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112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

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

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

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

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

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

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

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

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

Steer Clear of Cliches

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

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

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

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

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

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

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

Environment

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

Science & Technology

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

Social Media

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

Parenting & Family

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

Entertainment

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

Arts & Humanities

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

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

Do Your Research

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

Understand Your Audience

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

Have Someone Read Your Speech

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

Practice Makes Perfect

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

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

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

100 Speech Topics For College Students

College won’t be complete without having to deliver a speech in front of the class. From social issues to current events, there are many topics to choose from when it comes to speech topics for college students. With the right topic, you can create an engaging and memorable speech.

Here are some speech topics for college students that can help you get started with your next presentation:

• The Importance of Mental Health and Self-Care on College Campuses
• How to Make the Most of Your College Experience
• Finding Your Passions and Pursuing Your Dreams in College
• The Benefits of Joining a Student Organization
• Networking for Success: Making Connections in College
• Overcoming the Fear of Failure in College
• Balancing Academics, Social Life, and Extracurricular Activities
• Time Management Strategies for College Students
• Exploring Options for Off-Campus Living
• Learning How to Budget and Manage Finances in College
• Self-Care Tips for College Students
• The Benefits of Studying Abroad
• Developing Healthy Study Habits
• Navigating the College Social Scene
• Preparing for Life after College
• Impact of Social Media on Communication and Relationships
• Role of Technology in Education and Its Potential to Revolutionize the Way We Learn
• Importance of Volunteering and Community Service for Personal and Professional Development
• Impact of Globalization on Cultural Identity
• Importance of Diversity and Inclusion on College Campuses
• Challenges and Rewards of Studying Abroad
• The Role of Activism in Creating Social Change
• The Impact of Climate Change and What Individuals Can Do to Reduce Their Carbon Footprint
• The Importance of Financial Literacy and Managing Money in College and Beyond
• Climate Change and Its Consequences
• The Importance of Diversity and Inclusion in the College Setting
• The Challenges and Benefits of Studying Abroad
• Importance of a College Education
• The Benefits of Building a Professional Network
• The Impact of Social Media on College Life
• How to Balance Education and Social Life on Campus
• Finding the Right Career Path for You
• The Benefits of Internships and Apprenticeships
• Exploring Your Personal Values and Beliefs
• Mindfulness and Mental Health
• The Pros and Cons of Student Loans
• The Impact of Student Debt on Future Generations
• Dealing With Stress and Anxiety in College
• Exploring Different Study Strategies and Techniques
• Exploring Different Career Paths After College
• The Benefits of Time Management and Organization
• Navigating the Job Market After Graduation
• The Benefits of Extracurricular Activities
• Preparing for Graduate School and Beyond
• Exploring Different Campus Resources
• The Impact of Globalization on Education
• Should College Be Free? Pros and Cons
• Different Types of Leadership Styles
• The Benefits of Networking and Mentoring
• The Challenges of Being a Student Leader
• Being A Top Student: Tips and Strategies
• How to Balance Your Social Life With Your Studies
• The Value of Quality Family Time
• The Benefits of Having a Supportive Family
• The Impact of Working Parents on Their Children’s Education
• Role of Family in Encouraging Academic Achievement
• How to Cope with Family Pressure During College Years
• Benefits of Having a Mentor in Your Family
• Role of Technology in Family Communication
• Impact of Financial Stress on Family Relationships
• Changing Dynamics of Family Roles in Society
• The Benefits of Having a Positive Relationship With Your Siblings
• The Challenges of Being a First-Generation College Student
• How to Minimize College Debt
• The Impact of College Debt on Your Future
• Managing College Debt: Strategies for Success
• Student Loans: How to Make the Best Use of Them
• Is College Debt Worth It?
• Understanding the Options for Repaying College Debt
• Overcoming Depression and Low Self-Esteem
• The Role of Positive Thinking in Mental Health
• The Benefits of Therapy for Students
• How to Recognize the Signs of Mental Illness
• The Role of a Support System for Mental Health
• The Impact of Stress on Mental Health
• How to Balance Academics with Social Life in College
• The Pros and Cons of Living on Campus
• How to Select a Major that is Right for You
• Understanding College-Level Expectations and Study Habits
• Living with Roommates: Tips for Peaceful Coexistence
• The Transition from High School to College
• How to Manage Time as a Busy College Student
• Navigating the College Financial Aid System
• How to Stay Safe on Campus
• Getting Involved in Campus Organizations
• The Advantages of Taking Online Courses
• Having Fun and Staying Healthy in College
• Making Friends and Developing Social Networks
• Adjusting to Life After Graduating from College
• Coping with Loneliness and Homesickness
• Dealing with Student Burnout
• Managing Time and Prioritizing Tasks
• Building Resilience and Handling Rejection
• Overcoming Procrastination
• Creating a Support System
• Having Difficult Conversations
• Making Healthy Choices
• Developing Self-Confidence
• Learning to Balance Work and Play
• Taking Responsibility for Your Education

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, college students have a wide variety of speech topics to choose from. Whether it’s a persuasive speech about a current event, an informative speech about a historical figure, or a humorous speech about an interesting topic, there is something for every student’s tastes. These speech topics give college students the opportunity to explore their interests, challenge their beliefs, and develop their communication skills.

Related Posts:

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English Speech Topics for Students

• Updated on  
• Apr 2, 2024

Writing an exciting and thoughtful speech requires selecting a good topic, researching it thoroughly, and forming individual opinions to express the same. School students are usually asked to speak on a contemporary topic to help them become good public speakers as well as learn the art of expressing oneself in front of an audience. While many speech competitions often allot topics beforehand, you might also have heard of extempore where topics are given on the spot for speech. This blog brings you a list of common English speech topics as well as some helpful tips and tricks that can assist you in effectively expressing your thoughts and opinions in front of an audience. Before starting, we would like to give you one piece of advice: you can also Humanize AI to humanize these topics for better readability and human touch, if required. Let’s begin!

Checkout our 200+ Essay Topics for Students in English

This Blog Includes:

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Speeches are all about one’s thoughts. It should not be copied from somewhere. It is all about what the speaker thinks of any given topic. However, take a look at the following list of English Speech topics on different contemporary issues as well as concepts.

• The Best Day of My Life
• Social Media: Bane or Boon?
• Pros and Cons of Online Learning
• Benefits of Yoga
• If I had a Superpower
• I wish I were ______
• Human Rights
• Environment Conservation
• Women Should Rule the World!
• The Best Lesson I Have Learned
• Paperbacks vs E-books
• How to Tackle a Bad Habit
• My Favorite Pastime/Hobby
• Why should every citizen vote?
• Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Is it real or not?
• Importance of Reading
• Importance of Books in Our Life
• My Favorite Fictional Character
• Introverts vs Extroverts
• Lessons to Learn from Sports
• Beauty is in the eye of the beholder

Quick Read: English Speaking Books

Quick Read: Essay on Peer Pressure

Quick Read: Essay on Health and Fitness for Students

• Importance of Kindness
• Is there Value in Homework?
• Things I learned in Lockdown
• How can food be recycled?
• Should Art be a part of the school curriculum?
• Should schools teach sign language?
• Women make better presidents/prime ministers
• Why books are better than movies?
• Life was better when technology was simple
• Impact of technology on our health
• Should children’s reality shows be banned?
• Learning in the Wake of COVID-19
• Hard Work vs Smart Work
• What Makes Learning Fun?
• The Coolest Inventions You’ve Seen
• Nuclear Energy
• Importance of AI in Education
• Importance of Extracurricular Activities
• Should exams be banned?
• How to Tackle Bullying in Schools?

• Speech about dreams
• Speech about life
• Speech on time
• Speech on discipline
• Speech on happiness
• Speech on kindness
• Speech on value of time
• Speech on health and fitness
• Speech on Doctor
• Speech on Nurse
• Graduation Day Speech
• World Health Day Speech
• Sex Education Speech
• Importance of Education
• Is it beneficial to learn a Second Language?
• Music has healing power
• Success in life
• Self Confidence
• 18th birthday
• Love is more powerful than hate
• Social Impact of Covid-19
• How can Online Learning be Fun?
• Make Public Transport Free
• Should violent video games be banned?
• Speech on Learning

Exploring English Speech Topics? You must also take a look at Extempore Topics !

• Climate Change
• Ozone Layer Depletion
• Reducing Water Levels
• Deforestation
• Global Warming
• Waste Management
• Water-Saving Techniques
• Reducing the Green Cover of Earth
• Endangered species need protection
• Importance of fishing regulations
• Importance of investing in alternative fuels
• Impact of ocean acidification on marine organisms
• The misuse of the term “sustainable development” by environmentalists
• Microbial benefits
• E-Waste Management
• Natural Disasters and their impact on economic growth
• Energy alternatives – Only solution to the environmental damage
• Extinction of rare species
• World Environment Day
• Disaster Management
• Over and Improper Use of Natural Resources
• Air, Water and Soil Pollution
• Efficiency of Recycling

Also Read: How to Write Dialogue: Format, Tips and Examples

• Technology and Mental Health
• Privacy in the Digital Age: Navigating the Challenges of Data Collection and Surveillance
• The Impact of Technology on Society
• Artificial Intelligence: The New Normal
• The Role of Social Media in Communication and Social Interactions
• Sustainable Technology: Innovations for a Greener Future
• The Rise of E-commerce
• Gaming Technology: Entertainment, ESports and Interactive Experiences
• The Digital Divide: Bridging the Gap for Equal Access to Technology
• The Ethical Dilemmas of Emerging Technologies

Also Read: English Vocabulary: Meaning, Types, Tips to Improve

• The Journey of Independence Day
• The Significance of Independence Day
• Indian Independence Day
• Remembering the Founding Fathers
• The Spirit of Independence
• Independence Day and Volunteering
• Independence Day Speeches
• India’s Road to Freedom
• Independence Day and National Identity
• Independence Day in the Digital Age
• Independence Day and Women’s Empowerment
• Diwali: The Festival of Lights and Its Significance in Hindu Culture
• Diwali and the Victory of Good Over Evil
• Diwali and the Art of Giving
• Diwali and the Spirit of Forgiveness
• Diwali and Cultural Exchanges
• Diwali and the Essence of Joy
• Diwali and Social Responsibility
• Diwali and Artistic Expressions
• The Rituals and Traditions of Diwali
• Diwali and the Symbolism of Light
• The Economic Consequence of Corruption
• Corruption and International Aid
• Media and Corruption
• Fighting Corruption
• Corruption in Politics
• The Role of Transparency and Accountability in Curbing Corruption
• The Role of Technology in Combating Corruption
• Whistleblowing and Protecting Mechanism
• Corruption in Business and Corporate Practices
• Understanding Feminism
• The Future of Feminism
• Feminism and Parenting
• Feminism and Online Activism
• Feminism and Environmental Activism
• Feminism and Reproductive Rights
• The Gender Pay Gap: Examining Inequalities in the Workplace
• Feminism and its Evolution
• Feminism and Body Positivity
• Feminism and Media Representation: Encouraging Authentic and Diverse Portrayals of Women
• Expressing Gratitude and Love to Mothers
• The Influence of Mothers in Shaping Our Values and Beliefs
• Motherhood and Education
• Mother’s Day and Volunteerism
• Mother-Daughter Relationship
• The Role of Mothers in Shaping Society
• Mother’s Day Crafts and DIY Gifts
• Learned Lessons from Mothers
• Mother’s Day Around the World: Cultural Traditions and Celebrations
• Capitalism: An Introduction to the Economic System and its Principles
• The Future of Capitalism
• Pros and Cons of Capitalism
• Capitalism and Globalisation
• Capitalism and Consumerism
• Capitalism and Financial Crisis: Undertaking the Risk and Mitigation Measures
• Capitalism and Environmental Sustainability
• Capitalism and the Role of Government
• Corporate Social Responsibility in Capitalism
• Capitalism and the Digital Economy
• Mahatma Gandhi: The Father of the Nation and His Ideals
• Remembering Gandhi: Reflecting On His Life and Legacy
• Gandhi’s Influence on the Indian Independence Movement
• Satyagraha: The Power of Truth and Nonviolent Resistance
• Gandhi’s Philosophy of Swaraj
• The Role of Women in Gandhi’s Freedom Struggle
• Gandhi’s Teaching on Education and Moral Values
• Gandhi’s Lasting Legacy
• Gandhi’s Vision for a Just and Inclusive Society
• The Relevance of Gandhi’s Principles in Today’s World
• The Influence of Reading on Emotional Intelligence and Empathy
• Reading and Mental Health
• Benefits of Reading
• Reading and Empowerment
• The Role of Reading in Academic Success and Lifelong Learning
• Promoting a Reading Culture: Encouraging Reading Habits in Society
• Reading Biographies and Memoirs
• Reading and Social Connections
• The Joy of Reading: Escaping Into the Different Worlds and Characters
• Reading and Personal Identity
• The Current State of Communism
• Communism: An Introduction to the Ideology and Its Historical Context
• The Evolution of Communist Movements
• The Role of the State in a Communist Society
• The Fall of Communist Regimes
• Communism and Religious Freedom
• Communism and Gender Equality
• Communism and Workers’ Rights
• The Criticisms of Communism
• Deforestation: Causes, Consequences and Global Impact
• Deforestation and Climate Change
• Deforestation and Carbon Sequestration
• Deforestation and Individual Actions
• Deforestation and Wildlife Trafficking
• Deforestation and Sustainable Development
• Deforestation and Indigenous Communities
• Deforestation and Biodiversity Loss
• Deforestation and Forest Fires
• The Importance of Forests

Quick Read: Speech on Nuclear Energy

• Women Empowerment
• Education of Girl Child
• Unemployment
• Casteism 
• Reservation
• Importance of Maintaining Hygiene
• Child Labour
• Social Distancing
• Organ Donation
• Importance of the Right to Education
• Child Trafficking
• Cultural Diversity
• Struggles of Immigrants
• Impact of Globalisation
• Adult education
• Independence Day
• Mother’s Day
• World Cancer Day
• World Population Day
• World Health Day
• Ambedkar Jayanti
• Gandhi Jayanti
• Human Rights Day
• Zero Discrimination Day
• Women’s Day
• Thanksgiving
• Anti-Terrorism Day
• Hindi Diwas 

Check out this list of all the important national and international days in 202 4 !

• Mahatma Gandhi
• Jawaharlal Nehru
• Raja Rammohan Roy
• George Washington
• Albert Einstein
• APJ Abdul Kalam
• Nelson Mandela
• Kailash Satyarthi
• Diversity in India
• Speech on Holi
• The Role of Yoga and Meditation in Indian Culture and Its Global Impact
• The Importance of Traditional Indian Clothing
• Indian Folklore
• Indian Festivals
• The Art of Indian Dance
• Traditional Indian Medicine (Ayurveda)
• Indian Epics and Mythology
• Social Customs and Etiquettes in Indian Society
• Indian Sports and Games

Also Read: Speech on Indian Culture

• Honesty is the best policy
• When there’s a will, there is a way
• Actions speak louder than words
• Knowledge is Power
• Ignorance is Bliss
• Don’t judge a book by its cover
• Hard work is the key to success

Explore these proverbs & their meanings through this blog on Difficult Phrases !

• The Role of International Organisations in Promoting and Protecting Human Rights
• The Universal Declaration of Human Rights: A Milestone in Human History
• Gender Equality: Breaking Barriers and Empowering Women
• Ensuring a Safe and Sustainable Environment for the Next Generation
• The Right to Education: Empowering Minds
• Bridging the Gap Between the Rich and Poor
• Human Rights and Armed Conflicts
• Global Fight to Combat Human Trafficking
• Human Rights and Climate Change
• Religious Freedom: Tolerance and Coexistence in a Diverse Society

To know what to mention in such speech topics, explore the Great Personalities in the World !

• Importance of teacher in your life
• SAT scores for college application
• Student bullies should be expelled
• Consequences of cheating in exams
• Homeschooling is better than normal schooling
• Importance of value education
• Importance of sports and physical exercises
• Schools vs colleges
• What is the difference between a school, college and university in the USA?

Check Out: Synonyms List

• The Water-Energy Nexus
• The Essence of Water: Exploring the Live-giving Properties of H2O
• Water as a Driver of Economic Growth and Prosperity
• Water Security: Ensuring Equal Access and Quality for All
• Water and Agriculture
• The Role of Water in Ecosystems
• Water and Blue Economy
• Water Diplomacy: Promoting Collaboration for Transboundary Water Management
• Water and Cultural Significance: Exploring Symbolisms and Rituals
• Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH): Foundational for Human Health and Dignity
• Article 370
• Women rights
• The Constitution of India
• Youth of India
• Culture of India
• Importance of Unity
• Generation Gap
• Importance of Value Education
• Old Age Homes
• Family Values
• Leadership skills
• Rise of Smart Classes
• Grading System
• Importance of Practical Education
• Benefits of Co-Education
• Importance of Co-Curricular Activities
• The uselessness of Power-Point Presentations
• Rise of Technology
• Excessive usage of the Internet
• Speech on Fear
• Speech on Dependence on Technology
• Importance of Social Media
• Speech on India of My Dreams
• Indian Education System
• Speech on My India

While exploring persuasive English speech topics, you must make sure that they are stimulating, engaging, concise and clear. There are three main types of Persuasive Speech topics which are:

1. Factual Persuasive Speech : These topics include facts, figures and statistics to thoroughly analyse the given topic and assess whether it’s true or false.

2. Policy Persuasive Speech : Discussing policies, laws and reforms, these speech topics critically examine the advantages and disadvantages of the given policy or law and suggest the improvements that can be made.

3. Value Persuasive Speech : Mainly focusing on social or political issues, these speech topics present the critique and argument of whether certain actions are morally right or not.

While speaking on a particular topic, there are certain things that you must keep in mind to make your speech expressive and effective. Let’s take a look at some useful topics that help you in acing any topic you are speaking on.

• Always research the topic. If you are participating in an extempore, then make sure to go through the common and popular topics as well as the unconventional ones that you might get. Preparation is the key to delivering an impressive speech. For inspiration, look up various speech examples to see how effective speakers engage their audience
• Whether you are given a topic on the spot or you are prepared for the speech, it is always pivotal that you seem interested in speaking about it. Relate the given issues to your own life and this will help you in giving it your twist.
• Pay extra attention to your body language and enunciation. While a gesticulative approach will make you seem outward, having timid body language can cause a wrong impression.
• Ponder upon the different viewpoints on a topic . Try to present a holistic view of the given topic but don’t forget to present your opinion on it as well. Along with this, don’t try to take sides unless the topic demands you to.
• Involve your audience, if possible. This way, you will be able to interact with the people and it will also be useful in fighting the fear of public speaking.
• Don’t mug up a speech. It becomes evident when someone just speaks on a topic continuously and the audience might realise that you have memorized it or you might forget a certain part which will let the whole speech fade away from your brain.
• Instead, make notes about the topic in your mind, remember certain keywords and try to maintain a particular flow in your speech.
• Incorporate humour in your speech in a way that you do not offend anyone or overdo it but get a positive reaction from the audience. Humour is a great way of lightening the mood as well as ensuring the whole speech is interactive and engaging.
• When you need more specialized assistance, a  US essay writing service  can be a valuable resource for crafting your speech.

While preparing for English Speech topics, you must also check out IELTS Speaking Topics !

Juvenile delinquency is acceptable. Prostitution should be legal. Underage driving should be punishable by law. Beauty pageants for children should be banned. Prisoner’s right to vote. Voting rights should not be universal. Guns should be banned from college campuses.

A three-minute speech is undoubtedly a wonderful starting point for public speaking. This is because you need to communicate with your audience more effectively when you just have a short amount of time. In addition, the speech ought to be concise, pertinent, and clear.

Life is the gift of God in the form of trust that we will make it meaningful in whatever we can. We are all unique individuals. No one is born like you and no one will ever be, so cherish your individuality. Many times, I come across people accusing God of things that they don’t have. They always cursing their lives.

 2-minute speeches are  short and crisp speeches of about 260-350 words .

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14 comments

I take english speaking classes, please provide me sone more material to help student’s.

Here are some articles on books and study material that will help your students- https://leverageedu.com/blog/english-speaking-books/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/books-by-charles-dickens/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/best-books-by-george-orwell/

I want topic on students and online classes

It is helpful for my school homework thanks 😸

Glad we could help!

Nice advise 👍

Thank you, Pragya!

Not good topics 🤔🤔

Thanks for the suggestion. We will update the blog!

Helpful for students . So I like it

Thanks for reading! Also, read: Daily Used English Words Speech on Importance of English Reach us at 1800 57 2000 for study-abroad related matters!

You people are giving great contribution in internet learning and it is for all….

Hi, thank you for your valuable feedback.

Awesome! Its really awesome article, I have got much clear idea concerning from this post.

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• Choosing Good Topics
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• Top 99 College Speech Topics

Ninety-nine emotional, controversial, or relatable speech ideas for college students

Here's my list of 99 college speech topics! They cover all sorts of subjects, and you should be able to find something suitable for whatever type of speech you've been asked to deliver.

To make things easy on yourself, pick a topic that interests you and something you'll be able to speak about with passion!

It will make your research more interesting, and your speech more engaging for your listeners!

Are you returning to college, or just starting your freshman year?

Then check out these tips for time management for college students .

These tips for post-secondary students give you a fighting chance of thriving during your college years because you're capable of so much more than you realize if you schedule things right!

1st Fifty (50) College Speech Topics

• The death penalty
• Hazing in fraternities and sororities
• Succeeding in college
• What it means to be a hero
• The dangers of drugs
• The dangers of smoking
• The dangers of alcohol
• How to find a job
• The dangers of credit cards
• Staying Christian in college
• Planning a party
• How to make money on eBay
• Tips to save money in college
• Reality television
• Today's music
• Athletes as role models
• My favorite celebrity
• My best childhood memory
• My worst childhood memory
• The person who most influenced my life
• My definition of "Family"
• All about me!
• My best friend
• How to change a flat tire
• How to get a second date
• How to meet new people
• My new year's resolution
• We are living in the end times
• The life and death of Robin Williams
• Civil disobedience
• Sex education
• Teenage pregnancy
• Gun control
• Legalizing marijuana
• Passing your driving tests
• Study strategies - WaPo ex. " College Students: They don't know how to study "
• Caffeine - Check out a sample informative speech - "The Truth About Caffeine"

49 More College Speech Topics

• The importance of exercise
• A turning point in my life
• Gangs or gang violence
• What type of legacy will you leave behind?
• A moment that changed my life
• If I won the lottery…
• Platonic relationships
• How to plan a vacation
• The 'fake news' phenomenon and its dangers
• Is Ebola a worldwide threat?
• Energy drinks - useful or dangerous?
• Practice makes perfect
• A fair trial
• What is a tornado?
• The importance of a good night's sleep
• Martin Luther King Jr.
• Cell phones
• Ideas for spring break trips
• How to entertain on a budget
• How to lose weight and keep it off
• How to stop smoking
• The media and self-esteem
• The Kardashians
• Immigration
• O.J. Simpson
• Trump and Twitter
• Stephen King
• The history of the internet
• The invention of the telephone
• The importance of a college education
• Don't drop out of school
• Muhammad Ali
• Satellite vs. cable television
• America's Got Talent
• Should the school year be extended?
• Teacher pay raises
• The failure of the public school system
• What is your credit score?
• How to buy a car
• What to look for in a roommate
• How to reduce your carbon footprint
• Is there life after death?
• Life on other planets
• Scientology

So there you have it - 99 college speech topics on which to base your presentation, or to inspire you to come up with a subject of your own!

Good luck with creating your speech - and if you'd like to share your creation, I'd love to publish it to help inspire others!

Need More Help - Here are a few free speech samples on some more topics that may be appropriate for college students:

Truth About Caffeine

Hybrid Animals

Childhood Obesity

Global Warming

If you like to publish or share, submit your speech here as an example for others to read after completion.

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70+ Popular Extempore Speech Topics for College Students

Hrideep barot.

• Communication , Public Speaking

Extempore speaking is an essential skill that every college student should strive to master. Being able to confidently speak spontaneously in front of an audience can open up numerous opportunities for personal and professional growth. However, coming up with engaging and impactful speech topics on the spot can be a daunting task. To help you navigate the world of extempore speaking, this article provides a list of seven popular speech topics for college students. From current events to societal issues, these topics are sure to captivate your audience and showcase your speaking abilities. Extensive public speaking is a pivotal skill that college students should cultivate. Engaging in extemporaneous speaking not only sharpens communication abilities but also prepares students for impromptu situations. So, read on to discover how you can excel in the art of extempore speaking!

The Benefits of Extempore Speaking in College

Mastering the art of extempore speaking offers numerous advantages for college students .

• Critical Thinking : Firstly, it enhances your critical thinking skills, as you have to quickly organize your thoughts and articulate them on the spot. This skill will prove invaluable in your academic pursuits and future professional endeavors.
• Confidence : Extempore speaking also helps boost your confidence . By regularly practicing spontaneous speaking, you become more comfortable in front of an audience and develop the ability to think on your feet. This newfound confidence extends beyond public speaking and can positively impact your overall self-assurance.
• Communication Skills : Moreover, extempore speaking allows you to improve your communication skills. It teaches you how to convey complex ideas concisely and engage with your audience effectively. These communication skills will prove beneficial in various settings, including job interviews, networking events, and team collaborations.

In conclusion, incorporating extempore speaking into your college experience can have a profound impact on your personal and professional growth. So, don’t shy away from embracing this skill and reaping the numerous benefits it offers. Stay tuned for more valuable insights on mastering the art of extempore speaking in the upcoming sections!

Developing Confidence Through Extempore Speaking

Developing confidence through extempore speaking is one of the key benefits that college students can experience. The ability to speak spontaneously in front of an audience not only helps to overcome the fear of public speaking but also boosts self-confidence in various aspects of life.

When you engage in extempore speaking regularly, you become more comfortable with being put on the spot and delivering your thoughts without prior preparation. This newfound confidence in your speaking abilities extends beyond the stage and can be applied to everyday situations. Whether it’s presenting in a class, voicing your opinions in a group discussion, or communicating with colleagues in a professional setting, the confidence gained from extempore speaking will help you shine.

Additionally, being able to think on your feet and articulate your ideas in a spontaneous manner provides you with the assurance that you can handle unexpected situations effectively. The ability to remain calm and composed under pressure is a valuable skill that can greatly enhance your personal and professional life.

In the next section, we will explore some popular speech topics that college students can use to practice their extempore speaking skills and further develop their confidence.

Choosing the Right Extempore Topics

Choosing an extempore topic that resonates with you and your audience is key. Some things to consider:

• Your interests and hobbies: Speaking about familiar subjects will make you sound more confident and engaged. If you enjoy travel or gaming, for example, consider related topics like “The Benefits of Virtual Reality” or “How to Pack Light for Any Trip.”
• Controversial vs. non-controversial: While debating controversial topics can be engaging, also have some non-controversial topics ready in case the audience or event calls for something lighter. Specific vs. broad Have a mix of focused topics as well as some broad ones that I give you more flexibility in the direction you can take the speech. For example, “The Pros and Cons of Artificial Intelligence” is broad while “How Self-Driving Cars Will Change Our Lives” is more specific.
• Humor and creativity: Don’t be afraid to choose a quirky or lighthearted topic to make your speech memorable, as long as it’s still appropriate for the situation. For example, “Lessons We Can Learn From Our Pets” or “The Lost Art of Handwriting”
• Your knowledge and experience: Choose subjects you are well-informed about from your studies, work experience, or areas of expertise Your passion and depth of knowledge will shine through. If you’re a nursing student, for instance, consider “The Importance of Vaccines” or “Common Health Myths Debunked.” With some preparation and practice, any of these kinds of topics can make for an engaging extempore speech . The most important thing is to choose a subject. feel personally connected to! That way, your enthusiasm will inspire your audience.

70 Extempore Speech Topics

Personal development.

• Overcoming self-doubt in the pursuit of success
• The power of positive affirmations in daily life
• Embracing failure as a stepping stone to growth
• Cultivating resilience in the face of adversity

Society and Politics

• The impact of social media on modern activism
• Exploring the challenges of global migration
• The role of youth in shaping the future of politics
• Addressing income inequality in contemporary society

Technology and Innovation

• The ethical implications of artificial intelligence
• Harnessing renewable energy for a sustainable future
• The potential of cryptocurrency in reshaping the economy
• The dark side of technological dependence in the digital age

Environment and Conservation

• The urgency of combating climate change on a global scale
• The importance of preserving biodiversity in the modern world
• Reducing plastic pollution for a cleaner planet
• Sustainable living: small changes for a greener future

Education and Learning

• Rethinking traditional education for the 21st century
• The value of Interdisciplinary Studies in higher education
• Nurturing creativity and innovation in academic environments
• The role of technology in transforming the learning experience

Health and Well-being

• The impact of mental health awareness campaigns
• The need for holistic approaches to healthcare
• Tackling the stigma surrounding chronic illnesses
• Promoting healthy lifestyles in a fast-paced society

Arts and Culture

• The influence of social media on contemporary art
• Celebrating diversity in cultural expressions
• Reimagining the role of museums in the digital age
• Exploring the connection between art and emotional well-being

Global Perspectives

• The power of cross-cultural communication in a globalized world
• The importance of international cooperation in addressing crises
• Navigating cultural differences in a connected world
• The impact of globalization on local economies

Ethics and Morality

• The role of empathy in ethical decision-making
• Balancing individual freedoms with societal responsibilities
• The ethical implications of genetic engineering
• Exploring ethical considerations in animal testing

Relationships and Communication

• Cultivating empathy in personal relationships
• The art of active listening in effective communication
• Navigating conflict resolution in diverse social settings
• The impact of social media on interpersonal relationships

Work and Career

• The future of remote work in a post-pandemic world
• Embracing innovation in entrepreneurial endeavors
• Navigating workplace diversity and inclusion
• The importance of continuous learning in professional growth

Science and Exploration

• The potential of space exploration in understanding the universe
• The ethical implications of genetic modification in humans
• The impact of quantum computing on modern technology
• Nurturing scientific curiosity in younger generations

Media and Entertainment

• The influence of celebrity culture on societal norms
• Exploring the impact of virtual reality on entertainment
• The portrayal of gender roles in contemporary media
• Navigating the balance between freedom of expression and media responsibility

Current Affairs and Hot Topics

• The future of global healthcare post-pandemic
• Addressing misinformation in the era of fake news
• Exploring the impact of social justice movements on policy-making
• The role of technology in shaping the future of democracy

Lifestyle and Leisure

• The pursuit of work-life balance in contemporary society
• The power of hobbies in nurturing mental well-being
• Exploring the cultural significance of traditional cuisines
• The impact of social media influencers on lifestyle trends

Innovation and Creativity

• The intersection of art and technology in creative expression
• Embracing failure as a catalyst for innovation
• Nurturing a culture of creativity in organizational settings
• The potential of interdisciplinary collaboration in driving innovation

Societal Challenges

• Addressing the rise of mental health issues in youth
• Combating cyberbullying in the digital age
• The impact of homelessness on urban communities
• Navigating the challenges of aging populations

Global Citizenship

• The role of education in shaping global citizenship
• The power of grassroots movements in driving social change

Preparing for an Extempore Speech

Preparing for an extempore speech requires careful planning and practice . While extempore speaking is all about improvisation, that doesn’t mean you should go into it completely unprepared. Here are some tips to help you prepare for an extempore speech:

1. Stay updated

Stay informed about current events and trending topics. Read newspapers, follow news websites, and keep yourself updated on the latest happenings. This will help you have a well-rounded understanding of various subjects and give you a broad range of ideas to speak on. It is important to gather relevant information on the topic beforehand so that you have a solid foundation to build upon.

2. Practice impromptu speaking

Practice speaking on different topics without any prior preparation. Set a timer and give yourself a few minutes to gather your thoughts before speaking. This will help you get comfortable with thinking on your feet and formulating coherent thoughts quickly. These activities will help you become more comfortable with speaking spontaneously and enhance your ability to respond to unexpected questions or challenges.

3. Develop a structure

Additionally, it is crucial to organize your thoughts and structure your speech in a logical manner. This will help you deliver your points effectively and ensure that your speech flows smoothly. While extempore speeches are spontaneous, having a basic structure can help you stay organized. Start with an attention-grabbing introduction, present your main points, and end with a strong conclusion. This will help your speech flow smoothly and make it easier for your audience to follow along.

4. Rehearsing your delivery

Another important aspect of preparing for an extempore speech is rehearsing your delivery. Practice speaking in front of a mirror or recording yourself to identify areas where you can improve your tone, pace, and body language. It is also beneficial to seek feedback from others, as they can provide valuable insights and suggestions for improvement. By dedicating time to preparation and practice, you can boost your confidence and deliver a compelling extempore speech.

These extempore speech topics offer college students a plethora of themes to delve into, enabling them to enhance their oratory skills while engaging with diverse and intellectually stimulating subjects. By exploring these topics, students can cultivate their abilities to think critically, articulate their thoughts effectively, and contribute meaningfully to discussions on a wide range of issues. So there you have it, 70 extempore speech topics to get you started. With this variety of subjects, you’re sure to find one that sparks your interest and creativity.

Remember, the key to a good extempore speech is choosing a topic you’re passionate about. Speak from the heart, be authentic, make eye contact, use hand gestures, and have fun with it An extempore speech is meant to be an engaging conversation with your audience. If you get nervous , focus on connecting with a few friendly faces in the crowd. Take a deep breath and be fully present in the moment. You’ve got this! Go ahead and choose a topic, do a little research to get inspired, and start crafting your speech. We look forward to hearing what you have to say!

Remember, the more you practice, the more confident you will become in delivering extempore speeches. So, set aside some time each day to practice impromptu speaking and watch your skills improve over time. Happy speaking!

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126 Good Informative Speech Topics – 2024

June 23, 2024

What is an informative speech? You may be asking this question if you find yourself needing to give one for a class or extracurricular. Unlike a persuasive speech , which is designed to convince an audience of something, or a debate , which can be polemic by nature, an informative speech is meant to educate its listeners on a topic, elucidate an unclear idea, or simply help an audience delve more deeply into a subject. In other words, while informative speeches can persuade or argue, they don’t have to. In this article, we’ll highlight a few tips on how to choose good informative speech topics, and then provide a list of 126 informative speech ideas to get you brainstorming for your next big speech!

How to Choose Informative Speech Topics

Your choice of informative speech topic will depend greatly upon the task at hand: is this speech for a class? A passion project ? A campus rally? A professional development conference? Recruiting for a particular major, club, or community service organization? A high school speech competition? Once you know the purpose and parameters of your speech, it will be easier to select an informative speech topic that is an appropriate subject and size. Additionally, it’s important to consider your audience, expertise, scope, research, and tone before you delve into your writing.

Knowing your target audience is key to creating reciprocity, or the necessary give and take between speaker and listener that creates communication and understanding. Speakers who know their audiences are better able to shape their speeches to be well-received. [i] Imagine, for example, you’re giving an informative speech on “Jane Austen’s narrators.” You must ask yourself: are you giving your speech to a panel of scholars, to educated adult non-experts, or to grade school-aged children? If your audience will be comprised of literature professors, your speech should provide fairly advanced and in-depth knowledge and should be filled with the latest developments in professional literary criticism. If your audience is made up of grade school-aged children, you’ll want to start with the basics, like who was Jane Austen? And what, exactly, is a narrator?

As you give your informative speech, you’ll want to think about not only your audience’s level of expertise in your speech topic, but also your own (and it’s okay if you’re a novice in the subject!). [ii] An informative speech often includes or takes into consideration a synthesis of preexisting scholarship in a field or information around a topic. While you don’t need to apprise your audience of an entire body of research before you begin delivering your speech, you do want to have a working knowledge of the preexisting conversation around your informative speech topic. [iii] This will inform the level of research you’ll need to perform before you begin writing your speech.

In terms of selecting research sources, it’s good to remember the three P’s: peer-reviewed , published , and prestigious . A peer-reviewed source is one that has been evaluated by a group of experts in the field of the writer. It has undergone the most stringent editing and fact-checking and, when first published, is the most up-to-date information in a field. A published source is one that has also usually undergone some editing before publication – though you’ll want to be wary of self-published sources and online publications (these usually don’t receive the same kind of scrutiny as printed texts).

Finally, it’s certainly okay to use online sources, but you want to make sure they are coming from a prestigious or at least well-known source like a national newspaper or even an established commercial website. A good tip for assessing a source’s quality is to check: does this source cite any outside resources in a works cited or in footnotes?

You want to be sure that you are able to cover a topic thoroughly, given the time and resources allotted. For example, if you have five minutes to give an informative speech to your psychology 101 classmates, you could choose a general topic like, “Why was Sigmund Freud important to psychology?” If you have an hour to give an informative speech at a professional psychology conference, you might provide a detailed account of Sigmund Freud’s most important contributions to a particular branch of modern psychology and explain its current significance to the field, including recent developments in research and clinical practice.

Finally, something crucial to consider is the emotional register of your speech. Is the subject matter something serious like an illness or climate change? Or is it a politically charged topic like immigration or gun control? Is it light, like “how to make pizza dough” or “the invention of the roller coaster?” Or is it merely intriguing or educating like, “personality typing and psychology,” “owning a poodle,” or “Ben Franklin’s top five aphorisms?” Gauging the emotional involvement of your audience will help you choose an appropriate informative speech topic for the project at hand and will ultimately let you craft a more effective speech.

The 126 informative speech ideas below run the gamut from broad to very specific and can all serve as starting points as you brainstorm what you’d like to give a speech on. Good luck!

Health & Medicine Informative Speech Topics

1) Ideas on curbing the spread of future global pandemics.

2) What is the endocrine system?

3) What is a physician’s assistant?

4) The importance of blood donation.

5) Disparities in healthcare between different demographic groups.

6) How did Marie Curie contribute to the medical field?

7) What is the role of nurses in primary care settings?

8) What subspecialties are there in women’s health?

9) What recent developments have been made in knee replacement surgery techniques?

Good Informative Speech Topics/Informative Speech Ideas (Continued)

10) What is Traditional Chinese Medicine?

11) Telehealth and patient outcomes in recent years.

12) How to MRI machines work?

13) Comparing healthcare systems in different countries.

14) The five most important cancer research innovations in the past five years.

15) What is a plague?

16) How does social media affect mental health?

17) What is the World Health Organization?

18) What are the differences between a midwife and an obstetrician?

STEM Informative Speech Topics

19) What are some important differences between commercial and government-sponsored space flight programs?

20) How do rollercoasters work?

21) The relationship between AI and defense.

22) How are robots used in surgeries?

23) How do you solve a quadratic equation?

24) Why are information systems an important part of modern marketing?

25) What recent innovations have been made in the field of machine learning algorithms?

26) How has cloud computing changed in the past five years?

27) What is the role of engineers in mining and extraction?

28) What is a black hole?

29) What is internal combustion?

30) How self-driving cars work.

31) What are some differences between aeronautical and aerospace engineers?

32) What is Euclidian geometry?

33) How is probability be used in sport management?

34) Why are we running out of helium?

35) What is the relationship between cybersecurity and national politics?

36) The most important uses of 3D printing?

Arts & Humanities Informative Speech Topics

37) What are the most likely interpretations of Hamlet’s “To be or not to be?” speech ?

38) What was the Dadaism movement?

39) Why is the Mona Lisa so popular?

40) The differences between highbrow, lowbrow, and commercial cultural production.

41) What are the major tenets of postmodernism?

42) The influences of Alfred Hitchcock on modern cinema.

43) What is the difference between “performance” and “performativity?”

44) What are the differences between an early novel and a romance?

45) Recent developments in literature and ecocriticism.

46) What is the debate on the Elgin Marbles?

47) In what ways was fashion an important element of the Belle Epoch era?

48) The top five most influential texts in speculative fiction.

49) What is pop art?

50) Who was Andy Warhol?

51) What is The Iliad ?

52) Postcolonial studies as an academic field.

53) The history of the Louvre museum.

54) Jane Austen’s narrators and free indirect discourse.

Psychology and Sociology Informative Speech Topics

55) What is the Enneagram and how is it used in therapeutic settings?

56) How did Pierre Bourdieu define “fields?”

57) What is the Panopticon?

58) What is intersectionality?

59) The role of psychologists in school settings.

60) How is behavior psychology related to consumerism and marketing?

61) What is gentrification?

62) The role of the pharmaceutical industry in psychiatric treatment.

63) Who was Sigmund Freud and why is he important?

64) What is the difference between clinical and research psychology?

65) What is the relationship between social media and mental health?

66) What is neuropsychology?

67) What is an ethnographic study?

68) How did Habermas define the public sphere?

69) What is multiple personality disorder?

70) What is are the “gaze” and the “mirror stage,” according to Lacan?

71) Describe the prisoner’s dilemma.

72) What is Maslow’s hierarchy of needs?

Nature and Environment Informative Speech Topics

73) What are some pros and cons of wind farming?

74) Why are microbiomes important for health?

75) What is an axolotl?

76) Death Valley: the hottest place on Earth

77) What threats do spotted lanternflies pose?

78) What are the most significant climate change “points of no return?”

79) Water conservation strategies in the American West.

80) What is biodiversity?

81) How do dolphins communicate?

82) Why was Rachel Carson’s Silent Spring significant for the environmentalist movement?

83) How was the Santorini caldera created?

84) What are plate tectonics?

85) How and why tornadoes happen.

86) What is the El Niño phenomenon and why is it important?

87) Fungus and blue spruce disease in Northeast Ohio.

88) What measures are being taken to curb deforestation in the Amazon?

89) How is the Galapagos ecosystem preserved today?

90) Floridian ecosystems and the Red Tide.

Business, Marketing, Finance and Economy

91) The role of sports merchandising in U.S. women’s Olympic events.

92) Subprime mortgages and the housing market crash of 2008.

93) What are the eight best steps you can take to better your personal finances?

94) Which social media platforms are most lucrative for marketing to each current online generation?

95) What is inflation?

96) What is the relationship between politics and the unemployment rate?

97) What is market saturation?

98) How do we measure the GDP of emergent nations?

99) What developments to we expect to see in the industry competition between EVs and regular automobiles?

100) What is an index fund? What is a mutual fund?

101) Bond holdings late in retirement.

102) The role of social justice in branding.

103) How does search engine optimization work for marketing?

104) Is the influencer economy a bubble?

105) Describe the differences between a CFA and a CPA.

106) What developments have we seen in start-up economies in the past five years?

107) What is embezzlement?

108) What is the history of human resource departments?

History and Travel

109) The religious persuasions of each of Henry VIII’s wives .

110) How the aqueduct system worked in ancient Rome

111) What are the tallest buildings in the world?

112) What was the Black Death?

113) The Watergate Scandal.

114) In what ways was the printing press an important invention?

115) What is the Chernobyl site like today?

116) What was the relationship between Thomas Edison and Nikola Tesla?

117) Why was the Great Wall of China built?

118) Who were medieval anchorites?

119) The political significance of whistle-stop train tours.

120) What was the significance of the Second Boer War?

121) The Tennis Court Oath .

122) What are the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World?

123) Witch hunting in 1600s New England.

124) What was the Space Race?

125) Why are the bodies of Pompeiians preserved?

126) What is Machu Picchu?

Good Informative Speech Topics – Works Cited

[i] Lloyd-Hughes, Sarah. How to Be Brilliant at Public Speaking: Any Audience, Any Situation . Pearson Educated Limited, Edinburgh 2011.

[ii] Downs, Douglas and Elizabeth Wardle. “What Can a Novice Contribute? Undergraduate Researchers in First-Year Composition,” Undergraduate Research in English Studies (2010) pp. 173-90).

[iii] Graff, Gerard, and Cathy Birkenstein. They Say / I Say: The Moves That Matter in Academic Writing . W.W. Norton & Company, New York, 2006.

Informative Speech Ideas – Additional Reading

• 149 Capstone Project Ideas and Examples
• 100 Best Political Science Research Topics
• 64 Social Issues Topics 
• High School Success

Jamie Smith

For the past decade, Jamie has taught writing and English literature at several universities, including Boston College, the University of Pittsburgh, and Carnegie Mellon University. She earned a Ph.D. in English from Carnegie Mellon, where she currently teaches courses and conducts research on composition, public writing, and British literature.

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Speech Topics - 100s of them!

By:  Susan Dugdale   | Last modified: 01-10-2023

Speech ideas ordered by speech type & theme 

So you're preparing to give a speech.

The next step, unless you've been told or you've already decided for yourself, is choosing a topic.

What will you talk about?  There are literally so many possibilities.

To make choosing a subject easier, here's a collection of speech topic suggestions arranged either by speech type,  age group or theme. 

• Demonstration speech topics  (5 pages: 738 + topics)
• Speech topics for kids  (2 pages: 150 + topics)
• Persuasive topics  (6 pages: 998+ topics)

125 examples of narrative speech topics

• 60 vocal variety and body language topics

145 good cause and effect topics for students

• Fun public speaking topics  (2 pages:165 topics)
• 180+ interesting topics for students  (1 page: 180 + topics)
• Good informative speech topics  (1 page: 100s of topics)
• Commemorative speech topic ideas  (1 page: themes)
• Argumentative/controversial speech topics  (1 page: 290 topics)
• Easter themed speech topics  (1 page: 32 topics)
• Impromptu speech topics  (4 pages: 570 topics)
• Printable impromptu speech topics  (98 proverbs or quotations ready-to-go)

Teacher or student, these lists are for you.

I hope they're useful! Happy speaking, Susan

Demonstration speech ideas

These are the 'show and tell' or 'how to' speeches where you demonstrate a skill, make something, or explain how something works. Think of these speeches as stepping through a process from beginning to end, showing and explaining every step of the way.

The goal of them is often to inspire those listening to try whatever is being shown for themselves.

I have five pages of topics specifically selected because they are good for demonstration speeches. You'll see the lists are adaptable to meet the needs of people of middle school age and upwards.

• 290 themed 'how to' demonstration speech ideas   
• 6 themed demonstration topic lists using the magic of 'how'
• 50 soft skill 'how to' demonstrative speech topics
• 100+ 10-minute, or less, demonstration speech topics
• 188 funny how-to speech topics

Return to Top

Speech topics for kids

I've got two pages of speech topics especially chosen with children in mind. They're mainly for kids in the middle school age bracket (11 - 14 years old) but are readily adaptable for those either younger or older.

Both pages are really useful if you're a teacher or parent looking for inspiration! I've carefully put together lists covering social/community issues, arts and culture, sports and games, food, fun and whimsy, hobbies, and more. 

-  8 themed lists of speech topics for children

- 50+ elocution topics for kids

Persuasive speech topics

Convince me!

Change my mind!

Challenge my thinking!

Convert me!

And, if appropriate, make me laugh!

Whatever topic you choose you will be expected to take a position on it and persuade your audience to consider what you're saying about it seriously.

For example:

'To be vegan is the only right, and moral way to live.'

'Good or right thinking is a matter of opinion.' 

My six persuasive speech topic pages are below.

• 50 good persuasive speech topics
• 5 0+ persuasive speech topic ideas
• 105 fun persuasive speech topics
• 309 easy persuasive speech topics
• 310 persuasive speech topics for college
• 108 feminist persuasive speech topics

125 strong ideas for effective story telling speeches, preparation guidelines, plus a printable narrative speech outline.

If you're looking for suggestions for the Toastmasters Level Three Project 'Connect with storytelling' these will get you off to a great start.

Go to: 125 examples of narrative speech topics

60 vocal variety & body language topics

60 speech topic ideas to help you work with body language and gesture. They're perfect for evocative personal storytelling speeches or for either of these Toastmasters Pathway projects:

• Level 2: Learning Your Style: Effective Body Language or,
• Level 1:  Mastering Fundamentals: Vocal Variety and Body Language

Go to 6 0 vocal variety and body language speech topics

Cause and effect topics for speeches and essays to challenge, connect and make a difference. With explanations, examples and a free printable blank fish bone diagram, (an extremely useful visual cause and effect analytical tool), to download for your own use.

Go to 145 good cause and effect topics

Fun public speaking topics

They're silly; deliberately daft and ridiculous!

These speech topics focus on light-hearted nonsense, tilting the world side-ways, giving your audience a glimpse of it funny side-up.

Gems include:

• 'How to procrastinate like a professional',
• 'How to look innocent',
• 'Why lying can be useful', ...

Go on. Make them snort with laughter. Visit:

• 60 fun public speaking topics for kids of all ages 
• 1 88 funny how-to speech topics

180 + interesting speech topic ideas

Here's a page of topic suggestions encouraging people to push beyond ordinary.

There's a bundle of 50 ideas around the growing influence of social media, a collection of 45 thought provoking suggestions centered on your very own community and family history, 61 'weird' topics, and more. 

You only need ONE truly bright and original idea, right?

Have a look here for it.

There are  180  interesting speech topic ideas   to browse through. 

Good informative speech topics

An informative speech does what its title says: it informs. It gives the facts about the topic. Not people's feelings about the subject - just the facts.

Informational speech topic possibilities are quite truly endless.  Use my page as a beginning to set your own creative juices in motion.

Visit:  100s of good informational speech topics

Commemorative speech topic ideas

A commemorative or tribute speech honors the memory of  a person, a group, an institution, a thing, an event or an idea.

Use this  commemorative speech topic helper  page (and its resource links) to identify the right topic and theme to match the event you've been asked to speak at.

239 controversial or argumentative speech topics

These topics are deliberately provocative. They cover four broad areas affecting us all: the food we eat, our children (from infancy through to teenage years), and the communities/countries we live in.

In addition to the 239 topics there are comprehensive guidelines about choosing the best topic: one fitting yourself and your audience. 

Find yourself a controversial speech topic .

Note: these topics are best suited for high school and college students.

32 Easter themed speech topics

Easter - what is its history? What are the special days, like Palm Sunday, all about? What do bunnies and chocolate eggs have to do with it? Why does the White House have a tradition of egg-rolling as part of its Easter celebrations?

Use this page of 32  Easter speech topic possibilities  to find an idea for an inspirational  demonstration or an interesting informative speech.

Impromptu speech topics

Help! I have a class and need lots of impromptu speech topics for them to practice with.

You've got them here. I have four pages of topics for impromptu speeches.

You'll find them suitable for middle school and upwards. They're great for public speaking clubs too.

• 200 impromptu speech topics
• 150 1 minute speech topics - with sample speech outlines, speeches: full text & audio
• 11 themed sets of fun topics for impromptu speeches
• 80+ themed table topic questions, with printables   

And last, but not least there's ...

98 printable impromptu speech topic cards, an almost* instantly available resource for busy public speaking teachers.

If you're time-poor and need a grab-and-go solution to your "HELP! I want speech topics for my public speaking class, and I need them now" problem, check these out.

Printable Impromptu Speech Topic Cards

* It'll take you 5 minutes to select the set you want, (proverbs or quotations), pay, and have it downloaded ready for printing. You'll be getting 98 themed speech topic cards - a great reusable resource for $4.75.

& One Minute Speeches!

Another almost instantly available resource.

A fun and hugely effective impromptu speaking activity. You get topics + instructions for the core activity, plus three advanced variations for $5.95. Take a look - One Minute Speeches .

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100+ Good Informative Speech Topics for College Students

Public speaking is a phase many students will go through before completing their academic careers. However, students find it challenging to stand before their class and speak. This action prompts students to browse educational websites, searching for informative speech topics that will help them out.

Coming up with essay topics and informative speech topics for college may be difficult but not impossible. We have 100 informative speech topics for college students to give you fresh ideas for your upcoming speech.

Interesting Informative Speech Topics for College Students

Accessible informative speech topics, fun informative speech topics, college informative speech topics, informative speech topics for high school, easy informative speech topics for college students, good topics for informative speeches, the best informative speech topics, unique informative speech topics, informative speech topic ideas for college students.

When searching for informative topics for speech, you must put all your informative speech topics in a well-structured format. Additionally, writing down your informative speech ideas will help you avoid leaving anything out.

Here are topic cases for informative speech writing.

• Best career opportunities in IT
• How to start an investment portfolio
• How to choose the right career for you
• What are the effects of greenhouse gasses
• Is the media a reliable source of information?
• The importance of validation to a person’s morale
• The worst movie of the year.
• How Hip Hop music affects American culture
• What creates sibling rivalries?
• Dealing with hyperactive children at school

Sometimes, your informative speech topic ideas are meant for a young audience; hence the informative topics should be exciting and easy to understand. Whichever informative speech topic you choose, it must also address current issues.

Here are some accessible informative speech ideas you can consider.

• How does good or bad governance affect policy implementation
• How vital are elections to the youth?
• Disadvantages of student loans
• Does journalism promote good governance?
• Advantages of the public over private employment
• Is it possible to effectively study while working?
• Importance of teaching taxation to children
• Are scholarships fairly handed out?
• How to cater for your expenses while in college
• How competition affects product or service delivery

Good topics for informative speeches should also be fun to help the audience remain engaged throughout the speech. When searching for good informative speech topics for college students, find out what subjects will interest your audience. Do you need some info speech topics or speech topics for college students?

Here are some informative speech topics for college students in 2020 for you.

• How to plan for a holiday
• How much bargain is a bargain vacation?
• How the great wall of China became a world wonder
• How to travel safely in these COVID times
• What is the origin of St Patrick’s Day?
• How did sending animals to space change space travel?
• How did valentines come to be
• Do party games improve social interactions?
• Discuss the beginning of peanut butter.
• Are people with tattoos viewed differently?

You may be a student searching for ideas for informative speeches for college students or informative speeches for college students for an upcoming address. For such occasions, it’s essential to go with informative speech topics college that touches on matters affecting students.

Check below if you’re looking for informative speech topics for students or informative issues for college students.

• Disadvantages of too much caffeine
• When does birth control not work?
• Is there such a thing as a bad memory?
• Effects of alcoholism on the family
• Advantages of getting employment on campus
• College tours; is DIY better than tour guides?
• Should students enroll in college immediately after campus?
• When is it best for students to study?
• Women’s roles during and after world war 2
• Is there life after death?

High school students also require informative speech topics 2021 for their class presentations. When choosing informative informational topics or speech topics informative ideas for a class debate, choose an example of informative speech topics that will help you make a stand.

Here are some informative speech ideas for college students and high school students.

• Sex education should be left to the parents, not the school
• How LGBTQ rights change the family structure
• What is cultural pluralism?
• Internet control as a way of preventing cyberbullying
• Advantages of school uniforms
• Why high school students should engage in political activities
• Is homework effective?
• How effective are online learning programs
• Bunking classes: Right or wrong
• Advantages of extracurricular activities

Are you searching for informative topics for college students or topics on informative speech? Look no further as other sites may give some outdated examples. Here are some informative speech ideas for college or informative speech topics for you.

• Growing your business post COVID
• Ways technology influences business
• Why personal goals are essential for personal growth
• Effects of fast food on children’s health.
• Ways of reducing stress in college
• What your posture says about you
• How dangerous is sleepwalking?
• Does social media cause depression in young adults?
• How effective are safe spaces in college
• How college basketball changed the NBA positively

The interesting informative speech topics need to be catchy; otherwise, you may choose good topics for speeches but your audience will find them dull. Below are some excellent informative presentation topics for your following remarks.

• Discuss the relationship between innovation and technological advancement
• Advantages of cultural diversity in today’s society
• Discuss the benefits of learning different languages in school
• Problem-solving through technology
• Why Steve Jobs is considered the father of technology
• Does violence in movies have an impact on children?
• Discuss technological advancement in medical science
• Discuss the quote, “News is verified gossip.”
• Discuss media freedom about Russia Ukraine conflict
• Is there a possibility of life on Mars?

You may have searched for great informative speech topics without any success. Don’t worry because the following topics to give an informative speech on are ready for use. Here are topics for an informative speech for college students.

• Discuss the connection between Latin and English
• Do you need a college education to be successful?
• Discuss how pop music influenced the youth in the 1990s
• Is war good for the economy?
• Discuss UK’s dwindling land situation
• Japan’s respect and honor culture
• How nutrition influences life expectancy
• Should robots be intelligent?
• How safe is information in the cloud?
• Discuss the origin of golf

Many unique informative speech topics touch on matters that some find pretty sensitive to talk about or are about a specific topic. These informative speech topics may also spark debate among your audiences. Here are some cases for an informative speech.

• Is Jazz music the origin of Rock and Roll?
• Do spiders make good pets?
• How to tell if a rabbit is male or female
• Can music influence a person’s mood?
• Discuss the process of rescuing a dog.
• Should religious classes be allowed in schools?
• Should abortion be made illegal?
• Should the WNBA lower the rim?
• Should the 2 nd amendment be reviewed?
• What are the effects of Finland and Sweden joining NATO?

For an informative speech topic to be termed so, it must be well-researched. These informative speech topics must be interesting for the audience and touch their daily lives. Here are issues on informative speech to consider.

• Should religious clothes be allowed in school?
• Is Jeff Bezos’ space industries viable?
• How old should a child be before joining the school?
• Is nuclear energy feasible in the future?
• Is the death penalty a violation of human rights?
• The earth can fix itself; discuss
• Do mothers make better parents than fathers?
• Is hydroponics the future of farming?
• Discuss the world’s water situation by 2050
• How to make your hobby profitable

We Can Help You with Informative Speech Topics and Papers

Whenever you want ideas for an informative speech or good topics for an informative speech, we are here for you. You shouldn’t have any challenges finding social media research topics , informative speech topics 2020, or 2022 informative speech topics for use.

Do you need any more good informative speech topics, or want a professional to come up with a topic and write an excellent speech for you? We can do that and so much more for you. Give us a call today, and let’s do this for you.

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50 Interesting Informative Speech Topics for College

26 September, 2020

15 minutes read

Author:  Mathieu Johnson

Informative speeches grant speakers a responsible mission of educating people about significant ideas and themes. They’re also about sharing thoughts and opinions on this or that topic, aimed at expanding understanding and providing listeners with relevant insights for further deliberation. Therefore, it’s a particular type of speeches given to put things into sharp focus and offer food for thought. Read up to know which informative speech topics have the most impact.

What is an informative speech?

As mentioned above, it’s a kind of speech that, well, informs the audience about your topic. Sounds simple enough, but simplicity is deceptive, and there are enough secrets behind this science. Specifically, not all people are fully aware of the fact that the “what” question is a key element that needs to be answered, for with informative speeches, you want to choose a topic most likely to be well received.

Of course, you can speak about something you already know, but you can also talk about the topic which is absolutely new to you. In this case, however, you must make sure that the theme will be relatively easy to research and studied before speech delivery. Another important point worth noticing is that organizational requirements and type of information for informative speech usually intertwines with those for an informative essay, for the latter is often an extension of the first.

How to write an informative speech?

So, now it’s time to move from theory to practice and write an informative speech. But where do you start from?

Although there are many different processes involved in the process, we’ll narrow them to essentials to help you better grasp the idea of how a perfect speech should be tailored.

Stage 1. Research and Brainstorming

Think about the topic.

The first and most crucial step is about choosing the right topic. We’ve mentioned before that it’s vital to select the issue you feel free to talk about. However, there are also cases when professors assign a specific task for you. Either way, the point here is to conduct thorough research based on the given or chosen topic.

If you want to explain the history of some company, band or event, for example, make sure to deliver the message clearly, without going here and there. For this, consider talking about particular points which will cover the whole speech and help the audience quickly digest it. Otherwise, your speech will depart from the topic, and listeners will find it challenging to follow your thoughts.

Gather Evidence

Every scholarly work proves its credibility by the inclusion of relevant sources to show both the audience and the instructor that you’ve put enough effort into the work to sound authoritative. This is a great chance to get a good mark, but more importantly, earn trust from listeners. To cite the evidence correctly, you can search for some facts, stats, or numbers in a variety of sources. These include textbooks, books, and encyclopedias (online ones work as well), scholarly articles, reputable news bureaus, and government documents. If these are hard to find for you, think of alternatives, like online journals and magazines. But be careful and don’t use sources from there if they are not credible and reputable. As an example, use The New York Times, The Guardian, Harvard Business Review, SAJE journals, Forbes, etc.

Also, keep in mind that the evidence you’ll use should depend on the subject of your talk. If it’s about science, check scientific publications. If it’s about medicine – embark upon texts on this specific sphere. Finally, don’t forget to create a works cited page at the end of your speech and put all your sources there. Even if your instructor does not specify such a requirement, create a list anyways. This will help you keep references organized, and you will be able to pick a suitable one from the list.

Generate a Nice Thesis

A thesis is the core of impactful speech that tells listeners about its focal points. It also reveals the purpose of your speech and provides the audience with an insight into what the speech is all about. Notably, your thesis should not exceed the length of one-two sentences and be as precise as possible. More so, thesis, like the speech itself, is not about convincing people to take your topic stance immediately. Rather, it’s about informing listeners about significant events or cases which they could analyze and make relevant conclusions themselves. No need to push them or force to change the perspective, just try to be genuine and honest with people you’re talking to. Considering that it’s a scholarly piece of work, there’s no room for appealing to emotions or subjective claims. So in informative speeches, objectivity is the key player.

Informative speech outline

The outline is a skeleton of your speech that briefly explains each of your points. This is basically a list of short sentences which reveal the meaning of your main speech ideas. Remember that this list is not for the audience; it’s for your own use. So the task here is to write about every point in a way you’ll understand. You can also use notecards instead of paper so that it’ll be much easier for you not to get lost in a sea of ideas and organize the speech properly. Tip: include numbers and capital letters for headings, and bullet points or other figures to mark subheadings.

If you are still unsure on whether you can cope with your task – you are in the right place to get help. Our essay writers will easily answer the to the question “Who can write my speech?”

Stage 2. Writing

Once the sketches are ready and you have a clear understanding of what to speak about, move on straight to writing.

Craft an Engaging Intro

What does engaging stand for in this case? It denotes some speech elements which will be enticing for listeners from the first sentence. It’s a common practice to start speeches with different hooks to call for more people’s attention. There are a plethora of techniques you can use to make an unforgettable first impression: jokes, anecdotes, examples from personal life, interesting statistics, rhetorical questions, quotes of famous people. You can even invent your own attention-grabber which will help you knock down listeners.

Give More Detail in the Main Body

Once you managed to create impact by the introduction and made sure everyone will be eager to listen to you further, you need to expand the explanation of key speech ideas in a well-structured, organized manner. Like in regular life, you start a story from the beginning to the end, while gradually moving from one idea to another. The same goes for informative speech – you need to ensure that the flow of your narration is logical and concise, fully elaborated, and precise. Also, don’t forget about making transitions between sentences. They will make your speech flow naturally, helping the audience to process the information much easier and effortlessly.

Wrap Everything Up in Conclusion

The ending of your informative speech should restate the main idea and the thesis you’ve mentioned in the introduction. There’s no need to say new things that will only confuse your audience. Instead, all the conclusion needs is a nice wrapping of the already stated claims.

So basically you want to review your main points and thereby deliver listeners a message which they will perceive as a major takeaway from what you’ve just told them. However, the introductory part should by no means repeat previous information word by word. It’s just a short restatement that covers up the main points.

Proofread and Edit the Final Version

Once the text is written entirely, it’s a must for you to double check it to avoid possible mistakes. If your informative speech turns out not as informative as expected due to grammatical or lexical errors, you’ll not be taken seriously, which we bet is not the purpose of delivering your talk. So, to prevent casualties from happening, you’ll need to use reliable editing and proofreading tools. Grammarly is an excellent source for this. Its accurate algorithm detects all kinds of mistakes and fixes them on the fly in a matter of seconds. And you can also check the text for plagiarism to make sure that it has no analogs anywhere on the web.

Stage 3. Perfecting Speech Delivery

Memorize your speech.

Half work is done – you have a writing piece. Now it’s time to learn it. Of course, it’ll take you time to do this, but with a little patience and enough time, you can memorize it even faster than expected. Besides, it’s not recommended to learn the speech from A to Z, inside out and upside down by heart. If your instructor is indulgent enough, feel free to memorize your talk in a way that allows you to explain your ideas clearly and consistently. To facilitate the process of learning, you can memorize sentence by sentence until you’re confident. And even if you forget something during delivery, you can always count on the outline that’ll give you a hint on what to talk about next.

Practice Reading Speech Aloud

When the final product is finally ready and polished, you need to concentrate on reading it.

Practice the speech in a mirror, to a friend/relative/pet, or record yourself to trace the tone and intonation. This way, you’ll make sure that your informative speech is brilliant and you deliver it just the way you wanted. Besides, this practice can help you critically evaluate the flaws and correct them before the actual delivery. Have enough time for this, because even experienced speakers always rehearse their speeches. Finally, focus on the way you use gestures, the way you stand and look at the audience, and facial expressions.

List of informative speech topics

There are lots of easy informative speech topics to choose from, but we offer you to review our topics list with some of the most alluring ones to get you started. Let’s examine pro informative topics that’ll help you write a memorable speech.

Topics for informative speech about music

• Frank Sinatra – a beloved father of music
• The drastic evolution of french music
• Deep house – the most popular music style among youngsters
• Why did rock and roll became an epitome of popular dance music
• Why does reggae music most known under the name of Bob Marley
• The psychological and physical benefits of listening to music
• Chill, lounge and electronica has market the era of progressive sound
• The impact of rap music on society at large
• The art of playing the violin
• The evolution of jazz music and its connection to historical movements

Informative speech topics about animals

• Why are so many animals under extinction today and how do we fix it?
• Why dogs are considered as humans best friend?
• The history and evolution of polar bears
• Why does rhinos horn trimming in South Africa still allowed
• How to properly raise chinchillas
• The most dangerous types of dogs on the planet
• Staggering intellectual abilities of elephants baffle even scientists
• How to keep snakes away and save your life
• Different types of butterflies
• The history of bees and their role in the world

Topics for informative speech about global warming

• Patterns in climate change: rising temperatures and flooding
• What Effects does Climate Change have on the Earth and its Inhabitants?
• What are the practical solutions to global warming
• What is global warming and what causes it?
• The future of global warming: dismal predictions and statistics
• Controversial opinions about global warming
• The greenhouse effect as the top one reason of climate change
• The global issue of global warming: what’s next?
• Humans are responsible for the emergence and progress of global warming
• Sanctions against generation of greenhouses: will they ever take place?

Informative speech ideas about sports

• How sports improve human physical and psychological health
• Is golf the game of the past?
• The real life of sport teams: from trainings to furious games
• Can roller skating be considered a kind of sport?
• What’s more dangerous: white water rafting or ice diving?
• The history of sports: whom do we owe respect?
• Hockey 101: gear, playing techniques, team spirit
• Why is boxing the most dangerous type of sports
• The most unusual kinds of sports humans have invented
• The importance and potential threat of football for the world 

Interesting speech topics about food and drinks

• How to bake a cake and not put on weight
• Why does alcohol bring so much trouble to contemporary youth?
• There are no superfoods, the study shows
• Does fast food really cause addiction?
• The secret ingredient of Coca Cola and why you’ll never want to drink it again
• If the fruit diet useful for health?
• Why bananas can save the world
• Eating vegetables and olive oil is a golden ticket to rejuvenation
• What’s the difference between natural and processed foods?
• Why eating pizza is the worst way to get away with cooking

As you can see from the list of topics for speeches, informative speech is a perfect occasion to explore interesting themes in depth and share your knowledge with people who are most likely to learn new things with you. Discovering a variety of topics and writing them on paper is perhaps the most engaging task your instructor has ever assigned you. And if you find it challenging to come with the right idea for a good topic, just send a “ write my speech ” request, and we’ll complete your order in no time.

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My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

434 Good Persuasive Speech Topics

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

Are you struggling to find a good persuasive speech topic ? We know – it can be hard to think of an interesting topic!

We’ve done all  the hard work and created a list of 400+ great persuasive speech ideas for college students, teachers, and anyone interested in public speaking. They’re organized into categories to make it easier for you to find one that that genuinely interests you.

In addition to our collection of speech topic ideas, we also have some tips on selecting a  good topic, as well as researchihng, writing, and delivering your persuasive speech.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

Crafting a persuasive speech or writing a persuasive essay begins with picking the right topic. What makes a good persuasive speech topic? What are the most important factors that make it or break it when it comes to a good persuasive speech topic?

You are much more likely to be successful with your speech when you choose a topic that interests you, rather than merely picking one from a list.

Talking about something you know or would like to know more about well makes it much easier and fun!

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

Some speech topics have been done to death. They are tired and stale, and are not likely to excite you or your audience (think abortion, gun control, smoking, same-sex marriage). Find a topic that grabs you and your audience, something new and fresh, unique and original.

• Interesting

A good persuasive speech topic is one that you can use to grab the audience’s attention, inform and persuade, and provide a strong persuasive argument for adopting your point of view.

You want to pick a topic that your audience cares and what to hear about.

How To Select a Good Persuasive Topic

How to narrow down this list of ideas?

First, make a rough inventory:

• Which of the speech topics are you interested in?
• What amuses you, makes you move right the way, happy or sad?
• Which topics do you know something about?
• Which topics would you like to research?

Review your inventory list and narrow your choices by answering these questions:

• Do you know global, national, state, community, job or school-related problems and solutions, issues or controversies, related to the persuasive speech ideas?
• Are you excited about any historical or current events, places, processes, organizations or interesting people?
• Do you have certain concerns, opinions, or beliefs?
• Do you think something has to change in the human attitude or social values?
• Did you see or hear something in the news or read about in library books on any of these topics?
• Is there a link with personal experiences, professional or personal goals?

All the answers on the questions above help you to find your angle of approach for a conclusive speech. So, select a few specific angles. Those can serve as the basic main points.

Best 10 Persuasive Speech Topics

Don’t have time to read our full list of 400+ topic ideas? Here is our list of 10 best persuasive speech topics.

• Money can’t buy love or happiness
• Cooking should be taught in schools
• The minimum wage should be increased
• Advertising is a mind game
• Introverts make great leaders
• Eating meat is unethical
• Anyone under 16 should not be allowed to date
• Sustainable clothes are not really sustainable
• The penny coin should be phased out

List of Persuasive Speech Topics

• Constitutional Issues
• Easy and Simple
• Environment
• Food and Drink
• Funny and Humorous
• College Students
• International Relations
• Motivational
• National Security
• Practical Knowledge
• Relationships

10 Animal Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should more pets be adopted than bought from a breeder?
• Are pitbulls a vicious breed?
• Should a dog that has bitten somebody be executed?
• Should we tame wild animals like lions and sharks.
• Should battery farming still be legal?
• Should ‘factory farming’ be banned?
• Adopting pets is the best choice.
• How do puppy mills affect us?
• The benefits of having pets.
• Why cats make the perfect pet.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics About Animals .

12 Automotive Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should the public first learn how to drive a manual transmission before obtaining their license?
• Drivers should have to take three courses before getting a license.
• Should young children use booster seats in vehicles?
• Hands-free cell phone use in cars should be promoted.
• Should the driving age be 14?
• The danger of texting and driving.
• Watch out for animals when driving.
• Why police should not chase a car.
• Why you should buy a Japanese car.
• Why sports cars are dangerous.
• Driving tests should be free.
• Share the road with bikes.

10 Business Persuasive Speech Topics

The world of business has so many aspects to it, but at the end of the day they are all about customer relations, about making money and about the relationship between employers and employees.

Below are topics that can be used to persuade your audience on a variety of business topics.

A tongue in cheek topic that can be used is “Hiring a lazy person isn’t always a bad thing”, this could be used to persuade an audience that often lazy people find the quickest solution to get something done, resulting in quickly completed work because they just want to get it over and done with.

• Advertising has tons of mind games.
• Advertising standards should be higher.
• The importance of understanding niche marketing.
• Why introverts make good leaders.
• Owning a business means you will lose your friends.
• Business will harden you.
• You should never go into business with family members.
• Just because someone knows you it doesn’t mean you owe them any discounts.
• To be a business owner you must learn to be well organized.
• It’s important that a business should have personality.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics for Business .

5 Constitutional Issues Persuasive Speech Topics

• Do you think it would be fair for the government to detain suspected terrorists without proper trial?
• Should flag burning as a form of protest be prohibited?
• Should every day begin with a silent prayer at school?
• Why alcohol should be illegal.
• Prayer in schools should not be mandatory.

10 Easy and Simple Persuasive Speech Topics

Below follow topics that should be easy enough to persuade your audience without going into too much research. There are some which can be used as ‘tongue in cheek’ topics such as ‘The paparazzi are the real stalkers’ and ‘People need to visit the dentist more often’.

• People should not text while driving.
• Celebrities who break the law should receive stiffer penalties.
• Teachers should pass a basic exam every few years to renew their certification.
• Cities should offer free bike-sharing programs.
• People should eat less junk food.
• We should do more to end poverty and world hunger.
• We should value the elders in our society and learn from their wisdom.
• Money can’t buy love or happiness.
• Children should be offered incentives for doing right, rather than punishment for wrongdoing.
• More recycling should be encouraged.

See this page for a full list of Easy and Simple Persuasive Speech Topics .

9 Economy Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should products manufactured outside the U.S. come with an additional tax?
• Buy products that are made in the USA.
• Free trade agreements are bad for workers.
• The trade deficit with China is dangerous.
• The minimum wage should be increased.
• Daylight savings time has many advantages for our economy.
• The oil companies are to blame for the rising energy prices.
• In most countries the economy is in the mighty hands of just a few multinational corporations.
• Hiring cheaper foreign employees hurts our economy.

10 Education Persuasive Speech Topics

• Teachers should have to pass a test of basic skills every decade to renew their certifications.
• Should free college tuition be offered to poor children?
• Would it be better to introduce a set of skills tests for students, before they graduate high school?
• Do you believe that students who are responsible for cyberbullying should be expelled from school?
• Would it be better if high school students completed community service hours to graduate?
• Do you think elementary and high school students should be allowed to use cell phones at school?
• Should students have to be on the honor roll in order to play sports?
• Art and music programs in public schools are an essential part of education.
• Schools should have the right to search students’ personal property (backpacks, lockers, pockets) to fight drugs in schools.
• Do you think students should be allowed to listen to music during study hall?

See this page for a full list of Education Persuasive Speech Topics .

10 Environment Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should there be stricter laws for protecting endangered species?
• Should only native plants be grown in gardens?
• More people should carpool or use public transportation.
• Should the U.S. limit the use of natural resources?
• How pollution is negatively affecting humanity.
• We should use algae to make oil instead of drilling.
• Why hydraulic fracturing should be banned.
• Why we shouldn’t use disposable diapers.
• Hybrid cars are good for the environment.
• We should keep our community clean.

See this page for a full list of Environmental Persuasive Speech Topics .

10 Ethics Persuasive Speech Topics

• Do you think female construction workers should have the same salary as male construction workers?
• Should assisted suicide be legal for people who suffer from terminal illnesses?
• Do you think the death penalty is the best punishment for dangerous criminals?
• Should you base your perspective of people on stereotypes you have heard?
• Should product testing on animals or humans be allowed?
• Why you should not choose your child’s genetics.
• Are people morally obligated to help the poor?
• Female genital mutilation should be stopped.
• Is it ethical to eat meat?
• Wearing fur is unethical.

10 Family Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should underaged people be allowed to consume alcohol at home, with parental permission?
• Should children 13 or younger be allowed to watch music videos or music channels like MTV?
• Do you think those older than 13 should be allowed into R-rated movies?
• Should teenagers be allowed to purchase violent video games?
• Is it appropriate for children to watch horror movies?
• Those under 16 should not be allowed to date.
• Parental pressure on child actors and athletes is harmful.
• Why parents should not hit their children.
• Fairy tales are good for young children.
• Why kids should not play R rated games.

See this page for a full list of Family Persuasive Speech Topics . We also have a page with Speech Topics for Kids .

6 Fashion Persuasive Speech Topics

• Men should wear pink.
• Choose an Eco-Fashion Fabrics Wardrobe!
• Are Sustainable Clothes Really Sustainable?
• Jewelry: Less Is More.
• Fashion Reveals Your True Identity.
• Fashion Is An Expression Of The Character

11 Financial Persuasive Speech Topics

• Why banks should ban hats and sunglasses to avoid robberies.
• Student loans should be forgiven.
• Reservation casinos are only beneficial if managed correctly.
• National debt is everyones problem.
• Purchasing a car is smarter than leasing one.
• The Japanese yen is affected by the weakness of the dollar.
• The Euro currency will oust the dollar.
• The Chinese Yuan / Japanese Yen / European Euro will all surpass the Dollar as leading currency.
• Phase the penny coin out.
• Severe budget cuts are the only way to maximise good financial results.
• Keeping a close eye on personal finance is key in achieving something in life.

15 Food and Drink Persuasive Speech Topics

• Genetically modified foods should be labeled.
• Do you believe companies who manufacture alcohol should be allowed to advertise on TV?
• Every child should learn to cook.
• Cooking should be taught in schools.
• Should we donate unused food from supermarkets?
• The history of added sugar in our food.
• We should all grow our own vegetables.
• Eat more fruits and vegetables.
• The promise of genetically engineered food.
• Why peanuts are amazing.
• Drink more orange juice.
• Why people should cook.
• Farmers’ markets should be increased.
• Eating organic is good for your health.
• Get artificial hormones out of food.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topic Ideas On Food, Drink, and Cooking .

10 Fun Persuasive Speech Topics

Fun topics are a great way to get people to listen to what you have to say, because when they are entertained they listen more carefully. Fun topics also help the speaker be more at ease, because the topics are more relaxed. Below follow 100 topics that you can have fun with while persuading your audience. .

• Ghosts are not real.
• We all need to be childish.
• Smokers have more acquaintances.
• Music has the power to heal.
• Diamonds are a girls best friends.
• Couples need to live together before getting married.
• Allow kids to believe in Santa.
• Pick up lines do work.
• Cake is not cake if it is dry.
• Parents must be prepared for the ‘birds and bees’ talk.

See this page for a full list of Fun Persuasive Speech Topics .

10 Funny and Humorous Persuasive Speech Topics

Humour is a fabulous way to get people’s attention. Below are questions and statement topics that can be used to get your points across on a variety of topics.

It is important to remember that there can be a fine line between funny and insulting. So use wit and make it fun without insulting your audience. This would be important to remember with a title like ‘The most dangerous animal out there is a silent woman’.

• Blondes are not as dumb as they look.
• Why funny pick-up lines work.
• Guys gossip more than girls do.
• You should not be Facebook friends with your mom.
• If things go wrong, your horoscope is to blame.
• Students should not have to do a persuasive speech in front of a large audience.
• Millennials should stop wearing spandex yoga pants all the time.
• Dads are more fun than moms.
• Argumentative essays are pointless.
• Shoes that don’t fit right are hazardous to your health.

See this page for a full list of Funny Persuasive Speech Topics .

16 Government Persuasive Speech Topics

• Do you believe there should be stricter federal restrictions regarding content on the internet?
• Should employers be required to post job opportunities on a government-run website?
• The government should provide shelter for the homeless.
• Should the state fund schools run by religions?
• Whose face should be printed on the newest bank note?
• Do you believe Puerto Rico should become a state?
• Our nation’s justice system needs to be improved.
• Should the government have a say in our diets?
• The military budget must be decreased.
• Should people get drug tested for state aid?
• How policy works in local government.
• The government should increase funding of Amtrak.
• Fixing potholes should be a priority of local government.
• Eminent domain should be used rarely.
• The war on drugs is a failure.
• Zoning laws should be common sense.

10 Health Persuasive Speech Topics

• Female minors should be allowed to get birth control without telling their parents.
• Should stem cell researchers be able to use cells from aborted babies to help cure diseases?
• Should doctors be allowed to prescribe contraception for girls under 16?
• Do you think it would be better if the USA had a universal health care system?
• Do you believe free condoms should be distributed in schools?
• Regular exercise will improve your health.
• Restaurants should post all ingredients to prevent allergic reactions.
• Do you believe fast food should come with a warning label?
• The use of animals in medical research is a necessary evil.
• Seat belts ensure all passengers a safer ride.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics on Health and Fitness . We also have a page with Medical Topics .

10 School Persuasive Speech Topics

School is a whole new world, where students discover more about themselves and life around them. These are topics that students will most likely have to deal with at some point during their elementary, middle, and high school careers.

• High school students should be allowed to have cell phones in school.
• High school students should not have to wear school uniforms.
• All high school students should learn a foreign language.
• Girls should be allowed to play on the boys’ sports teams.
• High school students should be required to do community service.
• Extracurricular activities are important for your future.
• Students should be able to stay up late, even on school nights.
• Peer pressure helps students grow as individuals.
• Students should have healthy food options.
• Students should be paid for getting good grades.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics for School Students .

10 College Students Persuasive Speech Topics

The following topics are for college students and about the many different aspects that they will deal with during their time in college.

• College textbooks should be replaced by iPads.
• Mobile phones should be switched off during a lecture.
• College students shouldn’t skip classes.
• Students shouldn’t study something that they are not passionate about.
• Gap years are actually a very good idea.
• Notes should always be taken in class.
• Student loans are expensive and students need to understand what they are getting themselves into.
• Students should get to know other students.
• It’s smart to get the harder classes out of the way first.
• Taking summer classes will help students get ahead of schedule.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students .

10 Teens Persuasive Speech Topics

The following topics are aimed at teens and subjects which are important and matter to teens.

• Teenage girls should be on birth control.
• Teenage boys are lazier than girls.
• Teens should have weekend jobs.
• Homework should not be given.
• Being popular isn’t a good thing.
• Teens are obsessed with scary things.
• Chores shouldn’t be paid for.
• Sex education must be compulsory.
• Exchange student programs for all students.
• Free time gets teens into trouble.

See this page for a full list of Great Speech Topics for Teens .

5 History Persuasive Speech Topics

• Did the U.S. Army provide their soldiers drugs during the Vietnam war?
• African- American achievements should be celebrated.
• Why Lincoln was the best President.
• Revisionist history is dangerous.
• The moon landing was a lie.

See this page for a full list of History Speech Topics .

10 Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

Interesting topics will always have an audience glued to every word, even when they may disagree with your point of view. Ultimately it is your job to persuade them that your view is in fact correct.

These topics have a mix of simpler speeches such as “Pick up lines do work” here both humour and a few examples of pick up lines have worked will get you going in the right direction. For a speech with a bit more research put into it there are topics such as “Stem cell research in murder”.

• The standards of beauty are never the same.
• Princess Diana was killed.
• Energy drinks are dangerous.
• School day needs to involve less sitting and more exercise.
• No credit cards for under 25.
• Healthy relationships require conflicts.
• Everyone needs medical insurance.
• Tooth whitening is out of control.
• In future air planes won’t crash.
• Business should hire more apprentices.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Interesting Speech Topics .

13 International Relations Persuasive Speech Topics

• Do you think it is time for the United States to suspend overseas military operations?
• The U.S. should cut off all foreign aid to dictatorships.
• Why you should volunteer in a developing country.
• Should Scotland be a country of its own?
• China will be the next superpower.
• Is any nation truly independent?
• Should women drive in Saudi Arabia?
• Foreign oil dependence is dangerous.
• Weapons disarmament should be increased.
• The war in Iraq was a mistake.
• The United Nations is important in defusing international crises.
• Human rights should be advanced all over the world.
• China will be the almighty economic superpower by 2025.

10 Law Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should those who are caught driving after consuming alcohol lose their driver’s license for one year?
• Should it be illegal to drive while talking on the phone?
• Should illegal music and movie downloads be prosecuted?
• Do you believe illegal immigrants should be allowed to apply for a driver’s license?
• Should motorcyclists have to wear a helmet?
• People over 65 should be required to take a bi-annual driver’s test.
• Should the driving age be raised to 21?
• Should assault weapons be legal?
• Should known gang members be prohibited from public parks?
• Do you think it should be illegal for people to curse on TV during daytime?

See this page for a full list of Legal Speech Topics .

3 Literature Persuasive Speech Topics

• Why reading is more beneficial than watching television.
• Why it is a good idea to read Fifty Shades of Grey.
• Why people need to read more books.

17 Media Persuasive Speech Topics

• Why it’s wrong for the media to promote a certain beauty standard.
• Is the media responsible for the moral degradation of teens?
• Do magazines marketed to teenagers send the wrong message?
• Why Disney should not be making Star Wars movies.
• Why you should study photography.
• Should certain T.V. shows have age restrictions?
• Why the media is to blame for eating disorders.
• The media does not force us to worship false icons.
• Why the Russian should have beat Rocky.
• Television is harmful to children.
• Why comic books are good to read.
• Some TV shows are educational.
• Make TV more educational.
• We need more funding for public television and radio.
• Violence on television should be regulated.
• Cable TV monopolies destroy competition.
• Katniss Everdeen would alienate Harry Potter.

10 Motivational Persuasive Speech Topics

• School leaders must shape high-achieving learning curricula for students.
• Set a clear goal and devote all your positive energy toward reaching it.
• What to do for people who have no motivation to live a happy life.
• The art of moral imagination is the key to intellectual and spiritual development.
• Why it is hard to follow your dream.
• What keep most of us from following the voice of your heart when it comes to love or even discovery travelling?
• Overcome your stage fright and fear of public speaking.
• Begin with forming a moral tool set when children are young and build further when they are at least 18 years old.
• Aim straightforward in whatever project you undertake, and emphasize and evaluate what you want to achieve often in between the completed parts of the total planning.
• Prudence is an effort you can turn non-believers into believers in your plans.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics For Motivational Speaking .

6 Music Persuasive Speech Topics

• Why the French horn should be played more.
• Should schools allow uncensored songs at school dances?
• How listening to music could improve your day.
• Why music is beneficial to society.
• MP3 music should be free.
• Rock music is better than Country & Western.

6 National Security Persuasive Speech Topics

• Are intensive security screenings essential for those who travel in airplanes?
• Negotiating with terrorists is sometimes justifiable.
• Should police carry firearms?
• Homosexuals belong in the military.
• Women benefit the military in many ways.
• Should police carry toy guns?

10 Politics Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should it be legal for politicians to accept campaign contributions from corporate lobbyists?
• Why you should vote.
• Ban abusive language in elections.
• Why you should know Bernie Sanders.
• Term limits need to be respected.
• Give Kurdistan back to the Kurds.
• Zimbabwe is the next drama in world politics.
• Central Asian states could become a threat.
• America is not the world’s policeman.
• Globalization pays off.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics about Politics .

3 Practical Knowledge Persuasive Speech Topics

• Basic survival skills are important to know.
• Basic camping skills everyone should know.
• Personal hygiene is important for professional success.

7 Psychology Persuasive Speech Topics

• Intelligence depends more on the environment than genetics.
• Human development depends primarily on environmental factors.
• Why we should not see psychologists.
• Why do we need to love and to be loved?
• Can money give you happiness?
• Why introverts make the best public speakers.
• Verbal abuse can be much more destructive than physical.

See this page for a full list of Psychology Speech Topics .

23 Relationships Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should young people have internet relationships?
• Men and women speak a different language of love.
• Long distance relationships are possible.
• Why it is important to live together before marriage.
• Teens should live with their friends once a week.
• Jealousy can be a disease.
• Most people say they will break up with a cheating partner, but in the end most people do not.
• Counseling is the solution for working through relationship problems.
• Intimacy is the key to a successful relationship.
• Women cheat more than men do.
• Interreligious Relationships – Love between two people can never be forbidden.
• Arranged marriages must be outlawed.
• Asking someone to wear a condom shows a lack of trust.
• Celibacy is outdated.
• Cheating isn’t wrong if you do it well.
• Co-workers should never date.
• Dating behavior rules are simple for girls: No means No, not Yes.
• Living together before marriage will lower the divorce rate.
• Men and women speak different languages in love matters.
• People only need one good friend.
• Polygamy should be allowed.
• You will learn most from friends that are different from you.
• Romance works best the old fashioned way.

8 Religion Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should public schools teach world religions?
• Students should be allowed to pray in school.
• Women should be priests.
• Religious conflict must be avoided.
• Why Islam is a peaceful religion.
• Islamic fundamentalism is not true Islam.
• Religious cults are dangerous.
• Faith in God should be protected.

See this page for a full list of Topics on Religion and Spirituality .

10 Science Persuasive Speech Topics

• Do you think the United States government should spend more on space programs?
• Why should we be aware of what is happening in outer space?
• Why Pluto should still be considered a planet.
• Mars was the same as Earth in the past.
• Why you should donate your body to science.
• We need more scientific advancements.
• Qualitative research is more preferable than quantitative research.
• Religion and science do not mix. (Or: they do.)
• Scientists have the duty to translate their findings in normal language.
• Theories are useless if they can not be transformed into strategies.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Science Speech Topics .

11 Self-Help Persuasive Speech Topics

• Art is a stress reliever and can reduce depression.
• With hardwork and determination anyone can be successful.
• Why we should live life spontaneously.
• Improve your time management.
• Embarrassing moments make you stronger.
• Be true to yourself.
• Dress for success.
• How to continue your personal growth.
• The importance of self- confidence.
• If you don’t give up, you’ll make it.
• Talking to yourself can be beneficial.

10 Society Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should larger passengers be obliged to purchase two plane tickets, or two movie tickets?
• Should American families have no more than two children, in order to control population growth?
• Should property owners be obliged to clean the snow from sidewalks on their property?
• Should there be a cop in every bar to make sure people do not drink and drive?
• Do you believe that older people should receive free bus rides?
• Should all citizens of the USA complete one year of community service?
• Do you believe it is time for America to use the metric system?
• Why it should be mandatory for all students to stand for the pledge.
• Do you believe that cities should provide free wireless internet?
• Why living in the country is better than the city.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Society Speech Topics .

10 Sport Persuasive Speech Topics

Some sports topics can quickly turn into an argument between fans so keep in mind that special care should be taken with some of the suggested topics.

The term soccer was used to distinguished between soccer and American football, feel free to use the term football for those countries that do not use the term soccer.

• Should some musical groups, such as marching band and show choir, be considered a sport?
• Do you think cities should have a bike sharing system?
• Should college athletes be paid?
• Why baseball players should take drug tests before playing.
• High school football programs should receive less funding.
• Female sports should be given equal coverage by the media.
• Should drug tests be mandatory for professional athletes?
• Should athletes be paid less?
• Should drug tests be mandatory for school athletes?
• Winning is not as important as trying your best.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Sports Speech Topics .

28 Technology Persuasive Speech Topics

• Google and other search engines will be the death of libraries.
• Make sure to backup your computer files several times a day.
• What kind of influence will technology have on our future?
• Printing photos is better than keeping them on a computer.
• Do you believe internet censorship is inappropriate?
• Should nuclear power be used?
• How technology will change our lives.
• Internet could do more to free deaf people from their social isolation.
• Should screen time also be limited for adults?
• Why the government should regulate technology.
• Technology is making people less creative.
• Technology has made life better.
• Why Microsoft Word products should be free.
• Why you should not buy an iPhone.
• Anti-piracy software does not work.
• Internet chatrooms are not safe.
• The amount of spam you see in your mailbox is just the tip of the iceberg.
• We are addicted to the internet.
• Put down your phone and connect with people.
• Electronics are making kids lazy.
• How does a search engine work?
• Apple music should be free.
• The importance of the internet.
• Internet gambling needs more regulation.
• Computer literacy should be increased.
• The importance of internet fraud awareness.
• Why selfies are a thing of the past.
• People who say they do not need or want to use the world wide web are insane.

12 Travel Persuasive Speech Topics

• Why you should go to Bermuda.
• Why airline tickets should be cheaper.
• Traveling makes you more open-minded.
• Always report travel complaints as soon as possible when back home.
• Backpacking means every day unexpected adventures if you are open for it
• If there was no tourism there would be much more poverty.
• Support eco-tourism.
• Tourism ruins historical sites and there should be placed warning signs to awake them.
• Extreme air turbulence can be fatal.
• Fly First Class at least once in your lifetime.
• The best way to travel is in a guided group.
• Antarctica should be closed for tourists and scientists

8 Workplace Persuasive Speech Topics

• Should large corporations hire a number of minorities that are proportionate to the population?
• Do you think 14 year olds should be allowed to hold jobs?
• Why you should choose a high paying job over a fun job.
• Why everyone should work retail once in their life.
• Tipping should be mandatory in restaurants.
• Women make better managers than men.
• The importance of office parties.
• Labor unions should be protected.

Our list of topics is by far the best list you will find online – both in terms of quantity and quality. We add and remove ideas weekly to keep the list up-to-date.

Many timely persuasive speech topics can be found on radio, TV, your local newspaper, or your Facebook and Twitter feeds. We also have Argumentative (which is a type of persuasive speech on a controversial issue) and Policy topics . If you know of a cool topic, please send it to us and we will publish it on our page with fresh topics.

For persuasive essay topic ideas have a look at our list of Interesting Research Paper topics : these can be easily adapted for persuasive speeches.

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Vote of Thanks Examples

50 thoughts on “434 Good Persuasive Speech Topics”

Thank You! 🙂 Very helpful and inspiring and you get a good laugh out of these topics, wish me luck on my test.

That was some awesome topics for my college presentation thanks for the help 🙂

Thank you so much i got a 82 on my speech! I talked about how women don’t have rights, and that they should be in the kitchen. Thank you again!!!

These topics are good I like give speech. Speech good for speaking. thank for topics

Why smoking can help you make friends

These topic are good. Thank you so much..

Really helpful, I pro-formed a speech outlining why exactly unfaithful thots should be be vanquished from our society. Got a 69.

Thanks so much! I did a speech on the unfaithful thots of our society and the plague being wrought upon the population. We need a solution. Some might say a final, solution.

These topics are great. Thank you

OMG thank you sooooo mush you literally saved my life.

Thankkkk youuuuuuuuuuuuu sooooo much these topics are amazing and thank you for saving my life my speech was why airlines should be cheeper and i got a 99

Great topics but there is no R rating for video games. (Family, Topic 10)

Thank you so much this was really helpful!!!!

these are good topics because im in 5th grade in my class right now and we are starting pursasive right now

Why sex education important

Are pitbulls a vicious breed

Germany is the best

Does Lightning McQueen have Life Insurance or Car Insurance ?

Correction: why cats make the purrfect pet.

thank you this is a very helpful and inspiring topics

These were good and helpful. This was exactly what I needed for my speech. Thanks to whoever came up with all of these.

Thank you so much. My speech on getting Belle Delphine banned got 69%

Thank you so much, this was inspiring and helpful.

ok, so I know im the only one that did this but its actually 414 speech topics so!!!!!11

This was v helpful- thank you! i did that Princess Diana was murdered and was very easy to be passionate about it – thx again!

very nice. help alot.me like moon landing one. thought was funny.

i love ThiS website SO MUCH it helped me with my speech endlessly and will be forever greatful xxx <3 <3

Why water causes cancer

Why Sped kids should have more special attention in schools?

-Tax the freaking pants off the 1%

-Only highly education education specialists should make laws regarding education

-Schools should implement standards that require more recess and P.E. and no homework

did a speach on koalas being nuclearly reactive thx sm

please tell kate to stop trying to help with my academics in writing thanks xx

Should kids be allowed to kick their parents out of the house when they get caught doing bad things

cheating isnt wrong if you do it well

i personally think that this website helped a lot i think you should add a kpop section just for who is interester ^0^ thank you 🙂

I made a speech explaining why toothbrushing should be mandatory and it got a 69

thanks so much i got a 69 on my speech about free robux

thanks bro i got a 69% on my speech about how i would eat henrique all night

Couldn’t find a topic but site was amazing! Henrique on the other hand

thanks got me a 100

Those were so helpful wish me luck on my test

henrique is kind of annoying but a good website

i’m thinking a speech on the flash sounds perfect.

Thank youuu so muchhh!!!!!! This was so helpful and rly helped me find new perspectives to look from. I wrote my speech on how men are animals, have no rights, and should be locked in mines and milked for their semen. I also found out im pregnant guys!!!! Time to find out if it’s a girl or an abortion!!!!!

I got the best speech topic.thank goodness.I only got an hour to finish.

why can’t we make toast in the bath

Why teens shouldn’t have sex before marriage.

I laughed so hard at “students should not have to do a persuasive speech in front of public audiences”

is this the real life, or is it just a fantasy?

this site was so good i found nothing! thank goodness i got a 0% my grades are rising

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243 Informative Speech Topics for College Students: Fun & Easy Ideas [UPD 2024]

Searching for informative speech ideas for college students can give you lots of trouble. However, when a team of professionals offers you a list of topics, you know that you can count on each of the informative speaking topics in the list being a real gem. 

Here, we’ve prepared lots of good informative speech topics for college students. Also, you’ll learn about the purpose of an informative speech and how to do it.

So, let’s not waste any time – let’s dive into the pool of fantastic ideas for informative speech writing!

• 📝 Purpose of an Informative Speech
• 💬 How to Prepare a Speech?
• 📚 50 Best Topics
• 🔥 Mind-blowing Topics
• 💡 Easy Topics
• 📎 Short Topics
• 📋 Interesting Topics
• ❓ Mysterious Topics
• 🦄 Unique Topics
• 📱 Topics about Social Media
• 🏺 About Cultural Artifacts
• 💼 About Business
• 🧠 Psychology Topics
• 🎓 Speech Topics about College Life
• 🗣️ Public Speaking Topics for College Students

👨‍🎓 Fun Informative Speech Topics for College Students

📢 oral presentation topics for college students, 🎤 informative speech examples for college students, 📝 the purpose of an informative speech.

If you decide to prepare an informative speech, you should understand its central purpose. Your goal here is to share information on a certain topic with others. To achieve this aim, you should find a way to present the theme to your audience.

Another essential aim to keep in mind: your informative speech should be memorable . It means that people should be able to remember the main point. To make your speech stand out, you need to work out its structure.

It’s quite a challenging task! But don’t worry, we’re here for you. Dive into the next section to find out how to do an informative speech.

💬 How to Prepare an Informative Speech?

Before we offer you a wonderful list of informative speech topics for college students, have a look at this section! Here we’ve prepared a three-step plan on how to prepare an informative speech.

Step #1: Choosing Informative Speech Ideas for College Students

Firstly, you should decide upon what subject interests you the most. It is essential to be curious about what you’re talking. Below you’ll find 200+ informative speech ideas from different areas. You can decide to talk about art, nursing, business, cultural artifacts, or many other themes.

Step #2: Writing Your Informative Speech

Secondly, you should prepare your speech in a written form. To have your speech written is vital, as:

• it is well-structured;
• you don’t forget anything;
• you can always go back to your notes.

Step #3: Checking Your Informative Speech

Thirdly, remember to have these essential parts in your informative speech:

• Catchy introduction – pose a question for your audience.
• Thesis statement – the main point of your informative speech.
• Clear arguments.
• Conclusion – answer the initial question.

📚 50 Best Speech Topics for College Students

Here we’ve created a list of 50 excellent informative speech topics from different areas. Enjoy!

• Differences in non-verbal communication in different cultures.
• Insomnia and its causes: Blowing the cover off the old mystery.
• Sleepwalking: Myths and prejudices.
• Communication technology impacts.
• Something people never knew about WWII: Unknown soldiers and their deeds.
• Anne Frank: The girl who believed in people’s good nature despite everything
• Hip-hop music, culture, and famous artists.
• Things people never knew about space: Bordering a sci-fi novel.
• Modern popular culture.
• Recent discoveries about neutrinos: Travel at the speed of light.
• Unknown inventors: Chester Carlson and his Xerox machine.
• The entire story of the Higgs boson: No parallel universe.
• Paris major tourist attractions.
• D. Squad against lung cancer: New prospects, new discoveries.
• The invention of Segway: Down with the cars of yesterday!
• Social psychology in people’s life.
• In the light of recent fuel issues: Storage of solar energy.
• The Manhattan Project and its effects.
• Stem cells as a probable solution to terminal diseases.
• Newest methods of child upbringing: Success and failure.
• The effect of music on culture.
• World War II in Africa.
• The Social institution of family in the USA.
• Social factors and family issues.
• What is cultural pluralism?
• What life of ordinary people looked like in the Middle Ages?
• Who created Latin America?
• Adolf Hitler’s rise to power in Germany.
• Ecotourism effects on Eskimos in Canada.
• Japanese & Chinese families and their differences.
• The impact of social networks on adolescent psyche.
• The lack of sleep and driving: The USA case.
• Is religion compatible with secularism?
• Cultural diversity and inclusion in society.
• US-Mexican border and drug problem.
• Artificial Intelligence and the problem of unemployment.
• Why is Latin America called ‘Latin’?
• Global warming: causes and consequences.
• Social workers in students’ life.
• How does YouTube improve our laziness?
• Women’s role in Victorian society.
• Medicine and life expectancy in the Middle Ages.
• Bilingual education: Advantages and drawbacks.
• Should cellphone use in cars be banned?
• The real effects of greenhouse gases.
• Humanism and Renaissance period.
• The Chinese Cultural Revolution and its effects.
• Corporate culture: West versus East.
• Should schools teach morals?
• Psychology: How do children succeed?

🔥 Mind-Blowing Informative Speech Topics for College

Here are some more wonderful speech topics for you. To better help you understand what your informative speeches should be about, we also provide a short description of the subject. Let’s go!

• Why is the sky blue? The mechanism of refraction. Many of us have wondered since our childhood about the color of the sky. Today, most of us can probably say that the sky is blue due to refraction, but very few can explain the mechanism of this process. Choose this as a topic for your informative speech and give others the ability to answer when their children ask them this question.
• Black holes: Concentrations of mass that can suck in the light. Black holes are some of the most interesting cosmic objects that are known today. They are massive concentrations of matter in a relatively small space. Their density is so high that their gravity is immense; even light cannot escape such gravity once it gets under the event horizon. If you want to prepare for an informative speaking event, you can choose this as your topic to impress your audience.
• The deepest depths: The Mariana Trench. The Mariana Trench is known to be the deepest place underwater on Earth. Its depth reaches almost 11 kilometers (nearly 36,000 feet) at specific points. However, the underwater surface of the trench also has its landscape; it is known that there are mountains in it. Find out more about these unimaginable depths and prepare an impressive and fascinating speech for your audience.
• The “dangers” of dihydrogen monoxide: A hoax for the scientifically illiterate. In the 1980s, a hoax was published by a newspaper on April Fool’s day, reporting the presence of “dihydrogen oxide” in the waters of a city. Later, in 1989-1990, the hoax was published on the Web; the name has been changed to “dihydrogen monoxide” to make it sound even scarier. Find out if your audience is as gullible as the people who organized campaigns to ban the chemical, or just make an informative speech to enlighten the naive ones.
• Qualitative versus quantitative: what type of research method to choose? When planning a study, you may not know what type of methodology to choose: qualitative or quantitative. However, the choice should depend on the nature of your inquiry, and sometimes even on how much is already known about the subject. Make an excellent informative speech on this topic and help your group mates with their next research project.
• The history of data storage devices. Computers are virtually ubiquitous nowadays, and data storage devices are used both inside computers (e.g., hard drives) and outside them (DVDs, flash memory, data storage arrays). Preparing and delivering an exciting and informative speech on this topic can cause your audience to enjoy themselves truly.
• Brown dwarfs: “stars that didn’t quite make it.” Brown dwarfs are substellar objects with a mass that falls in the range between the smallest stars and the enormous gas giants. They are, however, much more massive than gas giants due to their higher density. However, their mass is not enough to sustain the nuclear reaction of hydrogen into helium fusion; one might say that the most massive brown dwarfs only “barely” lack the mass to become the lightest stars. Selecting this as a topic for your informative speaking will help both you and your audience to learn more.
• The invention of photography. Making photos is one of the most popular hobbies today now that we have digital cameras. In the past, however, photo cameras used film to take pictures, and even before then, there have not been any cameras around. The invention of photography became a crucial point in the history of humanity.
• The mysteries of the Indian caste system. The Indian caste system is one of the most ancient traditions in India. While the caste system means formalized inequality, this idea has interesting religious and cultural roots. Your audience will enjoy an informative speech on this topic about the cultural tradition of a foreign country.
• Cannabis and the history of the word “assassin.” Did you know that the word “assassin” is derived from the word “hashish”? Hashish was a drug popular in a medieval Islamic sect known as Nizari Ismailis. Its members are reputed to have been well-trained killers performing surgical strikes at their opponents.
• Epigenome and its role in gene expression. Nowadays, virtually everyone knows that genes carry hereditary information from parents to children and provide the data for the creation of almost all molecules, cells, and tissues in living organisms. However, much fewer people are aware of the mechanism that allows for the formation of different cells and tissues for various purposes, for not all the information from DNA needs to be used when a cell is created. Learn more about the mechanism of the epigenome , and deliver an informative speech on this exciting subject to your audience.
• “Shining magic powder”: the Goiânia accident. In 1987, in the city of Goiânia in Brazil, a local businessman, the owner of a scrapyard, found a capsule with a mysterious powder that glowed with a thick blue light. Having thought that the dust was precious and probably magical, the businessman took the powder to his home to show it to his family and friends. However, the fairy tale soon turned into a deadly nightmare. Find out more about the accident, and make an informative speech for your audience to tell them about why glowing “magical” powders are probably very dangerous.
• The invention of the first clock. All sorts of clocks and watches are an indispensable part of modern life. However, before the first clock was invented, people could not tell the time precisely and had to rely on things such as the Sun, stars, and mechanisms such as sundials to tell the time approximately. Tell your audience about the history of the brilliant invention in an informative speech on this exciting subject.
• The phenomenon of male bisexuality in the culture of Ancient Greece. In Ancient Greece, it was believed that a middle-aged man should find a young man and serve as a mentor for him, also engaging in sexual contact with him. However, that older man still needed to have a wife and children. Tell your audience more about this exciting tradition in an informative speech on this topic.
• Does “real-life” water freeze at 0°C (32°F)? The freezing point depression. Today, virtually everyone knows that water freezes at 0°C (32°F). However, this is only true of pure water in certain conditions. Few people know that water freezing temperature depends on factors such as pressure and, importantly, the number of particles of substances dissolved in water. Tell your audience more about this in an excellent informative speech about such a phenomenon as the freezing point depression .

💡 Easy Informative Speech Topics for College Students

Here is another list for you if you’d like to choose one of the easy informative speech topics for college students.

• The Parisian culture: European and Islamic cultures.
• The future of snowboarding.
• New Olympic sports.
• Popular music in America.
• Tourism in France and globalization influences.
• Major religious beliefs.
• Current environmental issues.
• World history of smoking.
• Noise pollution in big cities.
• How do childhood memories work?
• Fashion trends during 2014-2015 years.
• Yoga as a phenomenon in Western culture.
• Heavy metal music: History.
• English East India Company: Interesting Facts.
• The history of money.
• Nelson Mandela: Important life facts.
• Negative impacts of fast food.
• How did the world population grow?
• Global poverty: Current situation.
• Why are trees important for our life?

📎 Short & Easy Speech Topics for College Students

Sometimes you need to be concise with your speech . For this reason, we’ve prepared a list of short speech topics for you! Let’s go!

• The influence of social media on concentration.
• Global health: Problems and its solutions.
• United Nations: Main functions.
• Global warming problems and solutions.
• Why do people have stereotypes?
• The UK National Health Service.
• Death penalty around the world: Overview.
• The future of healthcare.
• Human rights organizations: Is it essential?
• Why is ethics inevitable in healthcare?
• Sustainability and obesity in the US.
• Healthcare informatics: Overview.
• Why should you not abandon fat in food?
• Medical waste management.
• Why is iron deficiency dangerous?
• American health care system.
• Where did the manners come from?
• European healthcare systems.
• What news can be called ‘fake’?
• Electronic health record: Pros and cons.
• Mandatory health insurance : Advantages and disadvantages.
• Pain management in nursing.
• Trends in organic food.
• GMO: Is it dangerous?
• Social networks: Major trends.
• Causes of depression.
• Why are so many people afraid of public speaking?
• What is environmental protection?
• Why do people have emotions?
• Where do cultural traditions come from?

📋 Interesting Informative Speech Topics for College Students

That’s not all yet! If you’re interested in even more speech topics, keep reading! Here is a list of other interesting informative speech topics.

❓ Mysterious Speech Topics for College Students

• The mystery of John F. Kennedy’s death.
• The mystery of Easter Island: Where did the statues come from?
• The mystery of the Bermuda Triangle.
• Stonehenge: What is still unknown?
• Top 3 mysterious places on the planet.
• Who is Banksy?
• Why are people attracted by mysteries?
• Snowman: Where does it come from?
• Loch Ness and its mystery.
• City of Atlantis: Has it ever existed?

🦄 Unique Speech Topics for College Students

• Origins of art: Where does it come from?
• What do people with bipolar disorder feel like?
• Where do trends come from?
• What regular actions can everyone take to care about the environment?
• What challenges do technologies bring?
• Based on technological development, what might our future look like?
• Mental illnesses stigmatization in the 21st century.
• Overpopulation: Can we solve this issue?
• What is culture for?
• What is positive psychology about?

📱 Informative Speech Topics for College about Social Media

• How has the world changed with the rise of social media?
• Body image: Is social media harmful?
• Politics: How is social media used for political purposes?
• Privacy: Is it still possible?
• Cyberbullying: What can be done against it?
• Social media and mental health: Overview.
• Male versus female: Who is more active on social networks?
• Fake News and social media: Overview of the problem.
• Why do people enjoy social media?
• Should social media be controlled by governments?

🏺 Informative Speech Topics about Cultural Artifacts

• How did people learn to understand cultural artifacts?
• What are the latest important cultural artifacts that have been found?
• Eastern ceramics: History and features.
• Postage stamps: History.
• Mexican pyramids: The meaning behind.
• Cultural artifacts from the Middle Age: Overview.
• Religious artifacts of Western cultures from the 19th century.

💼 Speech Topics for College Students on Business

Sometimes you might want to choose a broad topic for your informative speech. Don’t worry! Here is a list of broad informative speech topics on business, marketing, and management.

• Management information systems in business processes.
• Performance management in business.
• Activity-based management.
• Latest online marketing strategies: Overview.
• Levels of management.
• Concept of international marketing.
• Relationship marketing and its practical uses.
• Social media influences on marketing.
• How does business planning work?
• The concept of business communication.
• International business and cultural differences.
• Motivation theories in business.
• Ethics and morals role in business.
• Management in multinational companies.
• The future of small businesses.
• Small businesses marketing strategies.
• Business competitive strategies.
• Mission statements.
• Management in small businesses.
• Operations management.
• Growth strategy.
• Strategic financial management.
• Sustainability policy.
• Management functions.
• Team management.
• Cash flows statement.
• International standards.
• Project manager.
• Organizational communication.
• Organizational change.
• Human resource management.

🧠 Informative Speech Topics for College about Psychology

Psychology is a very popular topic today. Many people are curious to know more about psychological questions. So, you might think of preparing an informative speech on psychology. Have a look at our topic list!

• How can psychology be used to improve people’s lives?
• How to avoid burnout syndrome? Useful tips.
• How does our memory work?
• How is psychology used in marketing?
• Sigmund Freud: Central ideas and their influence on modern psychology.
• Business psychology: How does it work?
• Goals setting and psychology.
• Emotional Intelligence: Why is it essential?
• Can money make people happy? Psychological point of view.
• Why are people biased towards mental illnesses?
• Is it possible to learn stress resistance?
• Personality tests: Are they trustworthy?
• How does a lie detector work?
• Social networks and self-esteem: Does one affect the other?
• How is Emotional Intelligence measured?
• Dreams: What psychology says?
• What is critical thinking?
• Why does music evoke emotions?
• Does IQ really matter?
• Why do social networks make us addicted?

🎓 Easy Informative Speech Topics about College Life

Another idea is to focus on an informative speech about college life . It will be likely interesting for your classmates! Let’s dive in!

• How does college life benefit academic motivation?
• College life: Pros and cons.
• The first year of college.
• Living on campus: Advantages versus drawbacks.
• College education in the modern world: Pros and cons.
• Online education: Pros and cons.
• Extracurricular activities in college life.
• Major challenges in college life.
• College life for students of different ages.
• Expectations from college life.

️🗣 Public Speaking Topics for College Students

• Responsible ways of using ChatGPT in education.
• How trustworthy is online voting?
• The benefits and pitfalls of investing in cryptocurrency.
• Strategies to maintain work-life balance.
• Discrimination of women in sports and how to stop it.
• How can we protect mental health in the age of social media?
• The efficiency of yoga in reducing anxiety.
• Habits you need to have to become successful.
• The dangerous effects of air pollution.
• How do sports assist children in developing their character?
• The evolution of Internet slang and abbreviations.
• Ten ways to find a lover on social media.
• How can humor heal our daily stress?
• Dropping out of the university as a strategy to become successful.
• The use of chemical reactions in cooking and baking.
• The key secrets of clowning: funny makeup and balloons.
• How can you cheat on exams without being caught?
• The beneficial side of telling a lie.
• Sports nicknames and their importance.
• What were the causes of depressive Tweets during COVID-19?
• The importance of recycling in the modern world.
• Co-educational institutions: benefits and drawbacks.
• Why should body-shaming be banned?
• The practical methods of stopping racial discrimination.
• How can we deal with terrorism in the world?
• Five ways of breaking bad habits.
• The efficiency of reading in transforming one’s life.
• How does the gender pay gap impact the economy?
• The value of protecting minority cultures in the US.
• The same rating system for all students: for or against.

If you are still in doubt about how the informative speech should look, we have helpful examples and famous speech samples that can come in handy!

Example of Informative Speech about Global Warming

Welcome, everyone, Today, let’s talk about something that we are all responsible for — global warming. And it is not an abstract concept but a global phenomenon occurring ever so slowly, even at this moment. Over the past century, the average temperatures have increased by just over one degree. This may not appear to be much, but many experts agree that the Earth’s temperatures are beginning to rise more rapidly. But what causes global warming? Global warming happens when greenhouse gases trap heat inside the Earth’s atmosphere. Consider what occurs when you open your car door after you have rolled up your windows on a hot day. The sun’s heat enters the car but cannot escape due to its frame. This is, to some extent, an illustration of what happens during global warming. Global warming has detrimental effects on our planet. It is not just about extreme weather events. It is about issues that threaten the delicate balance of life on Earth. The rising sea level, driven by melting polar ice caps, inundates coastal regions, causing widespread flooding and damaging coral reefs, the very foundation of marine ecosystems. Air quality deteriorates, and seawater acidity increases, impacting marine life and disrupting the food chain. Global warming, caused by greenhouse gas emissions, is not a distant threat but an impending catastrophe the consequences of which will escalate dramatically in the near future. The time to act is now. Individual actions to reduce energy consumption, using fuel-efficient vehicles and electronics, can make a significant difference. These efforts, coupled with collective action, will not only restrain greenhouse gas emissions but also improve air quality. It is not enough to rely on global policies. Individual contributions are also crucial for preventing irreversible damage. Let us seize the moment, take action, and secure a brighter future for the generations to come. Thank you for your attention.

More Sample Informative Speeches for College Students

Here are five famous informative speech samples that you can view to learn from the best speakers.

• Andrew Blum: What Is the Internet, Really? This speech dwells on the fundamental principles of Internet work, focusing on its physical side. According to Blum, the internet is not only a stream of 0s and 1s traveling over the air, but it is a physical network of cables and servers that connect people all over the world.
• Pranav Mistry: The Thrilling Potential of Sixth Sense Technology Pranav Mistry’s speech describes Sixth Sense technology, which allows people to interact with the world around them using gestures and movements. The author highlights how Sixth Sense may boost our productivity and efficiency while opening new avenues for creativity and innovation.
• David Gallo: Underwater Astonishments This speech explores the wonders of the underwater world, from majestic coral reefs to amazing marine life. Gallo’s purpose is to remind us that the undersea world is a magical place and that it is critical to maintain this endangered ecosystem.
• Pamela Meyer: How to Spot a Liar This speech lays up a framework for detecting lies based on the study of liars’ behavior patterns. While there is no reliable technique to identify if someone is lying, Pamela Meyer emphasizes that there are numerous crucial symptoms that can evoke suspicion.
• Greg Brockman: The Inside Story of ChatGPT’s Astonishing Potential Greg Brockman’s speech explains how ChatGPT works and how it can be used for various purposes, from education to entertainment. The author predicts a future where ChatGPT is incorporated into our daily lives, helping us to learn and create.

Now you have more than 200 informative speech ideas! Also, you’ve got an understanding of how to prepare an informative speech. Why wait? Start doing your own informative speech. Good luck!

🔗 References

• Informative Speeches – University of Minnesota
• Defining an Informative Speech – Lumen Learning
• Informative Speaking – University of Pittsburgh
• Informative Speech Topics – Medium
• Informative Speaking – WAC
• Major Types of Informative Speeches – CSU
• Informative Speech – UWLAX
• Informative Speech Objectives – Hawaii.edu
• Speech Resources – SPC
• Informative Speech – Illinois State University

This is a very informative and truly inspiring article..These ideas helped me give an excellent speech and i would like to congratulate Jack who has prepared the same..Gr8 job

50 Topics for Impromptu Student Speeches

Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo. 

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

For the many people who break out in a sweat at the very idea of speaking in front of an audience , the prospect of speaking on an unknown topic with little to no preparation is likely terrifying. But you don't have to be afraid of impromptu speeches. As it turns out, the secret even to off-the-cuff speeches is preparation.

Impromptu Speech Tips

• Decide on your topic
• Come up with three supportive statements related to your topic
• Prepare a strong conclusion

Use this list of impromptu speech topics to practice making a quick speech outline in your head. For each of the topics below, just think of three main points you'd like to make. For example, if your speech topic is "Your least favorite chores," you could quickly come up with three statements:

• I don't know anybody who likes to fold laundry, so the first task on my list of unhappy chores is folding laundry.
• Taking out the trash is another chore that most people dread, and I'm no different.
• The worst chore in the entire household has to be cleaning the toilet.

If you go into your speech with these statements in your head, you can spend the rest of your time thinking up supporting statements as you speak. When you've identified your three main points, think of a great finishing statement. If you end with a great closer, you'll really impress your audience.

Start Practicing With This List

• My three favorite animals.
• What you would find in my closet. Make something up.
• What you'd find under my bed.
• The best letter of the alphabet.
• Why your mom/dad is special.
• A day that stands out.
• The best surprise ever.
• If I had a million dollars to give away.
• If cats/dogs ruled the world.
• A trip to remember.
• My favorite day of the year.
• If I could only eat three foods forever.
• If I could design a school.
• Why books are important.
• Three surprising facts about me .
• How to impress your parents.
• How to plan a party.
• A job I'd love to have.
• A day in my life.
• If I could have dinner with anyone.
• If I could travel through time.
• My favorite book.
• An important lesson I've learned.
• What I've learned from cartoons.
• The smartest cartoon character.
• Three things I'd change if I ruled the world.
• Why sports are important.
• The worst chores at home.
• Why I deserve an allowance.
• If I were in charge of school lunches.
• If I had invented school.
• The best theme park rides.
• Whom do you admire most?
• What is your favorite animal?
• How to achieve your dreams.
• Why you need a baby brother.
• How to annoy an older sister.
• How to save money.
• Three things that scare me.
• Great things about snow days.
• Things you can make out of snow.
• How to spend a rainy day.
• How to walk a dog.
• Great things about the ocean.
• Things I'll never eat.
• How to be a slacker.
• Why I like my town.
• The best parts of a parade.
• Interesting things you see in the sky.
• Things to remember when you're camping.
• An experience with a bully.
• How to Give an Impromptu Speech
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100+ Speech Topics for College Students

Annesha Deb ,

Mar 4, 2024

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Politics, economics, medicine, science, technology, daily affairs, and social life subjects are included in speech topics for college students. Students need a thorough research, confidence, and organised thoughts to speak on these topics.

Speech topics for college students includes subject from variou spheres, such as politics, economics, social life, medicine, science, and more. Their subjects are usually delivered as well-researched topics. Students find arguments either in their favour or against them and present them in front of the audience. 

There are various speech topics for college students. Some are controversial, whereas others can ignite a healthy debate. Nevertheless, students must be completely aware of each statement they deliver. 

Here is the list of 100+ speech topics for college students:

• Should libraries be replaced with e-books?
• Should Bitcoin be recognised as a legal currency?
• Studying martial arts is good for the mind and health.
• Competitive sports can teach us about life.
• Has freedom of the press gone beyond limits?
• How can public speaking help in building confidence?
• Should school students be allowed to use their phones in school?
• The characteristics that make a person a hero.
• Violent video games are dangerous.
• Too much screen time will make children lazy.
• How to procrastinate to avoid work?
• Medical experiments shouldn’t be done on animals.
• A laptop is better than a tablet.
• Religion and science can go hand in hand.
• Should textbooks be replaced with laptops or tablets?
• Is artificial intelligence a threat?
• Why are education costs growing progressively?
• The slow death of ancient art forms
• Is social media having a positive or negative impact on society?
• The free media should be controlled.
• How can we expand renewable energy on a global scale?
• How is deforestation impacting the planet?
• Why are people so addicted to the internet?
• How has technology improved communication in our daily lives?
• Is integrating technology in education beneficial?
• Why is it essential to establish regulations on Internet privacy?
• How has technology positively impacted the healthcare industry?
• Are there any ethical implications of artificial intelligence and automation?
• Why should social media platforms take more responsibility for online safety?
• How has technology transformed the way we work and the future of jobs?
• What are the environmental consequences of electronic waste, and how can we address them?
• Why should there be stricter regulations on data protection and cybersecurity?
• How has technology changed the way we access and consume information?
• How video games can have a positive impact on mental health?
• Is it necessary to implement stricter laws and regulations to combat climate change?
• Should voting be made compulsory in democratic countries?
• Is it ethical to use animals for scientific research and experimentation?
• Is it essential to prioritise renewable energy sources over fossil fuels?
• Effects of poaching on the economy.
• Should pets be kept outdoors?
• Is it ethical to keep animals in zoos and aquariums for public entertainment?
• Should there be stricter regulations on single-use plastic products?
• Recycling paper is going to save our planet.
• Should oil drilling stop in Alaska?
• Should stricter regulations be implemented to reduce air and water pollution?
• How can we promote recycling and waste reduction in our communities?
• Is biodiversity really at risk?
• Why should we pay more to support small businesses?
• Should companies embrace remote work as a permanent option?
• What are the benefits of incorporating mindfulness and meditation practices into daily life?
• How to balance Academics, Social Life, and Extracurricular Activities?
• What are the benefits of building a professional network?
• What are the pros and cons of student loans?
• Why should imported products come with an extra tax?
• Impact of technology on our health
• Capitalism and the role of government
• Corporate social responsibility in capitalism
• Should children’s reality shows be banned?
• Importance of Education
• Discuss the Economic Consequence of Corruption
• Why is it essential to generate fishing regulations?
• Comment on the rise of E-commerce.
• What is the role of technology in combating corruption?
• Comment on the future of feminism.
• Pros and Cons of Capitalism
• Capitalism and the Digital Economy
• Should exotic animals be kept as pets?
• How do we control water pollution?
• Ordinary people should not be allowed to own guns.
• Celebrities should not become political members.
• Gandhi’s philosophy of Swaraj
• Benefits of reading books
• Discuss the importance of the right to education.
• What are the impacts of globalisation?
• Can solar energy save the environment?
• How does the internet influence or block human intelligence?
• Differences in non-verbal communication in different cultures.
• Discuss human thinking and their future.
• How can we save nature from industrial bio and chemical waste?
• How can we achieve peace for humanity and species of planet Earth?
• Is medicine a business or humanity?
• How marketing affects people and their perceptions 
• The challenges of recycling and potential solutions 
• Why is water conservation becoming an important topic?
• Should we use products made with animal fur?
• Is Ayurvedic healthcare effective?
• What do you think can help prisoners rehabilitate and reconnect with society?
• Brilliant ways to make money in the 21st century
• Simple ways to overcome stress.
• Can action movies cause stress?
• Is religion compatible with secularism?
• What are the effects of cultural diversity and inclusion in society?
• Why are women the leaders in the fashion industry? 
• Pop fashion is getting influenced more and more by alternative subcultures. 
• What are the benefits of exercising?
• What is the importance of internships and apprenticeships?
• How to deal with stress and anxiety in college?
• How to find a job after college?
• What is the importance of critical thinking?
• How do you deal with sexual harassment and assault?
• How does YouTube influence us?
• What are the dangers of prejudice?
• Why is there a need for innovation?
• New age spirituality: A fact or a myth
• Comment on humanism and the renaissance period
• Corporate culture: West versus East
• How do reality shows affect people’s mental health?
• Can a movie persuade you with something you don’t believe in?
• Should the government spend more money on national security?
• How has modern medicine increased mortality rates?

Also Check :  List of 10 Novels for Students to Read

How to Prepare for Speech Topics for College Students? 

Speech topics for college students can be from diverse fields. Therefore, students should be well prepared and aware of their speech. Here are some tips to prepare for speech topics: 

• Please do thorough research: Students should know their topic thoroughly. They can read books and articles, get help from the internet, and watch videos related to the topic. 
• Start with an introduction: Students should start with an introductory speech on themselves and the topic they got.
• Organised thoughts : Next, students should follow a hierarchical structure. They must mind mapping the entire speech so they don’t fumble or miss anything on stage. 
• Explain the topic: Students should be mindful and choose their arguments carefully. Further, they must explain the topic clearly to be presented with absolute knowledge. 
• Conclude: At the end of the topic, students should try to conclude the topic. This will reflect their understanding of the topic. 

So that now we have discussed the 100+ speech topics for college students and ways to prepare, we wish all the students luck and success with their topics.

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105 Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics for Any Project

General Education

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

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

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

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

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

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

It's a Topic People Care About

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

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

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

It Isn't Overdone

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

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

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

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

105 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

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

Arts/Culture

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

Government/Politics

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

Science/Environment

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

3 Bonus Tips for Crafting Your Persuasive Speech

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

Do Your Research

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

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

Consider All the Angles

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

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

Know Your Audience

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

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

More Resources for Writing Persuasive Speeches

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

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

Conclusion: Persuasive Speech Ideas

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

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

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

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

What's Next?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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Home — Blog — Topic Ideas — 130 Inspiring Persuasive Speech Topics For Students

130 Inspiring Persuasive Speech Topics For Students

Definition of the Persuasive Speech 

Before you explore various persuasive speech topics , let's take a quick look at the definition and learn what a persuasive speech is and how it can be identified in writing. As the title implies, a persuasive speech represents a type of speech that aims to persuade a person to believe in a certain concept or a notion. In some instances, a persuasive speech contains a call to action. A persuasive speech topic may deal with professional challenges, world events, and debates that can be political, commercial, legislative, or educational. Depending on what you study or research, the choices are basically unlimited! Therefore, let your inspiration run free, and ensure that you have at least one statement or argument that poses the ground for persuasion. Choose a certain idea, take a note about your take, and make it clear as you choose a competitive persuasive topic. 

How to Compose an Excellent Persuasive Speech? 

Regardless of what persuasive essay topics you may choose, specific structure rules will help you to achieve success and avoid confusion as you shape your ideas and make your speech inspiring and clear. Here are the main points to consider: 

• Choose a topic that inspires you and reflects your research objectives. 
• Narrow things down and do your best to define the goal of your speech. 
• Study your target audience and check whether your persuasive speech addresses their concerns. 
• Continue with the thesis statement representing your opinion or a certain notion. 
• Create an outline for your speech with the hook sentence in the introduction. 
• Provide facts from both sides of the debate. 
• Include at least three pieces of evidence for your writing. 
• Make a call to action in conclusion and repeat the main points. 
• Edit your speech for repetitions and grammar mistakes. 
• Proofread your speech aloud and check the readability factor twice. 

List of Persuasive Speech Topics 

Below is the list of 130 competitive persuasive speech essay topics you can use for brainstorming purposes as a speaker . Play with the wording of these persuasive speech examples , narrow things down, and choose the category that looks most suitable. 

Persuasive Speech Topics for College

Here are some persuasive speech topics college style that you will find helpful: 

• College education should be made free or funded based on academic merits. 
• The problems of college debt are artificial and can be resolved. 
• The secret to college popularity: why fashion still matters in 2023? 
• The colleges represent the best ground for social movements. 
• Social media use among college students can benefit their studies. 
• College safety should be increased, and the parties must have stricter control. 
• American colleges are better than most European institutions regarding career chances. 
• Hybrid form of learning is the future of college education. 
• College bullying and the reasons why the cases of harassment are rarely reported. 
• The best ways to overcome college depression and anxiety. 

Persuasive Speech About Art, Media, and Culture

Dealing with persuasive speech ideas , consider the field of art, media, and culture as one of the branches of science worth exploring. Here are some starting points worth checking: 

• Modern metal music has roots in the blues and classical music creations. 
• The older generation sometimes pays attention to the music we like. 
• Why do college bands remain popular? 
• The use of art exhibitions in colleges should be obligatory. 
• The cultural aspect of baseball popularity’s decline in the United States. 
• The wrong perception of wearing a hoodie: the cultural factor and misconceptions. 
• The use of social media helps to keep people alert to environmental issues. 
• Instagram influencers should not be considered journalists. 
• Video game culture should be considered a separate cultural trend. 
• Neuroscience and using artificial intelligence to write music will eliminate creativity. 

Persuasive Speech About the Economy and Work

Now, if you are majoring in Business Management, studying the Economy, or working in the Financial sector, the following persuasive speech ideas will be quite helpful in keeping you inspired as you overcome initial confusion: 

• The concept of third-world countries is outdated and must be eliminated. 
• Cryptocurrencies are damaging to the American economy. 
• The phenomenon of economic wonder in Iceland is only possible because of the limited population. 
• Economic education must be an obligatory part of each academic curriculum. 
• Economic disparity in Afghanistan is caused by the current gender policies. 
• Workflow issues can be eliminated with the help of LMS platforms. 
• The challenges of employment in the United States during the pandemic could have been eliminated. 
• Most social campaigns these days are driven by the funds provided. 
• There is a man in the middle in every economic executive plan in business. 
• What are the pros and cons of digital accounting systems, or why are pros speaking against them?

Persuasive Speech About Education

The problems encountered in education always remain a subject of heated debates as education poses a serious concern not among current learners and educators and everyone out there. Check these helpful topic ideas: 

• ADHD is an overhyped problem and can be addressed with the help of stricter discipline. 
• Dealing with PTSD and military veterans can be approached with the help of music education. 
• AI-based tools will never replace the physical teacher in the classroom. 
• Pandemic situation has shown us that virtual classrooms take away the sense of belonging. 
• Smartboards as the solution for shy primary school students. 
• The reasons why there is a negative bias concerning community colleges. 
• Why should you choose a Christian college for your education? 
• Handwriting is still an important skill that should not be ignored. 
• The pros and cons of the Waldorf schools education system. 
• Augmented Reality is a dangerous concept for middle schools. 
• The benefits of gamification in the development of cognitive skills. 
• The mechanisms that should be used for reporting teacher-student abuse. 
• The problem of gun control in the classrooms: do teachers have a right to carry a gun? 
• The racial prejudice in the business management schools in the USA: why it's still a problem.
• Colleges in the United States should offer free mental coaching sessions. 
• The reasons why every student should consider becoming an app developer. 
• The subjects that should be added to a modern college education. 
• The practice of exchange students leads to a lack of adjustability in the native country. 
• Females represent better specialists in the cyber security field. 
• The phenomenon of college athletes: why should they be treated just like anyone else? 

Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

Dealing with mental health subjects is quite complex. If you are majoring in Healthcare and Psychology, you must remember to be respectful and sensitive as you make your choice and portray a viewpoint : 

• Why is depression often overlooked as a serious mental health problem? 
• Social media addiction leads to negative body image issues and wrong perceptions. 
• The phenomenon of bloggers creates a false impression of instant success. 
• Childhood abuse recovery: why do the survivors often keep silent?
• Schools and colleges in the United States must introduce strict mental health screening. 
• The negative effect of violent media games on children. 
• British medical ethics versus American perception of mental health. 
• LGBT movement and dealing with mental health issues is a unique concept worth exploring. 
• YouTube mental health courses as a free alternative to commercial offerings. 
• Armed conflicts lead to prolonged mental health issues in the future. 

Business Persuasive Speech Topics

Business marketing and business management also represent a popular field of science for composing an excellent persuasive speech essay. Just take a look at these example ideas : 

• Why is starting a business as a college student worth it in 2023? 
• Digital marketing is always the problem of brand loyalty and switching. 
• Social media and website localization: why should modern businesses implement the practice? 
• Doing business in China: what are the cultural points worth considering? 
• Why joining a free business course online will make you a better learner. 
• The business aspect of the Black Lives Matter social movement. 
• The male vs. female perception of a successful business in the IT sector. 
• The use of virtual reality tools to study the target market: a fashion case study. 
• British versus American understanding of corporate ethics. 
• Politics have no place in the retail business. 

Medical Persuasive Speech Topics

The medical and nursing students will find these persuasive speech ideas quite helpful and interesting : 

• The problems of the NHS system in the United Kingdom.  
• The pros and cons of the ObamaCare healthcare campaign. 
• What are the best methods to overcome professional burnout for nursing personnel? 
• The most common challenges of the ER nursing department: ethics vs. personal safety. 
• The readiness for the future risks: analysis of the pandemic threats. 
• Covid-19 has helped to make our world a safer place. 
• Why should medical volunteering be developed in 2023?
• Technology is not always helpful if it's not accessible in remote areas. 
• Dealing with religious beliefs when offering medical help. 
• The limitations when reporting suspected abuse: why the changes must be introduced? 

Scientific Persuasive Speech Topics

In case you want to choose something complex and scientific, these ten persuasive speech topic offerings will help to keep you inspired: 

• Augmented Reality tools usage will help people with learning disabilities learn. 
• The link between the vaccination risks and the cases of autism among children. 
• The psychological aspect of using painkillers and the damage to the person's system. 
• Exploration of nuclear Physics remains useless for most people today. 
• The negative side of the Green Energy transformation. 
• Politics should have no place in the scientific community. 
• An ethical aspect of genetically modified foods is ignored because of the lower costs. 
• The scientific benefits of uniting physically challenged students with healthy learners. 
• The positive effect of blues music on the human brain: the cardio wave effect. 
• Social media changes how communication takes things to another level. 

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

If you are a college athlete or majoring in the field of Sports Coaching and Recreational Medicine, you should consider checking these ten persuasive speech subjects that we have chosen for you: 

• The best ways to manage stress when you become enrolled as a college athlete. 
• Playing sports in college helps to eliminate depression and anxiety risks. 
• College sports must be an obligatory part of the curriculum without grading. 
• The history of college basketball in the United States helped to shape numerous subcultures. 
• The social aspect of sports and communication among middle school and primary school learners. 
• The use of sports to challenge substance abuse in the workplace. 
• Why does politics have no place in sports, and why should athletes be allowed to compete? 
• Tennis represents one of the best sports to help people maintain cardiovascular health. 
• Why should playing golf be made more accessible for people with low income? 
• Playing sports in college helps to address weight gain issues and improve a person's mood.

Family Persuasive Speech Topics

You can also approach the subject of family relations or talk about the values important to you. Check out these ten ideas below: 

• The values of the methodist church in the United States and their perception of family.  
• Stay Together For The Kids tour or how alternative rock bands contribute to family values. 
• The perception of family times during the Victorian Era. 
• Why is social media changing how children perceive their parents and grandparents? 
• Resolution of family conflicts can be resolved with the help of mediation techniques. 
• The psychology of domestic abuse in the Middle East: why are cultural points not likely to change? 
• The practice of boarding schools in the United Kingdom and overcoming homesickness. 
• The challenges of becoming independent when leaving home for college are overrated. 
• Family problems or growing up in a broken home should not be considered a reason for stigmatization. 
• The American Dream concept is still relevant for the majority of American families.

Persuasive Speech About Politics and Society

Dealing with politics and society may sound easy, yet it often asks you to narrow things down and provide data from both sides of the debate to keep your position clear. See how it's done in the ten political persuasive speech ideas below: 

• The concept of the Cold War is more relevant for our times than ever. 
• Celebrities should not become involved in political campaigns and stay true to the art.
• Most American television networks are run by private funds and offer biased information. 
• The phenomenon of West-Coast and East-Coast politics in the United States is artificial. 
• Politics and church should not mix, and why religion should not become a part of the conflict.
• Racial prejudice in the United States is rooted in wrong politics. 
• The cultural perception of Canada by an average American is often incorrect. 
• Marijuana use should be banned as a society cannot control it adequately. 
• School students should be allowed to vote, starting at 13 years old. 
• The use of political agendas in colleges should be banned.

Government Persuasive Speech Topics

Now, some students will seek something related to governmental studies or legislation as a way to create their persuasive speech essays. As a way to help you out, here are the subjects for speeches you can start with: 

• The U.S. government should raise the age limit for the use of alcohol and tobacco. 
• The controversies related to the military budget of the United States should be turned into a public discussion. 
• The concept of political immunity and diplomacy should be eliminated as it takes responsibility away. 
• The government should decrease immigration to the United States. 
• Politicians should have an obligatory education related to Law and Political Sciences. 
• Famous media personalities should approach the external politics of the United States. 
• Governmental support and the problem of cheating with college scholarships. 
• The problem of racial prejudice could be eliminated with the help of a different political agenda. 
• The concept of luxury taxing should not be obligatory for celebrities if they participate in charity campaigns. 
• The reasons why children should learn Political Science and government structure in school.

Discover Thousands of Free Essay Samples! 

Getting your persuasive speech done can be quite challenging, so we have created a list of new topics you may consider. Still, you should see the actual essay examples, which we are happy to offer! Depending on the subject you would like to explore in greater depth for your persuasive speech (or any other purpose!), you can always refer to our free database, where you can find amazing essays and topics.

Our website offers thousands of topics that keywords or subjects can check. These represent essays you can use for inspirational purposes as you compose your persuasive speech. If you are unsure about something , you can always get in touch with our team, and we shall happily direct you toward something that fits your academic objectives.

Read your grading rubric twice, or hit us up with your questions! You must be inspired by what you choose because it is the only way to persuade others. Make sure to clarify your point and convince your target audience that your thoughts and ideas are worth checking and following!

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30 TED Talk Topic Ideas for Students

TED Talks are inspiring and thought-provoking presentations that cover a wide range of topics. For students, these talks offer a fantastic opportunity to expand their horizons, gain fresh insights, and spark their curiosity. In this article, we’ll explore 30 TED Talk topic ideas for students. These topics encompass various fields, from science and technology to personal development and social issues, making them suitable for learners of all interests and backgrounds. Whether you’re a student looking for engaging ideas for a school project, a teacher seeking to inspire your students, or just someone eager to explore captivating topics, this list will provide you with a wealth of ideas. So, let’s dive in and discover the exciting world of TED Talks that can ignite your intellectual curiosity and motivate you to learn and grow.

1. The Power of Resilience

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from challenges stronger than before. In your TED Talk, explore how resilience can help you overcome academic and personal challenges and share strategies to build this essential skill.

2. The Science Behind Procrastination

Why do we procrastinate, and how can we overcome it? Delve into the science of procrastination and provide practical tips for breaking this habit.

3. The Art of Time Management

Balancing academics and personal life is a constant challenge for students. Discuss effective time management strategies that can help you maximize productivity and minimize stress.

4. The Benefits of Mindfulness

Mindfulness wields great power in alleviating stress and enhancing concentration. Explain what mindfulness is and how students can incorporate it into their daily lives.

5. The Future of Education

What will the future of education look like? Explore innovative ideas and technologies that are transforming the way students learn.

6. Why Creativity Matters

Creativity is not just for artists; it’s a crucial skill for problem-solving and personal growth. Discuss the importance of fostering creativity in education.

7. The Influence of Social Media on Mental Well-Being

Many students are active on social media, but it can have negative effects on mental well-being. Examine the connection between the usage of social media and mental well-being, and offer strategies for a healthier online presence.

8. Climate Change Solutions

Climate change is a pressing global issue. Discuss practical ways students can contribute to combating climate change, both individually and collectively.

9. The Psychology of Happiness

What makes us truly happy? Explore the science behind happiness and share actionable steps for increasing well-being in your daily life.

10. The Power of Networking

Networking isn’t just for professionals; it’s a valuable skill for students too. Discuss how networking can open doors to internships, job opportunities, and personal growth.

11. Building Healthy Habits

The habits you form in college can shape your future. Share insights on the importance of building healthy habits early in life and provide practical advice on how to do it.

12. The Benefits of Traveling

Traveling can be an enriching experience for students. Discuss the educational and personal growth aspects of travel, and share your own travel stories.

13. The Role of Empathy in Leadership

Empathy is a critical leadership skill. Explore how developing empathy can make you a better leader and a more compassionate person.

14. The Art of Public Speaking

Public speaking is a best and most valuable skill that can boost your confidence and career prospects. Offer tips and techniques to improve your public speaking skills, drawing from your own experiences.

15. Diversity and Inclusion

Examine the Diversity and Inclusion importance in today’s modern world. Share stories of inclusive communities and the benefits they bring to society.

16. The Future of Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the world. Delve into the potential and ethical implications of AI, and how students can prepare for this future.

17. Overcoming Stereotypes

Share personal experiences and strategies for challenging stereotypes. Encourage a more inclusive and accepting world by breaking down stereotypes.

18. The Science of Dreams

Dreams are fascinating and often mysterious. Dive into the science of dreams, their meaning, and their impact on our lives.

19. The Power of Volunteering

Exploring the Advantages of Community Volunteering and Giving Back. Share your own volunteering experiences and inspire others to get involved.

20. The Influence of Role Models

Positive role models can shape our lives in profound ways. Discuss the impact of role models on personal development and share stories of inspirational figures.

21. Mind Mapping for Learning

Explain how mind mapping can be a powerful tool for studying and retaining information. Provide examples and tips for effective mind mapping.

22. The Psychology of Motivation

Explore what motivates us and how to stay motivated, especially during challenging times such as exams and project deadlines.

23. The Art of Critical Thinking

Exploring the Significance of Critical Thinking: Unveiling the Vitality of Critical Thinking Skills and Strategies for Cultivating Them.

24. The Impact of Music on the Brain

Discover the fascinating relationship between music and cognitive development. Explore how music can enhance learning and creativity.

25. Financial Literacy for Students

Many students face financial challenges during their college years. Provide insights into budgeting, saving, and responsible spending to help students manage their finances effectively.

26. The Benefits of Reading

Reading serves as a portal to both knowledge and imagination. Discuss the advantages of being a bookworm and how reading can enhance your studies and personal growth.

27. The Science of Happiness

Delve deeper into the research on happiness, exploring different theories and practices that can lead to a more fulfilling life.

28. The Importance of Failure

Share stories of failure and how they led to personal growth and success. Encourage students to embrace failure as a stepping stone to success.

29. Cybersecurity Awareness

In an increasingly digital world, online safety and privacy are paramount. Raise awareness about cybersecurity and provide tips for staying safe online.

30. The Power of Gratitude

Explore how practicing gratitude can improve your overall well-being. Share techniques for cultivating gratitude in your daily life.

These 30 TED Talk topic ideas cover a wide array of subjects, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in science, self-improvement, or making a positive impact on the world, you’ll find inspiration among these ideas. So, pick a topic that resonates with you, start researching, and get ready to share your ideas with the world through a TED Talk!

TED Talks are not only a platform for sharing knowledge but also a way to connect with a global audience. They provide a unique opportunity for students to express their ideas, passions, and discoveries. When preparing your TED Talk, remember to be authentic and passionate about your chosen topic. Your enthusiasm will inspire others and make your talk memorable.

As a student, you have the power to make a difference and share your unique perspective with the world. TED Talk topic ideas for students can spark conversations, challenge assumptions, and ignite change. So, seize this opportunity, step onto the TED stage, and share your ideas that can inspire and shape the future. Your voice matters, and your TED Talk could be the catalyst for positive change in the world.

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45 Impromptu Speech Topics and Ideas

October 29, 2017 - Dom Barnard

Impromptu speeches are a great way to practice quick thinking and concise speaking – you usually have only a couple of minutes to  prepare a speech  lasting around five minutes. Even in this shorter form of speech, you still need to have a structure to what you are saying to ensure your message is understood by everyone.

If you struggle with lack of confidence, practicing with these impromptu speech topics can be a great way to build confidence for all types of speeches and conversations, whether you’re talking to someone at a business networking event or speaking at a wedding.

What is an impromptu speech?

For an impromptu speech, you’ll generally have 1-3 minutes of preparation for a speech lasting 5-8 minutes. Tougher speech events can reduce this preparation time down to 30 seconds and require you to plan your speech mentally, without any paper to write notes on.

Impromptu speeches are often given as part of university and college debates.  Oxford Union event  shown above.

These types of speeches are usually found in public speaking courses, speaking organisations such as Toastmasters and  debating competitions  (both professional and student based).

They are a great way of testing a range of communication skills, from organisation to clarity to creativity, and are becoming a popular way to practice general public speaking skills.

Practice Impromptu Speaking

Practice your impromptu speaking skills by talking about a series of random slides for 30 seconds each. Receive feedback on your performance. Learn More

Tips for picking an impromptu speech topic

Here are some quick tips and considerations for picking an impromptu speech.

• Pick a topic you are familiar with, have knowledge of and want to talk about. Personal experience on that topic is a bonus as you’ll be able to speak more naturally about it.
• Your organisational skills will be tested to come up with a powerful introduction and conclusion in your preparation to back up your argument.
• Pick a topic where the scope is limited (or you can easily limit it) as you’ll only have 5 minutes to discuss it.
• Your goal is to either inform or  persuade your audience  so choose a topic that suits these criteria

Impromptu speech topics

There are a huge amount of topic to choose from so we’ve compiled a short list of interesting topics below, some of which will hopefully inspire you or give you talking points you hadn’t previously considered.

• A non-biased news site is impossible
• The Romain Empire was the most important empire to have existed
• Keyboards will be replaced by speech-to-text technology in 10 years
• Performance enhancing drugs should be allowed in sport
• Colour affects the way people feel
• Poor health begins in the mind
• Team sports build strong individuals
• Beauty is in the eye of the beholder
• Poverty is a state of mind
• What characteristics make an ideal villain?
• How would you describe an average person?
• In what situation is lying a good idea?
• Who has been the most influential person in your life and why?
• Pets are for people who don’t have children
• Real learning doesn’t occur in a classroom
• It is better to be influential than rich
• Do violent video games contribute to youth violence?
• School uniforms removes individuality
• Children should not watch television
• Art is not important to the future of the human race
• Future conflicts will be confined to online hacking
• Social customs are a waste of time
• My biggest concern for the future is…
• Climate change is a natural occurrence
• What is the most important skill for starting a business
• Space exploration advances the human race
• Parents are the most influential factors in our lives
• Sports people salaries are justified by viewing figures
• Reading fiction is a waste of time
• Going to university / college is not necessary anymore
• Facebook makes society less happy
• Anyone can be a millionaire if they work hard enough
• No extra-terrestrial species have found us because…
• Translation technology will replace the need to learn a language
• Colonizing Mars is necessary to ensure human survival
• Presidential / Prime Ministers time in office should be lengthened
• Social circles and friends are the most important factors for happiness
• Real wealth is not measured in money or possessions
• The minimum wage should be doubled
• Should adults have the right to carry a concealed handgun?
• Is sexual orientation determined at birth?
• Junk food’s popularity relies on marketing
• Both snooker and darts are sports
• Being a vegetarian is healthier than eating meat
• Renting a house is better than buying

Use any of these topics for your next impromptu speech or just as personal practice to improve your communication skills.

Center for Teaching Innovation

Resource library.

• Getting Started with Breaking the Ice

Engaging Students in Class Discussions

Class discussions can be enjoyable, challenging, uncomfortable, stimulating, complex, and enlightening. Facilitating discussions is among the most important of all teaching methods because it encourages students to apply, test, and extend their learning in dialogue. Discussion is essentially structured application with immediate feedback, with rapid iteration. It is the place where novices take steps towards speaking with the facility of experts, where students can begin to think of themselves as invited into the discipline.

It is also perhaps the most challenging art for the teacher to master. Facilitating a discussion with all it entails – asking the right questions, listening and responding fully to participants while simultaneously fitting each comment into your overall plan and also thinking of how to connect it to the next step or idea, all while keeping it related it to the essential learning of the course but also allowing for the organic emergence of fresh ideas – requires concentration and creativity.

Below, we offer some guidance and suggestions to consider when incorporating discussion into your teaching strategy:

Benefits of Discussion as a Teaching Strategy

Preparing the students and environment for discussion.

We also recommend reviewing our resources on facilitating discussions and encouraging student participation in discussion .

When deciding when and how to use discussions, consider some of the benefits and types of learning that can occur and how discussions might support student learning in your course. Discussions can help students to:

• practice using vocabulary, frameworks, or theories of a discipline
• use evidence and examples to support an argument 
• connect and engage intellectually with a subject
• encounter, consider, and analyze a diverse range of perspectives
• build a learning community where students are co-creating knowledge

Short, medium, and long discussions and class size considerations  Depending on your course, you may want to plan class discussions regularly or only on certain days for key topics. Some discussions may take an entire class period, for example, within a small seminar class; however you can also include short or medium-length discussions within your course, alternating with periods of lecturing. For medium and large sized classes, pair or small group discussions can work especially well, since it can be challenging to hold a discussion with the entire class.

Short discussion: Turn to your neighbor (1-5 minutes) . Students turn to a person sitting next to them to discuss a question prompt. Sometimes this technique can be paired with answering a polling question or raising hands. This works in any class size, but is especially a good option for large classes in rooms with fixed seating.

Medium-length discussion: Think-Pair-Share (10-20 minutes) . Students first think or work on a problem individually, then pair up or form small groups for discussion. At the end, you can ask students to share what they discussed with the whole class. Note that the larger the group size, the more time they will need to discuss. For example, in a group of four, if everyone talks for two minutes, they will need at least eight minutes to discuss. This strategy can work in all class sizes, but pairs may be best in classrooms with fixed seating in rows.

Long discussion (20-60 minutes). This type of discussion allows for more in-depth and nuanced consideration of a complex topic. These types of discussions tend to work well in smaller classes and need more active facilitation by the instructor . You may consider starting class with a warm-up strategy . Other techniques such as gallery walks, concept mapping, or case studies are well suited for these longer discussions . To prepare for a long discussion we suggest writing a list of main question prompts or activity directions and sharing them ahead of time to allow students who may want extra time to prepare or think about the questions. Follow-up questions and further discussion can emerge from the main prompts. Preparing a handout or slide with questions can create structure.

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Build rapport: Spend time early in the semester building connections within the classroom, learning about your students, and helping them learn about each other. Icebreakers and structured activities can help with this. Give students several low-stakes practice opportunities to express themselves, develop confidence, and build interpersonal skills and familiarity with the rest of the class before graded discussions even start. This also works to develop a supportive and welcoming environment full of sharing, listening, and showing respect. Their regular comments and contributions need to feel valued and honored by you and their classmates. In small and medium sized classes, using name tents or name tags can help people refer to each other by name during discussions.

Communicate guidelines and structure : Discussion structure might look different in various courses so clarify the format of your discussions. Share guidelines for discussions, explaining their purpose. Outline your goals for these discussions and how students can succeed.

• Build community agreements together : Your learning community can create a shared  contribution of outlined behaviors to maintain respect and decrease instances of incivility.
• Communicate expectations and grading criteria : It can help to provide accountability for students to prepare for discussion, participate in the discussion itself, as well as reflect at the end of the discussion. Accountability could be in the form of a pre-class reading quiz on Canvas , annotating the readings before class using social annotation tools, posting questions or reflections on an online discussion board , completing in-class handouts, taking a photo of individual or group work in class, and uploading it to Canvas, or filling out an index card at the end of class with the answer to a reflection question.
• As the instructor, you should also plan how you will grade this work. You might grade some work as complete/incomplete or if your participation grading is more complex, providing a detailed rubric with success criteria is essential. Here is one example of a discussion rubric .

Model effective discussion : Depending on the course level or major, you might have students who haven’t really experienced or witnessed college-level discussions before. You can describe the difference between conversation in class and academic conversation which involves students using specific vocabulary, phrases, and statements in your discipline that allow them to articulate and practice critical thinking. To demonstrate and practice what effective discussions look like before going into a graded experience you can participate in frequent academic discussion activities, such as energizer activities that share values or opinions, scenarios, and case studies that generate perspectives, conversational starter activities that practice generating questions, listening activities, or pre-class activities such as social annotation or discussion boards on the reading.

Practice foundational skills : Use these low-stakes practice opportunities to develop several pre-skills before diving into the full discussions.

Foundational skills with activities to practice :

• Active listening : Peer summaries, listening circles, note-taking challenges, paraphrasing exercises
• Asking good questions : conversational starter activities
• Recognizing assumptions : Case study analysis, assumption checklists, role reversal, debate prep, media literacy exercises
• Backing up claims with credible evidence : evidence-based writing prompts, fact-checking assignments, annotated bibliographies, research competitions, source evaluation tasks. The Cornell Library has guides on evaluating sources and media literacy or could work with you on developing guides or activities specifically for your course.
• Assessing other people’s claims : peer review workshops, logical fallacy hunts, claim analysis discussions, critical reading exercises, mock trials
• Sharing purposefully with an audience in mind : audience-specific writing, oral presentations with feedback, role-play scenarios, creative projects, audience analysis
• Building upon a conversation : structured group discussions, dialogue journals, collaborative storytelling
• Challenging each other with respect : debate sessions, conflict resolution role-play, critique guidelines, and reflection exercises.

Build students’ content knowledge : When entering your course, students might have little context or prior knowledge on the topic. How much do students need to know before engaging in your critical discussion? You can decide, based on your learning outcomes, how much content knowledge you’d like them to develop. Consider giving them guidance on how to read and evaluate academic or other sources or provide reading questions. Communicate to students if you want readings or outside material referenced in the discussion. Social annotation can be a great pedagogical tool for getting students to engage in critical reading.

Assess and adjust the physical space : Is the physical space conducive to hosting effective discussions? Visit the classroom ahead of time to see how the space will work for your intended discussions – you may need to see if you can make adjustments to the room, adjust your teaching plan, or look into requesting a different room. For example, in a room with fixed seats in rows, you might use paired discussions (talk to your neighbor) as a strategy. Consider the following:

• Acoustics : can they hear others in the class? Is the room echoey? Would it help for you to use a microphone?
• Orientation : choosing a U-shape or circle layout that supports the type of discussion if it is possible to move the furniture.
• Distractions : consider lighting, movement outside of windows, temperature, air quality, scent, uncomfortable seating or tables in the way, and distractions from other students. Some of these will not be under your control, but you can check in with students if there are factors that can be adjusted that would make them more comfortable.

For more on engaging students with class discussion, visit Facilitating Discussion and Encouraging Student Participation in Discussions.

References and Further Reading:

Eberly Center, Teaching Excellence & Educational Innovation (2024) Discussions. Carnegie Mellon.

Davis, B. G. (1993) Tools for Teaching. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Brookfield, S. D. and S. Preskill. (1999). Discussion as a Way of Teaching: Tools and Techniques for Democratic Classrooms. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

US colleges revise rules on free speech in hopes of containing anti-war demonstrations

As students return to college campuses across the United States, administrators are bracing for a resurgence in activism against the war in Gaza

NEW YORK -- As students return to colleges across the United States, administrators are bracing for a resurgence in activism against the war in Gaza, and some schools are adopting rules to limit the kind of protests that swept campuses last spring.

While the summer break provided a respite in student demonstrations against the Israel-Hamas war, it also gave both student protesters and higher education officials a chance to regroup and strategize for the fall semester.

The stakes remain high. At Columbia University, President Minouche Shafik resigned Wednesday after coming under heavy scrutiny for her handling of the demonstrations at the campus in New York City, where the wave of pro-Palestinian tent encampments began last spring.

Some of the new rules imposed by universities include banning encampments, limiting the duration of demonstrations, allowing protests only in designated spaces and restricting campus access to those with university identification. Critics say some of the measures will curtail free speech.

The American Association of University Professors issued a statement Wednesday condemning “overly restrictive policies” that could discourage free expression. Many of the new policies require protesters to register well in advance and strictly limit the locations where gatherings can be held, as well as setting new limits on the use of amplified sound and signage.

“Our colleges and universities should encourage, not suppress, open and vigorous dialogue and debate even on the most deeply held beliefs,” said the statement, adding that many policies were imposed without faculty input.

The University of Pennsylvania has outlined new “temporary guidelines” for student protests that include bans on encampments, overnight demonstrations, and the use of bullhorns and speakers until after 5 p.m. on class days. Penn also requires that posters and banners be removed within two weeks of going up. The university says it remains committed to freedom of speech and lawful assembly.

At Indiana University, protests after 11 p.m. are forbidden under a new “expressive activities policy” that took effect Aug 1. The policy says “camping” and erecting any type of shelter are prohibited on campus, and signs cannot be displayed on university property without prior approval.

The University of South Florida now requires approval for tents, canopies, banners, signs and amplifiers. The school’s “speech, expression and assembly” rules stipulate that no “activity,” including protests or demonstrations, is allowed after 5 p.m. on weekdays or during weekends and not allowed at all during the last two weeks of a semester.

A draft document obtained over the summer by the student newspaper at Harvard University showed the college was considering prohibitions on overnight camping, chalk messages and unapproved signs.

“I think right now we are seeing a resurgence of repression on campuses that we haven't seen since the late 1960s,” said Risa Lieberwitz, a Cornell University professor of labor and employment law who serves as general counsel for the AAUP.

Universities say they encourage free speech as long as it doesn't interfere with learning, and they insist they are simply updating existing rules for demonstrations to protect campus safety.

Tensions have run high on college campuses since Oct. 7, when Hamas militants assaulted southern Israel and killed 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and took about 250 hostages.

Many student protesters in the U.S. vow to continue their activism, which has been fueled by Gaza's rising death toll, which surpassed 40,000 on Thursday, according to the territory’s Health Ministry.

About 50 Columbia students still face discipline over last spring’s demonstrations after a mediation process that began earlier in the summer stalled, according to Mahmoud Khalil, a lead negotiator working on behalf of Columbia student protesters. He blamed the impasse on Columbia administrators.

“The university loves to appear that they’re in dialogue with the students. But these are all fake steps meant to assure the donor community and their political class,” said Khalil, a graduate student at Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs.

The university did not immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday.

The Ivy League school in upper Manhattan was roiled earlier this year by student demonstrations, culminating in scenes of police officers with zip ties and riot shields storming a building occupied by pro-Palestinian protesters.

Similar protests swept college campuses nationwide, with many leading to violent clashes with police and more than 3,000 arrests. Many of the students who were arrested during police crackdowns have had their charges dismissed , but some are still waiting to learn what prosecutors decide. Many have faced fallout in their academic careers, including suspensions, withheld diplomas and other forms of discipline.

Shafik was among the university leaders who were called for questioning before Congress. She was heavily criticized by Republicans who accused her of not doing enough to combat concerns about antisemitism on the Columbia campus.

She announced her resignation in an emailed letter to the university community just weeks before the start of classes on Sept. 3. The university on Monday began restricting campus access to people with Columbia IDs and registered guests, saying it wanted to curb “potential disruptions” as the new semester draws near.

“This period has taken a considerable toll on my family, as it has for others in the community,” Shafik wrote in her letter. “Over the summer, I have been able to reflect and have decided that my moving on at this point would best enable Columbia to traverse the challenges ahead.”

Pro-Palestinian protesters first set up tent encampments on Columbia’s campus during Shafik’s congressional testimony in mid-April, when she denounced antisemitism but faced criticism for how she responded to faculty and students accused of bias.

The school sent in police to clear the tents the following day, only for the students to return and inspire a wave of similar protests at campuses across the country as students called for schools to cut financial ties with Israel and companies supporting the war.

The campus was mostly quiet this summer, but a conservative news outlet in June published images of what it said were text messages exchanged by administrators while attending a May 31 panel discussion titled “Jewish Life on Campus: Past, Present and Future.”

The officials were removed from their posts , with Shafik saying in a July 8 letter to the school community that the messages were unprofessional and “disturbingly touched on ancient antisemitic tropes.”

Other prominent Ivy League leaders have stepped down in recent months , in large part due to their response to the volatile protests on campus.

University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill resigned in December after less than two years on the job. She faced pressure from donors and criticism over testimony at a congressional hearing where she was unable to say under repeated questioning that calls on campus for the genocide of Jews would violate the school’s conduct policy.

And in January, Harvard University President Claudine Gay resigned amid plagiarism accusations and similar criticism over her testimony before Congress.

Perry reported from Meredith, New Hampshire. Gecker reported from San Francisco.

The Associated Press’ education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org .

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US colleges revise rules on free speech in hopes of containing anti-war demonstrations

Columbia University President Minouche Shafik resigns after a brief, tumultuous tenure. She acknowledged campus protests factored in her decision. (AP video: Joseph B. Frederick)

FILE - A demonstrator waves a flag on the Columbia University campus at a pro-Palestinian protest encampment, in New York, April 29, 2024. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey, File)

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FILE — New York University students and pro-Israeli supporters rally across the street from where Pro-Palestinian students and supporters are rallying outside the NYU Stern School of Business building, April 22, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Mary Altaffer, File)

FILE - Student protesters gather inside their encampment on the Columbia University campus, April 29, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Stefan Jeremiah, File)

NEW YORK (AP) — As students return to colleges across the United States, administrators are bracing for a resurgence in activism against the war in Gaza, and some schools are adopting rules to limit the kind of protests that swept campuses last spring.

While the summer break provided a respite in student demonstrations against the Israel-Hamas war, it also gave both student protesters and higher education officials a chance to regroup and strategize for the fall semester.

The stakes remain high. At Columbia University, President Minouche Shafik resigned Wednesday after coming under heavy scrutiny for her handling of the demonstrations at the campus in New York City, where the wave of pro-Palestinian tent encampments began last spring.

Some of the new rules imposed by universities include banning encampments, limiting the duration of demonstrations, allowing protests only in designated spaces and restricting campus access to those with university identification. Critics say some of the measures will curtail free speech.

The American Association of University Professors issued a statement Wednesday condemning “overly restrictive policies” that could discourage free expression. Many of the new policies require protesters to register well in advance and strictly limit the locations where gatherings can be held, as well as setting new limits on the use of amplified sound and signage.

“Our colleges and universities should encourage, not suppress, open and vigorous dialogue and debate even on the most deeply held beliefs,” said the statement, adding that many policies were imposed without faculty input.

The University of Pennsylvania has outlined new “temporary guidelines” for student protests that include bans on encampments, overnight demonstrations, and the use of bullhorns and speakers until after 5 p.m. on class days. Penn also requires that posters and banners be removed within two weeks of going up. The university says it remains committed to freedom of speech and lawful assembly.

At Indiana University, protests after 11 p.m. are forbidden under a new “expressive activities policy” that took effect Aug 1. The policy says “camping” and erecting any type of shelter are prohibited on campus, and signs cannot be displayed on university property without prior approval.

The University of South Florida now requires approval for tents, canopies, banners, signs and amplifiers. The school’s “speech, expression and assembly” rules stipulate that no “activity,” including protests or demonstrations, is allowed after 5 p.m. on weekdays or during weekends and not allowed at all during the last two weeks of a semester.

A draft document obtained over the summer by the student newspaper at Harvard University showed the college was considering prohibitions on overnight camping, chalk messages and unapproved signs.

“I think right now we are seeing a resurgence of repression on campuses that we haven’t seen since the late 1960s,” said Risa Lieberwitz, a Cornell University professor of labor and employment law who serves as general counsel for the AAUP.

Universities say they encourage free speech as long as it doesn’t interfere with learning, and they insist they are simply updating existing rules for demonstrations to protect campus safety.

Tensions have run high on college campuses since Oct. 7, when Hamas militants assaulted southern Israel and killed 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and took about 250 hostages.

Many student protesters in the U.S. vow to continue their activism, which has been fueled by Gaza’s rising death toll, which surpassed 40,000 on Thursday, according to the territory’s Health Ministry.

About 50 Columbia students still face discipline over last spring’s demonstrations after a mediation process that began earlier in the summer stalled, according to Mahmoud Khalil, a lead negotiator working on behalf of Columbia student protesters. He blamed the impasse on Columbia administrators.

“The university loves to appear that they’re in dialogue with the students. But these are all fake steps meant to assure the donor community and their political class,” said Khalil, a graduate student at Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs.

The university did not immediately respond to a request for comment Thursday.

The Ivy League school in upper Manhattan was roiled earlier this year by student demonstrations, culminating in scenes of police officers with zip ties and riot shields storming a building occupied by pro-Palestinian protesters.

Similar protests swept college campuses nationwide, with many leading to violent clashes with police and more than 3,000 arrests. Many of the students who were arrested during police crackdowns have had their charges dismissed , but some are still waiting to learn what prosecutors decide. Many have faced fallout in their academic careers, including suspensions, withheld diplomas and other forms of discipline.

Shafik was among the university leaders who were called for questioning before Congress. She was heavily criticized by Republicans who accused her of not doing enough to combat concerns about antisemitism on the Columbia campus.

She announced her resignation in an emailed letter to the university community just weeks before the start of classes on Sept. 3. The university on Monday began restricting campus access to people with Columbia IDs and registered guests, saying it wanted to curb “potential disruptions” as the new semester draws near.

“This period has taken a considerable toll on my family, as it has for others in the community,” Shafik wrote in her letter. “Over the summer, I have been able to reflect and have decided that my moving on at this point would best enable Columbia to traverse the challenges ahead.”

Pro-Palestinian protesters first set up tent encampments on Columbia’s campus during Shafik’s congressional testimony in mid-April, when she denounced antisemitism but faced criticism for how she responded to faculty and students accused of bias.

The school sent in police to clear the tents the following day, only for the students to return and inspire a wave of similar protests at campuses across the country as students called for schools to cut financial ties with Israel and companies supporting the war.

The campus was mostly quiet this summer, but a conservative news outlet in June published images of what it said were text messages exchanged by administrators while attending a May 31 panel discussion titled “Jewish Life on Campus: Past, Present and Future.”

The officials were removed from their posts , with Shafik saying in a July 8 letter to the school community that the messages were unprofessional and “disturbingly touched on ancient antisemitic tropes.”

Other prominent Ivy League leaders have stepped down in recent months , in large part due to their response to the volatile protests on campus.

University of Pennsylvania President Liz Magill resigned in December after less than two years on the job. She faced pressure from donors and criticism over testimony at a congressional hearing where she was unable to say under repeated questioning that calls on campus for the genocide of Jews would violate the school’s conduct policy.

And in January, Harvard University President Claudine Gay resigned amid plagiarism accusations and similar criticism over her testimony before Congress.

Perry reported from Meredith, New Hampshire. Gecker reported from San Francisco.

The Associated Press’ education coverage receives financial support from multiple private foundations. AP is solely responsible for all content. Find AP’s standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org .

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U.S. colleges revise free speech rules to contain demonstrations

NEW YORK — As students return to colleges across the United States, administrators are bracing for a resurgence in activism against the war in Gaza, and some schools are adopting rules to limit the kind of protests that swept campuses last spring.

While the summer break provided a respite in student demonstrations against the Israel-Hamas war, it also gave both student protesters and higher education officials a chance to regroup and strategize for the fall semester.

The stakes remain high. At Columbia University, President Minouche Shafik resigned Wednesday after coming under heavy scrutiny for her handling of the demonstrations at the campus in New York City, where the wave of pro-Palestinian tent encampments began last spring.

Some of the new rules imposed by universities include banning encampments, limiting the duration of demonstrations, allowing protests only in designated spaces and restricting campus access to those with university identification. Critics say some of the measures will curtail free speech.

The American Association of University Professors issued a statement Wednesday condemning “overly restrictive policies” that could discourage free expression. Many of the new policies require protesters to register well in advance and strictly limit the locations where gatherings can be held, as well as setting new limits on the use of amplified sound and signage.

“Our colleges and universities should encourage, not suppress, open and vigorous dialogue and debate even on the most deeply held beliefs,” said the statement, adding that many policies were imposed without faculty input.

The University of Pennsylvania has outlined new “temporary guidelines” for student protests that include bans on encampments, overnight demonstrations, and the use of bullhorns and speakers until after 5 p.m. on class days. The University of Pennsylvania also requires that posters and banners be removed within two weeks of going up. The university says it remains committed to freedom of speech and lawful assembly.

At Indiana University, protests after 11 p.m. are forbidden under a new “expressive activities policy” that took effect Aug 1. The policy says “camping” and erecting any type of shelter are prohibited on campus, and signs cannot be displayed on university property without prior approval.

The University of South Florida now requires approval for tents, canopies, banners, signs and amplifiers. The school’s “speech, expression and assembly” rules stipulate that no “activity,” including protests or demonstrations, is allowed after 5 p.m. on weekdays or during weekends and not allowed at all during the last two weeks of a semester.

A draft document obtained over the summer by the student newspaper at Harvard University showed the college was considering prohibitions on overnight camping, chalk messages and unapproved signs.

“I think right now we are seeing a resurgence of repression on campuses that we haven’t seen since the late 1960s,” said Risa Lieberwitz, a Cornell University professor of labor and employment law who serves as general counsel for the American Association of University Professors.

Universities say they encourage free speech as long as it doesn’t interfere with learning, and they insist they are simply updating existing rules for demonstrations to protect campus safety.

Tensions have run high on college campuses since Oct. 7, when Hamas militants assaulted southern Israel and killed 1,200 people, most of them civilians, and took about 250 hostages.

Many student protesters in the U.S. vow to continue their activism, which has been fueled by Gaza’s rising death toll, which surpassed 40,000 on Thursday, according to the territory’s Health Ministry.

About 50 Columbia students still face discipline over last spring’s demonstrations after a mediation process that began earlier in the summer stalled, according to Mahmoud Khalil, a lead negotiator working on behalf of Columbia student protesters. He blamed the impasse on Columbia administrators.

“The university loves to appear that they’re in dialogue with the students. But these are all fake steps meant to assure the donor community and their political class,” said Khalil, a graduate student at Columbia’s School of International and Public Affairs.

The university did not immediately respond to a request for comment on Thursday.

The Ivy League school in upper Manhattan was roiled earlier this year by student demonstrations, culminating in scenes of police officers with zip ties and riot shields storming a building occupied by pro-Palestinian protesters.

Similar protests swept college campuses nationwide, with many leading to violent clashes with police and more than 3,000 arrests. Many of the students who were arrested during police crackdowns have had their charges dismissed, but some are still waiting to learn what prosecutors decide. Many have faced fallout in their academic careers, including suspensions, withheld diplomas and other forms of discipline.

Shafik was among the university leaders who were called for questioning before Congress. She was heavily criticized by Republicans who accused her of not doing enough to combat concerns about antisemitism on the Columbia campus.

She announced her resignation in an emailed letter to the university community just weeks before the start of classes on Sept. 3. The university on Monday began restricting campus access to people with Columbia IDs and registered guests, saying it wanted to curb “potential disruptions” as the new semester draws near.

“This period has taken a considerable toll on my family, as it has for others in the community,” Shafik wrote in her letter. “Over the summer, I have been able to reflect and have decided that my moving on at this point would best enable Columbia to traverse the challenges ahead.”

Pro-Palestinian protesters first set up tent encampments on Columbia’s campus during Shafik’s congressional testimony in mid-April, when she denounced antisemitism but faced criticism for how she responded to faculty and students accused of bias.

The school sent in police to clear the tents the following day, only for the students to return and inspire a wave of similar protests at campuses across the country as students called for schools to cut financial ties with Israel and companies supporting the war.

Related Stories

Pro-Palestine student group disbands encampment at Australian National University after nearly four months of protesting

By Victor Petrovic

Topic: Universities

Australian National University students have disbanded a pro-Palestine encampment after almost four months protesting the university's investment in weapons companies they say were aiding Israel's war effort.

Students involved say they came to the decision after an ongoing dispute with the university about lighting and electricity, and an update to the university's investment policy towards arms manufacturers.

What's next?

Despite disbanding students say their activism will continue in other forms under the name ANU for Palestine.

A pro-Palestine encampment at the Australian National University (ANU) has disbanded after 110 days, with students saying the on-campus protest situation had become "untenable".  

The students set up camp on the grounds of the university in April in solidarity with Palestinians amid the Israel-Gaza war, with the group taking aim at the university's links to weapons manufacturers. 

Last week, the ANU announced it would change its long-term investment policies and would "not invest in controversial weapons manufacturers and civilian small arms manufacturers".

The ANU pro-Palestine encampment moved to a new site on May 28 after the university issued an order to vacate. ( ABC News: Matt Roberts )

Students claimed the move as a win and vowed to continue protesting. 

But over the weekend they dismantled the encampment, with those involved saying their activism would now take new forms under the name ANU for Palestine.

It was one of the last ongoing encampments in Australia, after similar campus protests, including at Sydney and Monash universities, disbanded months ago.

In a statement, ANU for Palestine said while the group had achieved success, it was forced to take stock due to an ongoing dispute with the university about electricity and lighting.

"Despite claiming to support our right to protest, the ANU has called the police on us, censored us, and lied about us," the students said in a statement. 

"They are now putting our basic safety at risk by telling us we are now not allowed to turn on a single light at night time.

"This decision is completely arbitrary, and has made it completely untenable for our protest movement to continue in the form of an encampment."

The ANU said power to the site was switched off last month after the students did not allow staff to inspect the site for safety hazards.

But the university added it was not aware that a direction had been made to students at the encampment in recent days that they could not use any light at night.

Al, one of the students involved in the encampment, said the situation helped to spark a discussion in the camp about the best way forward.

Protester Al at the site of the former pro-Palestine encampment at the ANU. ( ABC News: Toby Hunt )

"The whole time we have been discussing whether this is the continued best use of our resources and our energy and whether it is the best strategy to achieve our goals," Al said.

"This movement isn't necessarily about a camp, it's about achieving divestment and and cutting ties with Israel."

Al said the students were "very proud" of what they'd achieved. 

The pro-Palestine encampment was active at the ANU from late-April. ( ABC News: Matt Roberts )

"We're really happy with the work that we've made for that policy to be revisited, but there's still a long way to go for us to achieve our full aims," Al said.

"We were the longest standing camp in Australia, and were up there globally with the time that we lasted.

"We've built a community, a grassroots community, to continue doing this activism to get our university to divest."

'Right decision' for the university community: ANU

Protester Al at the former ANU pro-Palestine encampment after protesters packed up their tents. ( ABC News: Toby Hunt )

The ANU has welcomed the student's decision to disband the encampment.

"The decision to disband the encampment on the university's Acton campus was entirely voluntary and made by those involved in the protest," the ANU said in a statement.

"The safety of our community and our campus has been our priority throughout this process.

"The encampment raised several issues relating to safety and respectful conduct. 

"For this reason, the decision to remove the encampment is the right one for the university community as a whole."