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160 Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Students in 2024

April 3, 2024

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

What is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is an essay that uses research to present a reasoned argument on a particular subject . As with the persuasive essay , the purpose of an argumentative essay is to sway the reader to the writer’s position. However, a strong persuasive essay makes its point through diligent research and emotion while a strong argumentative essay should be based solely on facts, not feelings.

Moreover, each fact should be supported by clear evidence from credible sources . Furthermore, a good argumentative essay will have an easy-to-follow structure. When organizing your argumentative essay, use this format as a guide:

• Introduction
• Supporting body paragraphs
• Paragraph(s) addressing common counterarguments

Argumentative Essay Format

In the introduction , the writer presents their position and thesis statement —a sentence that summarizes the paper’s main points. The body paragraphs then draw upon supporting evidence to back up this initial statement, with each paragraph focusing on its own point. The length of your paper will determine the amount of examples you need. In general, you’ll likely need at least two to three. Additionally, your examples should be as detailed as possible, citing specific research, case studies, statistics, or anecdotes.

In the counterargument paragraph , the writer acknowledges and refutes opposing viewpoints. Finally, in the conclusion , the writer restates the main argument made in the thesis statement and summarizes the points of the essay. Additionally, the conclusion may offer a final proposal to persuade the reader of the essay’s position.

How to Write an Effective Argumentative Essay, Step by Step

• Choose your topic. Use the list below to help you pick a topic. Ideally, a good argumentative essay topic will be meaningful to you—writing is always stronger when you are interested in the subject matter. In addition, the topic should be complex with plenty of “pro” and “con” arguments. Avoid choosing a topic that is either widely accepted as fact or too narrow. For example, “Is the earth round?” would not be a solid choice.
• Research. Use the library, the web, and any other resources to gather information about your argumentative essay topic. Research widely but smartly. As you go, take organized notes, marking the source of every quote and where it may fit in the scheme of your larger essay. Moreover, remember to look for (and research) possible counterarguments.
• Outline . Using the argument essay format above, create an outline for your essay. Then, brainstorm a thesis statement covering your argument’s main points, and begin to put your examples in order, focusing on logical flow. It’s often best to place your strongest example last.
• Write . Draw on your research and outline to create a first draft. Remember, your first draft doesn’t need to be perfect. (As Voltaire says, “Perfect is the enemy of good.”) Accordingly, just focus on getting the words down on paper.
• Does my thesis statement need to be adjusted?
• Which examples feel strongest? Weakest?
• Do the transitions flow smoothly?
• Do I have a strong opening paragraph?
• Does the conclusion reinforce my argument?

Tips for Revising an Argument Essay

Evaluating your own work can be difficult, so you might consider the following strategies:

• Read your work aloud to yourself.
• Record yourself reading your paper, and listen to the recording.
• Reverse outline your paper. Firstly, next to each paragraph, write a short summary of that paragraph’s main points/idea. Then, read through your reverse outline. Does it have a logical flow? If not, where should you adjust?
• Print out your paper and cut it into paragraphs. What happens when you rearrange the paragraphs?

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

Family argumentative essay topics.

• Should the government provide financial incentives for families to have children to address the declining birth rate?
• Should we require parents to provide their children with a certain level of nutrition and physical activity to prevent childhood obesity?
• Should parents implement limits on how much time their children spend playing video games?
• Should cell phones be banned from family/holiday gatherings?
• Should we hold parents legally responsible for their children’s actions?
• Should children have the right to sue their parents for neglect?
• Should parents have the right to choose their child’s religion?
• Are spanking and other forms of physical punishment an effective method of discipline?
• Should courts allow children to choose where they live in cases of divorce?
• Should parents have the right to monitor teens’ activity on social media?
• Should parents control their child’s medical treatment, even if it goes against the child’s wishes?
• Should parents be allowed to post pictures of their children on social media without their consent?
• Should fathers have a legal say in whether their partners do or do not receive an abortion?
• Can television have positive developmental benefits on children?
• Should the driving age be raised to prevent teen car accidents?
• Should adult children be legally required to care for their aging parents?

Education Argument Essay Topics

• Should schools ban the use of technology like ChatGPT?
• Are zoos unethical, or necessary for conservation and education?
• To what degree should we hold parents responsible in the event of a school shooting?
• Should schools offer students a set number of mental health days?
• Should school science curriculums offer a course on combating climate change?
• Should public libraries be allowed to ban certain books? If so, what types?
• What role, if any, should prayer play in public schools?
• Should schools push to abolish homework?
• Are gifted and talented programs in schools more harmful than beneficial due to their exclusionary nature?
• Should universities do away with Greek life?
• Should schools remove artwork, such as murals, that some perceive as offensive?
• Should the government grant parents the right to choose alternative education options for their children and use taxpayer funds to support these options?
• Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling for children’s academic and social development?
• Should we require schools to teach sex education to reduce teen pregnancy rates?
• Should we require schools to provide sex education that includes information about both homosexual and heterosexual relationships?
• Should colleges use affirmative action and other race-conscious policies to address diversity on campus?
• Should public schools remove the line “under God” from the Pledge of Allegiance?
• Should college admissions officers be allowed to look at students’ social media accounts?
• Should schools abolish their dress codes, many of which unfairly target girls, LGBTQ students, and students of color?
• Should schools be required to stock free period products in bathrooms?
• Should legacy students receive preferential treatment during the college admissions process?
• Are school “voluntourism” trips ethical?

Government Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the U.S. decriminalize prostitution?
• Should the U.S. issue migration visas to all eligible applicants?
• Should the federal government cancel all student loan debt?
• Should we lower the minimum voting age? If so, to what?
• Should the federal government abolish all laws penalizing drug production and use?
• Should the U.S. use its military power to deter a Chinese invasion of Taiwan?
• Should the U.S. supply Ukraine with further military intelligence and supplies?
• Should the North and South of the U.S. split up into two regions?
• Should Americans hold up nationalism as a critical value?
• Should we permit Supreme Court justices to hold their positions indefinitely?
• Should Supreme Court justices be democratically elected?
• Is the Electoral College still a productive approach to electing the U.S. president?
• Should the U.S. implement a national firearm registry?
• Is it ethical for countries like China and Israel to mandate compulsory military service for all citizens?
• Should the U.S. government implement a ranked-choice voting system?
• Should institutions that benefited from slavery be required to provide reparations?
• Based on the 1619 project, should history classes change how they teach about the founding of the U.S.?
• Should term limits be imposed on Senators and Representatives? If so, how long?
• Should women be allowed into special forces units?
• Should the federal government implement stronger, universal firearm licensing laws?
• Do public sex offender registries help prevent future sex crimes?
• Should the government be allowed to regulate family size?
• Should all adults legally be considered mandated reporters?
• Should the government fund public universities to make higher education more accessible to low-income students?
• Should the government fund universal preschool to improve children’s readiness for kindergarten?

Health/Bioethics Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the U.S. government offer its own healthcare plan?
• In the case of highly infectious pandemics, should we focus on individual freedoms or public safety when implementing policies to control the spread?
• Should we legally require parents to vaccinate their children to protect public health?
• Is it ethical for parents to use genetic engineering to create “designer babies” with specific physical and intellectual traits?
• Should the government fund research on embryonic stem cells for medical treatments?
• Should the government legalize assisted suicide for terminally ill patients?
• Should organ donation be mandatory?
• Is cloning animals ethical?
• Should cancer screenings start earlier? If so, what age?
• Is surrogacy ethical?
• Should birth control require a prescription?
• Should minors have access to emergency contraception?
• Should hospitals be for-profit or nonprofit institutions?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics — Continued

Social media argumentative essay topics.

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

Religion Argument Essay Topics

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

Science Argument Essay Topics

• Would the world be safer if we eliminated nuclear weapons?
• Should scientists bring back extinct animals? If so, which ones?
• Should we hold companies fiscally responsible for their carbon footprint?
• Should we ban pesticides in favor of organic farming methods?
• Should the federal government ban all fossil fuels, despite the potential economic impact on specific industries and communities?
• What renewable energy source should the U.S. invest more money in?
• Should the FDA outlaw GMOs?
• Should we worry about artificial intelligence surpassing human intelligence?
• Should the alternative medicine industry be more stringently regulated?
• Is colonizing Mars a viable option?
• Is the animal testing worth the potential to save human lives?

Sports Argument Essay Topics

• Should colleges compensate student-athletes?
• How should sports teams and leagues address the gender pay gap?
• Should youth sports teams do away with scorekeeping?
• Should we ban aggressive contact sports like boxing and MMA?
• Should professional sports associations mandate that athletes stand during the national anthem?
• Should high schools require their student-athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
• Should transgender athletes compete in sports according to their gender identity?
• Should schools ban football due to the inherent danger it poses to players?
• Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?
• Do participation trophies foster entitlement and unrealistic expectations?
• Should sports teams be divided by gender?
• Should professional athletes be allowed to compete in the Olympics?
• Should women be allowed on NFL teams?

Technology Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should sites like DALL-E compensate the artists whose work it was trained on?
• Should the federal government make human exploration of space a more significant priority?
• Is it ethical for the government to use surveillance technology to monitor citizens?
• Should websites require proof of age from their users? If so, what age?
• Should we consider A.I.-generated images and text pieces of art?
• Does the use of facial recognition technology violate individuals’ privacy?
• Is online learning as effective as in-person learning?
• Does computing harm the environment?
• Should buying, sharing, and selling collected personal data be illegal?
• Are electric cars really better for the environment?
• Should car companies be held responsible for self-driving car accidents?
• Should private jets be banned?
• Do violent video games contribute to real-life violence?

Business Argument Essay Topics

• Should the U.S. government phase out the use of paper money in favor of a fully digital currency system?
• Should the federal government abolish its patent and copyright laws?
• Should we replace the Federal Reserve with free-market institutions?
• Is free-market ideology responsible for the U.S. economy’s poor performance over the past decade?
• Will cryptocurrencies overtake natural resources like gold and silver?
• Is capitalism the best economic system? What system would be better?
• Should the U.S. government enact a universal basic income?
• Should we require companies to provide paid parental leave to their employees?
• Should the government raise the minimum wage? If so, to what?
• Should antitrust regulators break up large companies to promote competition?
• Is it ethical for companies to prioritize profits over social responsibility?
• Should gig-economy workers like Uber and Lyft drivers be considered employees or independent contractors?
• Should the federal government regulate the gig economy to ensure fair treatment of workers?
• Should the government require companies to disclose the environmental impact of their products?
• Should companies be allowed to fire employees based on political views or activities?
• Should tipping practices be phased out?
• Should employees who choose not to have children be given the same amount of paid leave as parents?
• Should MLMs (multi-level marketing companies) be illegal?
• Should employers be allowed to factor tattoos and personal appearance into hiring decisions?

In Conclusion – Argument Essay Topics

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

Looking for more fresh and engaging topics for use in the classroom? You might consider checking out the following:

• 125 Good Debate Topics for High School Students
• 150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics
• 7 Best Places to Study
• Guide to the IB Extended Essay
• How to Write the AP Lang Rhetorical Analysis Essay
• AP Lit Reading List
• How to Write the AP Lang Synthesis Essay
• 49 Most Interesting Biology Research Topics
• High School Success

Lauren Green

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

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50 Argumentative Essay Topics

Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo. 

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

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

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

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

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

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

Ideas for Argument Essays

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

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

List of 50 Possible Argumentative Essay Topics

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

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

How to Craft a Persuasive Argument

After you've decided on your essay topic, gather evidence to make your argument as strong as possible. Your research could even help shape the position your essay ultimately takes. As you craft your essay, remember to utilize persuasive writing techniques , such as invoking emotional language or citing facts from authoritative figures. 

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Argumentative Essay Guide

Argumentative Essay Topics

Last updated on: Dec 19, 2023

Argumentative Essay Topics - Compelling Ideas to Get Started

By: Jared P.

18 min read

Reviewed By: Melisa C.

Published on: Oct 22, 2019

Are you about to write an argumentative essay but still confused about the topic?

Argumentative essays help students learn more about the subject matter of a particular course. This kind of writing is a genuine key to learning argumentative skills. You must pay attention to your subject while choosing a strong topic for your essay.

But what if you don’t even know what to write about? 

Don’t worry! Here is a list of topics and tips to help you decide on the perfect topic for your argumentative paper. 

So read on and make choosing a topic easier!

On this Page

Argumentative Essay Topics for students

Argumentative essay writing is one common academic assignment that almost every student will get to draft. In order to help the students, we have prepared a list of argumentative topic ideas. Pick a topic that works the best for you.

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle School

• What age is suitable for kids to start schooling?
• Should students be allowed to evaluate their teachers?
• Metal music should be banned due to its violent lyrics.
• What are the pros and cons of making friends virtually?
• Can we conserve energy as a society?
• Does playing violent video games contribute to making a person violent in real life too?
• How close is reality TV to real life?
• Do girls face more societal pressure than guys?
• What is the biggest challenge faced by students today?
• Should there be cash rewards for getting a good score on standardized tests?
• The rich should pay more taxes than the poor.
• Cartoons are better than movies.
• Teachers Vs. Parents: who plays a bigger role in shaping a child?

Argumentative Essay Topics for Grade 6 

Here are some argumentative essay topics for 6th-grade students:

• Should schools start later in the morning?
• Is confining wild animals within zoos a cruel practice?
• Should there be stricter laws for texting and driving?
• Are social media sites like Facebook and Twitter bad for our society?
• Should the voting age be lowered to allow young people a voice in democracy?
• Should the school year be longer or shorter? 
• Is it okay for children to play violent video games?
• Should cell phones be banned from schools?
• Should recycling become a mandatory practice in all households?

Argumentative Essay Topics for 7th Graders 

• Should schools provide free meals to all students?
• Are uniforms necessary for student success?
• Does standardized testing accurately measure student progress?
• Are after-school activities important for student development?
• Is there too much emphasis on social media in education today?
• Should schools place a stronger emphasis on physical education?
• Are required classes in high school helpful or harmful to students?
• Should all students have access to laptops and tablets in the classroom?
• Is technology taking away from traditional learning methods in the classroom?
• Should gym classes be mandatory for students?

Argumentative Essay Topics for Grade 8

Looking for argumentative essay topics for teenagers? Check out the ideas below: 

• Should the drinking age be lowered? Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Is it necessary for governments to fund childcare?
• Is there too much emphasis on standardized testing in schools?
• Are schools doing enough to prevent bullying from happening?
• Do adolescents need more sleep than adults?
• Should students be allowed to have cell phones in school?
• Is social media affecting the way we interact with each other?
• What should be done about the student loan crisis?

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School

• Is homeschooling better than the public school educational system?
• Smartphones help the learning process.
• Is co-education more advantageous than single-sex education?
• Are GMOs safe for human consumption?
• Is fast food healthy or a serious threat to physical health?
• Teenagers feel more comfortable talking on social media rather than face to face.
• Should it be legal to get a tattoo for kids younger than 18?
• Are standardized tests beneficial for school students?
• A negative high school experience you believe is important when it comes to personality.
• Does the education system prepare a student for the real world?
• Is there life after death?
• Our society works on gender equality.
• Subjects that should be removed from the high school program.
• Is hate crime growing in high school?

Argumentative Essay Topics for College Students

• Is the current taxation system effective or not?
• Are men paid more than women in our corporate sector?
• Should Shakespeare still be studied as part of the college curriculum?
• Is college tuition becoming way too expensive?
• Are test scores the only way to judge the competency of a student?
• Getting a College degree is worth the cost.
• Is the system of the electoral college still viable in the US?
• Youngsters on social networks don’t realize the significance of privacy on these online sites.
• Life is incomplete without faith.
• Students nowadays face greater social pressures compared to the past.
• Your past does not define you.
• What can be done about gun control in the United States?
• Is it ethical to genetically modify children to protect against diseases?
• Do we need more gender diversity in STEM programs?

Paper Due? Why Suffer? That's our Job!

Argumentative Essay Topics for University Students 

• Should mental health services be made available for free?
• Is income inequality a necessary part of capitalism?
• Should the minimum wage be raised in all countries?
• Does technology have a positive or negative impact on mental health?
• Should universities be allowed to charge students for taking classes?
• Is it necessary for governments to fund space exploration?
• Should religion be taught in public schools?
• Are animal experiments necessary for medical progress?
• Should young students join a political party to enhance the democratic process?
• Does free speech help promote extremism in society?

Argumentative Essay Topics for O Levels 

• Should the government regulate the use of social media?
• Is the death penalty an effective way to prevent crime?
• Are online classes replacing traditional courses in schools?
• Do standardized tests accurately measure academic achievement?
• Should abortion be legalized in all countries?
• Do celebrity role models have a positive or negative influence on young people?
• Should school uniforms be mandatory in all schools?
• Should the Internet be censored by governments around the world?
• Should GMO foods be allowed in supermarkets?
• Does free trade help or harm developing economies?

Discover Captivating Topics in a Click!

Best Argumentative Essay Topics

Just as important as it is to create compelling content, choosing a great topic is equally important. If you want to score well in academics, you will have to impress your instructor with the best argumentative essay topics.

Below are some great topic ideas for you related to different fields. Choose the right topic for your essay and start the process.

Sports Argumentative Essay Topics

• Can video gamers be counted as true athletes?
• By participating in sports, can children be kept out of trouble?
• Should girls be allowed to participate in the same sports as boys?
• Should alternatives to steroids be legalized for professional athletes?
• Do you consider cheerleading a sport?
• Does your College spend a lot of money in the name of sports programs?
• Student-athletes should get money for playing.
• Betting on sports should be illegal.
• Sports events shouldn’t broadcast alcohol and tobacco ads.
• Are female athletes looked upon as sexual objects by the media?
• All athletes should be tested for drugs before their performance.
• Females should not be allowed to take part in extreme sports.
• Impact of bodybuilding on a woman’s body in old age.

Argumentative Essay Topics Education

• Parents should have an active role in their child's education.
• The grading system shouldn’t exist to judge a student’s abilities.
• Standardized tests should be abolished in schools.
• All students must wear a uniform in high school.
• Does technology benefit the educational system?
• Studying in a single-sex class is better than studying in a mixed one?
• All students must be made to learn a foreign language?
• Programming should be made compulsory for all students.
• Should students have sex education classes at school?
• Should schools have the right to test students for drugs?
• Girls should be equally encouraged to take part in sports in school.
• The world should have a uniform language.
• Hard work isn’t enough for being successful in a student’s life.
• Should teachers be allowed to physically discipline their students?
• How to bring change in the education system of the United States?

Social Media Argumentative Essay Topics

• Are social networks an effective platform for communication?
• Do people really get a job through LinkedIn?
• Is Facebook legally allowed to leak the private information of its users?
• Is it possible to earn a good amount of money from YouTube?
• Should Facebook, WhatsApp, and Twitter be banned permanently?
• Social media has successfully increased employment rates.
• Celebrity endorsements are unethical.
• Social media has destroyed real-life communication.
• Social media has made doing business easier.
• Blogging is an irrelevant profession.
• How is social media depicting beauty standards?
• How has social media become a major source of inferiority complex among teenagers?
• Is it possible to have a life without social media at this time?
• Should underaged children be allowed to own social media accounts?
• Pros and cons of social media.

Argumentative Essay Topics Technology

• Are cell phones harmful to the human race?
• Are spy applications invading the privacy of users?
• Are Millennials more dependent on computers than Baby Boomers?
• Is Typescript the future of front-end development?
• The impact of microwave tech on our biology.Technology has made us lazier.
• Should coding be taught from middle school?
• Cognitive Computers like Watson are unethical.
• Should a candidate’s social media profiles be considered in the hiring process?
• Children shouldn’t be given personal mobile phones.
• Self-driving cars and the future of transportation.
• Has technology made people less efficient?
• Technological advancements in the field of psychology.
• Is the future in the hands of Artificial Intelligence?
• Pros and cons of depending a lot on technology.

American History Argumentative Essay Topics

• What was the impact of European colonization on Native Americans?
• What was the role of women in the movement toward revolution?
• What were the key causes of the American Revolution?
• The key issues that caused conflict between North and South and led to the civil war?
• The effects of the Great Depression on the banking industry in America.
• Did the Civil Rights Movement reduce or lead to racial violence?
• Post World War II, how did America grow?
• 21st-century American foreign policy.
• Is Barack Obama the first American president who made history?
• Was slavery an inevitable part of the development of American society?
• Should the Indian Removal Act be considered an act of genocide?

Mental Health Argumentative Essay Topics 

• Are antidepressants overprescribed in modern society?
• Should mental health services be made free for all?
• Is social media affecting mental health negatively?
• Is there a stigma attached to seeking out mental health help?
• What role do genetics and environment play in determining mental illness?
• Can art and music therapy be effective treatments for mental illness?
• How can we tackle the stigma associated with mental illness?
• What can be done to reduce the prevalence of anxiety in young people?
• Should there be mandatory mental health education in schools?

Social Issues Argumentative Topics

• Should male workers receive paternity leave too?
• Is age a major factor in relationship success or failure?
• Is torture acceptable under any circumstance?
• What are the primary causes of down syndrome?
• What should the punishments be for failed parenting?
• A candidate’s appearance shouldn’t be considered in a job hiring process.
• Some common stereotypes in your society.
• Cheating is increasing every day.
• We are way too dependent on computers and technology.
• Is boredom the cause of getting into trouble?
• Beauty magazines should stop photoshopping models.
• Capitalism vs. socialism. What would benefit society more?
• Is the women’s rights movement justified?
• The real objectives of Feminism.
• Impact of homosexuality on society.

Argumentative Essay Topics Animals

• Hunting for fun and sports is unethical and must get banned.
• Aggressive dog breeds such as pit bulls should not be allowed as pets.
• Testing beauty products on animals is justifiable.
• Using monkeys for research in labs is a necessary evil.
• Wearing fur and leather shouldn’t be unethical.
• Is genetic modification of livestock beneficial?
• Animal dissection in medical school is a good way to learn.
• Owning pets reduces the risk of getting diseases. Do you agree?
• Emotional support animals can truly help lonely people.
• Keeping exotic animals as pets is inhumane.
• Stronger laws must be enforced against animal cruelty.
• Pros and cons of animal testing.
• How can the emotional support of animals help in treating mental problems?
• Significance of microchipping the pets.
• Rights enjoyed by the ESA owners.

Argumentative Research Paper Topics

• Ways to decrease childcare costs in the United States.
• Are literate people better parents?
• Challenges faced by female politicians.
• Is rehab effective for sex offenders?
• Is music a form of real art?
• Spanish is a simple language to learn.
• Schools should ban vending machines on-campus.
• Are teachers to blame when a student performs poorly?
• Are gender stereotypes encouraged by parents?
• Illegal immigrants and terrorism: is it related?
• Can imposing a tax on sugar help fight obesity.
• Should age be a factor in relationships?
• Do dreams have a symbolic meaning?
• Should South and North Korea become one?
• Can depression be cured using natural ways?

Unique Argumentative Essay Topics

Looking for some general argumentative essay topic ideas? Here is an ultimate list of great topics that can make your essay writing fun for you and your readers.

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should same-sex marriage be legal in all 50 states within the United States of America?
• Is the feminist movement ruining the minds of young girls?
• Corruption and its effects on increasing wages.
• Hunting should be banned globally. Do you agree?
• Which is more beneficial for society, Communism or Capitalism?
• Should human cloning be allowed or not?
• Abortion – A pro-life or a pro-choice?
• Do anti-discrimination laws reinforce discrimination?
• Should patients be entitled to request medically-assisted suicide in cases of terminal illness?
• Can beauty standards be more inclusive?
• Workplace dating should not be allowed, and here’s why.
• Displaced immigrants and refugees should be given shelter by every country.
• Is vegan or vegetarian life good for health?
• Online dating has ruined the essence of old-school romance.
• Chocolate can help improve our bad mood.
• Is it ethical to eat meat?
• Mothers make better parents naturally.
• Politics can never be clean and fair.
• Should the drinking age be lowered?

Easy Argumentative Essay Topics

• Are girls more intelligent than boys?
• Parents of middle schoolers should control their internet.
• Was Johnny Depp the best choice for Burton’s Ed Wood?
• Do religious movements cause the outbreak of war?
• Are human beings the major source of global climate change?
• Is it ethical to have kids perform chores?
• Is using LEDs making a difference?
• How does being a vegan help the environment?
• Should teenage marriages be allowed?
• Social media has brought families closer. Is there any truth to this statement?
• If the House of Lords had veto power over the House of Commons, Britain would’ve been better off.
• It’s okay to date multiple people at the same time.
• HIV is falsely associated with homosexuals. Why?
• Why are the laws neglecting tobacco and alcohol?
• Most of the modern-time artists are one-hit wonders.

Fun Argumentative Essay Topics

• Is panda hugging a viable career option?
• Does Justin Bieber owe his success to negative PR?
• Is it true that a way to a man’s heart is through his stomach?
• Is the Bermuda Triangle a real thing?
• Is it okay for parents to lie to their children about Santa Claus?
• Did the feminist movement ever help you?
• How did the feminist movement ever help you?
• There is no such thing as organic food.
• How to make your roommate believe that moving out is the best option.
• Why should I join a different family?
• Fans should not judge players after losses or failures.
• Is social promotion a helpful practice?
• Is racism a natural condition of human society?
• Dieting must not be practiced by schoolers.
• Should tattoos be perceived as a social deviation?

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Argumentative Essay Topics 2022

• Are US elections always fair?
• Is the death penalty an effective punishment for criminals?
• Is it wise to replace soldiers with machines and artificial intelligence on battlefields?
• Should animals be used for performing experiments?
• Effects of terrorism on the foreign policy of the United States of America's cosmetic surgery worth the risks?
• What is your point of view on a terminally ill person having the right to assisted suicide?
• Life 100 years ago was much easier than it is today.
• Is religion a factor that contributes to war?
• A woman who doesn’t have enough resources to raise a child to be allowed to abort?
• Physical activities are the most convenient way to relax.
• The best way to enhance education is to decrease the number of classes.
• Sports classes should become mandatory for everybody.
• The pros and cons of using gadgets for studying purposes.
• What is the most important socio-political movement of the modern era?

Argumentative Essay Topics 2023

The following are some amazing topics for argumentative essays. Have a look at them to get a better idea.

• Fast food is responsible for childhood obesity in the US.
• Is the United States ready for a female president?
• Parents need to be very friendly with their kids.
• Are smartphones harmful to our health?
• Education needs to be free for all.
• Is single-sex education still a good idea in 2020?
• Should all people pursue a university degree worldwide?
• Internet access must be unlimited and free.
• Modern education has to eliminate grading systems.
• Capitalism should acquire more socially significant policies.
• Tourist tax is mandatory to save cultural heritage.
• Kindergartens must introduce foreign language instruction.
• Is hunting good for environmental well-being?
• Using animals for research must be banned.
• Women perform better than men in official positions and occupations.

Choosing a Good Argumentative Essay Topic

So you know the importance of choosing the right topic when writing an argumentative essay.

But what are you going to write about?

You sure don’t want to pick an argumentative essay topic that everyone else is working on. And you don’t want to research an argumentative topic where information and data are impossible to find.

You hopefully want to write on a debatable topic that will interest both you and your reader. Here are the criteria we use to choose a topic for argumentative essays:

• It has to be interesting to the writer. You’ll be outlining, researching, and writing in-depth, so pick an engaging topic for your argument.
• Have some information to begin with. The more familiar you are with the subject area, the easier it will be for both you and the reader.
• The best argumentative essay topics are mostly controversial. If there’s no conflict and everyone agrees on everything, it won’t qualify as an argumentative essay.
• An arguable thesis statement can be created according to the topic.

What Makes a Good Argumentative Essay?

A good argumentative essay is one that presents a well-reasoned and logical argument. It should be supported by facts and evidence, not just speculation or opinion. To create an effective argumentative essay, the writer must provide a strong case for their position on any given topic.

Strong Introduction and Thesis 

The first element of a good argumentative essay is an interesting and clear introduction. This should introduce the topic in a way that engages readers and makes them want to learn more. 

It should also provide an overview of the writer's position on the issue, as well as any evidence they will be using to support their argument.

Good Research and Evidence 

Good argumentation requires good evidence. So a good argumentative essay should be backed up by research and evidence. 

If a writer is making an assertion, they must provide evidence to back it up. This could include physical evidence such as statistics or quotes from experts in the field, as well as logical arguments that support their position.

Organized Structure 

The structure of an argumentative essay is also important. It should be structured in a way that makes it easy to follow and understand. 

This could include using headings, subheadings, and bullet points to break up the text into more manageable pieces. In addition, it should have a clear flow of ideas, with each paragraph logically leading to the next.

Effective Conclusion 

Finally, a good argumentative essay should have an effective conclusion. This should provide a summary of the writer's main points and reiterate their position on the issue.  The conclusion should also leave readers with something to think about, leaving them informed and with new insight.

After reading our list, don’t be surprised if your mind starts coming up with additional topics for an argumentative essay. We recommend that you keep a notebook or journal handy to record these topic ideas for later.

These were some of the most interesting essay topics . Did you find a topic to write on?

Now, before you overwhelm yourself by jumping straight to the writing process, we have a helpful tip for you. Go through this detailed article to learn how to craft an argumentative essay effectively.

Seeking help from professionals is nothing to be ashamed of, especially when your grades are at stake. It is quite common for some students not to have a knack for writing. Also, some might not have the time to complete assignments.

If you can relate to such students, you should consider taking help from a reliable essay writing service such as 5StarEssays.com . You can simply request ‘ write my essay '. And we will have an expert essay writer to provide you with high-quality assignments regardless of type and field.

Or, use our AI Essay Generator , for AI powered writing help to guide your way!

Masters Essay, Literature

Jared P. is a renowned author and writing service provider with over fifteen years of experience in the publishing industry. He has a Ph.D. degree in English Literature and has spent his entire career helping students achieve their academic goals by providing expert writing assistance.

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50 Great Argumentative Essay Topics for Any Assignment

General Education

At some point, you’re going to be asked to write an argumentative essay. An argumentative essay is exactly what it sounds like—an essay in which you’ll be making an argument, using examples and research to back up your point.

But not all argumentative essay topics are created equal. Not only do you have to structure your essay right to have a good impact on the reader, but even your choice of subject can impact how readers feel about your work.

In this article, we’ll cover the basics of writing argumentative essays, including what argumentative essays are, how to write a good one, and how to pick a topic that works for you. Then check out a list of argumentative essay ideas to help you get started.

What Is an Argumentative Essay?

An argumentative essay is one that makes an argument through research. These essays take a position and support it through evidence, but, unlike many other kinds of essays, they are interested in expressing a specific argument supported by research and evidence.

A good argumentative essay will be based on established or new research rather than only on your thoughts and feelings. Imagine that you’re trying to get your parents to raise your allowance, and you can offer one of two arguments in your favor:

You should raise my allowance because I want you to.

You should raise my allowance because I’ve been taking on more chores without complaining.

The first argument is based entirely in feelings without any factual backup, whereas the second is based on evidence that can be proven. Your parents are more likely to respond positively to the second argument because it demonstrates that you have done something to earn the increased allowance. Similarly, a well-researched and reasoned argument will show readers that your point has a basis in fact, not just feelings.

The standard five-paragraph essay is common in writing argumentative essays, but it’s not the only way to write one. An argumentative essay is typically written in one of two formats, the Toulmin model or the Rogerian model.

The Toulmin model is the most common, comprised of an introduction with a claim (otherwise known as a thesis), with data to support it. This style of essay will also include rebuttals, helping to strengthen your argument by anticipating counterarguments.

The Rogerian model analyzes two sides of an argument and reaches a conclusion after weighing the strengths and weaknesses of each.

Both essay styles rely on well-reasoned logic and supporting evidence to prove a point, just in two different ways.

The important thing to note about argumentative essays as opposed to other kinds of essays is that they aim to argue a specific point rather than to explain something or to tell a story. While they may have some things in common with analytical essays, the primary difference is in their objective—an argumentative essay aims to convince someone of something, whereas an analytical essay contextualizes a topic with research.

What Makes a Good Argumentative Essay?

To write an effective argumentative essay, you need to know what a good one looks like. In addition to a solid structure, you’ll need an argument, a strong thesis, and solid research.

An Argument

Unlike other forms of essays, you are trying to convince your reader of something. You’re not just teaching them a concept or demonstrating an idea—you’re constructing an argument to change the readers’ thinking.

You’ll need to develop a good argument, which encompasses not just your main point, but also all the pieces that make it up.

Think beyond what you are saying and include how you’re saying it. How will you take an idea and turn it into a complex and well thought out argument that is capable of changing somebody’s mind?

A Strong Thesis

The thesis is the core of your argument. What specific message are you trying to get across? State that message in one sentence, and that will be your thesis.

This is the foundation on which your essay is built, so it needs to be strong and well-reasoned. You need to be able to expand on it with facts and sources, not just feelings.

A good argumentative essay isn’t just based on your individual thoughts, but research. That can be citing sources and other arguments or it can mean direct research in the field, depending on what your argument is and the context in which you are arguing it.

Be prepared to back your thesis up with reporting from scientific journals, newspapers, or other forms of research. Having well-researched sources will help support your argument better than hearsay or assumptions. If you can’t find enough research to back up your point, it’s worth reconsidering your thesis or conducting original research, if possible.

How to Come Up With an Argumentative Essay Topic

Sometimes you may find yourself arguing things you don’t necessarily believe. That’s totally fine—you don’t actually have to wholeheartedly believe in what you’re arguing in order to construct a compelling argument.

However, if you have free choice of topic, it’s a good idea to pick something you feel strongly about. There are two key components to a good argumentative essay: a strong stance, and an assortment of evidence. If you’re interested and feel passionate about the topic you choose, you'll have an easier time finding evidence to support it, but it's the evidence that's most important. 

So, to choose a topic, think about things you feel strongly about, whether positively or negatively. You can make a list of ideas and narrow those down to a handful of things, then expand on those ideas with a few potential points you want to hit on.

For example, say you’re trying to decide whether you should write about how your neighborhood should ban weed killer, that your school’s lunch should be free for all students, or that the school day should be cut by one hour. To decide between these ideas, you can make a list of three to five points for each that cover the different evidence you could use to support each point.

For the weed killer ban, you could say that weed killer has been proven to have adverse impacts on bees, that there are simple, natural alternatives, and that weeds aren’t actually bad to have around. For the free lunch idea, you could suggest that some students have to go hungry because they can’t afford lunch, that funds could be diverted from other places to support free lunch, and that other items, like chips or pizza, could be sold to help make up lost revenue. And for the school day length example, you could argue that teenagers generally don’t get enough sleep, that you have too much homework and not enough time to do it, and that teenagers don’t spend enough time with their families.

You might find as you make these lists that some of them are stronger than others. The more evidence you have and the stronger you feel that that evidence is, the better the topic.  Of course, if you feel that one topic may have more evidence but you’d rather not write about it, it’s okay to pick another topic instead. When you’re making arguments, it can be much easier to find strong points and evidence if you feel passionate about our topic than if you don't.

50 Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

If you’re struggling to come up with topics on your own, read through this list of argumentative essay topics to help get you started!

• Should fracking be legal?
• Should parents be able to modify their unborn children?
• Do GMOs help or harm people?
• Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?
• Should world governments get involved in addressing climate change?
• Should Facebook be allowed to collect data from its users?
• Should self-driving cars be legal?
• Is it ethical to replace human workers with automation?
• Should there be laws against using cell phones while driving?
• Has the internet positively or negatively impacted human society?

• Should college athletes be paid for being on sports teams?
• Should coaches and players make the same amount of money?
• Should sports be segregated by gender?
• Should the concept of designated hitters in baseball be abolished?
• Should US sports take soccer more seriously?
• Should religious organizations have to pay taxes?
• Should religious clubs be allowed in schools?
• Should “one nation under God” be in the pledge of allegiance?
• Should religion be taught in schools?
• Should clergy be allowed to marry?
• Should minors be able to purchase birth control without parental consent?
• Should the US switch to single-payer healthcare?
• Should assisted suicide be legal?
• Should dietary supplements and weight loss items like teas be allowed to advertise through influencers?
• Should doctors be allowed to promote medicines?

Government/Politics

• Is the electoral college an effective system for modern America?
• Should Puerto Rico become a state?
• Should voter registration be automatic?
• Should people in prison be allowed to vote?
• Should Supreme Court justices be elected?
• Should sex work be legalized?
• Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
• Should the death penalty be legal?
• Should animal testing be allowed?
• Should drug possession be decriminalized?

• Should unpaid internships be legal?
• Should minimum wage be increased?
• Should monopolies be allowed?
• Is universal basic income a good idea?
• Should corporations have a higher or lower tax rate?
• Are school uniforms a good idea?
• Should PE affect a student’s grades?
• Should college be free?
• Should Greek life in colleges be abolished?
• Should students be taught comprehensive sex ed?

Arts/Culture

• Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?
• Should books with objectionable words be banned?
• Should content on YouTube be better regulated?
• Is art education important?
• Should art and music sharing online be allowed?

How to Argue Effectively

A strong argument isn’t just about having a good point. If you can’t support that point well, your argument falls apart.

One of the most important things you can do in writing a strong argumentative essay is organizing well. Your essay should have a distinct beginning, middle, and end, better known as the introduction, body and opposition, and conclusion.

This example follows the Toulmin model—if your essay follows the Rogerian model, the same basic premise is true, but your thesis will instead propose two conflicting viewpoints that will be resolved through evidence in the body, with your conclusion choosing the stronger of the two arguments.

Introduction

Your hook should draw the reader’s interest immediately. Questions are a common way of getting interest, as well as evocative language or a strong statistic

Don’t assume that your audience is already familiar with your topic. Give them some background information, such as a brief history of the issue or some additional context.

Your thesis is the crux of your argument. In an argumentative essay, your thesis should be clearly outlined so that readers know exactly what point you’ll be making. Don’t explain all your evidence in the opening, but do take a strong stance and make it clear what you’ll be discussing.

Your claims are the ideas you’ll use to support your thesis. For example, if you’re writing about how your neighborhood shouldn’t use weed killer, your claim might be that it’s bad for the environment. But you can’t just say that on its own—you need evidence to support it.

Evidence is the backbone of your argument. This can be things you glean from scientific studies, newspaper articles, or your own research. You might cite a study that says that weed killer has an adverse effect on bees, or a newspaper article that discusses how one town eliminated weed killer and saw an increase in water quality. These kinds of hard evidence support your point with demonstrable facts, strengthening your argument.

In your essay, you want to think about how the opposition would respond to your claims and respond to them. Don’t pick the weakest arguments, either— figure out what other people are saying and respond to those arguments with clearly reasoned arguments.

Demonstrating that you not only understand the opposition’s point, but that your argument is strong enough to withstand it, is one of the key pieces to a successful argumentative essay.

Conclusions are a place to clearly restate your original point, because doing so will remind readers exactly what you’re arguing and show them how well you’ve argued that point.

Summarize your main claims by restating them, though you don’t need to bring up the evidence again. This helps remind readers of everything you’ve said throughout the essay.

End by suggesting a picture of a world in which your argument and action are ignored. This increases the impact of your argument and leaves a lasting impression on the reader.

A strong argumentative essay is one with good structure and a strong argument , but there are a few other things you can keep in mind to further strengthen your point.

When you’re crafting an argument, it can be easy to get distracted by all the information and complications in your argument. It’s important to stay focused—be clear in your thesis and home in on claims that directly support that thesis.

Be Rational

It’s important that your claims and evidence be based in facts, not just opinion. That’s why it’s important to use reliable sources based in science and reporting—otherwise, it’s easy for people to debunk your arguments.

Don’t rely solely on your feelings about the topic. If you can’t back a claim up with real evidence, it leaves room for counterarguments you may not anticipate. Make sure that you can support everything you say with clear and concrete evidence, and your claims will be a lot stronger!

What’s Next?

No matter what kind of essay you're writing, a strong plan will help you have a bigger impact. This guide to writing a college essay is a great way to get started on your essay organizing journey!

Brushing up on your essay format knowledge to prep for the SAT? Check out this list of SAT essay prompts to help you kickstart your studying!

A bunch of great essay examples can help you aspire to greatness, but bad essays can also be a warning for what not to do. This guide to bad college essays will help you better understand common mistakes to avoid in essay writing!

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Melissa Brinks graduated from the University of Washington in 2014 with a Bachelor's in English with a creative writing emphasis. She has spent several years tutoring K-12 students in many subjects, including in SAT prep, to help them prepare for their college education.

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52 Argumentative Essay Ideas that are Actually Interesting

What’s covered:, how to pick a good argumentative essay topic, elements of a strong argumentative essay, argumentative essay idea example topics.

Are you having writer’s block? Coming up with an essay topic can be the hardest part of the process. You have very likely encountered argumentative essay writing in high school and have been asked to write your own. If you’re having trouble finding a topic, we’ve created a list of 52 essay ideas to help jumpstart your brainstorming process! In addition, this post will cover strategies for picking a topic and how to make your argument a strong one. Ultimately, the goal is to convince your reader. 

An argumentative essay tasks the writer with presenting an assertion and bolstering that assertion with proper research. You’ll present the claim’s authenticity. This means that whatever argument you’re making must be empirically true! Writing an argumentative essay without any evidence will leave you stranded without any facts to back up your claim. When choosing your essay topic, begin by thinking about themes that have been researched before. Readers will be more engaged with an argument that is supported by data.

This isn’t to say that your argumentative essay topic has to be as well-known, like “Gravity: Does it Exist?” but it shouldn’t be so obscure that there isn’t ample evidence. Finding a topic with multiple sources confirming its validity will help you support your thesis throughout your essay. If upon review of these articles you begin to doubt their worth due to small sample sizes, biased funding sources, or scientific disintegrity, don’t be afraid to move on to a different topic. Your ultimate goal should be proving to your audience that your argument is true because the data supports it.

The hardest essays to write are the ones that you don’t care about. If you don’t care about your topic, why should someone else? Topics that are more personal to the reader are immediately more thoughtful and meaningful because the author’s passion shines through. If you are free to choose an argumentative essay topic, find a topic where the papers you read and cite are fun to read. It’s much easier to write when the passion is already inside of you!

However, you won’t always have the choice to pick your topic. You may receive an assignment to write an argumentative essay that you feel is boring. There is still value in writing an argumentative essay on a topic that may not be of interest to you. It will push you to study a new topic, and broaden your ability to write on a variety of topics. Getting good at proving a point thoroughly and effectively will help you to both understand different fields more completely and increase your comfort with scientific writing.

Convincing Thesis Statement

It’s important to remember the general essay structure: an introduction paragraph with a thesis statement, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. A strong thesis statement will set your essay up for success. What is it? A succinct, concise, and pithy sentence found in your first paragraph that summarizes your main point. Pour over this statement to ensure that you can set up your reader to understand your essay. You should also restate your thesis throughout your essay to keep your reader focused on your point.

Ample Research

A typical argumentative essay prompt may look like this: “What has been the most important invention of the 21st century? Support your claim with evidence.” This question is open-ended and gives you flexibility. But that also means it requires research to prove your point convincingly. The strongest essays weave scientific quotes and results into your writing. You can use recent articles, primary sources, or news sources. Maybe you even cite your own research. Remember, this process takes time, so be sure you set aside enough time to dive deep into your topic.

Clear Structure

If the reader can’t follow your argument, all your research could be for nothing! Structure is key to persuading your audience. Below are two common argumentative essay structures that you can use to organize your essays.

The Toulmin argument and the Rogerian argument each contain the four sections mentioned above but executes them in different ways. Be sure to familiarize yourself with both essay structures so that your essay is the most effective it can be.

The Toulmin argument has a straightforward presentation. You begin with your assertion, your thesis statement. You then list the evidence that supports your point and why these are valid sources. The bulk of your essay should be explaining how your sources support your claim. You then end your essay by acknowledging and discussing the problems or flaws that readers may find in your presentation. Then, you should list the solutions to these and alternative perspectives and prove your argument is stronger.

The Rogerian argument has a more complex structure. You begin with a discussion of what opposing sides do right and the validity of their arguments. This is effective because it allows you to piece apart your opponent’s argument. The next section contains your position on the questions. In this section, it is important to list problems with your opponent’s argument that your argument fixes. This way, your position feels much stronger. Your essay ends with suggesting a possible compromise between the two sides. A combination of the two sides could be the most effective solution.

• Is the death penalty effective?
• Is our election process fair?
• Is the electoral college outdated?
• Should we have lower taxes?
• How many Supreme Court Justices should there be?
• Should there be different term limits for elected officials?
• Should the drinking age be lowered?
• Does religion cause war?
• Should the country legalize marijuana?
• Should the country have tighter gun control laws?
• Should men get paternity leave?
• Should maternity leave be longer?
• Should smoking be banned?
• Should the government have a say in our diet?
• Should birth control be free?
• Should we increase access to condoms for teens?
• Should abortion be legal?
• Do school uniforms help educational attainment?
• Are kids better or worse students than they were ten years ago?
• Should students be allowed to cheat?
• Is school too long?
• Does school start too early?
• Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school?
• Is summer break still relevant?
• Is college too expensive?

Art / Culture

• How can you reform copyright law?
• What was the best decade for music?
• Do video games cause students to be more violent?
• Should content online be more harshly regulated?
• Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?
• Should schools ban books?
• How important is art education?
• Should music be taught in school?
• Are music-sharing services helpful to artists?
• What is the best way to teach science in a religious school?
• Should fracking be legal?
• Should parents be allowed to modify their unborn children?
• Should vaccinations be required for attending school?
• Are GMOs helpful or harmful?
• Are we too dependent on our phones?
• Should everyone have internet access?
• Should internet access be free?
• Should the police force be required to wear body cams?
• Should social media companies be allowed to collect data from their users?
• How has the internet impacted human society?
• Should self-driving cars be allowed on the streets?
• Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
• Are professional athletes paid too much?
• Should the U.S. have more professional sports teams?
• Should sports be separated by gender?
• Should college athletes be paid?
• What are the best ways to increase safety in sports?

Where to Get More Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

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 argumentative essay ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

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• Writing Tips

50 Argumentative Essay Topics for Students

4-minute read

• 11th June 2022

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

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

●  Does texting hinder interpersonal communication skills?

●  Should there be laws against using devices while driving?

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

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

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

●  Is AI helping or hurting society?

●  Should cyber-bullying carry legal consequences?

●  Should Supreme Court justices be elected?

●  Is war always a political decision?

●  Should people join a political party?

●  Is capitalism ethical?

●  Is the electoral college an effective system?

●  Should prisoners be allowed to vote?

●  Should the death penalty be legal?

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

●  Is healthcare a fundamental human right?

●  Should vaccinations be mandated for children?

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

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

●  Should abortion be legal?

●  Is it ethical to perform medical experiments on animals?

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

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

Mental Healthcare

●  What causes the stigma around mental health?

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

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

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

●  Discuss the effect of physical activity on mental health.

●  Should sports be segregated by gender?

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

●  Are professional athletes overpaid?

●  Should college athletes be paid?

●  Should sports betting be legal?

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

●  Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?

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

●  Should schools be required to offer art courses?

●  Is art necessary to society?

●  Should schools require uniforms?

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

●  Do standardized tests effectively measure intelligence?

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

●  Should higher education be free?

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

●  Are children better off in two-parent households?

●  Should LGBTQ+ partners be allowed to adopt?

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

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

●  Does helicopter parenting help or hurt children?

●  Should parents monitor their children’s Internet use?

Proofreading & Editing

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

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300 Questions and Images to Inspire Argument Writing

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

By The Learning Network

Update: This list is available as a PDF .

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

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

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

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

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

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Debate Topics

Need to write an argumentative essay? Preparing for an upcoming debate? ProCon.org has over 100 topics complete with pro and con arguments, quotes and statistics from experts, historical information, and other pertinent research.

Abortion – Should abortion be legal?

Alternative Energy – Can alternative energy effectively replace fossil fuels?

American Socialism – Should the U.S. become socialist?

Animal Dissection – Should K-12 students dissect animals in science classrooms?

Animal Testing – Should animals be used for scientific or commercial testing?

Artificial Intelligence – Is artificial intelligence good for society?

Banned Books – Should parents or other adults be able to ban books from schools and libraries?

Binge-Watching – Is binge-watching good for you?

Cancel Culture – Is cancel culture (or callout culture) good for society?

CBD for Pets – Is CBD good for pets?

Cell Phone Radiation – Is cell phone radiation safe?

Cheerleading – Is cheerleading a sport?

Churches & Taxes – Should churches (including mosques, synagogues, etc.) remain tax-exempt?

College Education – Is a college education worth it?

Congressional Term Limits  – Should term limits be imposed on U.S. Senators and Representatives?

Constitutional Carry of Handguns – Should permitless, “constitutional carry” of guns be legal?

Corporal Punishment – Should corporal punishment be used in K-12 schools?

Corporate Tax Rate – Should the federal corporate income tax rate be raised?

Cuba Embargo – Should the United States maintain its embargo against Cuba?

DACA & Dreamers – Are DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) and the DREAM Act good for America?

Daylight Saving Time – Should the United States keep daylight saving time?

DC AND Puerto Rico Statehood – Should Washington, DC, and Puerto Rico be granted U.S. statehood?

Death Penalty – Should the death penalty be legal?

Defund the Police – Should police departments be defunded, if not abolished?

Dress Codes – Should dress codes be implemented and enforced?

Drinking Age – Should the drinking age be lowered from 21 to a younger age?

Drone Strikes – Should the United States continue its use of drone strikes abroad?

Drug Use in Sports – Should performance-enhancing drugs be accepted in sports?

Election Day National Holiday – Should the election day be made a national holiday?

Electoral College – Should the United States use the electoral college in presidential elections?

Employer Vaccine Mandates – Should employers be able to mandate vaccinations?

Felon Voting – Should people who have completed felony sentences be allowed to vote?

Fighting in Hockey – Should fighting be allowed in hockey?

Filibuster – Should the U.S. Senate keep the filibuster?

Fracking – Should the United States continue fracking

Free College – Should public college be tuition-free?

Fur Clothing Bans – Should fur clothing be banned?

GMOS – Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be grown?

Gold Standard – Should the United States return to a gold standard?

Golf – Is golf a sport and are golfers athletes?

Gun Control – Should more gun control laws be enacted?

Historic Statue Removal – Should historic statues be taken down?

Homework – Is homework beneficial?

Illegal Immigration – Should the U.S. government provide a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants?

Internet – Is the internet “making us stupid?”

Kneeling during the National Anthem – Is kneeling during the national anthem an appropriate form of protest?

Mandatory National Service – Should the United States have mandatory national service?

Medical Aid in Dying (MAID) – Should medical aid in dying be legal?

Medical Marijuana – Should medical marijuana be legal?

Milk – Should humans consume dairy milk?

Minimum Wage – Should the federal minimum wage be increased?

Net Neutrality – Should the U.S. have net neutrality laws?

Obesity – Is obesity a disease?

Olympics – Are the Olympic games an overall benefit for their host countries and cities?

OTC Birth Control Pills – Should birth control pills be available over-the-counter (OTC)?

Penny – Should the penny stay in circulation?

Pit Bull Bans – Should breed-specific legislation (“pit bull bans”) be enacted?

Pokémon – Is Pokémon Go good for our society?

Police Body Cameras – Should police officers wear body cameras?

Prescription Drug Costs – Should the U.S. federal government regulate prescription drug prices?

Presidential Election, 2024 – 2024 Presidential Election Site

Private Prisons – Should prisons be privatized?

Recreational Marijuana – Should recreational marijuana be legal?

Reparations for Slavery – Should the federal government pay reparations to the descendants of slaves?

Right to Healthcare – Should all Americans have the right (be entitled) to health care?

Sanctuary Cities – Should sanctuary cities receive federal funding?

Santa Claus – Is there really a Santa Claus?

Saturday Halloween – Should Halloween be moved permanently to Saturday?

School Uniforms – Should students have to wear school uniforms?

Single-use Plastics Ban – Should single-use plastics be banned?

Social Media & Digital Addiction – Does social media spur digital addiction and other social ills?

Social Security Privatization – Should social security be privatized?

Space Colonization – Should humans colonize space?

Standardized Tests – Do standardized tests improve education in America?

Student Loan Debt – Should student loan debt be eliminated via forgiveness or bankruptcy?

TikTok Bans – Should TikTok be banned?

Uber & Lyft – Are ride-sharing companies a benefit to society?

Universal Basic Income (UBI) – Should the United States implement a universal basic income?

U.S. Supreme Court Packing – Should packing the U.S. Supreme Court ever be considered?

Vaccines for Kids – Should states be allowed to mandate vaccines for school attendance??

Vaping E-Cigarettes – Is vaping e-cigarettes safe?

Vegetarianism – Should people become vegetarian?

Video Games & Violence – Do violent video games contribute to youth violence?

Voting Age – Should the voting age be lowered to 16?

Voting Machines – Are electronic voting machines the best method for voting?

Zoos – Should zoos exist?

Archived Topics

Please note that ProCon no longer updates these debates.

ACLU – Is the ACLU good for America?

Big Three Bailout – Should the big three car manufacturers be bailed out by the U.S. government?

Born Gay – Is sexual orientation determined at birth?

Climate Change – Is human activity primarily responsible for global climate change?

College Football Playoffs – Should college football replace the Bowl Championship Series (BCS) with a playoff system?

Dakota Access Pipeline – Should the Dakota Access Pipeline be completed?

D.A.R.E. – Is the D.A.R.E. program good for America’s kids (K-12)?

Gay Marriage – Should gay marriage be legal?

Congressional Insider Trading – Should insider trading by Congress be allowed?

Israeli-Palestinian Conflict – What are the solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?

Obamacare – Is the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) good for America?

Paying College Athletes – Should colleges and universities pay college athletes?

President Bill Clinton – Was Bill Clinton a good president?

President Ronald Reagan – Was Ronald Reagan a good president?

Presidential Election, 2008 – Which candidate would make the best U.S. president?

Presidential Election, 2012 – Which candidate should be U.S. president in 2012?

Presidential Election, 2016 – The candidates and where they stand on the issues

Presidential Election, 2020 – 2020 Presidential Election Site

Prostitution – Should prostitution be legal?

School Vouchers – Should states have school voucher programs?

Tablets v. Textbooks -Should tablets replace textbooks in K-12 schools?

Teacher Tenure – Should teachers get tenure?

Under God in the Pledge – Should the words “under god” be in the U.S. Pledge of Allegiance?

U.S. Drone Shot down by Iran – Was the U.S. drone shot down by Iran over international waters?

U.S.-Iraq War – Should the U.S. have attacked Iraq?

WTC Muslim Center – Is it appropriate to build a muslim community center (aka the ”ground zero mosque”) near the World Trade Center site?

ProCon/Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc. 325 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 200 Chicago, Illinois 60654 USA

Natalie Leppard Managing Editor [email protected]

© 2023 Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc. All rights reserved

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• Gun Control
• Banned Books
• Teachers’ Corner

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ProCon.org is the institutional or organization author for all ProCon.org pages. Proper citation depends on your preferred or required style manual. Below are the proper citations for this page according to four style manuals (in alphabetical order): the Modern Language Association Style Manual (MLA), the Chicago Manual of Style (Chicago), the Publication Manual of the American Psychological Association (APA), and Kate Turabian's A Manual for Writers of Term Papers, Theses, and Dissertations (Turabian). Here are the proper bibliographic citations for this page according to four style manuals (in alphabetical order):

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Argumentative Essay Topics and Ideas

Did you know that according to our argumentative essay writing service , the average person makes about 35,000 decisions every day? With so many fascinating topics out there – from politics to technology – the right one can be a real adventure. 

In this article, we'll explore how to pick argumentative essay topics that get people talking and make your paper stand out.

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With our help, you can earn the grade you deserve without the stress and hassle of trying to do it all on your own.

Examples of Argumentative Essay Topics

It's crucial to ensure that you choose unique argumentative essay topics. While your school may occasionally offer a selection of subjects, there may be times when you find it difficult to settle on one. You can also try a persuasive essay writing service if your workload is too heavy on all fronts.

Argumentative Essay Topics for Middle Schoolers

• Recycling in communities.
• Outdoor activities for kids.
• Student involvement in policies.
• Year-round schooling.
• Social media and teen mental health.
• Zoos: Entertainment vs. welfare.
• Peer tutoring's academic impact.
• Sports in education.
• School vouchers.
• Technology in classrooms.
• Student choice in classes.
• Financial literacy for kids.
• Homeschooling pros and cons.
• Standardized testing debate.
• Music education's impact.

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School Students

• Social media's impact on relationships.
• Lowering the voting age.
• Legalizing marijuana: Pros and cons.
• Effectiveness of standardized testing.
• Cyberbullying: Causes and effects.
• Free college education debate.
• Importance of financial literacy.
• Technology in education.
• School dress codes: Yes or no?
• Gun control laws debate.
• Drinking age: Lower or raise?
• Climate change awareness.
• Banning animal testing for cosmetics.
• Online learning.
• Ethics of genetic engineering.

Argumentative Essay Topics for College Students

• Social media's impact on college students' mental health.
• Paying college athletes.
• Pros and cons of online learning
• College education: Worth the cost?
• Affirmative action in college admissions.
• Free college tuition: Should it be universal?
• Effects of climate change policies.
• Technology's role in higher education.
• Hate speech and the First Amendment.
• Ethics of genetic engineering and cloning.
• Diversity in the college curriculum.
• Pass/fail grading: Should it be an option?
• Student loan debt's impact on mental health and careers.
• Trigger warnings in college.
• Legalizing recreational substances: For or against?

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should euthanasia be legalized?
• The pros and cons of capital punishment.
• Is gun control necessary in modern society?
• Should abortion be legal or illegal?
• The debate over same-sex marriage.
• Are affirmative action policies fair or unfair?
• The ethics of animal testing in scientific research.
• Should prostitution be legalized?
• Is climate change a hoax or a real threat?
• The impact of immigration on society.
• Should the death penalty be abolished?
• The role of religion in government and politics.
• Is genetic engineering ethical?
• The ethics of cloning humans.
• The morality of military intervention in foreign countries.

Funny Argumentative Essay Topics

• Cats vs. dogs: The ultimate debate.
• Flat Earth theory: Myth or reality?
• Pajamas: Fashion statement or fashion faux pas?
• Pineapple pizza: Love it or hate it?
• Procrastination: The art of delay.
• Emojis: The new language.
• Socks: More than just footwear.
• The five-second rule.
• Surviving boring meetings.
• DIY zombie apocalypse survival.
• Alien encounters: Fact or fiction?
• Air guitar: Serious sport or silly hobby?
• Deciphering cat communication.
• The thrill of watching paint dry.
• Laughing at your boss's jokes: A skill or survival tactic?

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Topics for Argumentative Speech

• Importance of voting in a democracy.
• Should college education be free for all?
• Impact of social media on mental health.
• Is climate change a real threat?
• Ethics of animal testing in scientific research.
• Should the legal drinking age be lowered?
• Pros and cons of legalizing marijuana.
• Should school uniforms be mandatory?
• Role of technology in shaping society.
• Need for stricter gun control laws.
• Benefits of renewable energy sources.
• Is online learning as effective as traditional education?
• Effects of fast food on public health.
• Should genetic engineering of humans be allowed?

Use our speech writing service if you want to leave your audience nothing short of amazed!

Argument Topics on Social Media 

• Should social media regulate hate speech?
• Role of social media in spreading misinformation.
• Is social media addiction real?
• Should employers use social media for hiring?
• Influence of social media on political views.
• Should parents monitor children's social media?
• Ethical implications of influencer marketing.
• Effects of social media on relationships.
• Should social media ban political ads?
• Responsibility of social media companies against cyberbullying.
• Impact of social media on self-esteem.
• Should social media have age restrictions?
• Privacy concerns with social media.
• Role of social media in activism.

Argument Topics on Music

• Impact of music education on academics.
• Should explicit music lyrics be censored?
• Influence of music on emotions.
• Streaming music: Did it help musicians?
• Is music piracy a crime?
• Music's role in cultural identity.
• Should music therapy be mainstream?
• Effects of music on child development.
• Autotune: Boon or bane for music?
• Prioritizing funding for school music programs.
• Ethics of sampling in music.
• Relevance of classical music today.
• Music's role in social movements.
• Age restrictions at music venues.
• Live music vs. recorded experiences: Which is better?

Health Argumentative Essay Topics

• Fast food's impact on health.
• Junk food ban in schools?
• Legalizing marijuana for medicine.
• Universal healthcare: A right?
• Vaccination: preventing diseases.
• Smoking in public: should it be banned?
• Genetics: Testing and editing ethics.
• Mental health vs. physical health?
• Exercise: Vital for health?
• Taxing sugary drinks: Good idea?
• Alternative medicine: Pros and cons.
• Mandatory flu shots for healthcare?
• Technology's mental health impact.
• Organic food: Worth the cost?
• GMOs: Safe for consumption?

Argument Topics on Science and Technology

• Ethics of artificial intelligence.
• Pros and cons of genetic engineering in humans.
• Renewable energy: Benefits and drawbacks.
• Nuclear energy: Sustainable solution?
• Technology's impact on privacy.
• Regulating facial recognition technology.
• Manned missions vs. robotics in space exploration.
• Ethics of CRISPR gene editing.
• Technology and social connection.
• Role of technology in climate change.
• Autonomous vehicles on public roads: Yes or no?
• Social media algorithms and information consumption.
• Regulation of artificial intelligence development.
• Biometric surveillance: Potential dangers.
• Limits on military technology development.

Argument Topics on Sports

• Impact of sports on youth development.
• Should college athletes be paid?
• Technology in sports officiating.
• Benefits of competitive sports for children.
• Performance-enhancing substances in sports.
• Banning violent sports like boxing.
• Ethics of gender segregation in sports.
• Importance of sportsmanship in competition.
• Changing racially insensitive sports team names.
• Hosting major sporting events for cities.
• Legitimacy of esports as sports.
• Sports' impact on mental health.
• Athlete protests during events.
• Salary caps in professional sports.
• Sports' role in promoting social change.

Argument Topics on Government

• Government's role in healthcare.
• Lowering or raising the voting age.
• Is democracy the best system?
• Term limits for politicians.
• Abolishing the Electoral College.
• Influence of lobbying on decisions.
• Government's role in regulating the economy.
• Stricter regulations on campaign finance.
• Universal basic income debate.
• Necessity of government surveillance.
• Ethics of Government Censorship.
• Limits on executive powers.
• Government policies and climate change.
• Government's role in addressing inequality.

Argument Topics on TV, Movies, Video Games

• Impact of violent video games on behavior.
• Should violent media be restricted?
• Influence of celebrity culture.
• Harmfulness of binge-watching.
• Portrayal of gender and race in media.
• Age restrictions on video game content.
• Effects of advertising in children's shows.
• Is piracy damaging to the industry?
• Role of censorship in protecting audiences.
• Regulation of video game loot boxes.
• Social media's impact on entertainment.
• Need for diversity in Hollywood.
• Future of virtual reality in entertainment.
• Streaming services vs. traditional TV.
• Regulating children's screen time.

How to Choose Argumentative Essay Topics

To come up with engaging and thought-provoking argumentative essay topics for students, it’s crucial to choose a strong topic. Here are seven genuine suggestions to help you through the process:

Explore Your Interests

Brainstorm interesting argumentative essay topics that genuinely interest you. A subject you're passionate about will make the research and writing process more enjoyable and engaging.

Consider Controversy

Look for topics for argumentative essay that spark debate or have multiple perspectives. Controversial issues often make for compelling argumentative essays because they allow you to explore different sides of an issue and present your stance.

Assess Current Relevance

Select unique argumentative essay topics that are relevant to current events or ongoing discussions in society. This ensures your essay resonates with readers and contributes to meaningful dialogue on contemporary issues. Also, we recommend learning more about an argumentative essay structure before working on your first draft. 

Narrow Down Broad Topics

Once you've identified a general area of interest, narrow it down to a specific aspect or angle. This will help you focus your research and develop a clear thesis statement for your essay.

Evaluate Feasibility

Consider the availability of credible sources and data for your chosen topic. Ensure that you find enough evidence to support your arguments and counterarguments effectively. Just in case, we have an article with a cause and effect essay structure , so don’t forget to consult it.

Check for Personal Connection

Reflect on your experiences, beliefs, or values that may intersect with potential topics. A topic that is personally significant to you can add depth and authenticity to your arguments.

Seek Feedback

Discuss your topic ideas with peers, instructors, or mentors for their input and perspectives. They can offer valuable insights, suggest alternative angles, or help you refine your topic to make it more persuasive. If you’re in a hurry, you can simply buy argumentative essay and call it a day.

A quality topic should be relevant, timely, and debatable, offering multiple perspectives for examination. Moreover, it should align with the writer's interests and expertise, enabling them to present a well-reasoned and well-supported argument.

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What Is the Five-Paragraph Argumentative Essay?

What are good topics for an argumentative essay, what is an argumentative example.

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

• Added infographics.
• Added new topics.
• Added FAQs.
• https://static01.nyt.com/images/blogs/learning/pdf/2015/301_Prompts_for_Argumentative_Writing.pdf
• Oliver, E. (2023, May 18). Good Argumentative Essay Topics. Read Relevant. https://readrelevant.com/good-argumentative-essay-topics/
• 52 Argumentative Essay Ideas that are Actually Interesting. (2021, April 19). CollegeVine Blog. https://blog.collegevine.com/argumentative-essays-ideas

Argumentative Essay Writing

Argumentative Essay Topics

Take Your Pick – 200+ Argumentative Essay Topics

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Published on: Jul 11, 2020

Last updated on: Jan 31, 2024

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Share this article

These days, students of all levels may come across the daunting task of writing an argumentative essay .

 It can leave you feeling overwhelmed, but we’ve got your back! 

Our comprehensive list contains over 200 ideas for argumentative topics. No matter what kind of issue you want to explore, from immigration to technology, it’s on here.

 With this extensive selection, there is almost definitely something that will spark your interest. 

Pick something out today and get started on your paper!

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Best Argumentative Essay Topics For Students

When it comes to choosing an argumentative essay topic, it’s important to select one that is interesting and relevant.

While you may think that any topic will do, considering the audience you are writing for can be beneficial. 

Think about topics that have a lot of room for debate and analysis. This will ensure that your paper is engaging and well-developed. 

Let's dive into our comprehensive list of topics!

Argumentative Essay Topics For Middle School

• Should students be required to wear uniforms in school? 
• Should schools offer fast food options in their cafeteria? 
• Is homework beneficial or detrimental to student learning? 
• Are video games a positive or negative influence on kids? 
• Should competitive sports be mandatory for all students? 
• Are standardized tests an accurate measure of student success? 
• Should students be allowed to use cell phones in the classroom?
• Is year-round school a better option for students? 
• Is cheating in school ever justified? 
• Should high schools offer more career guidance and job placement assistance?

Argumentative Essay Topics For Grade 6

• Should students be required to do community service in order to graduate? 
• Is recess an important part of the school day? 
• Are zoos necessary for animal conservation? 
• Are video games or movies more educational for kids? 
• Is it appropriate for children to watch horror films? 
• Are video games a good way to keep kids active? 
• Should students be allowed to have their own social media accounts? 
• Is it important for children to learn cursive handwriting in school? 
• Is learning a foreign language at a young age beneficial?  
• Are competition-based activities good for building teamwork skills?

Argumentative Essay Topics For 7th Graders

• Should parents be required to limit their children’s screen time? 
• Do school lunches provide enough nutrition for students? 
• Is using a computer in the classroom better than using textbooks? 
• Should physical education classes be mandatory in schools? 
• Should students be allowed to use their phones during class? 
• Is cheating ever justified in school assignments? 
• Are single-sex classrooms better for learning than co-ed ones? 
• Do children learn best through play or through instruction? 
• Should schools offer more career guidance and job placement assistance?

Argumentative Essay Topics For Grade 8

• Should students be allowed to use cell phones in the classroom? 
• Should schools offer more vocational courses for students? 
• Is standardized testing an accurate measure of student success? 
• Should elementary schools offer more technology classes? 
• Are year-round schools better for student learning? 
• Is online learning as effective as traditional methods of teaching? 
• Should teachers be allowed to assign homework over the weekend?

Argumentative Essay Topics For High School

• Should students be able to choose their own courses in high school? 
• Is the current system of education outdated and in need of reform? 
• Is cheating ever justified in exams or assignments? 
• Does standardized testing accurately measure student intelligence?  
• Is it necessary for high schoolers to learn a foreign language? 
• Should students be required to participate in physical education classes? 
• Is there too much emphasis on technology in classrooms today? 
• Should high schoolers have part-time jobs during their studies? 
• Is it important for schools to offer more career guidance and job placement assistance?  ?
• Should students participate in more outdoor games?

Argumentative Essay Topics For O Levels

• Should students be allowed to use cell phones in school? 
• Is standardized testing an effective measure of student success? 
• How can schools best prepare students for the job market? 
• Are universities doing enough to prepare students for the future? 
• Should physical education classes be mandatory in high school? 
• Should students be able to choose their own classes in college? 
• Are video games a problem for children these days?
• Do video games have a positive or negative influence on kids? 
• Should online classes be offered as an alternative to traditional schooling?  ?

Argumentative Essay Topics For College Students

• Are colleges doing enough to prepare students for the job market? 
• Should college athletes be paid for their performance? 
• Is standardized testing an accurate measure of student intelligence?  
• What is the best way to prevent cheating in university exams? 
• Is a college degree still necessary for success in today’s job market?  
• Should universities offer more vocational courses for students? 
• Are year-round classes beneficial or detrimental to student learning? 
• How can we best ensure that college graduates have the skills they need for success? 
• Should college admissions be based on test scores and grades alone?  ?

Argumentative Essay Topics For University Students

• Is the current system of higher education outdated and in need of reform? 
• Are online classes as effective as traditional ones for student learning?  
• Are admissions tests the right test to give admission to a student?
• Is it necessary for university students to learn a foreign language? 
• Should college admissions be based on test scores and grades alone?  
• How can universities best prepare students for the job market? 
• Does standardized testing accurately measure student intelligence?  ?

Good Argumentative Essay Topics for Teenagers

• Should teens be allowed to make their own decisions about their education? 
• Is it important for teenagers to learn a foreign language? 
• Does Social Media have a negative impact on teenage mental health? 
• Are online classes just as effective as traditional ones for student learning?  
• Is standardized testing an accurate measure of student intelligence? 
• Are teenagers more attracted to drugs than adults?
•  Is it beneficial for teenagers to have part-time jobs during their studies? 
• Should there be stricter laws in place to regulate the use of cell phones by teens? 
•  How can schools best prepare teenagers for the job market?  

Easy Argumentative Essay Topics 

• Should students be allowed to have cell phones in school?
• Is homework necessary for students to succeed academically?
• Should junk food be banned in schools?
• Are video games beneficial or harmful to children?
• Should school uniforms be mandatory for all students?
• Is it better to read books or use technology for learning?
• Should pets be allowed in all public places?
• Is it fair for kids to have an equal share of household chores?
• Should children be allowed to watch TV or use electronic devices before bedtime?
• Is it better to be an only child or have siblings?

Easy Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the minimum wage be increased? 
• Do plastic bags have a negative environmental impact? 
• Is violence in video games and films responsible for violent behavior in children? 
• Is standardized testing an effective measure of student learning? 
• Should the voting age be lowered? 
• Should animals be used in scientific research? 
• Is it necessary to have a college degree in order to be successful in life? 
• Is social media responsible for a rise in mental health issues among teenagers?  ?

Unique Argumentative Essay Topics

• Are artificial intelligence and robotics a threat to human employment? 
• How can governments best address the global refugee crisis?  
• Should employers be required to provide flexible working hours for parents? 
• Is the current education system in need of reform to prepare students for the job market? 
• Should universities be held accountable for the success of their graduates? 
• How can technology best be utilized to improve the quality of education?  
• Should college admissions be based on test scores and grades alone? 
• Is the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports a violation of ethical standards?  ?

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

• Is it ethical to use animals for scientific research? 
• Are student-athletes receiving fair compensation for their performance? 
• Should the death penalty be abolished in all countries?  
• Is the current immigration system in need of reform? 
• Do violent video games and films contribute to the rise in crime? 
• Should same-sex marriage be legalized in all countries? 
• Should abortion be made illegal in all countries?  ?

Interesting Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the legal drinking age be lowered? 
• What are the benefits and drawbacks of homeschooling? 
• Does social media have a negative impact on teenage mental health? 
• Are school uniforms a necessary expense? 
• Is homeschooling better than a normal school?
• What measures should be taken to protect endangered species?  ?

Fun Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should the “Star Wars” prequel trilogy be considered canon? 
• Is it important for teenagers to learn how to play a musical instrument?  
• What are the beneficial effects of video games on teenage development? 
• Are there any benefits to watching television shows or movies in 3D? 
• Are superheroes a necessary element in modern-day films? 
• Should children be allowed to watch movies rated PG-13 and above? 
• Is it ethical for companies to produce products with an “end of life” plan built into them? 
• Can art influence society in a positive way? 
• Should parents be allowed to choose their child’s gender before birth? 
• Is the book always better than the movie adaptation? ?

Mental Health Argumentative Essay Topics

• What is the link between mental health and physical health? 
• Is there a stigma attached to mental illness? 
• How can we better support young people with mental health issues? 
• Does social media have an impact on our mental well-being? 
• Should all schools provide access to mental health professionals? 
• What measures should be taken to reduce the incidence of suicide among teens?  
• Are there any benefits to taking medication for mental health issues? 
• Should employers make accommodations for employees with mental illness? 
• Is it ethical to force someone into treatment for a mental health condition?  
• Should mental health be considered an important part of healthcare reform?

General Argumentative Essay Topics ?

• Should genetically modified crops be widely adopted in agriculture?
• Is it ethically justifiable to genetically modify humans for the purpose of treating terminal illnesses?
• Should the United States abolish the Electoral College in favor of a popular vote system?
• Is there a need for better support systems and reduced stigma around mental health in the workplace?
• Is taking a gap year after high school a beneficial choice for personal and academic growth?
• Is the death penalty a justifiable form of punishment or an act of barbarism?
• What should be the role of the United States in global politics: assertive superpower or impartial mediator?
• How do political parties impact and shape the democratic process in the United States?
• Should high school students have more opportunities for physical education beyond traditional gym classes?
• Is animal testing a necessary evil or an unjustified act of cruelty?

How to Choose a Good Argumentative Essay Topic?

Choosing a good argumentative essay topic can be challenging. It’s important to pick a topic that is both interesting and has two sides that can be argued on. 

Here are some tips to help you choose the best argumentative essay topic:

1. Choose a topic that interests you

This is the most important factor when selecting an argumentative essay topic. Pick a subject that is interesting to you and allows for debate or discussion. 

2. Consider both sides of the argument

There must be two opposing positions in any good argument. Make sure your topic allows for both sides to have a valid argument . 

3. Research the topic thoroughly

 Take the time to research and understand both sides of the issue before you begin writing your essay. This will help ensure that you are able to make an informed argument in your paper. 

4. Consider current events

 Argumentative essays can be based on any current issue or event, which makes them great topics for discussion. Select a topic that is currently relevant and will engage readers. 

5. Think critically

 Finally, make sure to approach the essay with an open mind. Consider both sides of the argument before making your own conclusion. This will help ensure that your argument is sound and well-supported.  Check out this video to learn more!

Follow these tips and you will be able to choose a good topic for your argumentative essay!

Tips for Writing a Compelling Argumentative Essay

Once you’ve selected a great argumentative essay topic, it’s time to start writing! Here are some tips for crafting a compelling argumentative essay: 

• Structure your paper properly

Make sure that your paper follows the standard structure of an essay and includes an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

Check out the comprehensive blog on how to create a perfect persuasive essay outline !

• Use evidence and examples to support your argument

To make your essay more persuasive, be sure to provide facts, statistics, and research-based evidence that supports your opinion. 

• Be aware of counterarguments

 Anticipate the opposing viewpoints on your topic and develop a rebuttal for each one in advance. This will make your essay more convincing and will help you refute any counterarguments. 

• Use a clear writing style

 Your argumentative essay should be written in a formal yet engaging style. Avoid biased language and personal attacks, and focus on presenting the facts objectively. 

• Take a stance

Choose one side of the argument and make sure your essay expresses your opinion clearly. This will help ensure that you present a convincing argument in your paper. 

By following these tips, you can create an effective and compelling argumentative essay!

You now know how to write an argumentative essay, and there are plenty of topics to choose from. 

With over 200 examples of argumentative essay topics at your disposal, we’re sure you’ll find something that interests you. 

Struggling with your upcoming essay? Our online essay writing service  is here to rescue you!

Specializing in crafting high-quality argumentative essay writing , our team of expert writers is dedicated to delivering content that not only meets but exceeds your expectations. Whether it's a complex topic or a tight deadline, we've got you covered.

And for those who seek an even more streamlined solution, our advanced AI tool is the perfect choice. Our essay writer AI is designed to provide quick, efficient, and personalized essay writing assistance, adapting to your unique style and requirements. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How do i choose an argumentative essay topic.

When choosing an argumentative essay topic, it is important to select one that you are both knowledgeable and passionate about. Consider topics that you have studied in depth or can research easily. 

How should I structure my argumentative essay?

An argumentative essay typically follows the classic five-paragraph structure. 

It includes an introduction that introduces your topic and states your claim. Three body paragraphs that provide evidence and analysis to support your claim. Finally, a conclusion that summarizes your argument and emphasizes the importance of your evidence.

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101 Standout Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

An argumentative essay is just what it sounds like: an essay where you argue. You pick a topic, take a stance, research information to support your opinion, state your claims, and voilà! You’ve got your essay.

As simple as that may sound, writing a persuasive essay can be quite difficult for even very experienced writers. It takes excellent organization and planning to clearly address your thoughts and requires stellar research skills to find valid arguments that support your claim.

But before you can state your case, you first need to come up with the topic you’re going to argue about.

How to Choose a Topic for an Argumentative Essay

When you choose a topic for an argumentative essay, it’s important to keep these tips in mind:

• Your topic must be debatable. Duh... this seems obvious, but it’s worth stating. You need a topic that has (at least) two sides. Choosing a topic such as Puerto Rico is My Favorite Place is not really debatable. However, picking a topic like Puerto Rico Should Become the 51st State to Join the United States is something arguable. Some people agree with this statement, and others do not. There are pros and cons that can be discussed. ‍
• Write about what people are talking about. Watch the news. Browse the internet. It’s more engaging to write about something that’s relevant right now. For example, if you keep hearing a lot about immigration, you might choose a topic such as America Should Close Its Borders . Or if you read a lot about standardized testing in schools, you can create a topic like Colleges Should Eliminate Standardized Testing From Their Application Process . When a topic is current and intriguing, it makes for a more interesting essay. ‍
• Reflect on your interests. It’s always better to write about something for which you have a passion. If you love video games, you could write a persuasive essay such as Video Gaming is Healthy for Teens . If you’re passionate about sports, you could cover something like College Athletes Deserve to Be Paid . Researching and writing an argumentative essay takes quite a bit of time, so you should pick a topic you’re fascinated by to make the process a little less painless.

Forming General Arguments

To test whether or not the prompt you have in mind is up to snuff for an entire essay, you can test it out by putting it in a general argument.

Pick the topic you’re thinking about and see if it works as a two-sided debate in any of the following formats:

• Is…effective? Productive? Helpful? Worth it? (i.e. Is school choice effective?)
• Is…hurtful? Harmful? Wasteful? (i.e. Is fracking harmful to the environment?)
• …should be allowed for… (i.e. Alcohol should be allowed for all people who are 18 and older. )
• …should be forbidden for… (i.e. Football should be forbidden for children under the age of ten .)

If you can make a topic from any of these, you’re ready at this point to start outlining your essay . If not, you need to find a more specific starting point.

Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

Need some ideas to help you choose a topic? This list will get you started.

Note that these are listed as questions so you can take your own stance. For example, Should everyone have free healthcare? gives you at least two possible topics depending on your point of view: Everyone is Entitled to Free Healthcare vs. It is Not the Government’s Responsibility to Provide Healthcare for Everyone .

Laws & Policies

• Should the drinking age be lowered/raised?
• Should military participation be mandatory for all citizens?
• Should all Americans be required to speak English fluently?
• Should Americans be required to speak Spanish?
• Should teachers be armed?
• Should gun control laws be stricter?
• Should the military age be lowered/raised?
• Should there be limits to free speech?
• Should marijuana be legal?
• Should the internet be censored?
• Are gun control laws too strict?
• Should people of the same sex be allowed to marry each other?
• Should abortion be legal?
• Should laws be grounded in religion?
• Should churches be tax-free institutions?
• Should the voting age be lowered/raised?
• Should felons have the right to vote?
• Should the electoral college still exist?
• Should Puerto Rico become a state?
• Should all politicians have term limits?
• Should everyone have free healthcare?
• Should social security be privatized?
• Should the United States build a wall between the U.S. and Mexico?
• Should the minimum wage be raised?
• Should wealthier citizens pay more taxes?
• Should the use of the penny be eliminated?
• Should every citizen be required to vote?
• Is life better now than it was X years ago?
• Who is the greatest president of all time?
• Who is the most ethical/moral politician that has ever served?
• Is globalization a good thing?
• How can governments prevent World War 3?
• Is democracy the best form of government?
• Are teenagers now smarter than teenagers of past generations?
• Does revolution result in real change?
• Should the U.S. get involved with other countries’ wars?
• Should cursive writing be taught in schools?
• Should students have to wear school uniforms?
• Should all students have free college tuition?
• Should teachers be paid more?
• Should K–12 school selection be based on where you live?
• Should all students be required to study abroad?
• Should year-round schooling be mandatory?
• Should high school start times be later?
• Should everyone be required to learn a foreign language?
• Should schools have mandatory metal detectors and security guards?
• Is standardized testing fair?
• Should prayer be allowed in school?
• Should sex education be required for all students?
• Are single-sex schools more effective?
• Should students be required to take a year off before starting college?

Science & Technology

• Should we invest in space travel?
• Are nuclear weapons helping make the world safe?
• Are video games harmful?
• Do video games cause children to be violent?
• Does screen time have an effect on a child’s social behavior?
• Should animals be used to test new products?
• Has technology helped or hurt society?
• Does technology make life easier?
• Are online relationships legitimate?
• Is cloning ethical?
• How can we best fight against the obesity epidemic?
• Should smoking be illegal?
• Should energy drinks be banned?
• Are diets helpful?
• Is technology making healthcare more/less personal?
• Should schools offer healthier food choices?
• Should doctor-assisted suicide exist?
• Should unhealthy foods and beverages be taxed at a higher rate?
• Should physical education be mandatory for everyone?
• Should recycling be mandatory?
• Should every household have a trash limit?
• Should people eat vegan to help save the environment?
• Should tax money be used to save endangered species?
• Should cars be outlawed in cities?
• Should plastic straws and bags be banned worldwide?
• Should there be limits on water usage?
• Should solar and wind power be used more often than other energies?
• Should college athletes be paid?
• Should players have to stand for the National Anthem?
• Do athletes have a responsibility to be role models?
• Who is the greatest athlete of all time?
• Is football too dangerous for young athletes?
• Should sports betting be illegal?
• Does playing a sport help build character in young children?
• Should professional sports have cheerleaders?

Pop Culture & the Arts

• Should beauty contests be terminated?
• Should artwork be censored?
• Do celebrities have responsibilities to be role models?
• Is social media helpful or hurtful?
• Do television shows accurately represent current American lifestyles?
• Should music be censored?
• Should people live together before marriage?
• Should children be put in the spotlight at a young age?
• Does money lead to happiness?
• Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Is there any time when breaking the law is okay?
• Is money the root of all evil?
• Are we responsible for other people or only for ourselves?
• Do the ends justify the means of any action?
• Can people ever change who they are?

Once you have chosen a topic that is relevant, debatable, and worth discussing, you are free to begin organizing your argumentative essay. Outline your opinion, do some research, and get started!

How to Write Essay Titles and Headers

Don’t overlook the title and section headers when putting together your next writing assignment. Follow these pointers for keeping your writing organized and effective.

Need a topic for your upcoming argumentative essay? We've got 100 helpful prompts to help you get kickstarted on your next writing assignment.

Writing a Standout College Admissions Essay

Your personal statement is arguably the most important part of your college application. Follow these guidelines for an exceptional admissions essay.

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Argumentative Essay Topics

Good Argumentative Essay Topics For Beginners - 270+ Ideas

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Learn Different Types of Arguments and Argument Claims

Have you been assigned an argumentative essay ? Are you wondering about which topic you should choose? 

Choosing a good topic is the first step to writing your argumentative essay. But ideas and inspirations don’t come easily.

That’s why we've compiled a list of 280 argumentative essay ideas. Whether you’re in high school or college, we’ve got you covered. These topics will sharpen your critical thinking and also encourage you to look into contentious issues.

So read on to find the best argumentative topic to write about! 

• 1. Argumentative Essay Topics for Students of Different Academic Level 
• 2. Argumentative Essay Topics For Kids
• 3. Subject-Specific Argumentative Essay Topics 
• 4. Religion Argument Essay Topics
• 5. Family Argumentative Essay Topics 
• 6. Government Argumentative Essay Topics 
• 7. Social Media Argumentative Essay Topics 
• 8. Miscellaneous Argumentative Essay Topics
• 9. Argumentative Essay Topics for Debate
• 10. How to Choose an Interesting Argumentative Essay Topic?

Argumentative Essay Topics for Students of Different Academic Level 

Below is a list of argumentative topics for students of all levels. With such varied topics available for exploration, you can easily find one that sparks your interest without difficulty.

Argumentative Essay Topics For University Students 

• Is there a need for stricter regulations on social media platforms to protect user privacy and combat misinformation?
• Should universities implement quotas to increase diversity among students and faculty?
• Is artificial intelligence a threat to employment and job security for university graduates?
• Should universities adopt a pass/fail grading system instead of traditional letter grades?
• Is it ethical for universities to accept funding from industries with questionable environmental or ethical practices?
• Should universities require students to take courses on global citizenship and cultural competency?
• Is the use of animals in scientific research morally justifiable, and should it be allowed in universities?
• Should universities offer courses on cryptocurrency and blockchain technology?
• Should universities lower tuition fees to make education more accessible?
• Should universities be allowed to use affirmative action policies for admissions?

Argumentative Essay Topics For College 

• Should college athletes be paid for their participation in sports?
• Is online education as effective as traditional classroom learning for college students?
• Should colleges and universities implement affirmative action policies to increase diversity among students and faculty?
• Should college education be free?
• Should colleges have stricter policies against plagiarism and academic dishonesty?
• Is there a need for stronger gun control laws in the United States to prevent mass shootings on college campuses?
• Should the Electoral College be reformed or abolished?
• Is it ethical for colleges and universities to invest their endowment funds in industries such as fossil fuels or tobacco?
• Should colleges and universities eliminate standardized testing (SAT and ACT) as a requirement for admissions?
• Should the curriculum in colleges and universities be more focused on practical skills and job readiness?

Argumentative Essay Topics For High School Students 

• Should the government regulate the sale and consumption of sugary drinks to combat obesity?
• Is it ethical for schools to use metal detectors and conduct random searches of students' belongings?
• Should high school students be required to perform community service as part of their graduation requirements?
• Is the use of technology in the classroom, such as laptops and tablets, more helpful or harmful to learning?
• Should schools teach comprehensive sex education to high school students, including topics like consent and contraception?
• Is the death penalty an effective and just punishment for serious crimes?
• Should high school athletes be required to maintain a certain GPA to participate in sports?
• Is homeschooling a better educational option than traditional public or private schools?
• Should schools have a mandatory course on digital literacy and internet safety?
• Is the use of surveillance cameras in public places a violation of privacy rights?

Argumentative Essay Topics For Teenagers

• Should schools teach comprehensive sex education?
• Are school uniforms beneficial?
• Should kids be social media influencers?
• Should kids have homework on weekends?
• Should schools abolish homework?
• Is stricter immigration and border control necessary?
• Should teachers get paid more?
• Should your school day start later?
• Are violent video games harmful to teenagers?
• Has the internet made society better?

Argumentative Essay Topics For Middle School Students 

• Should students be allowed to have cell phones in school?
• Is homework necessary for students to succeed academically?
• Should school uniforms be mandatory for all students?
• Is video gaming harmful or beneficial for young people's development?
• Should pets be allowed in school to reduce stress and anxiety?
• Is it important for middle school students to learn a second language?
• Is technology too isolating for individuals?
• Is online learning as effective as traditional classroom learning?
• Should students be required to participate in physical education classes every day?
• Is it fair for students to be graded on their participation in class discussions?

Argumentative Essay Topics For Class 7

• What rights, if any, should teenagers have to control their lives? 
• Do children learn more from rewards or punishments?
• Should physical education be mandatory in schools?
• Is the amount of homework given to students appropriate or excessive?
• Are standardized tests an effective measure of student performance?
• Should parents have access to their children's social media accounts?
• Do video games have a positive or negative effect on academic achievement?
• Should students be allowed to bring their own technology to school?
• Does the Internet create more opportunities for learning or less?
• Should schools teach values and morality as part of the curriculum?

Argumentative Essay Topics For Grade 5

• Should schools have a longer summer vacation?
• Should every student go to college?
• Should gym class be required for all students?
• Is it fair for students to have to wear school uniforms?
• Should junk food be banned in school cafeterias?
• Should schools provide more opportunities for physical education and exercise?
• Is it important for students to learn a foreign language in school?
• Should students be allowed to have cell phones in the classroom?
• Should schools be required to offer art, music, and creative subjects?

Argumentative Essay Topics For Kids

• Should students have a longer summer break?
• Should students be allowed to have a pet in their classroom?
• Is it better to read books in print or on a digital device?
• Should schools have a dress code?
• Is it important for kids to eat their vegetables every day?
• Is it better to have a longer or shorter school day?
• Should kids be allowed to have a TV or computer in their bedrooms?
• Is it important for kids to learn to play a musical instrument?
• Lunch break should be 1 hour long.
• Argue in favor of your favorite TV show or cartoon series.

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Subject-Specific Argumentative Essay Topics 

Here are some argumentative topic ideas categorized by different disciplines:

• The effectiveness of inclusive education in mainstream schools.
• Should standardized testing be eliminated in favor of alternative assessment methods?
• How does socioeconomic status impact educational opportunities?
• Should homeschooling be regulated more strictly?
• The role of arts education in fostering creativity and critical thinking.
• Should computer coding be a mandatory subject in schools?
• Examining the benefits and drawbacks of year-round schooling.
• The impact of digital textbooks versus traditional textbooks on learning outcomes.
• Should schools provide free meals to all students, regardless of income?
• How can schools better support students with mental health challenges?
• Analyzing the portrayal of gender roles in classic literature versus contemporary literature.
• Should schools focus more on teaching practical writing skills over literary analysis?
• Is censorship ever justified in literature taught in schools?
• The influence of Shakespeare on modern literature and drama.
• Should creative writing be a mandatory subject in high school?
• Examining the role of satire in literature and its impact on society.
• Should students be allowed to choose their own books for assigned reading?
• The portrayal of diversity and multiculturalism in children's literature.
• How does digital publishing affect the future of the book industry?
• Analyzing the evolution of language in the digital age.

Environmental Science

• The role of government policies versus individual actions in combating climate change.
• Should plastic bags be banned globally to protect the environment?
• Is nuclear energy a sustainable solution for the future?
• The impact of deforestation on biodiversity and climate regulation.
• Should ecotourism be promoted as a means of environmental conservation?
• Analyzing the ethics of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in agriculture.
• The effectiveness of wildlife conservation efforts in preserving endangered species.
• Should countries prioritize renewable energy sources over fossil fuels?
• How can urban planning contribute to environmental sustainability?
• The role of indigenous knowledge in environmental conservation and management.
• Should businesses prioritize social responsibility over profit?
• The impact of globalization on local economies and cultures.
• Is ethical consumerism a viable solution to promote sustainable business practices?
• Analyzing the effectiveness of corporate diversity and inclusion programs.
• Should CEOs' salaries be capped to reduce income inequality?
• How does technology innovation impact small businesses versus large corporations?
• Should governments regulate the gig economy to protect workers' rights?
• The role of business incubators and accelerators in fostering entrepreneurship.
• Is a four-day workweek beneficial for employee productivity and well-being?
• Should businesses be held accountable for their environmental impact?

Science and Ethics

• Should animal testing be banned for scientific research?
• The ethical implications of gene editing and designer babies.
• Is there a moral obligation to preserve endangered species?
• Should scientific research funding prioritize medical advancements over space exploration?
• The ethical considerations of cloning for agricultural purposes.
• Should scientists have the right to patent their discoveries?
• Analyzing the ethics of using artificial intelligence in healthcare diagnosis.
• Is geoengineering a viable solution to combat climate change?
• Should governments regulate the use of CRISPR technology in humans?
• The ethical dilemmas of conducting research involving human subjects.
• Should minimum wage laws be standardized globally?
• The impact of automation on job creation and unemployment rates.
• Is there a correlation between economic growth and income inequality?
• Should governments implement a universal basic income?
• Analyzing the economic consequences of immigration policies.
• The role of cryptocurrency in the future of global finance.
• Should antitrust laws be strengthened to prevent monopolies?
• How does globalization affect developing economies?
• The economic benefits and drawbacks of free trade agreements.
• Should financial literacy education be mandatory in schools?

Gender and Sexuality

• Should gender-neutral language be adopted in official documents and institutions?
• The portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters in media and its impact on social attitudes.
• Is affirmative action necessary to promote gender equality in the workplace?
• The impact of gender stereotypes on mental health and self-esteem.
• Should sex education be more inclusive of LGBTQ+ issues?
• Analyzing the representation of women in leadership positions in politics and business.
• Should transgender athletes compete in sports according to their gender identity?
• The intersectionality of race, gender, and sexuality in social justice movements.
• Is there a double standard in societal expectations of masculinity and femininity?
• Should healthcare policies cover gender-affirming treatments for transgender individuals?

Healthcare Policy

• Should healthcare be a fundamental human right?
• The impact of pharmaceutical advertising on healthcare costs and patient outcomes.
• Should governments regulate the pricing of essential medicines?
• Is universal healthcare economically feasible in all countries?
• Analyzing the effectiveness of preventative healthcare programs.
• The ethical considerations of organ donation and transplantation.
• Should alternative medicine be integrated into mainstream healthcare systems?
• How does access to healthcare differ between urban and rural populations?
• Should vaccinations be mandatory to prevent outbreaks of contagious diseases?
• The role of technology in improving healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

Artificial Intelligence

• Should there be regulations on the development and use of artificial intelligence?
• The ethical implications of autonomous vehicles and their impact on society.
• Is artificial intelligence a threat to human employment?
• Analyzing the role of AI in personalized medicine and healthcare diagnostics.
• Should AI algorithms be transparent and accountable for their decisions?
• The potential risks and benefits of AI in military applications.
• How can AI contribute to environmental sustainability and conservation efforts?
• Should there be international treaties to govern the use of AI in warfare?
• The ethical dilemmas of AI in privacy and data security.
• Is AI-enhanced education beneficial for students' learning outcomes?
• Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in professional sports?
• The impact of sports on youth development and academic performance.
• Is there gender equality in sports media coverage and sponsorship?
• Analyzing the role of sports in promoting social inclusion and diversity.
• The ethics of hosting mega-events like the Olympics and World Cup.
• Should there be stricter regulations on sports concussions and player safety?
• The impact of sports fandom on community identity and social cohesion.
• Should sports leagues implement stricter policies on athlete behavior off the field?
• Is there a correlation between sports participation and mental health benefits?
• Should social media platforms be held accountable for misinformation and hate speech?
• The ethical implications of facial recognition technology in public surveillance.
• Is digital privacy a fundamental right in the age of big data?
• Analyzing the impact of 5G technology on global connectivity and communication.
• Should there be regulations on the use of drones for civilian and commercial purposes?
• The role of virtual reality in education and training programs.
• How does technology contribute to sustainable development and environmental conservation?
• Should artificial intelligence have legal personhood and rights?
• The impact of cybersecurity threats on global economies and national security.
• Should governments invest more in renewable energy technologies to combat climate change?

Read our blog on argumentative essay examples to get an idea of what kind of topics make strong argumentative essays.

Religion Argument Essay Topics

• Should religious education be mandatory in schools?
• Is religious tolerance achievable in a diverse society?
• Should religious institutions be taxed like other businesses?
• The impact of religious beliefs on healthcare decisions.
• Should blasphemy laws exist in modern societies?
• Is there a place for prayer in public schools?
• Should religious symbols be allowed in government buildings?
• The role of religion in shaping historical conflicts.
• Is religious extremism a threat to global security?
• Should religious leaders be involved in political decision-making?

Family Argumentative Essay Topics 

• Should parents be legally responsible for their children's actions?
• Is it ethical to use corporal punishment to discipline children?
• The impact of divorce on children's mental health and development.
• Should same-sex couples be allowed to adopt children?
• Should there be a limit on the number of children a family can have?
• Is helicopter parenting beneficial or harmful to children?
• Should parents be held accountable for their children's cyberbullying behavior?
• The role of grandparents in modern family dynamics.
• Should parenting classes be mandatory for new parents?
• Is homeschooling better than traditional schooling for children's development?

Government Argumentative Essay Topics 

• Should the electoral college system be abolished in favor of a popular vote?
• Is democracy the best form of government?
• Should there be term limits for politicians?
• The impact of lobbying and special interest groups on government decisions.
• Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
• Is government surveillance justified in the name of national security?
• Should there be stricter regulations on campaign finance?
• The role of government in regulating social media platforms.
• Should the death penalty be abolished worldwide?
• Is there a need for a global government to address international issues?

Social Media Argumentative Essay Topics 

• Should social media platforms regulate hate speech and misinformation?
• The impact of social media on mental health among teenagers.
• Should employers have the right to check employees' social media profiles?
• Is social media addiction a real problem?
• Should social media influencers be considered role models?
• The ethics of using social media data for targeted advertising.
• Should there be age restrictions on social media usage?
• The impact of social media on political activism and social movements.
• Should schools teach digital citizenship and online etiquette?
• Is social media bridging or widening the generation gap?

Miscellaneous Argumentative Essay Topics

Let's examine a range of unique miscellaneous argumentative essay topics to broaden our perspectives and stimulate critical thinking.

Argumentative Essay Topics About The Internet

• Should internet access be considered a basic human right?
• The impact of internet censorship on freedom of expression.
• Should there be stricter regulations on data privacy for internet users?
• Is the internet making people more socially isolated?
• Should governments have the power to shut down the internet during protests?
• The role of the internet in spreading fake news and misinformation.
• Should online anonymity be protected or restricted?
• The impact of internet piracy on the entertainment industry.
• Is the internet contributing to the decline of traditional media?
• Should internet service providers be allowed to implement data caps?

Argumentative Essay Topics About Climate Change 

• Should governments enforce stricter regulations on carbon emissions?
• The effectiveness of renewable energy sources in combating climate change.
• Should climate change education be mandatory in schools?
• The impact of deforestation on global climate patterns.
• Should developed countries be more responsible for addressing climate change?
• The role of individual actions versus government policies in reducing carbon footprints.
• Should climate change deniers be given a platform in public discourse?
• The impact of climate change on global food security.
• Should companies be required to disclose their carbon footprint?

Argumentative Essay Topics About Animal Testing 

• Should animal testing be banned for cosmetic products?
• The ethical implications of using animals for medical research.
• Are there viable alternatives to animal testing in scientific research?
• Should stricter regulations be implemented to protect animals in laboratories?
• The impact of animal testing bans on scientific progress.
• Should animal testing be allowed for the development of life-saving medications?
• The role of animal rights organizations in influencing public policy on animal testing.
• Should universities be required to reduce their reliance on animal testing?
• The effectiveness of animal testing in predicting human reactions.
• Is it ethical to use genetically modified animals in research?

Argumentative Essay Topics for Debate

• The use of marijuana should be illegal. Yes or No?
• YouTube channel owners should edit foul language in the comments.
• Does freedom of speech give people the license to say hateful things?
• Can competitive behavior lead to issues in the long run?
• Should criminals get second chances?
• Ignorance is a blessing. Debate.
• Should the Death Penalty Be Abolished?
• Gun Control Laws: Should They Be Stricter or More Lenient?
• The Ethics of Cloning and Genetic Engineering.
• Is Censorship of Art and Media Ever Justified?

Argumentative Persuasive Essay Topics 

• Parents should have no control over the lives of their adult kids.
• Parents should not give smartphones to their kids.
• Religion and politics should be kept separate.
• Should the Legal Drinking Age Be Lowered to 18?
• The Benefits of Renewable Energy Sources: Why We Should Transition to Clean Energy.
• Is Mandatory Voting a Good Way to Improve Civic Participation?
• Is Online Dating a Better Way to Find Love Than Traditional Dating Methods?
• The Impacts of Volunteering: Why Everyone Should Give Back to Their Community.
• Should Plastic Bags Be Banned to Reduce Environmental Pollution?
• Is Financial Literacy More Important Now than Ever?

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How to Choose an Interesting Argumentative Essay Topic?

Argumentative essays require the writer to evaluate a topic, collect and generate evidence, and establish a position on the topic in a concise manner. Finding a topic for an argumentative essay can be challenging for students. 

When choosing your topic, consider the following: 

• Your interest: Selecting an argumentative essay topic that interests you can make the writing process much easier. 
• Relevance: Choose a topic that is relevant to your course material and fits into the context of your assignment. Make sure your essay title maintains focus and relevance throughout your writing.
• Research Potential: Consider topics with enough research material available for you to support your argument. 
• Debate Potential: Look for topics that have the potential to generate a lively debate. These topics will stir readers’ emotions and invoke discussion. 
• Uniqueness: Choose topics that are unique and interesting to make your essay stand out from others. 
• Consider Outlining: Before choosing your topic, create an argumentative essay outline to clarify your approach. Identify key points and supporting evidence to ensure there's enough material for a coherent argument.

Also, take a moment to explore our blog on argumentative research paper topics for additional ideas.

Selecting a compelling argumentative essay topic is the first step toward crafting a persuasive and thought-provoking essay. The topic you choose should be debatable, inviting readers to engage in meaningful discussions and consider diverse viewpoints. 

So, whenever you’re about to write an argumentative essay, take your time to choose the best topic.

However, if you're still having a hard time, you can get help from our online essay service !

Our expert writers tailor your essays to your specific needs and ensure that your paper is well-structured, backed by credible evidence, and adheres to academic standards. So contact our argumentative essay writing service now!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is an argumentative essay a story.

No, an argumentative essay is not a story. Unlike a narrative essay , which tells a sequence of events or a personal experience, an argumentative essay presents a logical argument supported by evidence and analysis. It aims to persuade the reader to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action based on the presented arguments.

What is an argumentative essay format?

An argumentative essay typically follows a basic essay format , such as:

• Introduction
• Body Paragraphs
• Counterargument Paragraph (optional)

How can I find credible sources to support my argumentative essay?

Here are 4 ways to find credible sources to support your argument:

• Use Academic Databases (JSTOR, PubMed, or Google Scholar).
• Utilize Library Resources (books, journals, and databases).
• Government and Organizational Websites
• Evaluate Sources (author's credentials, publication date).

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166 Argumentative Essay 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.

Writing an argumentative essay is hard enough. But picking a good topic can sometimes get you stuck before you’ve even started.

Although it seems like a small part of the essay writing process, your topic idea can actually make or break your paper. Suppose the issue you’ve settled on doesn’t carry enough potential to be researched and explored from different sides. In that case, you may end up wasting a lot of time on unproductive work before you finally give up and try to find a better subject.

That’s why we compiled an extensive catalog of argumentative essay topics organized by subject matter that you can use for inspiration. Feel free to browse through all sections or jump to the area you’re looking for.

In this article:

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

What makes a good argumentative essay topic, interesting and controversial, immigration, racism, and native american issues, science and research, technology and social media, health, medical, and nursing, psychology and mental health, music, popular culture, and other creative endeavors, funny, easy, and simple.

Before we jump into the lists, let’s go over what you need to look for in an essay topic.

Many students assume that they can pick an issue first and then think about their essay later. But that actually sets you up for potential disappointment. A topic may seem tenable or defensible at first, but once you dig a bit deeper, it may turn out the issue is settled beyond doubt, and there’s no real point in writing about it. It may also be a good idea to sketch out your argumentative essay outline and even draft a thesis statement before making a final decision about what you want to explore.

Here’s a helpful video that explains the importance of preliminary research:

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Another thing to consider is how fascinating the topic is for you . It’s great to engage your audience, but you can’t really be sure if an issue is captivating for your teacher or professor. But you can be entirely sure if it’s interesting to you. And the more you care about the subject you’ve chosen, the more enjoyable it will be for you to put in the work.

It may seem at first that you can write an essay about anything, so why bother thinking too much about the topic? Well, you can write about anything, but not everything you write can fit the requirements of your assignment. An argumentative essay has to fit a specific format and style, and the topic you pick has to conform to those. Here are a few main characteristics of a good argumentative essay topic:

If no one disagrees with the argument you’re trying to make, what’s the point of arguing about it? Trying to convince your audience that texting while driving is dangerous is a waste of time because the assumption is that most people don’t need convincing. That’s why it’s crucial to pick an issue with at least some validity on both sides.

If your topic is not specific enough, you can’t really make a good point one way or the other. Should we do more to protect animals? That depends—are we talking about rhinos or mosquitos? And who should do the protecting—governments or ordinary citizens? Drill down your topic to something you can make a definitive point about.

If you can’t find something to back your argument with, then maybe it’s purely a matter of opinion. Are pancakes better than pizza? Who’s to say? A good topic allows you to make a point based on facts. That said, defending an insupportable position is sometimes good practice for pure critical thinking and works great for impromptu assignments where there is no time for research.

Of course, after you’ve picked a topic, you still have to write the actual essay. Here’s a video to help guide you through the process:

166 Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas (Organized in Sections)

Below you’ll find a number of lists of argumentative essay topics organized in sections by subject matter. They range from sports to history and anything in between. Keep in mind that many of the issues have to do with more than one field of knowledge, so there is some overlap between sections.

You may notice that all of the topics are in the form of a question. We’ve done that to make them neutral towards the issue they touch upon, but for the purposes of an argumentative essay, you might want to convert them to a statement that conveys the claim you’ll support in your paper.

One of the best ways to ensure your audience is engaged in your essay is to choose a topic that’s, to some extent, contentious. Your teacher or professor is unlikely to doze off if the issue at hand is something that everyone has a strong opinion about. Controversy will make your job easier, too—it’s a lot more painless to do research and write when you have a genuine interest in the topic.

But there’s also a pitfall to hot-button topics, especially age-old ones. There’s a chance the arguments you choose have been made a thousand times already. That’s not to say you should never write about euthanasia or abortion. Just pick your ideas carefully and make sure they’re fresh and original to avoid making your audience yawn.

Below are a few controversial argumentative essay topics from across subject matters to give you inspiration:

• Should human cloning be allowed?
• Should abortion be subject to stricter regulation?
• Should there be greater gun control?
• Do video games cause violent behavior?
• Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Is torture justifiable as an interrogation technique?
• Should there be any exceptions to free speech?
• Did the #metoo movement go too far?
• Is capitalism the only effective economic system?

Most topics on this page can work for any academic level in which students are already versed in research and persuasive writing. But in this section, we’ve collected issues specifically related to education and sorted them into the different stages of school. So besides college, here you’ll find topics that can be used by high school and middle school students.

For College

Below is a selection of argumentative essay ideas that have to do with college life. Is college worth it? Is it too expensive? Read on to find similar questions.

• Should everyone go to college?
• Is college education overrated?
• Is college admission overly competitive?
• Are Ivy League colleges worth the cost?
• Has college tuition become too expensive?
• Should family income play a role in determining who gets a scholarship?
• Is a gap year beneficial or a waste of time?
• Are some college majors more valuable than others?
• What are the benefits of an MBA?
• Is an online college degree as good as one from a brick-and-mortar college?

For High School

Here you’ll find a collection of topics related to high school and all of its triumphs and struggles—perfect for students in this age group.

• Should schools be required to have security?
• Is standardized testing helping or hurting students?
• Does high school encourage creativity or conformity?
• Should high school students work during the school year?
• Should high school students be required to take drug tests?
• Should arts education be voluntary in high school?
• Should the senior year be voluntary?
• Is prom overrated?

For Middle School

Middle school is a great time to start developing writing skills and the ability to make a strong argument. Here’s a list of topics on middle school that are bound to be relatable for students of that age.

• Do teachers give middle school students too much homework?
• Should energy drinks be banned for middle schoolers?
• Should vending machines be banned in schools?
• Is school cafeteria food too unhealthy?
• Should middle school be single-sex or co-ed?
• Is distant learning effective for middle school students?
• Should students have a choice on what subjects to study in middle school?
• Should learning a foreign language be required in middle school?

As a bonus, we’re including a special section on bullying—an ongoing problem at all school levels that’s always worth discussing, including in an academic paper.

• Should schools do more to prevent bullying?
• Should parents of bullies be held responsible for their children’s behavior?
• Where is the line between pranks and bullying?
• Do kids bully others because they are mistreated at home?
• Is cyberbullying less harmful than real-life bullying?
• How should cyberbullying be punished?

To make children write an essay, even if it’s just one page, you definitely need to give them a topic they care about. Here are a few ideas:

• Is it ever acceptable to eat dessert before dinner?
• Is it OK for kids to read grown-up books?
• Should kids be allowed to watch grown-up movies?
• Should children get paid when they get good grades?
• Is it better to be a single child or to have siblings?
• Do parents treat their daughters differently than their sons?
• Should parents punish kids if they haven’t done their chores?

Whether you’re looking for a topic for your political science term paper or simply need a strong topic idea for your persuasive writing class, you’ll find something worth exploring in the list below.

• Are US elections representative of the will of the people?
• Should the voting age be lowered?
• Should voting be mandatory?
• Should the Electoral College be abolished?
• Should corporations pay more taxes?
• Should senators and house representatives have term limits?
• Should recycling be mandatory?
• Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
• Should same-sex marriage be allowed?
• Should healthcare be free for everyone?
• Will universal basic income be beneficial for society?

Religious issues often elicit a strong response, but beliefs are not always subject to rational argumentation. Still, such topics often touch on society as a whole and can be great subjects for a paper.

• Should creationism be part of the school curriculum?
• Is religion responsible for war?
• Is science an enemy of religion?
• Should public prayer be banned in schools?
• Should religion be taught in schools?
• Should laws be affected by religion?
• Should churches be required to pay taxes?

History is always up for debate, and there’s plenty of credible sources to explore, so if you need an essay topic for your history class, feel free to pick one from the list below.

As a bonus, we’ve added a couple of specialized subsections on World War 2 and American history.

• Can we ever know the “truth” about historical events?
• Is life better now than it was 100 years ago?
• Have peaceful revolutions ever led to real change?
• What caused the fall of the Roman Empire?
• Was Julius Caesar a tactical genius or a deranged dictator?
• Did European colonialism help or harm the colonized populations?
• Did nuclear weapons help make the world safer or more dangerous?
• Were the bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki the only way to end World War 2?
• Should the US have stayed out of World War 2?
• What caused the rise of Nazism in Germany?
• Was Stalin’s rule more harmful than Hitler’s?
• Could World War 2 have been avoided if Hitler had been admitted to art school?

American History

• Who was the greatest US president of all time?
• Could the Civil War have been avoided?
• Was the Declaration of Independence a declaration of war?
• Was the Constitution a proslavery document?
• Should the US founding fathers who owned slaves be revered as much as those who didn’t?
• How did Abraham Lincoln’s assassination affect Reconstruction?

Here we have a group of issues that are often related, but we sometimes wish they weren’t. In any case, they’re an excellent opportunity to practice argumentative writing.

• Should it be mandatory for Americans to speak English fluently?
• Should immigrants who enter the US illegally be granted residency?
• Should children of immigrants who enter the US illegally be entitled to public education?
• Is affirmative action helping or hurting racial equality?
• Should the US government pay reparations for slavery?
• Is the Black Lives Matter movement equivalent to the Civil Rights movement?
• Should Columbus Day be abolished and replaced with Indigenous Peoples’ Day?
• Should Native Americans be compensated for how settlers treated them?

Here you’ll find topics related to various scientific fields that you’re bound to find evidence on to build a solid research paper.

• Should the government fund scientific research?
• Should corporate interests influence scientists?
• Do people have enough trust in science?
• What is the biggest issue facing humanity that scientists should focus on the most?
• Should we spend resources looking for alien life?
• Is space travel worth the cost?
• Do humans cause climate change?
• Is fracking harmful to the environment?
• Are scientific breakthroughs or government regulations a better solution to the environmental crisis?

Many issues around technology and social media are up for debate, so they can serve as an excellent basis for a persuasive essay.

• Is technology helping or hurting society?
• Has the internet caused more harm than good to society?
• Are we becoming too dependent on computers?
• Is technology making us more isolated?
• Is AI dangerous for humanity?
• Are smartphones dangerous?
• Is social media helping us stay connected or making us more lonely?
• Are social media companies responsible for the spread of fake news?
• Does social media contribute to political radicalization?
• Should Facebook be banned from collecting data from users?
• Should people be allowed to stay anonymous online?

In this section, we’ve curated argumentative essay topics related to health and medicine that are worth exploring.

• Should the morning-after pill be sold to underage teens?
• What is the best way to fight the obesity epidemic?
• Are GMOs dangerous?
• Should there be limits on sugary drink sizes?
• Is healthcare a fundamental human right?
• Should assisted suicide be legalized?
• Should doctors be banned from promoting drugs?
• Should medical marijuana be legal?
• Should parents be able to deny medical treatment for their children?
• Are nurses compensated fairly?
• Should nurses be allowed to prescribe drugs?
• Is the nursing profession better suited for women?

If you’re struggling to come up with an argumentative essay topic for your psychology class, feel free to pick one from the list below.

• Does screen time negatively affect children’s psyche?
• Should psychotherapists inform the police if a client admits to breaking the law?
• Do dreams have any meaning?
• Is positive thinking helpful or harmful?
• Can lie detectors ever be trusted?
• Are projective tests such as inkblots reliable?
• Can hypnosis help us remember forgotten events?
• Is prejudice against different people inherent to humans?
• Is anxiety ever helpful?

There’s no shortage of discussions surrounding sports, but they’re often too specialized to be interesting for the layman. Here are a few broad and contentious ones that can lay the grounds for a strong argumentative essay.

• Should athletes be considered role models?
• Should coaches make as much money as players?
• Should athletes face repercussions if they don’t stand for the National Anthem?
• Is football too dangerous?
• Is sports betting different from casino gambling?
• Is cheerleading a real sport?
• Do sports rely too much on computer predictions nowadays?
• Should performance-enhancing drugs be allowed in sports?

Here you’ll find argumentative essay topics related to music, films, and other art forms that shape today’s pop culture.

• Is music getting better or worse over time?
• Is listening to music an effective remedy against stress?
• Are television shows an accurate representation of the American lifestyle?
• Did the golden age of Hollywood pass?
• Should celebrities be considered role models?
• Should any artwork be censored?
• Is art unique to humans, or can it be observed in other animals?

If you care about animals, you might want to write an argumentative paper on a topic related to animal welfare. Here are a few ideas:

• Should animal research be banned?
• Should zoos or aquariums be banned and replaced with wildlife reserves?
• Should fur be banned?
• Should we stop eating animals?
• Should the government try to save endangered species?
• Is hunting for sport justifiable, or should it be banned?
• Do animals have emotions?
• Do pets help kids learn to be caring and empathetic?

Sometimes you just don’t want to deal with complex and serious issues or excessive research. That’s why we curated a collection of light-hearted and easy argumentative essay topics.

• Is complaining helping us deal with stress?
• Is talent more important than hard work or vice versa?
• How much compromise is OK in a relationship?
• Should couples live together before getting married?
• How important is it to keep your home clean and tidy?
• At what age do you become an adult?
• Are parents entitled to knowing everything about their kids?
• How long is it acceptable to stay in a restaurant after finishing your meal?

Looking for a topic for a different type of essay? We’ve compiled a huge catalog in our Essay Topics page. If you want something that carries a stronger emotional charge for your paper, speech, or debate, you can also check out our list of Controversial Topics .

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150 Good Argument Topics for Essays

When writing an essay that argues a particular stance, access to good argument topics can make the difference between a paper that causes you to struggle … and one that almost writes itself.

The best argumentative essay topics are those that allow the writer to take a definite position. It’s also important that the topic is not difficult to research and provides enough evidence to support the argument.

What Type of Topics Lend Themselves to Good Arguments?

While there are plenty of essay topics out there, not all work well to argue. The best topics for argumentative essays are those that are divisive enough to be interesting—while providing plenty of material to support your position.

150 Strong Argument Topics for Essay Writing 

Brainstorming a great topic for your argumentative essay is the first step to writing a paper that won’t leave you bored to tears as you argue your case. 

To help you get started, we’ve assembled 150 good argumentative writing topics you can choose from.

We’ve included an assortment of strong subjects for argumentative essays with sample arguments in the following areas: 

• Culture / Society
• School / Education
• Government / Politics

• Was the toilet paper shortage during the pandemic a consequence of hoarding or supply chain issues?
• Is a gig economy hurting traditional employers’ ability to hire good employees?
• Should there be mandatory drug-testing for anyone receiving government aid?
• Should elderly homeowners receive a property tax cap on their place of residence?
• Is equality of outcome better than equality of opportunity?
• Is cryptocurrency a legitimate form of currency?
• Should the government be allowed to print money without gold or other assets to back it up?
• Should Americans take responsibility for labor practices of overseas companies by purchasing products that encourage fair practices?
• Is the cost of a college education justifiable?
• Is inflation always bad for the economy?
• Should state-funded food benefits be limited to nutritional food only?
• Is globalization good or bad for our economy?
• Is it ethical for companies to use prison labor?
• Is the national debt a cause for concern?
• Should taxes be increased or decreased to stimulate economic growth?
• Should corporations be taxed at a higher rate than individuals?
• Should the US government revert to socialistic practices to deal with current economic troubles?
• Should large corporations get tax breaks for providing jobs to underserved areas?
• Should companies have to operate at a loss during times of crisis—such as the recent pandemic—in order to supply necessities such as cleaning supplies and paper goods?
• Will purchasing the cheapest goods from overseas manufacturers hurt an individual’s long-term financial health?
• Is real estate still a good investment?
• Does raising the minimum wage create a living wage for service workers, and does it lead to higher prices overall?
• Does hosting a huge event, such as the Olympics, help or hurt the surrounding towns?
• Should children of business owners be protected by child labor laws?
• Is the stock market a reliable indicator of economic health?

Another strong subject to argue is that of technology. The field of technology impacts all our lives every day. It’s so prevalent that there are tons of good topics to argue.

Here are 24 questions upon which to build great argumentative essays:

• Is technology making us more or less connected to each other?
• Is the use of facial recognition technology by law enforcement a violation of privacy? 
• Should cell phone companies be required to add mandatory apps that shut down phones while a car is in motion?
• Are cell phones hurting or aiding productivity at home and in the workplace?
• Does constant (and unlimited) access to information contribute to increased anxiety levels?
• Should companies be required to disclose the personal data they collect from users?
• Should there be regulation on the use of facial recognition technology in public spaces?
• Are video games appropriate in any school setting as a teaching aid?
• Is technology ruining our attention spans?
• Should social media apps be allowed to censor users?
• Is space travel a luxury or a necessity?
• Should apps require parental permission before minors can download them?
• Should cell phone usage in public places be regulated?
• Do microphones in smart devices like Alexa infringe on our privacy?
• Can a “social media habit” become an addiction?
• Do video games alienate children from their parents?
• Is information overload from technology making kids smarter or dumber?
• Are self-driving cars safe?
• Should social media news platforms face the same oversight as traditional news outlets?
• Is it a good idea to develop AIs that are smarter than humans?
• Is too much screen time a danger to the development of babies and toddlers?
• Should governments be allowed to use artificial intelligence to monitor and control citizens’ behavior?
• Is it wise to encourage use of iPads and other electronic devices at the elementary level?
• Should governments be allowed to use social media to monitor citizens’ activities?
• Should autonomous weapons be banned?

It can be a little tougher to find unique argumentative essay topics  when it comes to culture and society—even though it’s a subject that lends itself well to deep thought.

In spite of this, we were able to come up with 25 good questions to argue below:

• Should society value national identity or global citizenship?
• Is “reverse racism” being tolerated in society more than traditional racism?
• Is cultural relativism a threat to American culture and society?
• Should parents be allowed to adopt a child of a different race or culture than their own?
• Is “canceling” a helpful response to accusations of racism?
• Does reality TV have negative effects on society?
• Is a college degree necessary for success in today’s society?
• Does designating certain crimes as “hate crimes” help or hurt society as a whole?
• Should families be required to care for their own elderly members at home?
• Should books have age ratings/content warnings?
• Did lockdown during the pandemic enrich family life or harm it?
• Should children be required to help around the house?
• Should society promote a culture of life and protect the sanctity of human life?
• Is it healthy for people to treat their pets as part of the family?
• Is it possible to respect a culture without agreeing with all of its practices?
• Should cultural sensitivity be prioritized over free speech?
• Does social media enhance or hurt our social lives?
• Is cultural diversity important for scientific advancement?
• Should traditional gender roles be upheld in modern society?
• Is political correctness stifling free speech and cultural exchange?
• Should affirmative action be abolished to promote merit-based selection and to avoid reverse discrimination?
• Should society value self-reliance and personal responsibility over government assistance and social programs?
• Should society prioritize the interests of the country over the interests of other nations?
• Should society value the role of the family in society over the role of the government?
• Should society prioritize the needs of the present over the needs of the future?

Next up are argumentative essay topics concerning school and education.

If you’re writing an argumentative essay, you are probably a student and may already have strong opinions about your education. Now is your chance to voice that opinion in a structured, well-researched way.

Who knows … research just might change your opinion!

If you are assigned an oral debate instead of a written paper, the topics below easily double as argumentative speech topics:

• Is the current education system effective in preparing students for their future careers?
• Should home economics classes—such as cooking and balancing a budget—be mandatory subjects?
• Does homeschool protect against peer pressure?
• Should community involvement be required to graduate?
• Should all states require standardized testing for homeschoolers?
• Should students be expected to memorize resources like the periodic table—or should they be given access to it for assignments and tests?
• Is Wikipedia a legitimate source for research papers?
• Should physical education be a requirement in education?
• Should computer coding be a required course in this digital era?
• Should kids be required to learn a foreign language at an early age?
• Can science be taught truthfully and effectively apart from a biblical worldview?
• Should schools be required to offer classes in financial literacy?
• Should teachers be allowed to carry firearms in schools?
• Are virtual lessons as effective as those taught in-person?
• Should school be in session all year long?
• Are college-bound students better off with a “gap year” to regroup between high school and college?
• Do homeschool students still need “homework”?
• Which form of education is most effective—homeschool, private school, or public school?
• Should GPA scoring methods be standardized across the US?
• Should colleges concentrate solely on academics or on helping students prepare for adult life?
• Should books with PG-13 material be allowed in school libraries?
• Are international student exchange programs beneficial to the students involved?
• Do standardized tests actually reflect how smart you are?
• Should parents receive a tax break for homeschooling?
• Should “critical thinking” be a required subject mandated by the states?

Some of the most controversial argumentative essay topics are those that deal with morals, values, and ethics. Everyone has their own opinion on what is “right” and “wrong.”

However, any solid, ethical argument will use solid evidence to argue your viewpoint.

In the world in which we live, we must be careful where our “evidence” is sourced. Steer clear of internet-based websites like Wikipedia , which can be edited by anyone at anytime. 

• Who should decide what constitutes “hate speech”?
• Is lying ever ethically justifiable?
• Should employees be allowed to refuse psychological and personality testing by their employers?
• Is it ethical to use embryonic stem cells for research?
• Should parents be allowed to genetically engineer their children?
• Should social media influencers be held accountable if found to promote faulty or fraudulent things?
• Is it unethical to use advertisements targeted at children?
• Is the death penalty moral?
• Should whistleblowers be protected by law?
• Should pharmaceutical companies be allowed to compensate doctors for prescribing their medications?
• Is it ethical to conduct medical experiments on prisoners?
• Is it ethical to use social media algorithms to manipulate user behavior?
• Is it ethical to use biometric data for identification purposes?
• Should the international community intervene in humanitarian crises?
• Is it okay to bribe your child to do well in school?
• Is it ethical to use propaganda to manipulate public opinion?
• Should companies who manufacture non-FDA approved, self-improvement supplements (and other health aids) be allowed to pay influencers to advertise their products?
• Is it ethical to clone humans?
• Is it ethical to use AI to create deep fakes?
• Is it ethical to use torture to extract information from suspected terrorists?
• Can ethical behavior sometimes conflict with economic interests?
• Is suicide selfish?
• Should social media companies be allowed to violate the privacy of users?
• Is it ethical for companies to charge a premium for basic necessities that may be in short supply in the near future?
• Should we prioritize economic equality over economic freedom?

Finally, we round out our list of good persuasive argument topics with subjects surrounding politics and government issues.

If you research well, political arguments can be the best topics to argue because there’s typically an abundance of evidence to support whichever side you choose:

• Should judges be elected or appointed? 
• Is freedom more important than security?
• Should there be term limits for elected officials?
• Should the government restrict immigration?
• What role should the government play in promoting and protecting religious freedom?
• Is limiting the size and scope of government necessary for maintaining a free and democratic society?
• Should there be limits on the government’s ability to regulate the use of firearms?
• Should the government be limited in its power to redistribute wealth?
• Should the government levy fines on companies who allow their users’ data to be breached?
• Should the government be involved in policing social media?
• Should the age of Social Security benefits be changed now that people live longer?
• Should there be fewer regulations and restrictions on entrepreneurship and innovation?
• Should the government be responsible for the basic needs of non-citizens from other countries?
• Does affirmative action work?
• What role should the government play in promoting and protecting the institution of marriage and the family?
• How should the government address issues of human trafficking and slavery?
• Should the government control the prices of necessary medication?
• Has the removal of prayer from state-funded schools impacted the quality of those schools?
• Should a photo ID be required to vote in elections?
• Should the US government build a wall between the US and Mexico?
• Does the electoral college work to keep elections fair?
• Should politicians be legally accountable for promises made during the election campaigns?
• Should convicted felons have the right to vote?
• Should immigrants to the US automatically be granted rights equal to those of Americans?
• What role should the government play in promoting and protecting the sanctity of human life, from conception to natural death?

As you prepare to write your persuasive or argumentative paper (or even debate), this list of 150 good argumentative essay topics should make it less painful to find the perfect topic.

Remember, good argument topics for students are those that offer sufficient evidence to support your opinion. All of the topics above fit that criteria.

Happy writing!

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How to Write an Argumentative Essay | Examples & Tips

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

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

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

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

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

Argumentative writing at college level

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

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

Examples of argumentative essay prompts

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

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

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

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

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

Toulmin arguments

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

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

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

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

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

Rogerian arguments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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50 Strong Argumentative Essay Topics: 5 Tips to Make the Right Choice

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101 Argument Essay Prompts for High School

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

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

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

Here are 101 Argument Essay Prompts:

Argument essay topics teens love.

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

Argument Essay  Prompts About Technology

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

Argument Essay  Topics about the Environment

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

Argument Essay  Prompts about Entrepreneurship

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

Teaching Argument Essay: Instructional Unit

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

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

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

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

Argument Essay  Topics about Animals

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

Argument Essay  Prompts about Sports

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

Argument Essay Topics about School

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

Argument Essay  Prompts about Teens and Politics

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

Argument Essay  Topics about Vehicles

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

Argument Essay  Prompts about Space and Space Exploration

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

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

Need argument essay instructional materials?

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

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100 Thought-Provoking Argumentative Writing Prompts for Kids and Teens

Practice making well-reasoned arguments using research and facts.

Writing a strong argumentative essay teaches students to make a case for their own point of view without relying on emotion or passion. These argumentative essay topics provide options for kids of all ages, including controversial subjects and some that are just for fun.

School and Education Argumentative Essay Topics

Science and history argumentative essay topics, life and ethics argumentative essay topics, social justice and civics argumentative essay topics, more argumentative essay topics, what’s the difference between argumentative and persuasive essays.

These two types of essays are similar, but there are some subtle and important differences .

• Author’s purpose: In an argumentative essay, your job is to simply convince the reader that the point of view you’re presenting is valid, even if it doesn’t change their mind. Persuasive essays seek to sway the reader to adopt your point of view over any others.
• Method: Argumentative essays rely heavily on well-researched facts and logical assertions. In a persuasive essay, the writer may use a blend of emotion and facts to win over the reader.
• Audience: Persuasive essays require a specific audience, since the writer must acknowledge and attempt to overcome their potential objections. The writer of an argumentative essay is simply making a statement, so knowing their audience is less important.
• Viewpoint: A persuasive essay writer should believe their point of view is the only correct one, and try to persuade the reader to agree. Argumentative essays acknowledge other points of view, but use reason and logic to argue that the writer’s point of view is best.

Persuasive and argumentative essay topics often overlap. The difference is in how the writer approaches the topic. When you assign one of the topics below as an argumentative essay, remind students to use research, reason, and logic to make a strong but dispassionate argument.

• Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?
• Schools should require recommended vaccines for all students, with very limited exceptions.
• Should all students have the ability to attend college for free?
• What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?

• Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?
• Students should/should not be able to use their phones during the school day.
• Should schools have dress codes?
• If I could change one school rule, it would be …
• Is year-round school a good idea?
• Which is better, private schools or public schools?
• Should every student have to participate in athletics?
• Do you think schools should ban junk food from their cafeterias?
• Should students be required to volunteer in their communities?
• What is the most important school subject?
• Are letter grades helpful, or should we replace them with something else?

• Should schools be allowed to ban some books from their libraries?
• Which is better, book smarts or street smarts?
• Are single-gender schools better or worse for students?
• Are computers making teachers obsolete?
• Students who fail a test should be given a chance to take it again.
• Is it acceptable to use animals for experiments and research?
• Vaping is less harmful than smoking tobacco.
• Do we really learn anything from history, or does it just repeat itself over and over?
• Is it OK to keep animals in zoos?
• Should we ban plastic bags and bottles?
• Should we still consider Pluto a planet?

• It’s important to spend tax dollars exploring space, instead of on other things.
• Is there life on other planets?
• Who was the best/worst American president?
• Should vaccines be mandatory?
• Are GMOs more helpful than harmful?
• Is animal cloning ethical?
• Should human cloning be legal?
• Should we use stem cells from human embryos for scientific research?
• Is it better to provide drug addicts with treatment instead of punishment?

• Should we ban the use of fossil fuels?
• Can we truly do anything about human-caused global warming?
• Are electric vehicles better than gas-powered ones?
• Was life really better “back in the day”?
• Choose a foreign conflict (e.g., Vietnam or Afghanistan) and argue whether or not the United States was justified in getting involved.
• The most important challenge our country is currently facing is … (e.g., immigration, gun control, economy)
• Does social media do more harm than good?
• The best country in the world is …
• Are men and women treated equally?
• Is it better to be vegetarian/vegan than to eat meat?
• Should little kids be allowed to play competitive sports?
• Who faces more peer pressure, girls or boys?
• Should kids have set bedtimes or just go to bed whenever they’re sleepy?

• Which is better, artificial Christmas trees or real ones?
• Playing violent video games is bad for kids and teens.
• Parents should track their kids using their cell phones.
• Are paper books better than e-books?
• All kids should play on the same sports teams, regardless of gender.
• All paper documents should be replaced with electronic versions.
• Is conflict necessary for change?
• Is war ever justified?
• A strong middle class is vital to the economy.

• Is the local minimum wage truly a living wage?
• Should we do away with gender-specific public bathrooms?
• Is a progressive income tax better than a flat tax?
• Capital punishment does/does not deter crime.
• Would it be better to legalize, tax, and regulate all drugs (including alcohol and cigarettes) instead of banning them?
• Parents should be punished for their minor children’s crimes.

• The government should provide free internet access for every citizen.
• Is democracy the best form of government?
• Is capitalism the best form of economy?
• Should all Americans be required to vote?
• Should we change the minimum driving age in the United States?
• Do you think the government should find a way to provide free health care for everyone?
• School-age children should be allowed to vote.
• We should/should not abolish the electoral college.
• Are “Stand Your Ground” laws effective?
• Supreme Court judges should be appointed for fixed terms.

• Does segregation still exist in the United States?
• We should/should not continue building a wall between the United States and Mexico.
• Will stricter gun control laws help control mass shootings?
• Should we make the path to American citizenship easier?
• Is the American justice system inherently racist?
• Should we redirect some or all police force funding to social services?
• Should the United States implement a universal basic income?
• Choose a fictional character and explain why they should be the next president.
• What animal makes the best pet?
• Who is the world’s best athlete, present or past?
• Which is better, reading books or watching TV?
• Is a taco a sandwich?
• Should kids be allowed to stay up as late as they want?

• What’s the best video game system?
• Kids shouldn’t have to go to school on their birthdays.
• Is video gaming a sport?
• Are beauty pageants sexist?
• Should kids get participation trophies for sports?
• Are stereotypes ever right?
• Is there any benefit to teaching proper grammar and spelling, or should we allow language to be descriptive instead of prescriptive?
• All teenagers should have part-time jobs.
• Should kids have limits on screen time?
• Is it better to read fiction or nonfiction?
• Should kids have to eat everything on their plate, even if they really don’t like something?

• Is it better to spend an hour a day reading or exercising?
• Is graffiti an act of vandalism or an art form?
• Should society hold celebrities to a high moral standard?

What are your favorite argumentative writing prompts? Come share your thoughts in the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Also check out 100 intriguing cause and effect essay topics for students ..

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100+ Most Popular Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics in 2024

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay can feel like stepping into a world where words are weapons, and arguments are battles to be won. Whether you’re in high school or college, finding the right rhetorical analysis essay topic can set the stage for a compelling and insightful piece. In 2024, with the ever-evolving landscape of media, literature, and public discourse, there’s no shortage of fascinating topics to choose from. So, let’s dive into some of the most popular and intriguing rhetorical analysis essay topics that can help you craft an essay that not only meets your academic requirements but also captivates your audience.

What is a Rhetorical Analysis Essay?

Rhetorical analysis is the process of examining how an author or speaker uses language to persuade or influence their audience. It goes beyond simply understanding the message; it involves analyzing the techniques and strategies used to convey that message effectively. This includes looking at the use of ethos, or credibility; pathos, or emotional appeal; and logos, or logical reasoning. By breaking down these elements, a rhetorical analysis seeks to understand the effectiveness of the communication and how it achieves its intended purpose.

The Importance of Choosing the Right Topic

Choosing the right topic is crucial. A well-chosen topic not only makes your writing process smoother but also engages your readers from the get-go. You want something that has enough depth for analysis, but not so obscure that you can’t find sources or examples. The following list of rhetorical analysis essay topics in 2024 offers a wide range of options, ensuring that you can find a topic that interests you and meets your assignment’s requirements.

Literary Works: Classic and Contemporary

• The Use of Rhetoric in George Orwell’s “1984”
• Persuasive Techniques in Harper Lee’s “To Kill a Mockingbird”
• Rhetorical Strategies in Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale”
• Analyzing the Use of Irony in Mark Twain’s “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn”
• The Role of Pathos in Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein”
• How Shakespeare’s “Julius Caesar” Employs Rhetoric to Influence the Audience
• The Use of Symbolism in F. Scott Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
• Rhetorical Analysis of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s “We Should All Be Feminists”

Literary works often provide a rich ground for rhetorical analysis because of the intricate ways in which authors weave their arguments. Whether it’s classic literature or contemporary works, analyzing these texts helps you understand how authors have historically used rhetoric to influence societal perspectives.

Political Speeches: Power of Persuasion

• The Rhetoric of Martin Luther King Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” Speech
• Barack Obama’s 2008 Victory Speech: A Rhetorical Analysis
• The Persuasive Techniques in Winston Churchill’s “We Shall Fight on the Beaches” Speech
• Analyzing the Use of Ethos in John F. Kennedy’s Inaugural Address
• The Role of Logos in Abraham Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address
• How Rhetoric Shaped Donald Trump’s Presidential Campaign Speeches
• Rhetorical Strategies in Greta Thunberg’s Climate Change Speeches
• The Impact of Pathos in Nelson Mandela’s “I Am Prepared to Die” Speech

Political speeches are gold mines for rhetorical analysis. These speeches are crafted to influence, motivate, and sometimes manipulate public opinion. Analyzing these can provide deep insights into how leaders shape narratives and rally support.

Advertising Campaigns: Selling Through Words

• Nike’s “Just Do It” Campaign: A Rhetorical Analysis
• The Use of Pathos in Coca-Cola’s “Share a Coke” Campaign
• Analyzing Ethos in Apple’s “Think Different” Ads
• The Rhetorical Strategies Behind Dove’s “Real Beauty” Campaign
• How Fear Appeals are Used in Anti-Smoking Ads
• Persuasion in Political Campaign Advertisements
• The Role of Humor in Old Spice’s “The Man Your Man Could Smell Like” Campaign
• The Use of Rhetoric in Social Awareness Campaigns like “Stop the Spread”

Advertising is all about persuasion. Companies spend millions to craft messages that resonate with their audience, and rhetorical analysis can peel back the layers to reveal how these campaigns influence consumer behavior.

Analyzing Modern Media: Films, TV Shows, and Music

Film and television.

• The Rhetoric of Heroism in Marvel’s “The Avengers”
• Analyzing the Use of Rhetoric in “Breaking Bad”
• How “The Handmaid’s Tale” TV Series Uses Rhetoric to Highlight Gender Inequality
• The Persuasive Techniques in Netflix’s “13th”
• Rhetorical Analysis of Jordan Peele’s “Get Out”
• The Use of Pathos in Pixar’s “Up”
• Analyzing Rhetorical Devices in HBO’s “Game of Thrones”
• The Role of Ethos in “Schindler’s List”

Music and Lyrics

• The Rhetoric of Protest in Bob Dylan’s “The Times They Are A-Changin’”
• Analyzing Pathos in Adele’s “Someone Like You”
• The Use of Logos in Kendrick Lamar’s “Alright”
• How Beyoncé’s “Formation” Employs Ethos to Empower
• The Persuasive Power of Lyrics in John Lennon’s “Imagine”
• Rhetorical Analysis of Taylor Swift’s “Blank Space”
• The Role of Repetition in Queen’s “We Will Rock You”
• The Use of Symbolism in Pink Floyd’s “Another Brick in the Wall”

Modern media, whether films, TV shows, or music, is a reflection of the society we live in. Analyzing the rhetoric in these mediums not only deepens your understanding of the content but also helps you appreciate the subtle ways in which messages are conveyed.

Rhetoric in Social Media: The Digital Influence

• The Rhetorical Power of Memes in Political Campaigns
• How Influencers Use Rhetoric to Build Their Brand on Instagram
• Analyzing the Rhetoric of Cancel Culture on Twitter
• The Persuasive Techniques in Viral TikTok Trends
• The Role of Pathos in Mental Health Advocacy on Social Media
• Rhetorical Strategies in Facebook’s Data Privacy Communications
• The Use of Ethos in LinkedIn Professional Branding
• How Rhetoric Shapes Public Perception in Online Debates

Social media has revolutionized the way we communicate, and with it, the way rhetoric is used. Whether it’s a viral tweet or a YouTube video, rhetorical analysis can uncover the persuasive tactics that define the digital age.

Public Discourse: Shaping Society

• The Rhetoric of Fear in Post-9/11 Political Speeches
• Analyzing Ethos in the Me Too Movement’s Public Statements
• The Role of Logos in the Gun Control Debate in America
• Rhetorical Strategies in the Pro-Life vs. Pro-Choice Argument
• The Persuasive Techniques in Environmental Activism Speeches
• How Rhetoric Shapes Public Perception in Immigration Reform Debates
• Analyzing the Use of Pathos in Campaigns Against Human Trafficking
• The Rhetoric of Anti-Vaccination Movements on Social Media
• Persuasive Strategies in the LGBTQ+ Rights Movement
• The Impact of Rhetoric in the Black Lives Matter Movement’s Messaging

Public discourse plays a significant role in shaping societal beliefs and actions. Analyzing the rhetoric used in these discussions reveals how language can mobilize, polarize, and inspire change. By examining these topics, students can gain insight into the power of words in public arenas and their role in societal transformations.

Business and Corporate Communications: The Language of Commerce

• Analyzing the Rhetoric in Amazon’s Corporate Social Responsibility Reports
• The Use of Ethos in Apple’s Product Launch Presentations
• Persuasive Techniques in Nike’s Social Justice Advertising
• How Rhetoric is Used in Tesla’s Earnings Calls
• The Role of Logos in Corporate Apologies after Scandals
• Rhetorical Strategies in Coca-Cola’s Global Advertising Campaigns
• Analyzing Pathos in Charity Appeals by Large Corporations
• The Rhetoric of Inclusivity in Fortune 500 Companies’ Diversity Statements
• The Impact of Rhetoric in Anti-Smoking Campaigns by Big Tobacco
• Persuasive Techniques in Pharmaceutical Industry Advertising

Corporate communications are carefully crafted to influence public perception, consumer behavior, and shareholder confidence. By analyzing the rhetoric in business contexts, students can understand how companies use language to build brand loyalty, manage crises, and navigate the competitive market.

Cultural Movements: The Power of Collective Voice

• Analyzing the Rhetoric in the Feminist Movement’s Key Texts
• The Use of Ethos in the Civil Rights Movement’s Leadership Speeches
• Rhetorical Strategies in the Gay Rights Movement’s Historic Campaigns
• The Role of Pathos in the Anti-Apartheid Movement
• Persuasive Techniques in the Native American Rights Movement
• Analyzing Logos in the Disability Rights Movement’s Advocacy
• The Rhetoric of Solidarity in the Labor Union Movement
• The Impact of Rhetoric in the Anti-War Movement during the Vietnam Era
• Persuasive Strategies in the Global Human Rights Movement
• The Role of Social Media Rhetoric in the Arab Spring

Cultural movements are often driven by powerful rhetoric that rallies support and fosters a sense of unity. Analyzing these movements offers valuable insights into how language can drive social change and empower marginalized communities to voice their demands.

Education and Academia: Rhetoric in Learning

• The Use of Rhetoric in Educational Policy Debates
• Analyzing Ethos in University Commencement Speeches
• Persuasive Techniques in the Debate Over Standardized Testing
• How Rhetoric Shapes Public Opinion on Charter Schools
• The Role of Pathos in Advocating for Higher Education Funding
• Rhetorical Strategies in the Fight for Free College Tuition
• Analyzing the Use of Logos in Academic Research Presentations
• The Rhetoric of Inclusivity in Diversity and Inclusion Statements
• Persuasive Techniques in Promoting STEM Education
• The Impact of Rhetoric in the Debate Over Student Loan Forgiveness

Education and academia are fertile grounds for rhetorical analysis, as debates over policy, funding, and access to education often hinge on the effective use of language. By examining these topics, students can explore how rhetoric is used to advocate for educational reforms and shape public discourse around learning.

Health and Medicine: Persuasion in Public Health

• The Rhetoric of Fear in Anti-Smoking Campaigns
• Analyzing Pathos in Public Health Campaigns Against Obesity
• The Role of Ethos in Vaccine Promotion Efforts
• Persuasive Strategies in Anti-Drug Campaigns
• How Rhetoric Shapes Public Perception of Mental Health Issues
• The Use of Logos in Debates Over Universal Healthcare
• Analyzing the Rhetoric of Pro-Choice vs. Pro-Life in Reproductive Health
• The Impact of Rhetoric in Anti-AIDS Campaigns in the 1980s
• Persuasive Techniques in Government Health Warnings on Tobacco Products
• The Rhetoric of Wellness in Alternative Medicine Promotions

Tips for Writing Your Rhetorical Analysis Essay Topics

Writing a rhetorical analysis essay doesn’t have to be daunting. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Choose a Topic You’re Passionate About: If you’re interested in the topic, it’ll be easier to write and more engaging for your readers.
• Identify the Rhetorical Strategies Used: Look for examples of ethos, pathos, and logos, and analyze how effective they are.
• Support Your Analysis with Examples: Always back up your points with evidence from the text, speech, or media you’re analyzing.
• Keep Your Audience in Mind: Consider who will be reading your essay and tailor your analysis to their interests and knowledge level.
• Revise and Edit: Always leave time to go back and refine your essay. A polished essay will make a stronger impression.

Finding the right rhetorical analysis essay topic is the first step towards crafting a compelling essay. Whether you’re analyzing a classic novel, a modern film, or a political speech, the key is to dig deep and uncover the persuasive techniques at play. With the topics listed above, you’re well on your way to writing an essay that not only meets your academic requirements but also engages and enlightens your readers. Happy writing!

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Argumentative Papers: The Basics

• Choose Topic
• Understand Your Topic
• Find Articles
• Kanopy Videos
• Find Websites
• Works Cited This link opens in a new window
• Write Your Paper
• Library Facts

Controversy

What you need to know.

Understanding Your Assignment

Before you begin looking for information you should make sure you understand your assignment. Some good questions are:

• How many pages?
• How many sources?
• What format?

Your professor is your best resource to answer these questions.

Where do YOU go?

Google Scholar?

Google Advanced?

The Library Home Page?

Research Basics - Step by Step

The following outline gives a simple and effective strategy for finding information for a research paper and documenting the sources you find. Depending on your topic and your familiarity with the library, you may need to rearrange or recycle these steps. Adapt this outline to your needs. We are ready to help you at every step in your research.                                           

• Choose a topic - or have one assigned
• Background reading
• Consider a main focus
• Refine your topic 
• Find Internet Sources
• Write your paper – Informative, Analytical, Argumentative, Critical
• Cite Your Sources

Developing Your Argument

What to do:

• Select your topic
• Research the issues surrounding the topic
• Read other writers’ arguments for and against
• Take a stand
• Present supporting evidence in favor of your position
• Defend your position against opposing points of view
• Anticipate and deflect arguments against your position
• Make your case persuasively 
• Cell Phones
• Climate Change
• Steroids and Performance Enhancing Drugs
• Video Games
• Social Media
• College Education - Its Value
• Gender Roles
• Legalizing Marijuana
• Minimum Wage
• Organic vs. Genetically Modified Food
• Police Brutality
• Gun Control

Environmental Research Guides

• Deforestation
• Global Warming & Climate Change
• Gas vs Electric Vehicles
• Nuclear Power
• Environmental Issues

Mental Health Research Guides

• Stress Management
• Eating Disorders
• Military Suicides
• Homelessness

Talk to a Librarian

The Cerritos College Librarians can help you with your research in a variety of ways:

Librarians are available during library hours to answer your questions by phone or chat. (562) 860-2451 x 2425

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How To Teach Argumentative Text in 9 Easy Steps

Argumentative texts are pieces of writing that include claims supported by reasons and evidence to take a stance on an issue. Students start encountering these texts in early elementary school and continue to engage with them through high school and beyond. Despite their prevalence in the classroom, resources specifically designed to teach these texts can be tricky to find.

Today, we’re reviewing nine steps for teaching argumentative text and providing tips, strategies, and resources you can use to introduce them to and use them with your students.

How to break down an argumentative text in 9 steps

Tips to help students identify, understand, and refute claims and arguments, teaching argumentative text with newsela.

Where should you begin when teaching a lesson using argumentative text? Modeling how to break down this type of text to find important information is a good place to start! We’re using an article called “Pro/Con: Is media coverage of the NFL’s troubles over-the-top?” from our Debate and Discussion text set called “ Should the Media Spend Resources Covering Celebrities? ” to examine each step in more detail.

1. Define key terms

Students should be familiar with the following terms before you introduce argumentative texts in the classroom:

Arguments: Evidence-backed claims and reasons used to persuade an audience to agree or disagree with an issue.

Claims: Challengeable statements supported by reasons and evidence.

Reasons: Support the stance an author takes in their claim.

Evidence: Backs up reasons with proof or facts to persuade the audience to accept an author’s claim.

Proof: The body of evidence that gives the audience enough reasons to accept an argument.

Issues: Topics, ideas, and activities that lead to arguments.

Counterarguments or counterclaims: Opposing stances to an author’s argument or claim.

The ELA Standards and Skills collection has content for elementary and secondary readers to help you define these and other terms related to argumentative text and make the concepts stick for students.

2. Teach about text structure

When students understand the format or structure of a text, they have a better chance of knowing where to look to pick out the information they need to understand an argument. The most basic argumentative texts include three sections:

Intro: The opening section where the author states the claim.

Body: The middle section where the author supports the claim with reasons and evidence.

Conclusion: The closing section where the author restates the claim.

As students build their reading skills and start to encounter more complex texts, they may also come across more complex text structures, like cause and effect or compare and contrast. Make sure students have the background knowledge they need to understand and identify text structures to make their work with argumentative texts easier.

The different texts shared in our example text set have different text structures that you can show your students to help them compare the fundamentals of each type.

Read more: What Is Text Structure and How To Teach It Effectively

3. Find claims in the text

The first thing students must do when reading an argumentative text is find the claims. There are a few things you can teach them to look for to make it easier to find claims in a text. They include:

Identify the type of claims

Authors may use six types of claims in argumentative texts to take a stance on the issue. Options include:

Fact: Argue that something is true or false based on quantifiable evidence

Value: Argue an issue’s worth

Policy: Argue if something should or shouldn’t be done

Definition: Argue how to define a concept

Cause: Argue how or why something happened

Comparison: Argue how two issues relate to each other

When students know the types of claims and what they argue, it’s easier to spot them in a text. In our example article, the authors use claims of policy and value to support their arguments, some of which we’ll discuss in more detail in subsequent sections.

Spot signal words

Each claim type has a list of signal words and phrases that may indicate an author is setting up their argument. Some of them include:

Claim of fact: Research suggests; Data indicated; Results show

Claim of value: Good; Bad; Better; Worse; Best; Worst

Claim of policy: Should; Must; Solution

Claim of definition: According to; Explains; Shows

Claim of cause: Since; Because; For; So

Claim of comparison: Like; Same as; Different from

These words may not always signal a claim or argument, so it helps to teach signal words along with other strategies to help students determine if they’ve found one within a text.

4. Identify the main claim

The next step to breaking down an argumentative text is identifying the main claim. Texts may include multiple claims, but there is always one main idea that the author uses and refers back to throughout the piece. To help students find the main claim, teach them to ask questions while they read, like:

What does the author want me to think or believe?

Is the author trying to convince me of something?

Does the author have a clear viewpoint on this topic?

Helping students find the overall focus of the argument can help. The introduction or conclusion of the text usually states or implies the main claim. For example, in our sample article, we’re looking for a claim that supports the argument, “Should the media spend resources covering celebrities?”

Because our example, “Is media coverage of NFL scandals out-of-bounds?” is a pro/con article, it includes two claims, one supporting each side of the argument. The pro claim states that dedicating reporters to covering NFL star scandals is over the top and invasive. It supports the argument that the media shouldn’t spend resources covering celebrities.

The article's con claim states that the public has a right to know about sports news that happens on and off the field, and the league and players are responsible for making better choices. This supports the argument that the media should spend resources covering celebrities.

5. Find the reasons

Once students identify the main claim, they must look for proof or reasons to back it up. These are typically found within the body paragraphs of the text. An author's list of reasons to support their claim may be more subtle than finding the argument or claim itself. You may spend the most time modeling this part of the process.

In our sample article, the author lists two reasons why the media shouldn’t spend resources to cover NFL stars. They include:

Watching and reporting on someone 24 hours a day violates privacy and civil liberties.

Media outlets judge the morality of players’ personal lives rather than just their on-field performance.

The second author also lists two reasons the media should spend resources covering NFL stars. They include:

The public is interested in sports stars’ personal lives outside of their gameday performance.

Reporting off-the-field issues in players' lives—like decisions influenced by head injuries sustained while playing—provides valuable information to the public.

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6. Evaluate the evidence

Anyone can make a claim. But it's baseless if someone can’t back up or prove their claim. That’s why the next step in breaking down argumentative text is to teach students how to look for evidence. Research studies, proven statistics, and personal or past verifiable experiences may all be evidence strong enough to support a claim.

In our sample article, the pro author uses testimonials, observations, and hypothetical examples primarily as evidence to back up their reasons. Some of this evidence includes:

The hypothetical example that companies like NBC News or General Motors can’t watch their employees’ behavior 24 hours a day like the media expects of the NFL.

The observation that media members called for the NFL commissioner to resign and teams in the league receive punishment for players’ actions off the field.

The con author uses observations, facts, and statistics as evidence to back up their reasons. Some of this evidence includes:

More breaking news comes from outlets like TMZ rather than traditional news sources.

Studies show that nearly 30% of former NFL players will end up developing brain diseases, likely caused by head injuries during their careers.

An ESPN poll found that 57% of parents said the news about increased concussions in football made them less likely to allow their children to play in youth leagues.

7. Identify counterarguments

Counterarguments are those that refute the author’s claim. One-sided argumentative texts, like those your youngest students read, may not include counterarguments. For these types of texts, you can have students work in small groups to consider the opposite sides of an argument and create a list of potential counterarguments.

In pieces that include counterarguments, the author addresses other sides of an issue and then uses claims and evidence to refute them. You can teach students how to annotate their texts to find and mark counterarguments as they read.

There are also signal words and phrases that may indicate counterarguments. They can be:

Negative: The author blatantly disagrees with the counterargument, signaled by words like never, shouldn’t, or rarely.

Neutral: The author tries to present the counterargument unbiased, signaled by phrases like some think, others claim, and people believe.

Positive: The author sees some value in the counterargument but has a better point to make, signaled by words and phrases like admittedly, of course, and I acknowledge.

The author of the pro side of the sample article presents the positive counterargument that sports stars shouldn’t be excused from bad behavior just because they’re in the spotlight. 

8. Find rebuttals to counterarguments

Like the main claim, all counterarguments also have responses called rebuttals, which allow the author to refute what others have said or past research shows. These rebuttals highlight the counterargument’s flaws or show readers why the author’s point of view or stance is more valid.

The author of the pro side of our sample text rebuts the counterargument that sports starts shouldn’t be excused from bad behavior by saying that the public shouldn’t be able to decide someone’s guilt or innocence without a trial, no matter what information is in the news.

9. Look for argument and counterargument limitations

Teach students to look for any ways the author may limit their argument. Authors do this to temper or scale back any claims that could be wild or outlandish. Hedging a point or limiting their argument can help save their credibility or validity if someone else’s counterargument is better than theirs. Some signal words for limiting arguments include:

It’s important to show students that arguments have limits and have them consider why an author limits what they say. Why aren’t they going all in on their stance? While you may not go in-depth with limitations on every article, drawing attention to them can boost students’ curiosity about what they read and build their critical thinking skills.

In our sample article, neither author limited their main claim. By presenting both the pro and con sides to an argument at once, students can compare viewpoints and see if they find any limitations in the argument for themselves, even if they’re not explicitly stated.

Want more information about how to help your students navigate argumentative texts? Try these tips:

Use high-quality, engaging texts

The best lessons on argumentative text start with the right content! They often have real-world ties to relevant topics affecting students' other schoolwork or lives. Our Pro/Con , Debate and Discussion , and ELA Standards and Skills collections scratch the surface of our high-quality texts. You can use the Newsela ELA reading skills search filter to find argument and claims texts on any topic you choose so you know you’re providing high-quality texts designed to teach these skills.

Ask the right questions

When students find a claim in an argumentative text, their first instinct should be to question it. But building this intuition takes practice, especially when they’re transitioning from reading primarily fictional texts to informational texts.

In fiction, readers are often supposed to accept everything the author says. The characters, setting, and plot are the way they are because the author says so. In informational and news texts, that principle doesn’t hold. Teaching students to ask the right questions when encountering a claim can help get them into this inquisitive mindset.

During whole-class instruction, give them prompting questions like “Why did the author say that?” or “What reason does the author give so I’ll believe that?” These questions set students on the path to examining content rather than taking it at face value.

Use annotations

Though we mentioned using annotations specifically for locating counterclaims, you can use them to mark up all aspects of an argumentative text. Assign different colors for claims, reasons, evidence, and counterarguments. As you read the text as a class, highlight each piece of information in the correct colors.

Doing this exercise makes it easier for students to look back at the text and understand the main points at a glance. It’s also helpful when you ask students to summarize an argumentative text or if they’re using a piece as a guide when learning how to write their own arguments. After you’ve shown students how to annotate, they can start doing it themselves when they read independently or with small groups.

With Newsela subject products’ annotation feature , you can customize assignments with conversations, highlight key passages, or mark up texts at five different reading levels to support your differentiated classrooms . 

Try graphic organizers

Graphic organizers can help students order the pieces of an argument as they read. An opinion article analysis chart makes it easier to map out an argument or opinion in a text. Flowcharts and web charts can become argument maps that plot reasons and evidence against a claim. They help students visualize how reasons build on the claim. You can also use these charts to locate arguments and counterarguments within a text to see how authors weave in and refute them.

Hold a debate

Arguments are at the center of all debates. Two people or groups take opposing sides on a topic, make claims, and cite evidence to convince the audience to take their stance. To further drive home your lesson about arguments, hold an in-class debate.

Choose a topic your students care about and one that has enough content and resources they can use to back up any side of an argument. Depending on the needs of your class, you can let students choose their claim or assign students to a specific claim for more balanced groups.

Have students research all sides of the issue, prepare their claims and reasons, find supporting evidence, and draft rebuttals for counterarguments. Use our Let’s Debate organizer and Debate Text Evidence organizer to help them during planning.

Then, you can invite a group of teachers or another class to visit and be your debate audience. At the end of the debate, give the audience a silent poll to ask which side of the argument was more convincing and why. Then, have students complete an after-debate reflection to share what they learned.

With Newsela ELA , you can teach students how to navigate and understand argumentative text using relevant, real-world content. Plus, it’s easy to check students’ comprehension to discover if they’re learning and can read and understand these texts independently. The standards and skill-aligned multiple-choice quizzes and checks for understanding on all informational texts make it easier to get the data you need to adjust your lessons in real time when teaching a skill.

Not a Newsela customer yet? When you register for Newsela Lite for free , you can start your 45-day trial to access all the content and skill-building scaffolds you need to teach argumentative texts in your classroom.

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