create your own original topic.
Argumentative essay topics about legal matters are a popular choice. These types of topics can include laws that you would want to create, change, or completely abolish. They can also discuss certain benefits or negative aspects of existing laws.
You don’t have to get super technical with legal argumentative essays. But you do need to do your research on what the current laws about your chosen topic actually say.
After all, you don’t want to suggest a changing a law that’s already been changed in the way you want.
Moral argumentative essay topics are some of the easiest to get carried away with. They can cover a variety of moral dilemmas, from animal testing to the death penalty .
These topics tend to be very debatable because people have different opinions—and justifications for those opinions—on what they think is right or wrong.
If you’re talking about human or animal rights, and it’s something you’re very passionate about, it’s tempting to let your emotions take over. While it’s good to be passionate in an argumentative essay, remember to keep your thoughts focused and organized.
It’s definitely worth your time to create an outline. It helps ensure you don’t stray off topic. If you need help crafting an outline, review these two resources:
Social argumentative essay topics tend to overlap with legal and moral topics. But argumentative topics deal more about how individuals act within society and what kinds of pressures society puts on individuals or groups of people.
This is a pretty broad category. There are a lot of topics to choose from and even more that you could create on your own. If you get stuck on which topic to write about, consider something that personally affects you or someone close to you.
This should make writing about that topic come more naturally. Just be sure to rely on facts and not on personal anecdotes. Such anecdotes are more appropriate to the narrative essay realm.
Remember, even though you may be writing about something that affects you personally, the argument essay isn’t usually the place for first person point of view. Most argumentative research papers require you to use third person .
Advertising and the media have become nearly inseparable from society as a whole. Essays written on these topics can include various angles.
For instance, you could look at how media (television, news, movies, magazines, social media, etc.) affects society. But you could also look at what should be allowed to be seen or heard through media and advertisements.
Inspiration to create your own advertising or media argumentative essay topics isn’t hard to find. Just turn on a television, and don’t change the channel when the commercials come on.
Pay close attention to all things electronic. You’ll be sure to find something debatable about what you see.
Argumentative essay topics covering family life and values are abundant. That’s because every family is different. Rules in families vary on a case-by-case basis, contrary to laws that govern a state or nation.
Because each family is different, it’s hard to generalize in this type of essay.
However, there’s a ton of research on child development and psychology, marital psychology, and personal stories from parents and their children. You can get enough information to make an argument for any of the topics below (or for a topic of your own).
Not sure where to find sources? Check out 5 Best Sources to Help With Writing a Research Paper .
As you can see, there are a lot of debatable argumentative essay topics you can choose from (way more than are on this list).
For more ideas, read these posts:
Need to narrow down a broad topic into something more manageable? Read How to Narrow a Topic and Write a Focused Paper .
And if you’d like a few more argument essay tips, take a look these posts:
Once you’re ready to come up with a thesis, check out these argumentative thesis statement examples .
Not sure what a completed argument essay should look like? Read 2 Argumentative Essay Examples With a Fighting Chance .
When picking your topic, keep in mind that it’s much easier to write about something that you already have interest in. In fact, that’s true even if you don’t know a whole lot about it. Researching the topic will allow you to learn more about what fascinates you.
And if you pick something you actually like , writing the essay will be more enjoyable.
If you’ve wrapped up your argument but think there may be a few holes in your logic, send your essay over to the Kibin editors . They’ll help give you the winning edge in whatever you’re debating.
Psst... 98% of Kibin users report better grades! Get inspiration from over 500,000 example essays .
About the Author
Eden Meirow is a full-time copywriter and part-time freelance writer. Along with her BS in marketing from Florida State University and MA in museum studies from Johns Hopkins University, she has spent the past 7 years learning how best to reach and teach people using the power of words. When she's not working, she's constantly trying to expand her creativity through music, writing, art, and animation.
These examples of argumentative essay topics can help you choose a compelling and contentious subject that allows you to express opinions, defend viewpoints, and engage in critical discourse.
In this comprehensive guide, we present a curated list of 150 examples of argumentative essay topics that span various domains of life and touch upon the most pressing social, political, and ethical issues of our time. Whether you’re a student seeking inspiration for your next assignment or a seasoned writer looking for fresh perspectives, our compilation will serve as a valuable resource to ignite your intellectual curiosity and inspire compelling arguments.
We’ve carefully organized these topics to cover a wide spectrum of issues, ensuring that you’ll find a subject that resonates with your interests and provides ample material for constructing compelling arguments.
So, whether you’re passionate about environmental sustainability, intrigued by societal challenges, or keen to debate technological advancements, you’ll find something here that perfectly sets the stage for impactful persuasive writing.
If you’ve already chosen a topic and would like some help writing your paper, take a look at our Argumentative Essay Template.
You may also find our free essay outline generator really useful when the time comes to start planning your essay. If you’re looking for sample essays that can provide a source of inspiration, try our AI essay writer .
Here are 150 examples of argumentative essay topics to elevate your argumentative essay writing to new heights. Remember, regardless of the type of essay you ultimately choose to write, you will benefit immensely from the services of professional essay editors .
10 sample argumentative essay topics on social issues.
Topic | Prompt |
---|---|
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health | Does excessive use of social media contribute to mental health issues, and what can be done to mitigate the negative effects? |
Educational Inequality | How can disparities in educational opportunities be reduced, and what role does socioeconomic status play in student success? |
Police Use of Force | Is there a need for stricter regulations on police use of force, and how can excessive force incidents be reduced? |
Climate Change and Environmental Responsibility | How can individuals and businesses be encouraged to take more significant steps in addressing climate change? |
Online Privacy vs. National Security | Is the balance between online privacy and national security properly maintained, or should individuals have more control over their personal data? |
Gender Pay Gap | Is the gender pay gap primarily due to discrimination, or are there other factors at play, and how can it be addressed? |
Homelessness | What strategies can be employed to combat homelessness, and is it a societal or governmental responsibility? |
Gun Control Legislation | Should stricter gun control laws be implemented to reduce gun violence and mass shootings? |
Mental Health Stigma | How can society reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, and how can access to mental healthcare be improved? |
Immigration and Refugee Policies | What should be the approach to immigration and refugees to balance security concerns with humanitarian values? |
These topics cover a range of social issues and provide ample material for argumentative essays and debates. Depending on your stance and the depth of your research, you can make compelling arguments on any of these subjects.
Argumentative Essay Topic | Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt |
---|---|
Standardized Testing: | Should standardized tests be the primary measure of a student’s academic ability, or are there more effective alternatives? |
Online Learning vs. Traditional Classroom Education: | Is online learning as effective as traditional classroom education, and how should it be integrated into the educational system? |
School Uniforms: | Do school uniforms help improve discipline and academic performance, or do they infringe on students’ individuality and self-expression? |
Inclusive Education: | Should students with disabilities be educated in mainstream classrooms, or is there a better approach to inclusive education? |
The Role of Homework: | Is homework an essential part of the learning process, or does it place an unnecessary burden on students? |
Charter Schools vs. Public Schools: | What are the advantages and disadvantages of charter schools compared to traditional public schools? |
Early Childhood Education: | How crucial is early childhood education in preparing children for future academic success, and should it be more widely accessible? |
Sex Education in Schools: | Should comprehensive sex education be a mandatory part of the curriculum in all schools, or should it be left to parents to address? |
Bilingual Education: | Is bilingual education beneficial for students in improving their language skills and cultural awareness, or does it hinder their progress? |
Education Funding: | Is the current system of funding public schools fair, and how can disparities in educational resources be addressed? |
These topics offer a range of perspectives on education and schooling, making them suitable for argumentative essays that can explore various aspects of the educational system and its challenges.
Argumentative Essay Topic | Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt |
---|---|
Internet Censorship: | Should governments have the authority to censor content on the internet to protect national security, or does this infringe on freedom of speech? |
Online Privacy vs. National Security: | Is the balance between online privacy and national security properly maintained, or should individuals have more control over their personal data? |
Social Media Addiction: | Are social media platforms designed to be addictive, and what responsibility do tech companies have in addressing this issue? |
AI and Job Displacement: | With the rise of artificial intelligence, what policies should be in place to protect workers from job displacement and ensure a just transition? |
Net Neutrality: | Is net neutrality essential to maintain a level playing field on the internet, or should internet service providers have more control over data traffic? |
Online Learning and Traditional Education: | How does online learning compare to traditional classroom education, and should it become a permanent part of the educational system? |
Cybersecurity and Personal Responsibility: | To what extent are individuals responsible for their own cybersecurity, and should they bear the consequences of not taking precautions? |
The Impact of Social Media on Democracy: | How does social media influence political opinions and elections, and what can be done to ensure a fair democratic process online? |
Big Tech Monopolies: | Are large tech companies like Facebook, Google, and Amazon monopolies that need to be regulated to promote fair competition? |
Digital Divide: | How can society bridge the digital divide, ensuring that all individuals have equal access to the benefits of technology and the internet? |
These argumentative essay topics cover various aspects of technology and the internet, allowing you to explore the ethical, social, and political implications of our increasingly digital world.
Argumentative Essay Topic | Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt |
---|---|
Vaccination Mandates: | Should vaccinations be mandatory for all eligible individuals to achieve herd immunity, or should vaccination remain a personal choice? |
Universal Healthcare: | Is a universal healthcare system the best way to ensure equitable access to medical services, or does it come with significant drawbacks? |
Obesity Epidemic: | How can society address the growing obesity epidemic, and should there be stricter regulations on unhealthy food marketing? |
Mental Health Stigma: | What steps should be taken to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, and how can access to mental healthcare be improved? |
Alternative Medicine: | Should alternative medicine practices like acupuncture and herbal remedies be integrated into mainstream healthcare, or should they be subject to more rigorous regulation? |
Healthcare and Technology: | How has technology impacted healthcare delivery, and what are the ethical implications of using technology in medicine? |
Legalization of Recreational Drugs: | Should recreational drugs like marijuana be legalized and regulated to reduce harm and generate revenue, or should they remain illegal? |
The Role of Sugar in Diet: | How does excessive sugar consumption contribute to health problems, and should there be government intervention to reduce sugar intake? |
Health Education in Schools: | Is it essential to have comprehensive health education programs in schools to promote healthy lifestyles and disease prevention? |
Organ Transplants and Ethics: | What ethical considerations surround organ transplantation, and how should organ allocation be determined to maximize fairness and save lives? |
These topics provide a range of perspectives on health and wellness, allowing for in-depth exploration of critical issues related to physical and mental health, healthcare systems, and lifestyle choices.
Argumentative Essay Topic | Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt |
---|---|
Electoral College Reform: | Should the United States abolish the Electoral College in favor of a direct popular vote for presidential elections? |
Campaign Finance Reform: | How can campaign finance laws be reformed to reduce the influence of money in politics and ensure fair elections? |
Voting Rights: | What measures should be taken to protect and expand voting rights, and how can gerrymandering be addressed? |
Immigration Policy and Border Security: | What should be the approach to immigration and border security, balancing national security with humanitarian concerns? |
Universal Basic Income (UBI): | Is a universal basic income a feasible solution to address income inequality and provide economic security? |
Foreign Policy and Military Intervention: | How should a nation’s foreign policy and military interventions be guided to promote global stability and protect national interests? |
Government Surveillance: | What are the ethical and legal implications of government surveillance programs, and how can individual privacy be protected? |
Healthcare Policy: | Should healthcare be considered a fundamental right, and what is the best approach to providing affordable healthcare for all citizens? |
Environmental Policies: | What measures should governments take to combat climate change and promote environmental sustainability? |
Political Polarization: | How can societies address political polarization and foster productive political discourse and compromise? |
These topics cover a wide range of political and governmental issues, providing ample material for in-depth analysis and argumentation in your essays. Depending on your interests and research, you can take various positions on these subjects to make compelling arguments.
Argumentative Essay Topic | Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt |
---|---|
Minimum Wage Increase: | Should the minimum wage be raised to provide a living wage for all workers, or would this lead to job loss and higher prices? |
Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): | Is CSR a genuine commitment to ethical business practices, or is it primarily a marketing strategy for companies? |
Income Inequality: | How does income inequality affect society, and what policies should be implemented to address this issue? |
Globalization and its Consequences: | What are the pros and cons of globalization on businesses, workers, and the global economy? |
Gig Economy and Workers’ Rights: | Are workers in the gig economy adequately protected, and should they have the same rights as traditional employees? |
Antitrust Regulations: | Should governments enforce stricter antitrust regulations to prevent monopolies and promote fair competition? |
Trade Tariffs and Protectionism: | Do trade tariffs and protectionist policies protect domestic industries, or do they harm consumers and international trade? |
Cryptocurrency and Traditional Banking: | Should cryptocurrencies be embraced as a legitimate form of currency and investment, or should they be regulated more strictly? |
Financial Literacy Education: | How can society improve financial literacy to empower individuals to make better financial decisions? |
Economic Impact of Automation: | What measures should be taken to address the potential job displacement caused by automation and artificial intelligence? |
These topics cover a wide range of business and economic issues, offering opportunities to explore the ethical, social, and economic aspects of various policies and practices. You can take different positions and provide evidence-based arguments in your essays.
Argumentative Essay Topic | Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt |
---|---|
Police Use of Force: | Is there a need for stricter regulations on police use of force, and how can excessive force incidents be reduced? |
Criminal Sentencing Disparities: | What factors contribute to disparities in criminal sentencing, and how can the justice system be made more equitable? |
Legalization of Marijuana: | Should marijuana be legalized for recreational use, and what are the potential societal and economic impacts? |
Capital Punishment: | Is the death penalty a just punishment, or should it be abolished due to concerns about wrongful convictions and human rights? |
Juvenile Justice Reform: | How can the juvenile justice system be reformed to focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment for young offenders? |
Gun Control: | What measures should be taken to address gun violence, and how can Second Amendment rights be balanced with public safety? |
Cybersecurity Laws: | How can laws and regulations better address cybercrimes and protect individuals and organizations from cyber threats? |
Racial Profiling: | How can racial profiling by law enforcement be eliminated, and what are the consequences of such profiling? |
Hate Crime Legislation: | Should hate crime laws be expanded to include a broader range of protected characteristics, and how can they be effectively enforced? |
Bail Reform: | Should the bail system be reformed to reduce pretrial detention rates, and what alternatives should be implemented? |
These topics encompass a wide range of issues within the realm of criminal justice and law, providing ample opportunities for in-depth analysis and debate on matters of fairness, ethics, and public policy.
Topic | Prompt |
---|---|
Media Bias | How does media bias impact public perception, and what measures can be taken to address it in journalism and reporting? |
Freedom of Speech vs. Hate Speech | What are the limits of freedom of speech, and how can societies balance free expression with the prevention of hate speech? |
Representation in Media | How can media better represent diverse voices and perspectives, and what are the implications of underrepresentation? |
Censorship in Art and Media | Should governments have the authority to censor art and media, and what are the consequences of such censorship? |
Celebrity Culture | What are the effects of celebrity culture on society, and does it promote unrealistic standards and values? |
Copyright and Intellectual Property | How can copyright laws be reformed to adapt to the digital age, and what is the balance between protection and innovation? |
Impact of Social Media | How has social media transformed communication and influenced public discourse, both positively and negatively? |
Violence in Entertainment | Does exposure to violence in movies and video games contribute to real-world violence, and what should be done about it? |
The Role of Media in Elections | How does media influence political elections, and what responsibilities do media outlets have in ensuring fair coverage? |
Cultural Appropriation | What constitutes cultural appropriation in the realm of art and entertainment, and how can it be addressed while promoting cultural exchange? |
These topics explore the complex relationship between media, entertainment, and society, offering opportunities to discuss issues related to freedom of expression, representation, and cultural influence.
Topic | Prompt |
---|---|
1. Parenting Styles | Examine different parenting styles and their impact on child development and behavior. Which parenting style do you believe is the most effective, and why? |
2. Same-Sex Parenting | Discuss the evidence related to same-sex couples as parents and challenge any societal biases. Do you believe same-sex couples are equally suitable as parents? |
3. Divorce and Child Custody | Explore how child custody decisions should be made in divorce cases. What factors should be considered, and how can fairness be ensured? |
4. Arranged Marriages vs. Love Marriages | Compare the pros and cons of arranged marriages and marriages based on romantic love. Which approach do you believe is more beneficial? |
5. Sibling Rivalry | Discuss the management of sibling rivalry and its long-term effects on sibling relationships. What strategies can parents use to address this issue? |
6. Single Parenthood | Examine the challenges faced by single parents and propose ways society can better support them in their parenting roles. |
7. Impact of Technology on Family Life | Analyze how technology has affected family dynamics and discuss strategies for maintaining healthy relationships in the digital age. |
8. Marriage Age | Debate whether there should be a minimum legal age for marriage. How does early marriage affect individuals and society? |
9. Balancing Work and Family | Explore how individuals can balance their career aspirations with family responsibilities. What policies can support work-life balance? |
10. Foster Care and Adoption | Discuss how the foster care and adoption systems can be improved to provide stable and loving homes for children in need. |
These topics delve into the complexities of family dynamics and relationships, addressing issues that are relevant to individuals and society as a whole. They invite discussions about parenting, marriage, and societal support systems.
Argumentative Essay Topic | Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt |
---|---|
Progressive Taxation: | Should governments implement more progressive taxation to reduce income inequality? |
Wealth Tax: | Is a wealth tax an effective way to address income inequality, and what are the potential drawbacks? |
Minimum Wage Increase: | Should the minimum wage be raised to provide a living wage for all workers, or would this lead to job loss and higher prices? |
Universal Basic Income (UBI): | Is UBI a viable solution to alleviate poverty and address job displacement due to automation? |
CEO Compensation: | Should there be limits on CEO compensation to narrow the income gap, or is it a matter of private sector decision-making? |
Inheritance Tax: | Should there be higher taxes on large inheritances to reduce wealth accumulation among the wealthy? |
Economic Incentives: | Do economic incentives for businesses and individuals help or hinder efforts to reduce income inequality? |
Education Access: | How does access to quality education impact income inequality, and what policies can improve educational equity? |
Government Welfare Programs: | Do government welfare programs effectively reduce income inequality, or do they create dependency? |
Entrepreneurship and Innovation: | How can entrepreneurship and innovation contribute to reducing income inequality, and what support is needed? |
These topics revolve around issues related to income inequality and wealth redistribution, addressing economic disparities and potential policy solutions. They provide a comprehensive view of economic justice and fairness.
Argumentative Essay Topic | Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt |
---|---|
Affirmative Action Policies: | Do affirmative action policies help or hinder progress towards racial and gender equality? |
Racial Discrimination: | Is systemic racial discrimination still prevalent, and what steps should be taken to address it? |
LGBTQ+ Rights: | Should LGBTQ+ rights, including marriage equality, be protected by law, or should they be left to societal acceptance? |
Women’s Reproductive Rights: | What are the ethical considerations surrounding women’s reproductive rights, and should there be legal restrictions? |
Disability Rights: | How can society better accommodate individuals with disabilities, and what role should government play in this? |
Police Reform: | Should police departments be reformed to address issues like racial bias and excessive use of force? |
Homelessness: | What strategies can be employed to combat homelessness, and is it a societal or governmental responsibility? |
Mental Health Awareness: | How can society reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, and what policies can improve access to mental healthcare? |
Immigration and Refugee Policies: | What should be the approach to immigration and refugees to balance security concerns with humanitarian values? |
Environmental Justice: | How do environmental issues disproportionately affect marginalized communities, and what should be done to address this? |
These topics encompass a wide range of social issues, from civil rights and discrimination to healthcare access and immigration policies. They invite discussions about societal values, equity, and justice.
Argumentative Essay Topic | Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt |
---|---|
Freedom of Religion: | Should freedom of religion include the right to practice beliefs that might be considered harmful or discriminatory? |
Secularism vs. Religion: | Is secularism necessary to ensure a fair and equal society, or does it infringe upon religious freedom and expression? |
Religious Education in Schools: | Should religious education be part of the school curriculum, or does it violate the separation of church and state? |
Religious Symbols in Public Spaces: | Should religious symbols, like crosses or hijabs, be allowed in public spaces, or should there be restrictions to maintain neutrality? |
Religious Tolerance: | How can society promote religious tolerance and coexistence, even in regions with a history of religious conflicts? |
Atheism and Non-Belief: | Should atheism and non-belief be afforded the same legal protections as religious beliefs, or is this unnecessary? |
Religious Conversions: | Are religious conversions ethical, or do they amount to manipulation and coercion? |
Religious Tax Exemptions: | Should religious institutions be exempt from taxes, or should they contribute to the financial burdens of society? |
Religious Influences on Politics: | To what extent should religious beliefs and values shape political decisions and policies in a secular society? |
Religious Extremism: | How can society combat religious extremism while respecting individual freedoms and religious rights? |
These topics delve into issues related to religious beliefs, freedom of religion, and secularism, exploring the boundaries between religious expression and societal norms.
Argumentative Essay Topic | Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt |
---|---|
LGBTQ+ Rights: | Should LGBTQ+ rights, including marriage equality, be protected by law, or should they be left to societal acceptance? |
Gender Pay Gap: | Is the gender pay gap a result of discrimination, and what policies should be implemented to address it? |
Gender Stereotypes: | How do gender stereotypes affect individuals and society, and should there be efforts to challenge and eliminate them? |
Transgender Rights: | Should transgender individuals have the right to self-identify their gender, and what legal protections should be in place? |
Sexual Education in Schools: | Should comprehensive sexual education be a mandatory part of the curriculum in all schools, or should it be left to parents to address? |
Same-Sex Adoption: | Should same-sex couples have the same adoption rights as opposite-sex couples, and what factors should be considered in adoption decisions? |
Gender-Neutral Restrooms: | Should public facilities offer gender-neutral restrooms to accommodate gender diversity, and what are the concerns and benefits of such facilities? |
LGBTQ+ Conversion Therapy: | Should LGBTQ+ conversion therapy be banned, and how can society protect vulnerable individuals from such practices? |
Intersectionality: | How does intersectionality influence experiences of discrimination and privilege among individuals with multiple marginalized identities? |
Transgender Athletes in Sports: | Should transgender athletes be allowed to compete according to their gender identity, and are there potential advantages or disadvantages to consider? |
These topics cover a wide range of gender and sexuality-related issues, exploring equality, discrimination, and the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals. They invite discussions about societal norms and inclusivity.
Argumentative Essay Topic | Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt |
---|---|
Racial Discrimination: | Is systemic racial discrimination still prevalent, and what steps should be taken to address it? |
Affirmative Action Policies: | Do affirmative action policies help or hinder progress towards racial and gender equality? |
Cultural Appropriation: | What constitutes cultural appropriation in the realm of art and entertainment, and how can it be addressed while promoting cultural exchange? |
Indigenous Rights: | How can society better recognize and protect the rights and cultural heritage of indigenous communities? |
Ethnic Representation in Media: | How can media better represent diverse ethnic groups, and what are the implications of underrepresentation? |
Racial Profiling: | How can racial profiling by law enforcement be eliminated, and what are the consequences of such profiling? |
Diversity in the Workplace: | How do diversity and inclusion initiatives in the workplace benefit companies and society, and what challenges need to be overcome? |
Hate Crime Legislation: | Should hate crime laws be expanded to include a broader range of protected characteristics, and how can they be effectively enforced? |
Race and Education: | How do racial disparities in education impact future opportunities and outcomes, and what policies can address these disparities? |
Race and Health Disparities: | What factors contribute to health disparities among different racial and ethnic groups, and how can healthcare access be improved for all? |
These topics focus on racial inequality, discrimination, cultural diversity, and inclusivity. They provide opportunities for discussions about social justice and racial equity.
Argumentative Essay Topic | Sample Argumentative Essay Prompt |
---|---|
Online Privacy and Data Protection: | How can individuals’ online privacy be better safeguarded, and should there be stricter regulations on data collection? |
Internet Censorship: | Should governments have the authority to censor content on the internet to protect national security, or does this infringe on freedom of speech? |
Surveillance Technology: | What are the ethical and legal implications of government surveillance programs, and how can individual privacy be protected? |
Social Media Addiction: | Are social media platforms designed to be addictive, and what responsibility do tech companies have in addressing this issue? |
AI and Job Displacement: | With the rise of artificial intelligence, what policies should be in place to protect workers from job displacement and ensure a just transition? |
Net Neutrality: | Is net neutrality essential to maintain a level playing field on the internet, or should internet service providers have more control over data traffic? |
Online Learning vs. Traditional Education: | How does online learning compare to traditional classroom education, and should it become a permanent part of the educational system? |
Cybersecurity and Personal Responsibility: | To what extent are individuals responsible for their own cybersecurity, and should they bear the consequences of not taking precautions? |
The Impact of Social Media on Democracy: | How does social media influence political opinions and elections, and what can be done to ensure a fair democratic process online? |
Big Tech Monopolies: | Are large tech companies like Facebook, Google, and Amazon monopolies that need to be regulated to promote fair competition? |
These topics delve into the intersection of technology and privacy, addressing concerns about data protection, online freedom, and the impact of technology on society.
Whether you’re a student looking for essay inspiration or a writer seeking to address pressing societal concerns, these persuasive essay topics provide a valuable starting point. This comprehensive list of sample persuasive essay topics encompasses a wide range of subjects, from social issues to technology, healthcare to politics, and much more. These thought-provoking topics are not only relevant but also versatile, offering ample opportunities for critical analysis, persuasive arguments, and engaging discussions.
As you explore these topics, keep in mind the importance of thorough research, well-structured arguments, and clear articulation of your viewpoint.
In today’s information-driven world, the ability to persuade and influence others through well-crafted arguments is a valuable skill. By delving into these topics and developing your persuasive writing abilities, you’ll not only enhance your academic prowess but also contribute to meaningful dialogues and positive change.
We hope this list serves as a valuable resource, inspiring you to tackle complex issues, challenge prevailing perspectives, and ultimately, make a compelling case for your chosen cause. Remember, the power of persuasion lies within your words, and these topics are your canvas for crafting compelling argumentative essays that can shape opinions and inspire action.
Need to write an argumentative essay? Preparing for an upcoming debate? ProCon.org has over 100 topics complete with pro and con arguments, quotes and statistics from experts, historical information, and other pertinent research.
Abortion – Should abortion be legal?
Alternative Energy – Can alternative energy effectively replace fossil fuels?
American Socialism – Should the U.S. become socialist?
Animal Dissection – Should K-12 students dissect animals in science classrooms?
Animal Testing – Should animals be used for scientific or commercial testing?
Artificial Intelligence – Is artificial intelligence good for society?
Banned Books – Should parents or other adults be able to ban books from schools and libraries?
Binge-Watching – Is binge-watching good for you?
Cancel Culture – Is cancel culture (or callout culture) good for society?
CBD for Pets – Is CBD good for pets?
Cell Phone Radiation – Is cell phone radiation safe?
Cheerleading – Is cheerleading a sport?
Churches & Taxes – Should churches (including mosques, synagogues, etc.) remain tax-exempt?
College Education – Is a college education worth it?
Congressional Term Limits – Should term limits be imposed on U.S. Senators and Representatives?
Constitutional Carry of Handguns – Should permitless, “constitutional carry” of guns be legal?
Corporal Punishment – Should corporal punishment be used in K-12 schools?
Corporate Tax Rate – Should the federal corporate income tax rate be raised?
Cuba Embargo – Should the United States maintain its embargo against Cuba?
DACA & Dreamers – Are DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and the DREAM Act good for America?
Daylight Saving Time – Should the United States keep daylight saving time?
DC AND Puerto Rico Statehood – Should Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico be granted U.S. statehood?
Death Penalty – Should the death penalty be legal?
Defund the Police – Should police departments be defunded, if not abolished?
Dress Codes – Should dress codes be implemented and enforced?
Drinking Age – Should the drinking age be lowered from 21 to a younger age?
Drone Strikes – Should the United States continue its use of drone strikes abroad?
Drug Use in Sports – Should performance-enhancing drugs be accepted in sports?
Election Day National Holiday – Should the election day be made a national holiday?
Electoral College – Should the United States use the electoral college in presidential elections?
Employer Vaccine Mandates – Should employers be able to mandate vaccinations?
Felon Voting – Should people who have completed felony sentences be allowed to vote?
Fighting in Hockey – Should fighting be allowed in hockey?
Filibuster – Should the U.S. Senate keep the filibuster?
Fracking – Should the United States continue fracking
Free College – Should public college be tuition-free?
Fur Clothing Bans – Should fur clothing be banned?
GMOS – Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be grown?
Gold Standard – Should the United States return to a gold standard?
Golf – Is golf a sport and are golfers athletes?
Gun Control – Should more gun control laws be enacted?
Historic Statue Removal – Should historic statues be taken down?
Homework – Is homework beneficial?
Illegal Immigration – Should the U.S. government provide a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants?
Internet – Is the internet “making us stupid?”
Kneeling during the National Anthem – Is kneeling during the national anthem an appropriate form of protest?
Mandatory National Service – Should the United States have mandatory national service?
Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) – Should medical aid in dying be legal?
Medical Marijuana – Should medical marijuana be legal?
Milk – Should humans consume dairy milk?
Minimum Wage – Should the federal minimum wage be increased?
Net Neutrality – Should the U.S. have net neutrality laws?
Obesity – Is obesity a disease?
Olympics – Are the Olympic games an overall benefit for their host countries and cities?
OTC Birth Control Pills – Should birth control pills be available over-the-counter (OTC)?
Penny – Should the penny stay in circulation?
Pit Bull Bans – Should breed-specific legislation (“pit bull bans”) be enacted?
Pokémon – Is Pokémon Go good for our society?
Police Body Cameras – Should police officers wear body cameras?
Prescription Drug Costs – Should the U.S. federal government regulate prescription drug prices?
Presidential Election, 2024 – 2024 Presidential Election Site
Private Prisons – Should prisons be privatized?
Recreational Marijuana – Should recreational marijuana be legal?
Reparations for Slavery – Should the federal government pay reparations to the descendants of slaves?
Right to Healthcare – Should all Americans have the right (be entitled) to health care?
Sanctuary Cities – Should sanctuary cities receive federal funding?
Santa Claus – Is there really a Santa Claus?
Saturday Halloween – Should Halloween be moved permanently to Saturday?
School Uniforms – Should students have to wear school uniforms?
Single-use Plastics Ban – Should single-use plastics be banned?
Social Media & Digital Addiction – Does social media spur digital addiction and other social ills?
Social Security Privatization – Should social security be privatized?
Space Colonization – Should humans colonize space?
Standardized Tests – Do standardized tests improve education in America?
Student Loan Debt – Should student loan debt be eliminated via forgiveness or bankruptcy?
TikTok Bans – Should TikTok be banned?
Uber & Lyft – Are ride-sharing companies a benefit to society?
Universal Basic Income (UBI) – Should the United States implement a universal basic income?
U.S. Supreme Court Packing – Should packing the U.S. Supreme Court ever be considered?
Vaccines for Kids – Should states be allowed to mandate vaccines for school attendance??
Vaping E-Cigarettes – Is vaping e-cigarettes safe?
Vegetarianism – Should people become vegetarian?
Video Games & Violence – Do violent video games contribute to youth violence?
Voting Age – Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
Voting Machines – Are electronic voting machines the best method for voting?
Zoos – Should zoos exist?
Archived Topics
Please note that ProCon no longer updates these debates.
ACLU – Is the ACLU good for America?
Big Three Bailout – Should the big three car manufacturers be bailed out by the U.S. government?
Born Gay – Is sexual orientation determined at birth?
Climate Change – Is human activity primarily responsible for global climate change?
College Football Playoffs – Should college football replace the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) with a playoff system?
Dakota Access Pipeline – Should the Dakota Access Pipeline be completed?
D.A.R.E. – Is the D.A.R.E. program good for America’s kids (K-12)?
Gay Marriage – Should gay marriage be legal?
Congressional Insider Trading – Should insider trading by Congress be allowed?
Israeli-Palestinian Conflict – What are the solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
Obamacare – Is the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) good for America?
Paying College Athletes – Should colleges and universities pay college athletes?
President Bill Clinton – Was Bill Clinton a good president?
President Ronald Reagan – Was Ronald Reagan a good president?
Presidential Election, 2008 – Which candidate would make the best U.S. president?
Presidential Election, 2012 – Which candidate should be U.S. president in 2012?
Presidential Election, 2016 – The candidates and where they stand on the issues
Presidential Election, 2020 – 2020 Presidential Election Site
Prostitution – Should prostitution be legal?
School Vouchers – Should states have school voucher programs?
Tablets v. Textbooks -Should tablets replace textbooks in K-12 schools?
Teacher Tenure – Should teachers get tenure?
Under God in the Pledge – Should the words “under god” be in the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance?
U.S. Drone Shot down by Iran – Was the U.S. drone shot down by Iran over international waters?
U.S.-Iraq War – Should the U.S. have attacked Iraq?
WTC Muslim Center – Is it appropriate to build a muslim community center (aka the ”ground zero mosque”) near the World Trade Center site?
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Choosing the best topic for an argumentative essay can be challenging for middle school students, high school students, and even college students. Deciding what topic to write about is one of the hardest parts of argumentative writing.
The writer, however, does not have to agree with the stance taken; he / she just has to be able to write their argument in a persuasive way that proves why their point of view is more valid than the opposing view.
In this post we have put together a list of 30 great argumentative essay topics to help you or your students decide what to write about. These topics are all suitable for middle school, high school, and college students to write about.
You May Also Like: 30 Funny Debate Topics / 30 Controversial Debate Topics
How to choose an argumentative essay topic.
The next step should be to check whether that topic is suitable for an argumentative essay. Students should try to answer the following questions about the topic:
Research the topic thoroughly.
Keep in mind that “argumentative,” in this case, is not the same as fighting. The essay contents must be well-thought-out and avoid becoming emotional.
Some Americans would say that their constitutional right to freedom of expression allows it, while others would say that it is disrespectful to the country.
Supporting evidence is essential in an argumentative essay and so researching a topic thoroughly is essential.
The body paragraphs should then be used to explain why the reader has chosen that particular stance and provide evidence in a way that convinces the reader of its validity.
In addition to honing their writing and researching skills, writing argumentative essays is a great exercise for students in an English class to learn how to examine both sides of an issue, consider the relevancy of both sides, and then choose a side and effectively defend it.
When done correctly, this type of essay provides opportunities for students to explore different solutions to real-world issues and learn how to handle conflict in a civil way. There have even been cases where students have changed the world with the results of their argumentative essays!
Free printable to elevate your AI game 🤖
Practice making well-reasoned arguments using research and facts.
Writing a strong argumentative essay teaches students to make a case for their own point of view without relying on emotion or passion. These argumentative essay topics provide options for kids of all ages, including controversial subjects and some that are just for fun.
Science and history argumentative essay topics, life and ethics argumentative essay topics, social justice and civics argumentative essay topics, more argumentative essay topics, what’s the difference between argumentative and persuasive essays.
These two types of essays are similar, but there are some subtle and important differences .
Persuasive and argumentative essay topics often overlap. The difference is in how the writer approaches the topic. When you assign one of the topics below as an argumentative essay, remind students to use research, reason, and logic to make a strong but dispassionate argument.
Also check out 100 intriguing cause and effect essay topics for students ..
Ideas to inspire every young writer! Continue Reading
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General Education
If there’s one writing skill you need to have in your toolkit for standardized tests, AP exams, and college-level writing, it’s the ability to make a persuasive argument. Effectively arguing for a position on a topic or issue isn’t just for the debate team— it’s for anyone who wants to ace the essay portion of an exam or make As in college courses.
To give you everything you need to know about how to write an argumentative essay , we’re going to answer the following questions for you:
By the end of this article, you’ll be prepped and ready to write a great argumentative essay yourself!
Now, let’s break this down.
An argumentative essay is a type of writing that presents the writer’s position or stance on a specific topic and uses evidence to support that position. The goal of an argumentative essay is to convince your reader that your position is logical, ethical, and, ultimately, right . In argumentative essays, writers accomplish this by writing:
Introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion: these are the main sections of an argumentative essay. Those probably sound familiar. Where does arguing come into all of this, though? It’s not like you’re having a shouting match with your little brother across the dinner table. You’re just writing words down on a page!
...or are you? Even though writing papers can feel like a lonely process, one of the most important things you can do to be successful in argumentative writing is to think about your argument as participating in a larger conversation . For one thing, you’re going to be responding to the ideas of others as you write your argument. And when you’re done writing, someone—a teacher, a professor, or exam scorer—is going to be reading and evaluating your argument.
If you want to make a strong argument on any topic, you have to get informed about what’s already been said on that topic . That includes researching the different views and positions, figuring out what evidence has been produced, and learning the history of the topic. That means—you guessed it!—argumentative essays almost always require you to incorporate outside sources into your writing.
Argumentative essays are different from other types of essays for one main reason: in an argumentative essay, you decide what the argument will be . Some types of essays, like summaries or syntheses, don’t want you to show your stance on the topic—they want you to remain unbiased and neutral.
In argumentative essays, you’re presenting your point of view as the writer and, sometimes, choosing the topic you’ll be arguing about. You just want to make sure that that point of view comes across as informed, well-reasoned, and persuasive.
Another thing about argumentative essays: they’re often longer than other types of essays. Why, you ask? Because it takes time to develop an effective argument. If your argument is going to be persuasive to readers, you have to address multiple points that support your argument, acknowledge counterpoints, and provide enough evidence and explanations to convince your reader that your points are valid.
The first step to writing an argumentative essay deciding what to write about! Choosing a topic for your argumentative essay might seem daunting, though. It can feel like you could make an argument about anything under the sun. For example, you could write an argumentative essay about how cats are way cooler than dogs, right?
It’s not quite that simple . Here are some strategies for choosing a topic that serves as a solid foundation for a strong argument.
First, you want to make sure the topic you choose allows you to make a claim that can be supported by evidence that’s considered credible and appropriate for the subject matter ...and, unfortunately, your personal opinions or that Buzzfeed quiz you took last week don’t quite make the cut.
Some topics—like whether cats or dogs are cooler—can generate heated arguments, but at the end of the day, any argument you make on that topic is just going to be a matter of opinion. You have to pick a topic that allows you to take a position that can be supported by actual, researched evidence.
(Quick note: you could write an argumentative paper over the general idea that dogs are better than cats—or visa versa!—if you’re a) more specific and b) choose an idea that has some scientific research behind it. For example, a strong argumentative topic could be proving that dogs make better assistance animals than cats do.)
You also don’t want to make an argument about a topic that’s already a proven fact, like that drinking water is good for you. While some people might dislike the taste of water, there is an overwhelming body of evidence that proves—beyond the shadow of a doubt—that drinking water is a key part of good health.
To avoid choosing a topic that’s either unprovable or already proven, try brainstorming some issues that have recently been discussed in the news, that you’ve seen people debating on social media, or that affect your local community. If you explore those outlets for potential topics, you’ll likely stumble upon something that piques your audience’s interest as well.
Topics that have local, national, or global relevance often also resonate with us on a personal level. Consider choosing a topic that holds a connection between something you know or care about and something that is relevant to the rest of society. These don’t have to be super serious issues, but they should be topics that are timely and significant.
For example, if you are a huge football fan, a great argumentative topic for you might be arguing whether football leagues need to do more to prevent concussions . Is this as “important” an issue as climate change? No, but it’s still a timely topic that affects many people. And not only is this a great argumentative topic: you also get to write about one of your passions! Ultimately, if you’re working with a topic you enjoy, you’ll have more to say—and probably write a better essay .
Another word of caution on choosing a topic for an argumentative paper: while it can be effective to choose a topic that matters to you personally, you also want to make sure you’re choosing a topic that you can keep your cool over. You’ve got to be able to stay unemotional, interpret the evidence persuasively, and, when appropriate, discuss opposing points of view without getting too salty.
In some situations, choosing a topic for your argumentative paper won’t be an issue at all: the test or exam will choose it for you . In that case, you’ve got to do the best you can with what you’re given.
In the next sections, we’re going to break down how to write any argumentative essay —regardless of whether you get to choose your own topic or have one assigned to you! Our expert tips and tricks will make sure that you’re knocking your paper out of the park.
You’ve chosen a topic or, more likely, read the exam question telling you to defend, challenge, or qualify a claim on an assigned topic. What do you do now?
You establish your position on the topic by writing a killer thesis statement ! The thesis statement, sometimes just called “the thesis,” is the backbone of your argument, the north star that keeps you oriented as you develop your main points, the—well, you get the idea.
In more concrete terms, a thesis statement conveys your point of view on your topic, usually in one sentence toward the end of your introduction paragraph . It’s very important that you state your point of view in your thesis statement in an argumentative way—in other words, it should state a point of view that is debatable.
And since your thesis statement is going to present your argument on the topic, it’s the thing that you’ll spend the rest of your argumentative paper defending. That’s where persuasion comes in. Your thesis statement tells your reader what your argument is, then the rest of your essay shows and explains why your argument is logical.
Why does an argumentative essay need a thesis, though? Well, the thesis statement—the sentence with your main claim—is actually the entire point of an argumentative essay. If you don’t clearly state an arguable claim at the beginning of your paper, then it’s not an argumentative essay. No thesis statement = no argumentative essay. Got it?
Other types of essays that you’re familiar with might simply use a thesis statement to forecast what the rest of the essay is going to discuss or to communicate what the topic is. That’s not the case here. If your thesis statement doesn’t make a claim or establish your position, you’ll need to go back to the drawing board.
Here are a couple of examples of thesis statements that aren’t argumentative and thesis statements that are argumentative
The sky is blue.
The thesis statement above conveys a fact, not a claim, so it’s not argumentative.
To keep the sky blue, governments must pass clean air legislation and regulate emissions.
The second example states a position on a topic. What’s the topic in that second sentence? The best way to keep the sky blue. And what position is being conveyed? That the best way to keep the sky blue is by passing clean air legislation and regulating emissions.
Some people would probably respond to that thesis statement with gusto: “No! Governments should not pass clean air legislation and regulate emissions! That infringes on my right to pollute the earth!” And there you have it: a thesis statement that presents a clear, debatable position on a topic.
Here’s one more set of thesis statement examples, just to throw in a little variety:
Spirituality and otherworldliness characterize A$AP Rocky’s portrayals of urban life and the American Dream in his rap songs and music videos.
The statement above is another example that isn’t argumentative, but you could write a really interesting analytical essay with that thesis statement. Long live A$AP! Now here’s another one that is argumentative:
To give students an understanding of the role of the American Dream in contemporary life, teachers should incorporate pop culture, like the music of A$AP Rocky, into their lessons and curriculum.
The argument in this one? Teachers should incorporate more relevant pop culture texts into their curriculum.
This thesis statement also gives a specific reason for making the argument above: To give students an understanding of the role of the American Dream in contemporary life. If you can let your reader know why you’re making your argument in your thesis statement, it will help them understand your argument better.
An actual image of you killing your argumentative essay prompts after reading this article!
Now that you know how to pick a topic for an argumentative essay and how to make a strong claim on your topic in a thesis statement, you’re ready to think about writing the other sections of an argumentative essay. These are the parts that will flesh out your argument and support the claim you made in your thesis statement.
Like other types of essays, argumentative essays typically have three main sections: the introduction, the body, and the conclusion. Within those sections, there are some key elements that a reader—and especially an exam scorer or professor—is always going to expect you to include.
Let’s look at a quick outline of those three sections with their essential pieces here:
Now, there are some key concepts in those sections that you’ve got to understand if you’re going to master how to write an argumentative essay. To make the most of the body section, you have to know how to support your claim (your thesis statement), what evidence and explanations are and when you should use them, and how and when to address opposing viewpoints. To finish strong, you’ve got to have a strategy for writing a stellar conclusion.
This probably feels like a big deal! The body and conclusion make up most of the essay, right? Let’s get down to it, then.
Once you have your topic and thesis, you’re ready for the hard part: actually writing your argument. If you make strategic choices—like the ones we’re about to talk about—writing a strong argumentative essay won’t feel so difficult.
There are three main areas where you want to focus your energy as you develop a strategy for how to write an argumentative essay: supporting your claim—your thesis statement—in your essay, addressing other viewpoints on your topic, and writing a solid conclusion. If you put thought and effort into these three things, you’re much more likely to write an argumentative essay that’s engaging, persuasive, and memorable...aka A+ material.
So you’ve chosen your topic, decided what your position will be, and written a thesis statement. But like we see in comment threads across the Internet, if you make a claim and don’t back it up with evidence, what do people say? “Where’s your proof?” “Show me the facts!” “Do you have any evidence to support that claim?”
Of course you’ve done your research like we talked about. Supporting your claim in your thesis statement is where that research comes in handy.
You can’t just use your research to state the facts, though. Remember your reader? They’re going to expect you to do some of the dirty work of interpreting the evidence for them. That’s why it’s important to know the difference between evidence and explanations, and how and when to use both in your argumentative essay.
Evidence can be material from any authoritative and credible outside source that supports your position on your topic. In some cases, evidence can come in the form of photos, video footage, or audio recordings. In other cases, you might be pulling reasons, facts, or statistics from news media articles, public policy, or scholarly books or journals.
There are some clues you can look for that indicate whether or not a source is credible , such as whether:
This is just a short list of some of the clues that a source is likely a credible one, but just because a source was published by a prestigious press or the authors all have PhDs doesn’t necessarily mean it is the best piece of evidence for you to use to support your argument.
In addition to evaluating the source’s credibility, you’ve got to consider what types of evidence might come across as most persuasive in the context of the argument you’re making and who your readers are. In other words, stepping back and getting a bird’s eye view of the entire context of your argumentative paper is key to choosing evidence that will strengthen your argument.
On some exams, like the AP exams , you may be given pretty strict parameters for what evidence to use and how to use it. You might be given six short readings that all address the same topic, have 15 minutes to read them, then be required to pull material from a minimum of three of the short readings to support your claim in an argumentative essay.
When the sources are handed to you like that, be sure to take notes that will help you pick out evidence as you read. Highlight, underline, put checkmarks in the margins of your exam . . . do whatever you need to do to begin identifying the material that you find most helpful or relevant. Those highlights and check marks might just turn into your quotes, paraphrases, or summaries of evidence in your completed exam essay.
Now you know that taking a strategic mindset toward evidence and explanations is critical to grasping how to write an argumentative essay. Unfortunately, evidence doesn’t speak for itself. While it may be obvious to you, the researcher and writer, how the pieces of evidence you’ve included are relevant to your audience, it might not be as obvious to your reader.
That’s where explanations—or analysis, or interpretations—come in. You never want to just stick some quotes from an article into your paragraph and call it a day. You do want to interpret the evidence you’ve included to show your reader how that evidence supports your claim.
Now, that doesn’t mean you’re going to be saying, “This piece of evidence supports my argument because...”. Instead, you want to comment on the evidence in a way that helps your reader see how it supports the position you stated in your thesis. We’ll talk more about how to do this when we show you an example of a strong body paragraph from an argumentative essay here in a bit.
Understanding how to incorporate evidence and explanations to your advantage is really important. Here’s why: when you’re writing an argumentative essay, particularly on standardized tests or the AP exam, the exam scorers can’t penalize you for the position you take. Instead, their evaluation is going to focus on the way you incorporated evidence and explained it in your essay.
Why would we be making arguments at all if there weren’t multiple views out there on a given topic? As you do research and consider the background surrounding your topic, you’ll probably come across arguments that stand in direct opposition to your position.
Oftentimes, teachers will ask you to “address the opposition” in your argumentative essay. What does that mean, though, to “ address the opposition ?”
Opposing viewpoints function kind of like an elephant in the room. Your audience knows they’re there. In fact, your audience might even buy into an opposing viewpoint and be waiting for you to show them why your viewpoint is better. If you don’t, it means that you’ll have a hard time convincing your audience to buy your argument.
Addressing the opposition is a balancing act: you don’t want to undermine your own argument, but you don’t want to dismiss the validity of opposing viewpoints out-of-hand or ignore them altogether, which can also undermine your argument.
This isn’t the only acceptable approach, but it’s common practice to wait to address the opposition until close to the end of an argumentative essay. But why?
Well, waiting to present an opposing viewpoint until after you’ve thoroughly supported your own argument is strategic. You aren’t going to go into great detail discussing the opposing viewpoint: you’re going to explain what that viewpoint is fairly, but you’re also going to point out what’s wrong with it.
It can also be effective to read the opposition through the lens of your own argument and the evidence you’ve used to support it. If the evidence you’ve already included supports your argument, it probably doesn’t support the opposing viewpoint. Without being too obvious, it might be worth pointing this out when you address the opposition.
It’s common to conclude an argumentative essay by reiterating the thesis statement in some way, either by reminding the reader what the overarching argument was in the first place or by reviewing the main points and evidence that you covered.
You don’t just want to restate your thesis statement and review your main points and call it a day, though. So much has happened since you stated your thesis in the introduction! And why waste a whole paragraph—the very last thing your audience is going to read—on just repeating yourself?
Here’s an approach to the conclusion that can give your audience a fresh perspective on your argument: reinterpret your thesis statement for them in light of all the evidence and explanations you’ve provided. Think about how your readers might read your thesis statement in a new light now that they’ve heard your whole argument out.
That’s what you want to leave your audience with as you conclude your argumentative paper: a brief explanation of why all that arguing mattered in the first place. If you can give your audience something to continue pondering after they’ve read your argument, that’s even better.
One thing you want to avoid in your conclusion, though: presenting new supporting points or new evidence. That can just be confusing for your reader. Stick to telling your reader why the argument you’ve already made matters, and your argument will stick with your reader.
For some aspiring argumentative essay writers, showing is better than telling. To show rather than tell you what makes a strong argumentative essay, we’ve provided three examples of possible body paragraphs for an argumentative essay below.
Think of these example paragraphs as taking on the form of the “Argumentative Point #1 → Evidence —> Explanation —> Repeat” process we talked through earlier. It’s always nice to be able to compare examples, so we’ve included three paragraphs from an argumentative paper ranging from poor (or needs a lot of improvement, if you’re feeling generous), to better, to best.
All of the example paragraphs are for an essay with this thesis statement:
Thesis Statement: In order to most effectively protect user data and combat the spread of disinformation, the U.S. government should implement more stringent regulations of Facebook and other social media outlets.
As you read the examples, think about what makes them different, and what makes the “best” paragraph more effective than the “better” and “poor” paragraphs. Here we go:
Example Body Paragraph: Data mining has affected a lot of people in recent years. Facebook has 2.23 billion users from around the world, and though it would take a huge amount of time and effort to make sure a company as big as Facebook was complying with privacy regulations in countries across the globe, adopting a common framework for privacy regulation in more countries would be the first step. In fact, Mark Zuckerberg himself supports adopting a global framework for privacy and data protection, which would protect more users than before.
First, let’s look at the thesis statement. Ask yourself: does this make a claim that some people might agree with, but others might disagree with?
The answer is yes. Some people probably think that Facebook should be regulated, while others might believe that’s too much government intervention. Also, there are definitely good, reliable sources out there that will help this writer prove their argument. So this paper is off to a strong start!
Unfortunately, this writer doesn’t do a great job proving their thesis in their body paragraph. First, the topic sentence—aka the first sentence of the paragraph—doesn’t make a point that directly supports the position stated in the thesis. We’re trying to argue that government regulation will help protect user data and combat the spread of misinformation, remember? The topic sentence should make a point that gets right at that, instead of throwing out a random fact about data mining.
Second, because the topic sentence isn’t focused on making a clear point, the rest of the paragraph doesn’t have much relevant information, and it fails to provide credible evidence that supports the claim made in the thesis statement. For example, it would be a great idea to include exactly what Mark Zuckerberg said ! So while there’s definitely some relevant information in this paragraph, it needs to be presented with more evidence.
This paragraph is a bit better than the first one, but it still needs some work. The topic sentence is a bit too long, and it doesn’t make a point that clearly supports the position laid out in the thesis statement. The reader already knows that mining user data is a big issue, so the topic sentence would be a great place to make a point about why more stringent government regulations would most effectively protect user data.
There’s also a problem with how the evidence is incorporated in this example. While there is some relevant, persuasive evidence included in this paragraph, there’s no explanation of why or how it is relevant . Remember, you can’t assume that your evidence speaks for itself: you have to interpret its relevance for your reader. That means including at least a sentence that tells your reader why the evidence you’ve chosen proves your argument.
Example Body Paragraph: Though Facebook claims to be implementing company policies that will protect user data and stop the spread of misinformation , its attempts have been unsuccessful compared to those made by the federal government. When PricewaterhouseCoopers conducted a Federal Trade Commission-mandated assessment of Facebook’s partnerships with Microsoft and the makers of the Blackberry handset in 2013, the team found limited evidence that Facebook had monitored or even checked that its partners had complied with Facebook’s existing data use policies. In fact, Facebook’s own auditors confirmed the PricewaterhouseCoopers findings, despite the fact that Facebook claimed that the company was making greater attempts to safeguard users’ personal information. In contrast, bills written by Congress have been more successful in changing Facebook’s practices than Facebook’s own company policies have. According to The Washington Post, The Honest Ads Act of 2017 “created public demand for transparency and changed how social media companies disclose online political advertising.” These policy efforts, though thus far unsuccessful in passing legislation, have nevertheless pushed social media companies to change some of their practices by sparking public outrage and negative media attention.
This paragraph isn’t perfect, but it is the most effective at doing some of the things that you want to do when you write an argumentative essay.
First, the topic sentences get to the point . . . and it’s a point that supports and explains the claim made in the thesis statement! It gives a clear reason why our claim in favor of more stringent government regulations is a good claim : because Facebook has failed to self-regulate its practices.
This paragraph also provides strong evidence and specific examples that support the point made in the topic sentence. The evidence presented shows specific instances in which Facebook has failed to self-regulate, and other examples where the federal government has successfully influenced regulation of Facebook’s practices for the better.
Perhaps most importantly, though, this writer explains why the evidence is important. The bold sentence in the example is where the writer links the evidence back to their opinion. In this case, they explain that the pressure from Federal Trade Commission and Congress—and the threat of regulation—have helped change Facebook for the better.
Why point out that this isn’t a perfect paragraph, though? Because you won’t be writing perfect paragraphs when you’re taking timed exams either. But get this: you don’t have to write perfect paragraphs to make a good score on AP exams or even on an essay you write for class. Like in this example paragraph, you just have to effectively develop your position by appropriately and convincingly relying on evidence from good sources.
This is all great information, right? If (when) you have to write an argumentative essay, you’ll be ready. But when in doubt, remember these three things about how to write an argumentative essay, and you’ll emerge victorious:
This tip applies to every aspect of writing an argumentative essay. From making sure you’re addressing your prompt, to really digging into your sources, to proofreading your final paper...you’ll need to actively and pay attention! This is especially true if you’re writing on the clock, like during an AP exam.
Define your position clearly in your thesis statement and stick to that position! The thesis is the backbone of your paper, and every paragraph should help prove your thesis in one way or another. But sometimes you get to the end of your essay and realize that you’ve gotten off topic, or that your thesis doesn’t quite fit. Don’t worry—if that happens, you can always rewrite your thesis to fit your paper!
Nothing is as powerful as good, strong evidence. First, make sure you’re finding credible sources that support your argument. Then you can paraphrase, briefly summarize, or quote from your sources as you incorporate them into your paragraphs. But remember the most important part: you have to explain why you’ve chosen that evidence and why it proves your thesis.
Once you’re comfortable with how to write an argumentative essay, it’s time to learn some more advanced tips and tricks for putting together a killer argument.
Keep in mind that argumentative essays are just one type of essay you might encounter. That’s why we’ve put together more specific guides on how to tackle IB essays , SAT essays , and ACT essays .
But what about admissions essays? We’ve got you covered. Not only do we have comprehensive guides to the Coalition App and Common App essays, we also have tons of individual college application guides, too . You can search through all of our college-specific posts by clicking here.
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I n a fascinating experiment, researchers from Stanford and the University of Toronto examined how we try to persuade other people to change their minds . It involved roughly 200 people—half of whom identified themselves as politically liberal and half as conservative. The liberals were asked to write a few sentences to convince conservatives to support same-sex marriage . The conservatives were asked to write a few sentences to convince liberals to support English as the official language of the United States. What happened?
Almost everyone failed.
Among the liberals , the vast majority (74%) made their arguments for same-sex marriage by evoking values often favored by liberals , like fairness and equality. (For example, “They deserve the same equal rights as other Americans.”) Only 9% of liberals appealed to conservatives with values often favored by conservatives, like loyalty and unity. (“Our fellow citizens of the United States of America deserve to stand alongside us.”) Worse, a third of liberals (34%) also used arguments that contradicted values favored by conservatives, like the importance of faith. (“Although you may personally believe your faith should be against such a thing . . . your religion should play no part in the laws of the United States.”) Talk about not reading the room!
The conservatives fared no better. The vast majority (70%) argued for English as the official language of the United States using values often favored by conservatives , like loyalty and unity. (For example, “Making English the official language will help unify the country as we all can communicate with one another and speak the same national language.”) Only 8% of conservatives appealed to liberals with values favored by liberals, like fairness. (“By making English our official language, there will be less racism and discrimination.”) And 14% of conservatives used arguments that contradicted values favored by liberals. (“So those of you preaching diversity and equality, who think everyone should take advantage of us, should think real hard.”) Attacking your audience is . . . not persuasive.
At one time or another, we’ve all done it, whether at Thanksgiving dinner with our families or a community meeting with our neighbors. We often try to convince someone of something by using the arguments and appealing to the values that make sense to us . And other people do it right back to us. We talk past each other. “Most people are not very good at appealing to other people’s values,” said Matthew Feinberg, a coauthor of the study and a professor of organizational behavior at the University of Toronto.
Which may also explain why sometimes the more we talk, the less likely we are to change the minds of people who see the world differently than we do. In another study, researchers asked hundreds of liberals to follow prominent conservatives on what was then Twitter and hundreds of conservatives to follow prominent liberals. Think anyone was persuaded? Of course not. In fact, after about a month, the conservatives were even more conservative in their beliefs and the liberals were even more liberal.
Read More: Fighting With a Family Member Over Politics? Try These 4 Steps
Why are we so bad at persuading people who see the world through different eyes?
Researchers at the University of California Irvine have one possible answer. They argue that many of us have a “moral empathy gap”—we often fail to appreciate that other people have a different moral worldview than our own. “Our inability to feel what others feel,” the researchers explained, “makes it difficult to understand how they think”—which, in turn, makes it difficult to connect, communicate, and persuade.
But there’s hope.
Some social psychologists argue that we humans tend to see the world through several major prisms, or “moral foundations.” These foundations go something like this:
Care/Harm—a focus on caring for and protecting others from harm.
Fairness/Cheating—an emphasis on equal treatment and an opposition to cheating.
Authority/Subversion—a deep respect for hierarchy and authority and a disapproval of subversion.
Loyalty/Betrayal—devotion to family, community, and country, and a disdain for betrayal.
Sanctity/Degradation—a belief in upholding the sanctity of our bodies, institutions, and lives.
Liberty/Oppression—an emphasis on independence and a rejection of oppression. Of course, these six moral foundations alone can’t explain everyone’s beliefs about every issue, and few of us identify with just one. Still, as you read through them, you may find yourself drawn more to certain ones. Consider yourself more progressive or liberal? You might gravitate toward care and fairness. More traditional or conservative in your views? You might see a lot to like with authority, loyalty, and sanctity. And whatever our ideological orientation, what’s not to like about liberty? When I first learned about moral foundations after leaving the White House, where I worked as a speechwriter for President Obama from 2009 to 2017, it felt like an epiphany. I felt like I’d finally found the theory behind what I’d been practicing for decades in my work. Because, to me, “moral foundations” is another way of saying “values,” and values can help you build bridges with any audience, even in these polarized times .
One Saturday a few years ago, I spent the day in a church basement in Virginia listening to about a dozen Americans talk about their lives, their beliefs, and their country. Half identified themselves as conservative and half as liberal. As you’d expect, things got heated. Fast. Some people struggled to express themselves without disparaging the other side. A few folks fell back on familiar talking points they’d heard from politicians and TV pundits .
But there were also some surprises, which was the point. The meeting was convened by Braver Angels, a group devoted to helping Americans bridge partisan divides. Over seven hours of intense and emotionally exhausting conversations, some of these conservatives and liberals started to sound like . . . one another. Liberals proudly described their deep religious faith , their service in the military, and how they value family above all else. Conservatives said it was important for communities to welcome immigrants of all backgrounds and that America needs to be a place where people of all races and religions can thrive.
At times, these conservatives and liberals even used the exact same words to describe their beliefs and goals—“the dignity of the individual . . . respect for all people . . . creating opportunity for more Americans to succeed.”
“The other side,” joked one person, “was not as unreasonable as I expected.”
Of course, cherishing the same values can sometimes lead people to hold profoundly different opinions on specific issues. To many conservatives, “freedom” means freedom from excessive government regulation; to many liberals, it means a larger role for government in areas like education and health care to help people live their lives in freedom and security. To many conservatives, “caring for others” and “protecting life” means protecting the unborn from abortion; to many liberals, it means protecting the life and choices of the mother.
Still, many of us fail to realize that, even as we disagree with one another on specific issues (sometimes vehemently), most people share our basic values. In one survey, Republicans and Democrats were asked about their own views and those of people in the other party. Less than a third of Democrats believed that Republicans think it’s “extremely or very important” for Americans to learn from the past so the country can make progress. In fact, 91% of Republicans said they believe that. Likewise, only about a third of Republicans believed that Democrats think it’s “extremely or very important” that government be accountable to the people. In fact, 90% of Democrats said they believe that.
It’s true across other values as well. Roughly 90% of the people in the survey, Republicans and Democrats alike, said that personal responsibility, fair enforcement of the law, compassion, and respect across differences were important to them. What one person in that church basement in Virginia said seems to be true: “We have sincere differences, but I think we’re motivated by deeply shared principles.”
That's the beauty and the power of appealing to values. Values can help us transcend the usual fault lines in our families, companies, and countries.
Which means the next time you get up to speak and try to connect with or persuade your audience—whether at Thanksgiving dinner or your town meeting—don't simply argue the points that make sense to you. Instead, try to speak to the broader, deeper values that matter most to your listeners and that, even in these divided times, can help us find some common ground in our families, our communities, and our country.
Adapted excerpt from Say It Well: Find Your Voice, Speak Your Mind, Inspire Any Audience by Terry Szuplat. Copyright 2024 by Terry Szuplat. To be published by Harper Business, a division of HarperCollins Publishers. Reprinted by permission.
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Writing a rhetorical analysis essay can feel like stepping into a world where words are weapons, and arguments are battles to be won. Whether you’re in high school or college, finding the right rhetorical analysis essay topic can set the stage for a compelling and insightful piece. In 2024, with the ever-evolving landscape of media, literature, and public discourse, there’s no shortage of fascinating topics to choose from. So, let’s dive into some of the most popular and intriguing rhetorical analysis essay topics that can help you craft an essay that not only meets your academic requirements but also captivates your audience.
Rhetorical analysis is the process of examining how an author or speaker uses language to persuade or influence their audience. It goes beyond simply understanding the message; it involves analyzing the techniques and strategies used to convey that message effectively. This includes looking at the use of ethos, or credibility; pathos, or emotional appeal; and logos, or logical reasoning. By breaking down these elements, a rhetorical analysis seeks to understand the effectiveness of the communication and how it achieves its intended purpose.
Choosing the right topic is crucial. A well-chosen topic not only makes your writing process smoother but also engages your readers from the get-go. You want something that has enough depth for analysis, but not so obscure that you can’t find sources or examples. The following list of rhetorical analysis essay topics in 2024 offers a wide range of options, ensuring that you can find a topic that interests you and meets your assignment’s requirements.
Literary works often provide a rich ground for rhetorical analysis because of the intricate ways in which authors weave their arguments. Whether it’s classic literature or contemporary works, analyzing these texts helps you understand how authors have historically used rhetoric to influence societal perspectives.
Political speeches are gold mines for rhetorical analysis. These speeches are crafted to influence, motivate, and sometimes manipulate public opinion. Analyzing these can provide deep insights into how leaders shape narratives and rally support.
Advertising is all about persuasion. Companies spend millions to craft messages that resonate with their audience, and rhetorical analysis can peel back the layers to reveal how these campaigns influence consumer behavior.
Film and television.
Modern media, whether films, TV shows, or music, is a reflection of the society we live in. Analyzing the rhetoric in these mediums not only deepens your understanding of the content but also helps you appreciate the subtle ways in which messages are conveyed.
Social media has revolutionized the way we communicate, and with it, the way rhetoric is used. Whether it’s a viral tweet or a YouTube video, rhetorical analysis can uncover the persuasive tactics that define the digital age.
Public discourse plays a significant role in shaping societal beliefs and actions. Analyzing the rhetoric used in these discussions reveals how language can mobilize, polarize, and inspire change. By examining these topics, students can gain insight into the power of words in public arenas and their role in societal transformations.
Corporate communications are carefully crafted to influence public perception, consumer behavior, and shareholder confidence. By analyzing the rhetoric in business contexts, students can understand how companies use language to build brand loyalty, manage crises, and navigate the competitive market.
Cultural movements are often driven by powerful rhetoric that rallies support and fosters a sense of unity. Analyzing these movements offers valuable insights into how language can drive social change and empower marginalized communities to voice their demands.
Education and academia are fertile grounds for rhetorical analysis, as debates over policy, funding, and access to education often hinge on the effective use of language. By examining these topics, students can explore how rhetoric is used to advocate for educational reforms and shape public discourse around learning.
Writing a rhetorical analysis essay doesn’t have to be daunting. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Finding the right rhetorical analysis essay topic is the first step towards crafting a compelling essay. Whether you’re analyzing a classic novel, a modern film, or a political speech, the key is to dig deep and uncover the persuasive techniques at play. With the topics listed above, you’re well on your way to writing an essay that not only meets your academic requirements but also engages and enlightens your readers. Happy writing!
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April 3, 2024. The skill of writing an excellent argumentative essay is a crucial one for every high school or college student to master. In sum, argumentative essays teach students how to organize their thoughts logically and present them in a convincing way. This skill is helpful not only for those pursuing degrees in law, international ...
Choosing between argumentative essay topics can be hard; especially when you don't know where to start looking. Luckily, you can find over 120 topic ideas here, including our top 10 hot topics.
A good argumentative essay will be based on established or new research rather than only on your thoughts and feelings. Imagine that you're trying to get your parents to raise your allowance, and you can offer one of two arguments in your favor: You should raise my allowance because I want you to.
50 Argumentative Essay Topics. Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo. An argumentative essay requires you to decide on a topic and argue for or against it. You'll need to back up your viewpoint with well-researched facts and information as well. One of the hardest parts is deciding which topic to write about, but there are plenty of ideas ...
The format of an argumentative essay typically consists of three basic elements: An introductory paragraph, stating topic and thesis. Supporting paragraphs, presenting arguments and unique facts. The final paragraph, restating supporting evidence and thesis. The length and complexity of the essay will vary depending on the level of the student ...
Coming up with an essay topic can be the hardest part of the process. You have very likely encountered argumentative essay writing in high school and have been asked to write your own. If you're having trouble finding a topic, we've created a list of 52 essay ideas to help jumpstart your brainstorming process!
These essays discuss issues around a range of topics, including science, technology, politics, and healthcare. Whether you're a teacher looking for essay topics for your students or a student tasked with developing an idea of your own, we've compiled a list of 50 argumentative essay topics to help you get started!
Explore hundreds of engaging topics for argument writing with Student Opinion and Picture Prompts from The New York Times.
101 Standout Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas — Word Counter. is just what it sounds like: an essay where you argue. You pick a topic, take a stance, research information to support your opinion, state your claims, and voilà! You've got your essay. Choose a topic that is debatable. You need to present your own personal stance but also ...
Examples of argumentative essay prompts. At a university level, all the prompts below imply an argumentative essay as the appropriate response. Your research should lead you to develop a specific position on the topic. The essay then argues for that position and aims to convince the reader by presenting your evidence, evaluation and analysis.
Argumentative Essay Topics Animals. Hunting for fun and sports is unethical and must get banned. Aggressive dog breeds such as pit bulls should not be allowed as pets. Testing beauty products on animals is justifiable. Using monkeys for research in labs is a necessary evil.
Choosing a good argumentative essay topic can be challenging. Itâ s important to pick a topic that is both interesting and has two sides that can be argued on. Here are some tips to help you choose the best argumentative essay topic: 1. Choose a topic that interests you. This is the most important factor when selecting an argumentative essay ...
Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle Schoolers. Recycling in communities. Outdoor activities for kids. Student involvement in policies. Year-round schooling. Social media and teen mental health. Zoos: Entertainment vs. welfare. Peer tutoring's academic impact. Sports in education.
An argumentative essay is a type of writing that presents a coherent and logical analysis of a specific topic. 1 The goal is to convince the reader to accept the writer's point of view or opinion on a particular issue. Here are the key elements of an argumentative essay: Thesis Statement: The central claim or argument that the essay aims to ...
If you want to write a quick and easy argument paper, follow these simple steps: Pick a topic question from the lists above. Decide your answer to the question (this is your beginning thesis). Write down everything you know about the topic. Talk to your friends or family to find out what they know, have heard, or have read recently about the ...
14 Social Argumentative Essay Topics. Social argumentative essay topics tend to overlap with legal and moral topics. But argumentative topics deal more about how individuals act within society and what kinds of pressures society puts on individuals or groups of people. This is a pretty broad category.
These examples of argumentative essay topics can help you choose a compelling and contentious subject that allows you to express opinions, defend viewpoints, and engage in critical discourse.. In this comprehensive guide, we present a curated list of 150 examples of argumentative essay topics that span various domains of life and touch upon the most pressing social, political, and ethical ...
Need to write an argumentative essay? Preparing for an upcoming debate? ProCon.org has over 100 topics complete with pro and con arguments, quotes and statistics from experts, historical information, and other pertinent research. Abortion - Should abortion be legal? Alternative Energy - Can alternative energy effectively replace fossil fuels?
An argumentative essay attempts to convince a reader to agree with a particular argument (the writer's thesis statement). The writer takes a firm stand one way or another on a topic and then uses hard evidence to support that stance. An argumentative essay seeks to prove to the reader that one argument —the writer's argument— is the ...
List of 113 Good Persuasive Essay Topics. Below are over 100 persuasive essay ideas, organized into ten categories. When you find an idea that piques your interest, you'll choose one side of it to argue for in your essay. For example, if you choose the topic, "should fracking be legal?" you'd decide whether you believe fracking should ...
Choosing the best topic for an argumentative essay can be challenging for middle school students, high school students, and even college students. Deciding what topic to write about is one of the hardest parts of argumentative writing. When choosing a topic for an argumentative essay, it helps to believe in the topic being written about.
100 Thought-Provoking Argumentative Writing Prompts for Kids and Teens. Practice making well-reasoned arguments using research and facts. Writing a strong argumentative essay teaches students to make a case for their own point of view without relying on emotion or passion. These argumentative essay topics provide options for kids of all ages ...
An argumentative essay is a type of writing that presents the writer's position or stance on a specific topic and uses evidence to support that position. The goal of an argumentative essay is to convince your reader that your position is logical, ethical, and, ultimately, right. In argumentative essays, writers accomplish this by writing:
Among the liberals, the vast majority (74%) made their arguments for same-sex marriage by evoking values often favored by liberals, like fairness and equality.(For example, "They deserve the ...
Finding the right rhetorical analysis essay topic is the first step towards crafting a compelling essay. Whether you're analyzing a classic novel, a modern film, or a political speech, the key is to dig deep and uncover the persuasive techniques at play.