argumentative essay topics for jss3

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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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• How to Write a Solid Thesis Statement
• High School Debate Topics
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• A Sample Essay for Common Application Option #7: Topic of Your Choice
• 40 Writing Topics for Argumentative and Persuasive Essays
• Common Application Essay Option 6: Losing Track of Time

Choose Your Test

Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 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!

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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• 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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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.

Related CollegeVine Blog Posts

• Social Sciences

100+ Easy Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

• Author: Virginia Kearney

Get some topic ideas for your argumentative essay.

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Choosing an Easy Topic

Need a great argument topic? Below, you'll find over 100 ideas. You'll write faster and easier if you pick a topic based on:

• Knowledge: Picking a topic you already know a lot about can make research faster and easier.
• Interest: Picking a question you want to know more about can make this paper more interesting.
• Available Sources: I give links to many sources. Check those for articles first. If you find some, your work is half done.

Good argumentative essay topics

How to Pick a Good Topic

• Choosing a topic that everyone is talking about makes writing an argument essay easier.
• Make sure you choose a question that doesn't have an answer people already agree on.
• Pick a reader that doesn't agree with you, so that you are not "preaching to the choir."
• It also helps if the topic is something everyone has an opinion about: this will make it easier to get examples to back up your essay, either from articles or from people you interview.
• Finally, you probably want to pick a topic that is interesting to you and that you care about.

What Topics Not to Pick

Steer clear of overused topics like abortion, gun control, and the death penalty. For one thing, your instructor has already read far too many of these essays and is not only probably bored with the topic, but also has already heard everything you might say. Moreover, although those may seem like easy topics, they really aren't, because most people are set in their ways about these issues and it is hard to think of an argument that might change their minds.

Obesity, Dieting and Food

• Why are Americans rapidly becoming more obese?
• What can be done to help children maintain a healthy weight?
• How can people lose weight and keep it off?
• Is weight gain caused by genetics, environment, or some other factor?
• How do naturally thin people stay that way?
• What is the relationship between food, exercise, and weight?
• Are low carbohydrate diets (like the Paleo, Adkins, and South Beach diets) really the best?
• Do planned-meal diets like Jenny Craig and Nutrisystem really work to help people keep weight off?
• Why are Weight Watchers and other calorie-counting diets often considered the best by doctors?
• Is controlling weight really a matter of "calories in, calories out?"
• What is the best diet for a young adult?
• Can vegetarian diets be healthy?
• Why are so many people now choosing to go on gluten-free diets?
• Is sugar really bad for you?
• Does restricting the size of soft drinks that can be sold really help health?
• Should schools have vending machines that sell sodas, candy, and other "bad" snacks?
• What can schools do to promote better health in students?
• Does intermittent fasting really help you to be more fit?
• How can morbidly obese people lose weight safely?
• Is the T.V. show The Biggest Loser helpful in motivating people to be healthy? Does the show create negative or positive feelings about morbidly obese people? Does it exploit the contestants?
• What causes anorexia? How can it be prevented? How can you help an anorexic friend? Why are more young men becoming anorexic?
• What is morbid obesity? How does morbid obesity affect a person's health?
• What should we do about the cost of healthcare for overweight people? Should there be a greater insurance premium for people who are obese?
• Is surgery a good method for people to lose weight?
• Are sugar substitutes helpful for dieting?
• Is fat really bad for you? Is a low-fat diet the best?

Research Articles on Obesity and Dieting

Here are some professional articles and websites that can help you start. Many of these articles contain links to other sources also.

• "Long Term Weight Loss Maintenance," by Rena R. Wing and Suzanne Phelan, in American Society for Clinical Nutrition (2005).
• The National Weight Control Registry . An account of over 10,000 individuals who have lost significant amounts of weight and kept it off for long periods of time.
• Overweight and Obesity . U.S. government reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Diet Topic Articles from Psychology Today .

Environmental essay idea: How dangerous is pollution to our health? Do masks and filters really help?

By Gabriel Synnaeve (originally posted to Flickr as IMGP2650) [CC-BY-SA-2.0 (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/2.0)], via Wikimedia Commons

Recycling and the Environment

• What can we do to help people around the world have clean drinking water?
• Is hunting good or bad for the environment?
• Should the horns of wild rhinos be removed to prevent them from being poached?
• Can we protect wild areas and animals by promoting eco-tourism?
• Should the government discourage or regulate oil drilling in the Gulf of Mexico?
• What are the dangers of fracking?
• Does recycling really make a difference?
• Should all states adopt a deposit on soft drink bottles and cans in order to promote recycling?
• Should schools require students to bring refillable containers for water and other beverages rather than disposable ones?
• Should supermarkets charge for plastic bags in order to encourage the use of reusable bags?
• Should your city (or campus) do more to encourage recycling?
• What causes people to litter? What could motivate people to clean up after themselves?
• What causes earthquakes? What can we do to reduce death or damage from earthquakes? Or how can we better predict them?
• Does being a vegetarian or vegan help the environment?
• Does using LED lights make a difference?
• How can composting help save the environment?
• What is hazardous household waste and why is it important not to throw it in the regular trash?
• What is deforestation? How does it happen? Can it be stopped?
• What is fracking? Is fracking worth the risks? Does fracking hurt drinking water?
• What is a carbon footprint? How can we change our carbon footprint?
• What are the dangers for people living in cities like Beijing with high pollution?
• Is nuclear energy really safe?
• What should be done with nuclear waste?
• What is the best way to handle our trash? Are landfills a good idea?
• Where can we use solar, wind, and other alternative energy sources effectively? What is the best way to encourage alternative energy use? (Government regulations? Incentives? Helping companies that produce these products? Advertising?)

Environment Research Links

• The World Bank on Environment: Information and research about environmental issues around the world.
• The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency : Explore various topics on the EPA website, such as science, water, greener living, etc.
• Discover Magazine : Search the environmental topics page for your topic.

Are family vacations important for families? How important are fathers in the emotional development of children?

VirginiaLynne, CC-BY, via Hubpages

Families and Relationships

• Should mothers stay home with their children?
• Did COVID stay-at-home experiences help or hurt family relationships?
• Do long-distance relationships work?
• How can divorce be prevented?
• Is divorce something that kids can recover from?
• Are teenage marriages a good idea?
• Should teenagers that get pregnant keep their children?
• How can you get out of "the friend zone"?
• How can you know you are in an abusive relationship? Why do people stay in abusive relationships?
• What are the effects of domestic violence on children?
• Who should do the chores in a family?
• What are helicopter parents and how do they help or harm their children?
• Is it good to be an only child?
• Is doing sports together a good thing for families?
• How have video games impacted family life?
• Why do some people treat their pets as family members? Is this a good or bad thing?
• How important are grandparents to children today?
• How does interracial adoption affect a family?
• Are large families better for children?
• How does birth order affect children?
• Do older people make better parents?
• Have cell phones and social media made families closer or not?
• How should (or shouldn't) you use social media in a dating relationship?
• How long should people date before they become engaged?
• What makes people have a happy, long-lasting marriage?
• Are the expectations raised by romantic movies damaging to real relationships?

Family and Relationship Research

"The Impact of Divorce on Young Children and Adolescents" by Carl Pickhardt in Psychology Today, 2011.

Recommended

Wellington House: Britain's WW1 Propaganda Bureau

"Mothers Who are Jealous of Their Daughters" by Karyl McBride in Psychology Today , October 21, 2013.

"Long Distance Relationship Benefits Include Greater Intimacy, Study Says " by Catherine Pearson in Huffington Post, July 18, 2013.

Argument ideas about cell phones: Will phones and tablets replace paper? Should cities invest in universal WiFi? Should schools allow cell phone use in class?

VirginiaLynne, CC-BY, via HubPages

Technology and People

• What is nanotechnology and how has it already changed our lives?
• How will nanotechnology affect dentistry or medicine?
• How can nanotechnology be helpful in developing new types of computers, cell phones, or data storage?
• Does using cell phones make people more or less connected?
• Do cell phones cause a cancer risk?
• What should the laws be concerning the use of cell phones while driving?
• Have social media and texting hurt or improved the lives of teenagers?
• Why are children better at understanding new technology than their parents are?
• Do violent video games cause people to act out violently?
• Should schools use video games as a teaching tool?
• Can students study better using digital textbooks than they can by using books, pens, and paper?
• Will paper and books become obsolete?
• What is the difference between reading on a screen and reading a book?
• Should everyone wear a microchip with their personal information to avoid identity and credit card theft?
• Should parents be able to choose the genetics of their children?
• Are smart watches going to replace cell phones?
• What is the next big leap in technology?
• Which is better, the PC or the Mac?
• If we can help people live longer through technology, should we? Is there a balance between quantity and quality of life?
• How can 3-D printers be used effectively?

Science and Technology Research

SciTech Daily : Science and new technology news and research reports.

CNN Technology News : Updates of the latest trends.

9 Gadgets (and Other Tech) to Be Excited About in 2015 by Darren Orf at Gizmodo: January 18, 2015.

Aging and Retirement

• With people living longer, should the retirement age be increased? If so, what should be the age when people get benefits?
• What is the best way to plan for retirement?
• Is long-term health care insurance a good thing to purchase?
• Are retirement communities a good choice for older people?
• How important is it to retire near family?
• Should older relatives expect to be cared for in their own homes or in the homes of another family member?
• Is a nursing home ever the best option?
• How much money do people need to save for retirement?
• Is the average lifespan going to continue to increase?
• Can we grow older without getting sicker?
• Is aging a disease?
• Will mushrooms help people fight aging?
• Can aging be reversed or even cured in your lifetime?
• Falls are among the leading causes of injury and death for older people. What can be done to prevent falls?
• What causes some people to be able to live to be over 100?

How to Write a Paper Fast!

If you want to write a quick and easy argument paper, follow these simple steps:

• Pick a topic question from the lists above.
• Decide your answer to the question (this is your beginning thesis).
• Write down everything you know about the topic.
• Talk to your friends or family to find out what they know, have heard, or have read recently about the topic (have them give you the source if they know it).
• Look at some of the research articles or websites about that topic.
• Look back at your question and refine your answer. After gathering information, you may want to change it.
• Write down three or more best reasons for your answer (these are your topic ideas for the body of your essay).
• Using those reasons, look at the articles you've read or the ideas you've already written down for some evidence to support those reasons (this is the backup evidence for each topic sentence).
• Write your outline, then follow it to write your paper.

For more detailed essay instructions, see How to Write an Argument Essay, Step by Step .

Suggested Reading

• 100+ Funny Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas Like to write satire? Want to write on a fun essay topic? Get over 100 humorous topic ideas and some tips for ramping up the humor in your writing.
• Persuasive Essay Examples (With Counter Arguments!) Struggling to write your persuasive essay? Here's how to write a persuasive essay easily, with the best persuasive essay examples. Check out the sample counterarguments included as well. You'll be writing incredible persuasive essays in no time!

This content is accurate and true to the best of the author’s knowledge and is not meant to substitute for formal and individualized advice from a qualified professional.

Questions & Answers

Question: I am struggling with deciding on a topic for an argumentative essay. What should I do?

Answer: Both of those topics are interesting and compelling to study, especially if you live in a culture where they are problems. Here is how to choose the best topic for you:

1. List both topics and set a timer for 5 minutes. Write everything you know about one of the topics for that period of time. Then do the same thing for the second topic. You can also write down questions you want to know.

2. Look for resources on each topic. Use what you've already written to Google search answers to questions, or to look for articles in your local library. Spend no more than an hour.

3. After you have done those two exercises, you will probably begin to realize that one of the two topics is either more interesting to you, or one that you think you will be able to research more easily. Those two exercises should not take more than an hour and a half at most and most of that time will directly help you on your paper.

Question: What are five good topics that can be argued from several sides?

Answer: You bring up a good point that there are many topic questions which don't have only two answers or just two ways that people think about the issue. Here are some of the best topics to produce a compelling discussion from a variety of perspectives:

"What is the best way to choose a marriage partner?"

"What is the best diet for losing weight?"

"What makes someone "beautiful?"

"What is the best way to solve the problem of....(homelessness, racism, poverty or any other social issue)?"

"What is the best way to study to get top grades?"

Question: Where can I find inspiration for writing an argumentative essay?

Answer: There are many ways to get inspiration to write your essay. Here are my suggestions:

1. Write it out: get out a sheet of paper or computer document and write everything you know about that topic. Don't worry about grammar or even writing full sentences. Just get the ideas out.

2. Talk it out: take out your phone, and record yourself talking out your ideas.

3. Get help from a friend: If you feel stuck talking or writing on your own, then get a friend and have them ask you questions about your topic. You could also interview someone else about your topic, or even talk to a bunch of people to see what they think.

4. Post it on social media. Post your topic idea on social media and see what everyone else has to say about it. Maybe other people have ideas of movies, news events or articles you can read.

5. Google it: look for your topic on Google. Read as much as you can to find out more. Look for some good evidence you can include in your paper as you read or watch videos on the topic.

Question: What do you think about the topic "Should teenagers be able to drive and get their license at the age of 16?" as an argumentative essay?

Answer: In many places, teenagers can get their license at 16, so this question works best if you are arguing that they should not be able to get it that soon. I had a student do a paper on this once and that student found a lot of evidence about how the brain does not fully develop until 18 to be able to make "executive decisions" which are needed when you drive. I was quite convinced after reading the paper that we ought to wait longer and I've had most of my kids wait until they were at least 17.

Question: I need to write a Toulmin strategy argument paper about abuse. Do you have any quick and easy ideas?

Answer: 1. What causes people to become an abuser?

2. What is child abuse?

3. How can domestic abuse be prevented?

For help with a Toulmin paper, see my article: https://hubpages.com/academia/How-to-Use-a-Toulmin...

Question: I need to write a persuasive argument. Do you have any quick and easy ideas?

Answer: If you can't find a topic in this list, you might want to see 100 Easy Persuasive Essay Topics with Tips to Write a Paper Fast: https://hubpages.com/academia/100-Easy-Persuasive-...

Here are some of the easiest topics for most students:

Is video gaming good or bad?

Why you should not procrastinate.

Does media violence create real violence?

How important is a college degree?

Question: I need to write an argument essay about children with special needs attending regular school. Do you have any good points to argue?

Answer: Should special needs children be integrated into regular classrooms?

What accommodations should be given so that special needs children can attend school with their peers?

When is a regular classroom not the best place for a special needs child?

Who should decide where a child with special needs attends school?

Question: What is a good Rogerian argument regarding ALS disease?

Answer: A Rogerian argument is a strategy of how you write rather than a particular topic. Here are some ALS topics:

1. What is the best way to help a family that has a member with ALS?

2.Was the "Ice Bucket Challenge" helpful to people with ALS or not?

3. What are the best current treatments for ALS disease?

Here is a link to how to write a Rogerian argument: https://owlcation.com/academia/How-to-Write-an-Arg...

Question: I need to find an argumentative topic on student issues. Can you help me?

Answer: Here are some excellent essay ideas for student issues:

1. Should schools do more to prevent cheating? Or should students do more to stop cheating?

2. How much studying do you really need to do in school? Do some students study too much?

3. What is the most effective way to have a good social group in school?

4. Does social media use hurt student's social lives? What should the individual student do to have a healthier and happier social life in school?

5. What makes an excellent teacher? How can teachers do a better job (choose one or more) at teaching the information clearly, motivating students, making their subject interesting, or meeting students needs?

6. What makes someone popular? Are popular students meaner than other students, or are they nicer?

7. How important is it to be involved in extracurricular activities?

8. Are school sports good for students or do they take too much time and effort away from doing well in school? Should student-athletes have special privileges?

9. Should schools spend more time and money to develop their fine arts programs?

10. What is the best extra-curricular program to be involved in at your school?

Question: What do you think of the topic, "Is deforestation worth it?" for an argumentative essay?

Answer: I'm not sure "worth it" is a clear enough question. Here are some alternatives:

1. How can we solve the problem of deforestation?

2. How can we help people who live in forested areas survive economically without cutting down trees?

3. Does ecotourism help prevent deforestation?

Question: I need a question to use as an argumentative essay topic based around history - preferably within the time period of 1910 - 1997 - Any suggestions?

Answer: What did the world learn from _____war?

What is the green revolution and how did it change the world?

Question: Can you suggest a good editorial topic on micro-chipping that is easy to write about?

Answer: Here is a couple to consider:

Should microchipping be required for all pets?

How helpful is microchipping?

How important is microchipping?

Should microchips be used in humans for identity or credit cards?

What are the uses of microchips in humans?

Should companies microchip their employees?

Question: What can I write in a conclusion of an argumentative essay?

Answer: Here is an article which gives you many different conclusion ideas: https://hubpages.com/academia/How-to-Write-an-Argu...

Question: What do you think of the topic, "Should parents ban young kids from social media?" for an argumentative essay?

Answer: For more ideas on this topic, see my article on How to create a Great Topic Sentence, which uses this idea in formulating an outline: https://hubpages.com/academia/How-to-Write-a-Great...

Question: What are some animal argument essay topics?

Answer: Here are some easy animal topics:

1. Should pit bulls and other dogs considered more prone to aggression be banned from apartment buildings?

2. When is it best to euthanize a sick or elderly pet?

3. How can a city move to be a "no kill" zone for pets brought to shelters?

4. Should domestic food animals like dairy cows, cattle and chickens be raised in pens or allowed to roam free?

5. Should cats be kept indoors?

6. Is it ethical to de-claw a pet cat?

7. How important is it for children to be exposed to farm life and farm animals through field trips or 4-H clubs?

8. Is hunting a good way to conserve the environment?

9. What are the best pets besides dogs and cats?

10. Should people keep exotic pets?

Question: Can you suggest an argumentative essay topic that is based on tourism?

Answer: 1. Can ecotourism really help preserve ecologically sensitive areas?

2. Is hunting tourism ethical?

3. What is the benefit of tourism to XX country?

4. How can an individual be a good tourist?

Question: What is an argumentative topic to use for a synthesis paper?

Answer: I always suggest that students ask their instructor for specific instructions if they are not sure what to do on a paper topic such as "synthesis." Some instructors have a particular format they want you to follow, so be sure to ask your instructor what they mean by "synthesis paper." My guess is what your instructor probably means is that they want you to use several different sources and to give the points of view of each one, or to put together an argument topic using different sources. For more on how to write a research paper, see: https://hubpages.com/academia/How-to-Write-an-Argu...

Question: Can you suggest a topic for an opinion essay that has to do with pharmacy education?

Answer: 1. What is the most important part of pharmacy training?

2. How can you choose the best pharmacy school?

3. Does pharmacy school really prepare you for your career?

4. Is being a pharmacist a good career choice?

Question: Should schools use video games as a teaching tool?

Answer: Here are some alternatives on that issue:

1. What is the best way that teachers can use video games in the classroom?

2. What are the top educational video games that actually teach students?

3. Can video games teach better than traditional methods?

4. What does the research say about how much students learn by doing video games?

5. Which subjects work better for video gaming in education?

6. What makes an excellent educational video game?

Question: Can you help me find research facts proving alcoholism is a disease for an argumentative essay?

Answer: A good way to look for statistics and facts that are easy to find is to search on Google Scholar, or to use a regular Google search but put "government" into your search. Make sure you look up a government website, which will provide authoritative sources. I searched "government alcohol facts," and came up with both a Centers of Disease Control Fact Sheet and also a National Institute of Health Alcohol Facts and Statistics website. What is great about these websites is that if you look at the bottom of the article, they usually have links to the original papers. Those papers are excellent sources for your research, and can often give you plenty of information for your paper. Ask your instructor to see if they will also accept the government websites as research sources. A final way to get sources is to look for a medical or non-profit organization that researches that topic.

Question: What are the most interesting psychological topics?

Answer: For 100 essay ideas on mental health and psychology check out my article:

https://hubpages.com/humanities/Easy-Essay-Topics-... The article gives not only topic ideas, but also links to good essays and research articles you can use to help you write your paper.

Question: I need a research topic on marriage. Do you have any suggestions?

Answer: Sure! I have 15 marriage research topics along with writing tips in my article: https://letterpile.com/writing/100-Easy-Persuasive...

Question: I need to find a trending topic for a research paper about Ghana. Do you have any suggestions?

Answer: Here are some possible topics, many of which could apply to other nations if you substituted a different country name:

How is the popularity of fast food chains like KFC in Ghana changing the health of the nation?

What is the best way for the government of Ghana to provide health care to rural areas?

How can Ghana fight corruption?

How have artists from Ghana sought to influence their culture?

Question: How can I best create an effective inquiry project?

Answer: While you should always talk with your instructor and listen carefully to any instructions, I think what you are referring to as an "inquiry project" is basically an argumentative research essay which starts with a question. The best way to create an effective inquiry is to:

1. Choose a question that really interests you.

2. Research to find out the different views people have on that question.

3. Get accurate statistics and data that explain the current situation and any proposed solutions or ideas that have already been tried to solve the problem (explain the cause, define the situation, etc.).

4. Organize and write your essay using my guidelines: https://owlcation.com/academia/How-to-Write-an-Arg...

Question: Can you give me ideas for a conversational topic that is in the "yes" or "no" format?

Answer: Many of the argumentative topics in this list could be formed in a conversational way if you start them with the phrase "Are you for or against" or "Do you...or not?" Here are some ideas:

Are you for or against divorce for any reason?

Do you believe in God or not?

Would you or would you not be willing to adopt a child that needed a home?

Question: How do I start to write on a research topic about value-based healthcare?

Answer: Start with statistics about how the current system is costly and some stories that show how it does not provide adequate service to patients.

Question: What are some marketing argument essay topics?

Answer: 1. How is Artificial Intelligence going to change marketing?

2. What influence will robots have on businesses like Microsoft or Uber (or pick a different business)?

3. How will customer service chatbots change the way that companies market and service their products? Will they make customer service more efficient and effective?

4. Can programmatic advertising help draw more customers and lower advertising costs?

5. How can companies best personalize marketing to their customers?

6. How important is personalized marketing? In what markets is it most important?

Question: Could I use the topic of a plea bargain in court as an argument essay?

Answer: Here are some topic questions you can use on a court case:

1. Should defendants be allowed to plea bargain?

2. Should there be limits to plea bargaining?

3. Are there some crimes that should not be allowed to be plea bargained?

Question: Is the topic, " the single parent's struggles" good for an argumentative essay?

Answer: A good argumentative topic needs to be stated as a question which has more than one answer. It can't be an argumentative topic if there is just a description of something or a question that has only one, definitive answer. Here are some topic questions on single parents:

1. Do single parents have struggles that go above an beyond the struggles of two-parent families?

2. What are the most difficult struggles for single parents?

3. What is the best way to help single parents with their struggles to parent well?

Question: What resources can you recommend to help me with an argumentative essay topic assignment for high school?

Answer: Here is an article that lists topics for high school students to write about: https://owlcation.com/humanities/150-Argument-Essa...

Question: I need to find a devastating event that happened in America that can be argued for an essay assignment. Any suggestions?

Answer: There are lots of good possibilities for this assignment if you think about arguing whether this changed the way Americans viewed something, or whether the event was good or bad for Americans, or whether Americans had the right response. Choosing to argue from an unusual side can sometimes make a more interesting paper. Here are some possibilities:

How did the Civil War change the American ideas of democracy?

Was the Great Depression good for America?

Question: What sort of topics could I write about related to dentistry?

Answer: 1. What are some of the common mistakes made during a routine oral examination?

2. What is the best way to motivate people to do excellent home care of their teeth?

3. How will metal-free direct dentistry change the industry?

4. Are prepless and minimal preparation veneers really superior?

5. How are lasers best used in dentistry?

6. How can dental impressions be made more comfortable and accurate?

Question: I need to write a thesis statement, and I am lost. What is a simple way to learn to write and keep it clean?

Answer: I always have my students start with a thesis question first. The question should be one that is not yet agreed on by people and one which does not have a simple answer. Then your answer to that question is the thesis. I give examples and a simple step-by-step explanation of how to create both a thesis and topic sentences in my articles here: https://hubpages.com/humanities/Easy-Ways-to-Write...

Question: What are some music argument essay topics?

Answer: 1. Will electronic music continue to remain popular?

2. How will Virtual Reality change the music industry?

3. Will record labels be able to survive? Should they?

4. How is technology shortening the road to fame for music artists?

5. How valuable is a music education in K-12 schools?

Question: I want to write an essay on addiction and what causes addiction. Do you have any good websites with information like that?

Answer: Addiction is an easy topic to research although it is a hard issue to solve. I have a number of mental health topic questions along with research links in my article: https://hubpages.com/humanities/Easy-Essay-Topics-...

Virginia Kearney (author) from United States on August 14, 2020:

Thanks Devika--I hope you check out my other articles too. I have over 100 articles on how to write.

Devika Primić from Dubrovnik, Croatia on August 14, 2020:

Awesome! Topics galore and so much to think about here. An informattive hub and well-researched.

casey on December 10, 2019:

this is good

Virginia Kearney (author) from United States on July 05, 2019:

Hi Anna--An argument essay answers a question which could be answered in at least two ways. On this topic, you could do questions like: Can a drug addict be cured? Or what is the best way to help people addicted to drugs to rehabilitate? In both of those questions, you can use your experience as an example or illustration of an argument, but it isn't an argument essay to just describe what happened to you. In a personal experience or explaining essay, you could do that.

Anna Dare on July 04, 2019:

I wanted to ask another question but I guess I am only allowed one. I wanted to ask if you thought it could be an argument essay about my transition from being a heroin addict into a fully functioning adult?

Elvera bean on June 23, 2019:

Thank you so much this helped me a lot

Virginia Kearney (author) from United States on December 02, 2018:

Many of these topics are appropriate for high school students, but you can also see my article specifically giving 150 high school topics: https://owlcation.com/humanities/150-Argument-Essa...

Anon on December 01, 2018:

Can someone give me an research topic for an high school argumentative research essay ?

Virginia Kearney (author) from United States on November 20, 2018:

Morobu--I always suggest that students turn the topic into a question. So start with a question like:

What makes people happy?

Is the pursuit of happiness a good life goal?

Then your answer to the question will be your thesis and the reasons for that answer are your subtopics.

morobu on November 19, 2018:

i need to write an argumentative essay but am struggling to come up with a topic. the topic given is "pursuit of happiness"

Can you help me with a sub topic

I like DDLC and Monika is my Waifu on February 08, 2018:

I like this

aidan on January 16, 2018:

can you add topics about pitching

Virginia Kearney (author) from United States on November 10, 2017:

Hi Ryan--I'll add some! Good idea! My students are mostly between 18-22, but many students writing argument essays are older.

Ryan on November 10, 2017:

I love your articles, they are really helpful to me.

Virginia, Could you help me think of an argumentative topic about retirement age? I do not know how to write about it!

bill on October 30, 2017:

wow thanks virginia, this really helped me out!!!!

Virginia Kearney (author) from United States on October 18, 2017:

Hi Stephen-I have several articles that tell you all of the steps you need to know for writing your argument paper. Just look at my profile or look at the articles linked to the side.

Stephen on October 18, 2017:

Ammmm can u tell me how or what to do after I chose a topic like getting info.

I LOVE RESEARCH on October 18, 2017:

wow, quite impressive. keep up the good work!! :)))))))))))

marisol on October 16, 2017:

this really helped me

aziza on October 15, 2017:

I would like to thank you so so much for these great topics.

Shaleeta on September 09, 2017:

This is a great resource. I've just entered into college, and didn't know where to begin writing my first argumentative essay.

Thanks so much - voted up :)

Kennedy on September 08, 2017:

Do you know or have you written of anything to do with the argumentative essay of "should smoking be banned" because I have to do essays with research and I need some reliable sites

Virginia Kearney (author) from United States on September 07, 2017:

Hi Aashi! I'm glad that younger students are finding my work too. Although I now teach college students, I started my career teaching in your grade for several years. I will have to put together some topics for primary grade students. Until then, you might want to look at my High School Topics, which have many ideas which are good for your age too.

Aashi on September 07, 2017:

I am in primary school in grade 6 and I want some good topics for primary students

Badass on July 10, 2017:

Good job making this page

Thea on June 20, 2017:

I don't know what to do at first. I was clueless and was browsing for answers but none of them made sense except for this. Thank you very much!

love on May 26, 2017:

I think the ideas are wonderful and are very helpful!

Beth on May 25, 2017:

I am a Junior in high school and I have to write an argumentative paper. Your insight on how to do so has been extremely helpful. I wanted to thank you for your intelligence on how to write an argumentative paper.

Ocean on April 17, 2017:

Thanks! This website was very useful for picking out a topic for my essay. Again, thank you for helping me out!

King of Stuff on February 01, 2017:

I find this website very interesting and helpful. Thank you for making it! Your tips on writing essays is really helping me out.

Mr. fluffypants on January 31, 2017:

I love this article. You have helped me with my school essay. Thank you!

letter pile on January 31, 2017:

I LOVE this website!!!! Thank you so much for writing it! It has helped me so much!

Virginia Kearney (author) from United States on January 06, 2017:

Hi Nataly! You are welcome to shift the focus of the questions to whether governments should take action. My questions and topic ideas are just a starting point. I teach my students that there are a variety of ways to solve problems and one of those is by having governments or larger groups take action. However, I want my students to focus more on how they and their audience can personally take responsibility and action, so often my questions are more locally written. In my class, I focus on having my students address a very particular audience in their persuasive essays because effective arguments come from really thinking carefully about the viewpoint of the other person and developing points that would persuade that person. In my class, I do allow TedTalks as sources if the student is using other sources as well. However, I don't think all professors do accept that type of source. Most people who do TedTalks have written out their arguments in papers or books, so I'd suggest you research to see if there is an online paper you can cite as well.

Nataly on January 06, 2017:

Hello, Virginia!

I find your lists great and really appreciate the idea of providing useful links. Still, I would rather shift the focus of some questions so that they ask students to think more globally, from the point of view of the state and the society. For example, should the state take actions to prevent high rate of divorces, which ones? Are people in developed states responsible for providing water and food to the starving people around the globe?, etc. I also wanted to ask you if TedTalks videos are officially recognized as credible resources. Have you ever heard of any cases when professors forbid to use it? Thank you for a good work!

Hulya Gulyurt on December 17, 2016:

This helped me so much with my homework, thank you!

Abdul on December 06, 2016:

Great Efforts ...Well done

kk on November 29, 2016:

vashan on October 11, 2016:

should guns be allowed on school campus

Virginia Kearney (author) from United States on August 17, 2016:

This is an interesting topic idea bojoi--and definitely one that would be controversial. I'd love to hear how you would develop your thesis.

preetyradd on July 20, 2016:

i think this is cool i got a good grade on my essay thanks

Kanwal asif on July 18, 2016:

Thank u so much God bless u

Virginia Kearney (author) from United States on April 22, 2016:

Glad this will help you three keys!

threekeys on April 22, 2016:

Hi Virginia

Im about to try out your suggestions in this great article. Im excited to see what the outcome will be in how I take a more pointed or comprehensive approach in a "written debate" so to speak. Thanks so much!

djazira k on May 11, 2015:

Thank you it is really helpful.

kamila on April 26, 2015:

Thank you so much for the topics

Trisha Roberts from Rensselaer, New York on May 29, 2014:

Love the great ideas! Absolutely love the list you shared with us. Thank you so much for this Article!

Kalaichelvi Panchalingam from PETALING JAYA on May 04, 2014:

Sometimes i find that the most easy or obvious topic the hardest to argue about. The less the words the greater the headache. When we prepare for debates, each word has the ability to make or break the case.

Rae Saylor from Australia on November 04, 2013:

What an interesting range of ideas and tips! Massive thanks for writing this, pal! Voted up :)

Eiddwen from Wales on October 26, 2013:

A great hub Victoria ;thanks for sharing and I vote up.

Dianna Mendez on October 25, 2013:

This is very useful to those who must teach essay writing (and to those who must write them). I know I will be using this next time I teach English Comp. Voted up++

ExpectGreatThings from Illinois on October 25, 2013:

Wow! This is a very impressive list and great instructions. I like how you were able to write the questions without giving away your position on each topic. - Ginger

Eric Dierker from Spring Valley, CA. U.S.A. on October 23, 2013:

Very interesting. Fun ideas and great food for thought.

100+ Funny Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

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Student Opinion

401 Prompts for Argumentative Writing

By Michael Gonchar

• March 1, 2017

Note: We have 310 new argumentative writing prompts to add to this list.

Of all the resources we publish on The Learning Network, perhaps it’s our vast collection of writing prompts that is our most widely used resource for teaching and learning with The Times.

This list of 401 prompts ( available here in PDF ) is now our third iteration of what originally started as 200 prompts for argumentative writing, and it’s intended as a companion resource to help teachers and students participate in our annual Student Editorial Contest .

So scroll through the hundreds of prompts below that touch on every aspect of contemporary life — from social media to sports, politics, gender issues and school — and see which ones most inspire you to take a stand. Each question comes from our daily Student Opinion feature, and each provides links to free Times resources for finding more information. And for even more in-depth student discussions on pressing issues like immigration , guns , climate change and race , please visit our fall 2016 Civil Conversation Challenge .

What’s your favorite question on this list? What questions should we ask, but haven’t yet? Tell us in the comments.

And visit our related list as well: 650 Prompts for Narrative and Personal Writing .

Social Media and Smartphones

1. Does Technology Make Us More Alone? 2. Is Social Media Making Us More Narcissistic? 3. Will Social Media Help or Hurt Your College and Career Goals? 4. Would You Consider Deleting Your Facebook Account? 5. Does Facebook Need a ‘Dislike’ Button? 6. Has Facebook Lost Its Edge? 7. Should What You Say on Facebook Be Grounds for Getting Fired? 8. Would You Be Willing to Pay for Facebook or Google in Exchange for Your Privacy? 9. Are Anonymous Social Media Networks Dangerous? 10. Should People Be Allowed to Obscure Their Identities Online? 11. Is Our Culture of Online Shaming Out of Control? 12. Is Snapchat a Revolutionary Form of Social Media? 13. Do Apps Help You or Just Waste Your Time? 14. Do You Spend Too Much Time on Smartphones Playing ‘Stupid Games’? 15. Is Pokémon Go a Positive Cultural Force? Or Is it Just Another Excuse for People to Stare at Their Phones? 16. Are Digital Photographs Too Plentiful to Be Meaningful? 17. Do You Worry We Are Filming Too Much? 18. How Many Text Messages Are Too Many? 19. Does Punctuation in Text Messages Matter? 20. Can a GIF Work Better Than Words?

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• Revision of last term examinations and work with emphasis on grammar
• Grammar: Adverbials (Frequency and Manner)
• Reading and comprehension:  Asking specific questions that require conclusions to be drawn by students
• Composition:  Letter writing: Formal letter, features of a formal letter, writing a letter of permission to be absent from school to the Principal
• Literature-In-English:   Folktales (Didactic, Entertainment, Magical)
• Literature-in-English: Use of recommended text on Prose
• Grammar:  Tenses:  The simple present tense
• Reading and comprehension:  Asking specific questions that require students to make projections.  Vocabulary Development:  The Library
• Composition:  Formal letter:  a letter to the school authority (Refer to week 2)
• Literature-In-English:  Introduction to poetry:  Definition, Features (Concise, unique).
• Literature-In-English:  Use the recommended text on Prose
• Grammar:  The simple past tense
• Reading and comprehension: Asking specific questions that require maximum recall of ideas and facts.  Vocabulary development:  Marriage related words
• Composition:  Guided composition – The Federal Roads Safety Commission
• Literature-In-English:  poetry: Types (Epic, Lyrics….)
• Literature-In-English:  Differentiate between oral and written poetry
• Grammar:  The present continuous Tense
• Reading and comprehension:  Reading to understand the author’s mood and expression used in the passage e.g. anger, doubt, joy ….
• Composition:  narrative Essay:  The Most Memorable Day of My Life
• Literature –In-English:  Drama:  Features (theme, costumes, audience and so on)
• Literature –In-English:  Identification of the features of drama in a given text
• Grammar:  The past continuous tense
• Reading and comprehension:  reading between the lines to detect the author’s attitude. Vocabulary Development:  Child labour and trafficking
• Composition:  Argumentative:  Road Transportation is Safer than Air Transportation
• Literature-In- English:  Use the recommended text on prose
• Literature-In-English: As in 6.5
• Grammar:  Making sentences with the simple present tense and the past tense
• Reading and comprehension:  Reading to identify the overall impression created by the author’s style of presentation
• Composition:  Expository Essay:  HIV/AIDS
• Literature-In-English:  Myths and Legends:  Comparing myths and legends
• Literature-In-English:  Use the recommended text on Drama
• Grammar:  Future tense:  making sentences with the simple future tense – Will, Shall
• Reading and comprehension:  Reading to interpret diagram maps and sketches accurately.  Vocabulary development – Word Formation – using prefixes
• Composition:  Argumentative (Arranging ideas in logical sequences)
• Literature-In-English:  Myths and Legends:  Features (Magic, Superstition and so on)
• Grammar:  making sentences with the simple past tense
• Reading and comprehension:  Reading to identify how a diagram or map clarifies or complements reading material
• Composition:  Guided composition on A Festival in My Village
• Literature-In-English:  dramatization of some scenes in the recommended text on Drama

Literature-In-English:  a review of the recommended texts

WEEK 11 – 12

Revision and Examination

Second Term JSS2 English Studies NAPPS Scheme of work

• Revision of last term work

Speech work:  revision of diphthongs

• Grammar:  reported speech:  rules guiding the use of reported speech
• Reading and comprehension:  Reading to provide alternative work that can fit into the context to replace the target words
• Composition:  Writing a Report:  Outline and Features
• Literature-In-English:  use the recommended text on prose
• Literature-In-English:  As in 5
• Grammar:  Making sentences with prepositions
• Reading and comprehension:  Reading for speed with emphasis on avoidance of vocalization, regressive reading and reading words instead of phrases.  Vocabulary development – law and justice
• Composition:  Writing a report:  An Accident I Witnessed
• Literature-In-English:  Use the recommended text on prose
• Literature-In-English:  Themes/characterization in the recommended prose text
• Grammar:  Regular and irregular verbs
• Reading and comprehension:  Techniques of speed reading:  surveying, scanning, skimming.  Vocabulary development:  Culture and tourism
• Composition: writing an informal letter continued:  Letter to a friend about your school inter-house sport.
• Literature-In-English:  Use the recommended text on drama
• Literature-In-English:  Themes and plot in the recommended drama text
• Grammar:  Reported commands
• Reading and comprehension:  Dialogue.  Vocabulary development:  ICT
• Composition :  Formal letter:  Write to the Local Government Chairman about the bad roads in your area
• Literature-In-English:  use the recommended text on Drama
• Literature-in-English:  Language: Setting and characterization in the recommended Drama text.
• Grammar:  Reported requests
• Reading and comprehension:  Dialogue continued
• Composition:  Argumentative Essay:  Herbal medicines are more potent than orthodox medicines are
• Literature-In-English:  Identification of some figures of speech in the recommended prose text
• Literature-in-English:  as in 5.5
• Grammar:  Adverbials and the Present tense
• Reading and Comprehension: More on week 2 topic. Vocabulary developments: science and technology.
• Composition: Expository Essay- Entrepreneurship.
• Literature-In-English: Distinguish between Irony, Euphemism and Hyperbole.
• Literature- In-English: Write a short play on the reward of truancy.
• Grammar: Introduction to punctuation marks.
• Reading and Comprehension: Reading to summarize a selected passage.
• Composition:  Narrative Essay- My Last Birthday
• Literature-In-English:  summary  of the recommended Prose text
• Literature-In-English: As in 7.5
• Grammar:  Punctuation marks:  The Full Stop and The Comma
• Reading and comprehension:  Reading to identify the main and supporting ideas in a selected passage.
• Composition:  writing a story:  The Meeting
• Literature-In-English:  summary of the recommended Drama text
• Literature-In-English:  as in 8.5
• Grammar:  Punctuation Marks continued
• Reading and comprehension:  As in week 8
• Composition:  Review the types of Letters and Essays
• Literature-In-English:  Review the literary terms

Literature-In-English:  As in 9.5

WEEK 11 – 12

Second Term JSS3 English Studies NAPPS Scheme of work

• Grammar:  Expressing exception using except, except for, but, apart from
• Reading and comprehension:  Reading for critical evaluation
• Composition:  More on writing to a Pen-pal
• Literature-In-English:  review the features of folktales
• Literature-in-English:  Discuss some folktales
• Grammar:  Prepositions which express relations with people (with, for, against)
• Listening comprehension:  Listening for implied meanings
• Composition:  The School Prize Giving Day
• Literature-In-English:  Poetry – Write a short poem on – The Lonely Child
• Literature-In-English:  write a short story on – How the Tortoise Got the Pattern on his shell
• Speech work:  Contrast consonants /ʃ/ and/ȝ/ (mission/pleasure, vision/measure)
• Grammar:  The simple sentence
• Composition:  At The Bus Stop
• Literature-In-English:  Literacy devices in a selected poem
• Grammar:  The Compound sentence
• Listening comprehension:  Listening to questions in order to answer them
• Composition:  Informal letter – A letter to a friend telling him/her about your best subject
• Literature-in-English:  Use the recommended text on Prose
• Literature-In-English:  Identification of the features of Prose
• Grammar: Punctuation marks:  The uses of the capital letter.
• Listening comprehension:  Listening to interpret ideas in a selected passage
• Composition: Informal letter – A letter to your Grandfather/mother telling them that you are coming to spend your forthcoming holidays with them
• Literature-In-English:  Use the recommended Drama text
• Literature-In-English:  Theme/setting/characterization in the recommended Drama text
• Grammar:  Pronouns – Relative and Relative Pronouns
• Reading and comprehension:  revisit week 5 and 1 st term
• Composition:  Article Writing – The Evils of Youth Unemployment
• Literature-In-English:  Lead students to write a playlet
• Grammar:  Personal Pronouns – Rules guiding the use of personal pronouns
• Reading and comprehension:  Revisit week 2 of 2 nd Term
• Composition:  Expository – Drug Addiction
• Literature-In-English:  Poetry – Language in Poetry
• Literature-in-English:  Construct sentences with irony and hyperbole
• Grammar:  Demonstrative Pronouns
• Reading and comprehension:  Reading to summarize paragraphs
• Composition:  Argumentative Essay – Teachers are better than farmers in a society
• Literature-in-English:  Summarizing the Prose text
• Literature-in-English:  summarizing the prose text
• Grammar:  differentiating between demonstrative pronouns and demonstrative adjectives
• Reading  and comprehension:  revisit week 1 2 nd term
• Composition:  Expository writing – Population Explosion
• Literature-in-English:  Revision of the Drama text

Literature-In-English:  Revision of the Drama text using relevant questions

WEEK 11 AND 12

REVISION AND EXAMINATION

Third Term JSS1 English Studies NAPPS Scheme of work

Third Term JSS2 English Studies NAPPS Scheme of work

Third term jss3 English Studies Scheme of work NAPPS

SECOND TERM CHRISTIAN RELIGIOUS STUDIES SCHEME OF WORK FOR PRIMARY THREE (3)

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• How to write an argumentative essay | Examples & tips

How to Write an Argumentative Essay | Examples & Tips

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

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

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Table of contents

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

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

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

Argumentative writing at college level

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

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

Examples of argumentative essay prompts

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

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

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

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

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

Toulmin arguments

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

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

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

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

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

Rogerian arguments

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

• Ad hominem fallacy
• Post hoc fallacy
• Appeal to authority fallacy
• False cause fallacy
• Sunk cost fallacy

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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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101 Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

Use your words to sway the reader.

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

School and Education Persuasive Essay Topics

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What are your favorite persuasive essay topics for students? Come exchange ideas in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out the big list of essay topics for high school (120+ ideas) ..

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Revisions: Various types of Composition Writing: Narrative, Descriptive, Expository

Identifying various types of composition writing; The elements of composition; Different types of composition.

What you'll learn

• Types of Composition:
• - Narrative
• - Descriptive
• - Argumentative
• - Expository, etc.
• Elements of Composition:
• - Introduction:
• - Conclusion
• Arrangement of ideas in logical sequence.
• Composition on: Motor Vehicle Parts that need regular care e.g. radiator, brake fluid, engine, etc.
• Regular care of a motor vehicle.

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English Language JSS3 Second Term English Language JSS3 Second Term - Vocabulary Development: Synonyms and Antonyms, Structure: Active and Passive Voice, Grammar: Phrasal Verbs and Idioms, Comprehension: Tortoise, the Trickster, Speech work: Diphthongs, Writing: Argumentative Essay

• English Language JSS3 Second Term - Vocabulary Development: Synonyms and Antonyms, Structure: Active and Passive Voice, Grammar: Phrasal Verbs and Idioms, Comprehension: Tortoise, the Trickster, Speech work: Diphthongs, Writing: Argumentative Essay

English Language JSS3 Second Term

E nglish Language JSS3 Second Term - Vocabulary Development: Synonyms and Antonyms, Structure: Active and Passive Voice, Grammar: Phrasal Verbs and Idioms, Comprehension: Tortoise, the Trickster, Speech work: Diphthongs, Writing: Argumentative Essay

Performance Objectives

• Vocabulary Development: Synonyms and Antonyms
• Structure: Active and Passive Voice
• Grammar: Phrasal Verbs and Idioms
• Comprehension: Tortoise, the Trickster
• Speech work: Diphthongs
• Writing: Argumentative Essay

TOPIC 1: Vocabulary Development: Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms are words that have nearly the same meaning 

Examples are:

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• English Language JSS3 Second Term - Comprehension: The Making of New Millionaires, Structure: Tag Questions, Writing: Informal Letter, Grammar: Verb Phrases: Lexical and Auxiliary Verbs, Verb Phrases, Speech Work: Consonant Contrast /ŋ/ /k/ /g/
• English Language JSS3 Second Term - Structure: Indefinite and Reciprocal Pronouns, Writing: Formal letter, Comprehension: Life, History of a Mosquito, Comprehension Exercise - Life History of a Mosquito, Speech Work: Vowels /ʊ/ and /u:/
• English Language JSS3 Second Term - Structure: Personal Pronouns and Possessive Pronouns, Writing: Expository Essay, Vocabulary, Development: Words Associated with Emotions, Speech Work: Vowels /i:/ and /ɪ/, Poem: Let My Mother Sing by “Folorunsho Moshood
• English Language JSS3 Second Term - Comprehension: Indiscipline Among Youths, Structure: Reflexive Pronouns and Relative Pronouns, Speech work: Vowels: /ə/, /ʌ/, /Ʒ/, Writing: Descriptive Essay, Grammar: Direct and Indirect Speech
• English Language JSS3 Second Term - Literature: The Costly Mistake by Chinelo Ifezulike
• English Language JSS3 Second Term - Comprehension, Structure: Expressing Exception using except for, but, and apart from, Writing: Narrative Essay, Speech work: Consonants /s/ and /θ/, Vocabulary Development: Health and Medicine
• English Language JSS3 Second Term - Structure: Conjunctions, Speech Work: Consonant Contrast /w/ /v/, Dictation: Words that are, Commonly Misspelt, English - Commonly Misspelt Words, Writing: Report Writing
• English Language JSS3 Second Term - Vocabulary Development: Suffixes; Noun derivatives, Verb derivatives and Adjective derivatives, Suffixes, Structure: Interjections, Poem: Inu Rere by Niyi Osundare, Speech Work: Constants /∫/ and /Ʒ/, Writing: Article W
• Category JSS3
• Author ClassNotes Edu

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Literature: Theory

Back to: ENGLISH LANGUAGE JSS3

Welcome to Class !!

We are eager to have you join us !!

In today’s English Language class, We will be learning about Literature . We will also be looking at  Figures of Speech Later in the lesson. We hope you enjoy the class!

Content:       What is Literature?

Definitions of Literature

Literature is the art of composition in prose and verse.  It is the writing or study of the whole body of a literary composition.  Literature is an imaginative work of arts, which uses language, plot, characters, setting etc. to give us a picture of life.

When we talk about literature in this sense, what we normally have in mind is that artistic or creative composition which represents the emotions, feelings and thoughts of a person in form of a prose, poetry and drama.  Literature could also be defined as an imitation of life.

Give two definitions of Literature that you know.

Reading Assignment:     Read: (a)    Exam Focus Literature in English

(b)    ABC of Literature by Oni  D.

TOPIC: GENRES OF LITERATURE

The genres of Literature are prose, drama and poetry.

Prose includes all forms of writing or even speaking that is done in such a way that we cannot say they are measured or calculated to read a given number of syllable or feet.  Generally, a prose writer is free to use sentences of various lengths and might not use these literary devices: rhyme, alliteration, assonance much, as evident in poetry.

Features of Prose

• The sentence : Grammatically is defined as “that unit of language which contains a subject, a predicate and a finite verb”.  We have types of sentences, the simple sentence, the complex sentence (one main clause and one or more subordinate clauses) the compound sentence (consisting of two or more main clauses and one or more subordinate clauses.

2) The paragraph : This is a device by which a whole composition is broken up into meaningful and readable segments based on a logical sequence of thought.  The beginning of a new paragraph is often indented to mark it out.

• The use of idioms and proverbs . An idiom is a form of usage or expression peculiar to the language.  It sometimes violates the conventional rule of grammar e.g.:-

(a) She promised to make up for it.  Later that is to provide some form of compensation.

(b)      Make hay while the sun shines.  Proverbs on the other hand, are short but profound sayings used in illustrating one truth or the other e.g. one good turn deserves another.  There is no rose without a thorn.

4) The use of slangs.   A slang is a highly colloquial expression which is rarely used in literary English except in dialogue, prose or drama e.g.

(1)       The man blew his top (i.e. got angry)

(2)       The criminals dodged the coppers (i.e. policemen)

5) Narrative Technique : The technique adopted by a literary artist in telling a story. The narrative technique is invariably part of the author’s literary style.

There are types of narrative techniques namely:-

(a) The use of the omniscient narrator e.g. Tess of the D’urbervilles

(b) The use of the first-person narrator i.e. subjective e.g. Defoe’s Robinson Crusoe

• The use of the epistolary style i.e. epistles or letters such as in Mariama Ba’s So Long a Letter.

Prose can be fiction and non-fiction .  Fiction comes out of the imagination of the author.  It means that which is made to look as if it really happens.  The things that happen in fiction can also happen in real life but the truth is that the one you are reading is not a true-life story.

Some types of fiction are fables, parables like the sower or prodigal son, fairy tales

0………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………about a day old baby that was walking and talking e.g. Things fall apart , Mine Boy and Silas Manner .

Non-fiction is the opposite of fiction .  It is a section of the prose which holds all those events which had occurred at a particular place and to a particular person at a particular time.  Non-fiction can be of three types namely:-

• Autobiography
• Autobiographical fiction

Autobiography is when an author tells the story of his own life e.g. Zambia shall be free by Kaunda.

Biography is when an author writes the story of another person e.g. Steve Biko by Donald Wood.  When an author puts all the events of his life in a book under a different person and name, the book becomes an autobiographical fiction e.g. The Narrow Path by Francis Selormey

Fiction and non-fiction in Creative Literature are together called novels.  It appears today that the word fiction refers to novels and romance only.  Fiction can be of two kinds.  The first one is a novel which shows the readers only things, beings and events that can happen in the real world.  But the opposite happens in romance.  Things and events that happen in a romance are far from what happen in the real world.  The characters have powers that are either too small or too great.

Drama is a penetration of life through artificial means.  It is a type of story that exists mainly in action and performed on the stage by different characters.  The origins of drama are likely to be found in early religious ceremonies and festivals.  This aspect of literature entertains, teaches moral lessons and helps to bring into focus life in action outside our immediate environment.  Drama refers to the performance on stage while play refers to the textbook itself.  So drama will include setting, props, costume, lighting etc., whereas play is restricted to the printed words on the pages of a book.

There are three main types of drama namely:-

(a) Tragedy is a type of drama in which the most important character suffers a fall, he either dies or loses his power.  In a tragic drama, the hero has a lot of good qualities which endears him to the people, but he has also some negative traits or weaknesses which cause his failure and downfall which makes him lose his life or his power e.g. The gods are not to blame by Rotimi.  Macbeth by Shakespeare.

(b) Comedy is the opposite of tragedy.  This is a play where the story and the characters are amusing and which ends happily.  But a mixture of tragedy and Comedy will result in tragi-comedy, a drama where we are happy on one side but sad on the other e.g.  Merchant of Venice, Twelfth Night by William Shakespeare.

(c) Farce is a comedy of extravagant humour.  Here, the characters appear to be foolish in their behaviours and present themselves as being unserious.  Farce is just meant to entertain and make us laugh.

Features of Drama

The protagonist is the character who takes the leading role in a play or novel.  The antagonist is the main opponent of the protagonist against whose interest he is always working.

Dramatis personae is the parade of all the characters involved in a play. Cast is the comprehensive list of actors and actresses playing the different characters in the drama.

The director is the one who directs the speech, movement and actions of the actors and actresses.

A Producer is a person or organization who brings about the performance and also provides the funds for its realization.

A prologue is a formal introduction to a play or drama written in either prose or verse.

An epilogue is the opposite of prologue, coming at the very end of the drama.

The climax of a play is the moment of greatest tension when the conflict attains its peak and is now fully ripe to be resolved.  Resolution is the point immediately after the climax when the conflict is finally resolved either in a comic or tragic manner.  It is a critical moment in the final determination of the play as a comedy or a tragedy.  A less familiar word for resolution is the denouement.

An interlude is a brief performance which serves as an intermission or interval to the main performance.  A flashback is a literary technique by which a previous scene or action can be recalled in a play to shed light on the present action.

Suspense is the state of anxious expectation or uncertainty usually brought about by keeping the reader or audience wondering or guessing the possible trend of action or likely outcome of the conflict.  This arouses and sustains the curiosity of the reader or audience to the very end.

Catharsis is the effect of purgation of emotion which a great tragedy is meant to produce in the reader or audience.  It is a process of cleansing the mind of unwanted emotion.  A tragic flaw is a natural weakness or flaw which invariably leads to his tragic death or serious misfortune, thus inspiring pity and fear in the audience.

A soliloquy is a dramatic device which enables the audience to gain access to the innermost thoughts of a character by having him or her talk to himself or herself when there is no other character with him or her on stage.  By this, the character is made to think aloud.  This should not be confused with an aside which is a much older device intended to serve the same purpose.  In this latter case, however, the speaking character whispers his her thoughts to the audience without being physically alone on stage.

Audition is the process by which actors and actresses are chosen for specific roles in the performance.  This involves the reading of lines from the play to the hearing of the director.  The physical features of the actor or actress are also taken into consideration before the final casting is done.

Poetry is a form of artistic literature in which the writer knowingly expresses his thoughts and feelings in a series of calculated or measured lines.  This conscious measurement gives rise to a movement which we can hear regularly in our ears.  This movement is called rhythm, it marks out poetry.  Poetry is generally written in lines.  A group of these lines is called a stanza.  A group of unmeasured lines in prose is called a paragraph.  In poetry, it is a stanza.

There are different types of poetry namely:-

A sonnet is a lyrical poem which usually has 14 lines.  The fourteen lines stand in two parts or stanzas.  The first eight lines are called octave while the other part, the six lines are called the sestet.  There are sonnets, however, in which the fourteen lines are divided into four stanzas of three-line stanzas which are called quatrains and the last two lines are called couplets.  All sonnets make use of rhyme patterns which occur regularly within the short space and duration of the poem.

Ode :  This is a poem which is written or spoken in the form of an address to somebody or something. E.g. an Ode to the Grecian Urn

Elegy :  An elegy is a poem which sings about or laments a sorrowful event especially death.  A song of sorrow is known as a dirge.

Lyric :  This is a poem that has a musical effect on the listeners.  This includes some poems which sound like a music and appeals largely to the sense of hearing e.g. – ode – elegy   – sonnet and songs.

Narrative :  This is a long poem that tells a story.  You can think of the myth of the Bagre as a narrative poem.

Ballad :   This is an old type of poem which is derived from village festivals.  It usually consists of words which are generally out of current use.  The topics are about village heroes and events of fighting, wrestling or love that happened to a people.  It is usually presented in the form of a song even though it is telling a story.

Epic :  Is a long poem that talks of great or heroic deeds of a people. It may talk about war, the origin of a thing especially rivers, hills, caves, sky etc.  It may narrate the history of a people.

Evaluation:

(a)      Mention or list the features of drama

(b)      List the types of poems that you know

Reading Assignment: Read: (a) Exam Focus Literature in English

(b)      ABC of Literature by Oni D.

FIGURES OF SPEECH

• Types of figures of speech

A figure of speech is a deliberate shift from the normal style of speaking or writing. It is a departure from the literal use of a word or phrase.

Figures of speech can be classified thus :-

• Figures of speech based on resemblance are simile, metaphor, Personification, Apostrophe etc.
• The ones on the point of contrast/difference are Antithesis, Irony, Hyperbole, Pun, Epigram, Innuendo, Euphemism, oxymoron, Climax, Anti-climax etc.
• While those based on association are:  Metonymy, Synecdoche etc.

A simile is a figure of speech in which two things of identical or similar qualities are directly compared by the use of such words.  Like, as, as though and as if e.g.:-

• The woman is as proud as a peacock
• Your love is like the fall of rains
• He is as dirty as a pig

Metaphor is a compressed simile whereby the two similar objects or persons are fully equated with one another thus eliminating the comparative words, ‘like’ and ‘as’ e.g.:

• The woman is a peacock
• He is a pig
• Your love is the fall of rains.

Personification

Personification is a figure of speech in which inanimate things or abstract ideas are given specific human attributes or qualities e.g.:-

• Love is blind
• The night has grown older
• The dark sun appears.

An apostrophe is a figure of speech in which somebody addresses or talks to something that is not alive as though it is physically present and listening to the speaker.  The apostrophe is recognized by the use of the exclamation mark e.g.:-

• Oh! W.A.E.C., why did you treat me like this?
• Oh! Death! Where is thy sting?
• Night! Fold-out thy darkness.

The irony is a figure of speech in which one writes or says the opposite of what one intends to say or write.  It is a figure of speech in which the ordinary meaning of the word is more or less the opposite of what the speaker intends. E.g.:-

• The best way to avoid being punished by the teacher is to disobey him.
• Behold a giant is coming.

Sarcasm is an openly expressed disgust which is calculated to wound the feeling of a person.  It is the opposite of what is meant which is said to make fun of a person or to inflict pain on somebody. E.g.-

• Mr. Anini, you are a righteous man
• A harlot is referred to as a virgin e.g. Sola, the virgin is coming.

Innuendo is a clever way of passing unpleasant comment without insulting or offending the person being addressed e.g.

–    Tobi has ten wives but he is impotent

–   Judas is very honest especially with matters unconnected with money.

Antithesis is a figure of speech in which a word or an idea is placed to contrast with the opposite word or idea in the same statement. E.g.

–    United we stand, divided we fall.

–    Many are called, but few are chosen.

–    To err is human, to forgive is divine.

–    More haste, less speed.

Oxymoron is a figure of speech in which two opposing words are placed together to create a sharp contrast.  It is usually not a full sentence like an Irony, Innuendo, Antithesis and Paradox but it is in most cases, a phrase that contains two or more words. e.g.

–   Painful laughter     –   Bittersweet       –     Silent thunder

A paradox is a figure of speech in which a statement shows a completely untrue, contradictory, incredible, absurd and ridiculous meaning but a closer and more detailed examination would reveal the truth of the statement e.g.-

–    I must be cruel in order to be kind.

–    Water is everywhere but there is no water to drink

–    Attack is the best form of defence.

Hyperbole is an extravagant exaggeration.  It makes something smaller sounds or looks bigger.  E.g.

–    The whole world stood at a standstill because of him.

–    Toyin’s teeth are sharper than a razor.

Litotes or Meiosis

Litotes or Meiosis is the opposite of hyperbole.  It is an understatement whereby a positive statement is put in a negative way e.g.

–    Nne! You are not bad.

–    The man is not mean.

–    It is no laughing matter.

Euphemism is a figure of speech in which a mild indirect and more pleasant term is used in place of a blunt, direct and unpleasant one in order to conceal its real nature.  That is we try not to call a bad thing or a bad situation by its proper name e.g.

–    The patient is mentally unstable.

–    The old man has finally passed away.

–     The girl has been put in a family way.

Epigram is a short sarcastic witty saying.  It contains some proverbial wisdom e.g.

–     He who laughs last laughs best.

–     The more you look, the less you see.

–     He who will save his life must first lose it.

Metonymy is a figure of speech in which one describes an object by something closely associated with it although it is not necessarily a part of it e.g.

–     The guests were invited over to the table.

–     The pen is mightier than the sword.

–     Who among the aspirants will wear the crown?

Synecdoche is a figure of speech in which a part of a person, place or thing is made to stand for the whole or the whole is made to stand for a part e.g.

–     I need more hands to complete the work.

–     The enumerators counted all the heads in our house in the last trial census.

–     The government is asked to encourage the brains of the country.

Alliteration

Alliteration is the repetition of an initial consonant sound on the same line e.g.

–     Friday fried fresh fish on Friday.

–     The exiled man gave the city a last, long lingering look.

Assonance is the repetition of the vowel sounds on the same line e.g.

–     The dog roams with bone in his jaws.

–     Talk loud and laugh aloud.

Pun is a play on words which have a similar sound but different meanings e.g.

–     Sweet lady, let me prey for you.

–     The dead drunkard was laid on his bier.

Onomatopoeia

Onomatopoeia is the formation of words in imitation of the actual sound made e.g.

–     Tick tack says the clock.

–      Cuckoo

Define the following: Alliteration, Sarcasm, Pun and Metonymy

We have come to the end of this class. We do hope you enjoyed the class?

Should you have any further question, feel free to ask in the comment section below and trust us to respond as soon as possible.

In our next class, we will be focusing on English Structure as we learn about Making Requests.  We are very much eager to meet you there.

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Complete JSS3 English Language Lesson notes

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These lesson notes cover the following topics for JSS2 First, Second and Third Term English Language:

Grammar: Revision of parts of speech: Nouns, Pronouns, Verbs and Ajective

Composition: Informal Letter

Literature – in – English: Introduction to Fiction and non fiction

SPEECH WORK: The Schwce sound / /

Grammar: Expressing/describing emotions(Verb+ preposition)

Reading and comprehension: purpose

Literature – in – English: Poetry

SPEECH WORK: Stress and Intonation

Grammar: Adverbs of Frequency

Comprehension: Reading

Composition: Writing a Story

Literature – in – English: Reading of recommended prose text

SPEECH WORK: Consonant /3/ and /d3/

Grammar: Changing positive statement to negative

Reading and comprehension: critical reading:

Literature in English: Introduction to rhyme scheme

SPEECH WORK: consonant sounds/d/,/0/,/z/

Grammar: Modal forms–will,can,could,etc

Reading and comprehension: reading to identify the meanings of words in various contexts

Composition: Revisit the formal and informal letter

Literature – in – English: Use the recommended text on Drama (ii) Theme/setting in the recommended text

SPEECH WORK: Contrasting /3:/ and /c/

Grammar: Adjectives and Adverbs

Reading and comprehension: reading to identify the facts and opinions in a given passage

Composition: Formal Letter

Literature – in – English: use recommended text on Drama, (ii) characterization and plot in the recommended text

SPEECH WORK: The consonant sound // and // (contrastion)

Grammar: Adverbs of place and manner

Reading and comprehension – reading to explain the facts and opinions in a selected passage

Composition: Debate

Literature – in – English: Rhyme scheme

SPEECH WORK: the consonant

Grammar: Idiomatic expression

Reading and comprehension: refer for week 6

Composition: descriptive essay – My favourite Subject

Literature – in – English: Revision

SPEECH WORKS: The consonant sound /w/ and /j/

Grammar: Adverbs of cause and reason

Reading and comprehension: A revision of week 4

Literature – in – English: Revision of the recommended text (ii) Revision on literary terms

EXAMINATION

Second Term

• Revision of last term’s examination. Comprehension/Vocabulary Development- Revision of prefixes, English Structure, Expressing exception using except, except for, but, apart from, without, e.g. (a) we are all students apart from John (b) everyone was present but for my friend. Composition- Narrative essay “My most memorable day”Speech work– consonants /o/ and /t/ e.g. thin,  tin, thick, tick, Literature-In-English-use recommended text.
• Comprehension/Vocabulary development (suffixes – noun derivations: -ness, -ment, -er, ship- action, -ant, -hood,-al e.g. mildness, friendship, inhabitant, etc.), English structure – conjunctions, Composition – report writing– “the school’s Inter- house sports” Speech work – consonant contrast /t/, /s/ e.g. thumb, sum, mouth, mouse, path, pass, etc, Literature-In-English – use recommended text.
• Comprehension/Vocabulary development (suffixes – verb derivations:- -ify, -ize, -en, e.g. popularize, dignify,  lighten)- English structure interjections, Composition – article writing, Speech work – consonant contrast /s/, /z/ e.g.             mission, vision, pressure, pleasure, etc, Literature-In-English – use of recommended text.
• Comprehension/Vocabulary development (suffixes – adjective derivations:- -ful, -ment, -al, -less, -ish, -ive, e.ggrateful, intentional, faithless, childish, attentive)- English structure–question tags, Composition– informal letter e.g. “A letter to a friend” Speech work – Nasal sounds /m/, /n/, /g/ e.g. man, nap, song, Literature-In-English – use of recommended text.
• Comprehension/Vocabulary development (word associated with value of judgment e.g. delicious, unpleasant etc)- English structure – Personal and possessive pronouns, Composition – Formal letter – “A letter of invitation to a programme” Speech work – vowels /i/ and /i:/, Literature-In-English, recommended text.
• Comprehension/Vocabulary Development (Words associated with moral appraisal e.g. callous, generous, faithful etc)- English Structure – reflexive and relative pronouns, Composition – Expository essay “Why students fail examinations” Speech Work – Vowels /a:/ and /z/ e.g. bath, birth, arm, earn, farm, firm etc, Literature-In-English, Use recommended text.
• Comprehension/Vocabulary Development (synonyms – words similar in meaning/context to holy e.g pious, religious, godly, God fearing etc)- English Structure – indefinite and reciprocal pronouns, Composition – Descriptive essay – “My Schools inter-house  sports” Speech Work – Vowels /  /, / :/ and /  / e.g cot, court, come, Literature-In-English – use recommended text.
• Comprehension/Vocabulary Development (Synonyms– words similar in meaning/context to active e.g. Agile, energetic, quick, dynamic etc)- English Structure, Demonstrative Pronouns, Composition, Argumentative essay “Teachers are better than farmers in a society” Speech Work – Vowels /u/, and /u:/ e.g. pull, pool, soup, sue etc. Literature-In-English – use recommended text.
• Comprehension/Vocabulary Development (Synonyms – words similar in meaning/context to callous e.g. unsympathetic, unfeeling etc)- English Structure – active voice e.g. I bought the dog, my parent  bought my books.Composition, Expository writing (story writing), Background/ introduction, Speech Work – Vowels / / e.g. among,  

                        above, about  etc, Literature-In-English – use recommended text.

• Comprehension/Vocabulary Development (Synonyms – words similar in meaning/context to law e.g. rule, regulation, legislation etc)- Structure passive voice e.g. the dog was bought by me, my  books were bought by my parents, Composition expository writing proper (story writing ii) – (choose a relevant topic), Speech Work – revise the diphthongs, Literature-In-English – (use recommended text).

11-12.             Revision and Examination

• Examination (cont’d).

Third Term 

• Speechwork: Revision of Vowel Sounds

                      Grammar: Revision of Parts of Speech

Reading: Writing to Understand the Writer’s Purpose Unit 1, The Hippopotamus Part 1

                        Writing: Writing an Outline for a Narrative

                        Essay – How I spent My Last Holiday

     Literature in English: Figures of Speech: Alliteration, Personification, Irony, Paradox, Hyperbole

• Speechwork: Revision of Consonant Sounds with Emphasis on Consonant Cluster.

Grammar: Transitive and Intransitive Verbs

Reading:  The Hippopotamus part 2 (continuation)

Writing: Descriptive Essay: Writing an Outline on a Place of Interest I visited.

• Speechwork: Vowel Contrast – /iә/ and /eә/.

       Grammar: More on Active Voice and Passive Voice.

Reading: Identification of Words that Pointto the Writer’s Intention: The Process of Growing Rice

                        Vocabulary Development: Word Families – In the Hospital page 93

                        Writing: Elements of Composition

• Speechwork: Vowel Contrast /әu/ and /au/

                        Grammar: More on Tenses (Present, Past, Future)

                        Reading: Critical Reading: Planting page 39-40

                        Vocabulary Development: The Armed Forces

                        Writing: Descriptive Essay – A Local Festival

• Speechwork: Review of Consonant Sounds /t/,/d/,/k/,/g/,/p/,/ b/.

Grammar:  Present    Tense     Aspects

Reading: To Identify the Meanings of Words in Various Contexts: Broadcasting Page 53-54

Vocabulary Development: Religion

Writing: Review of the Format of Formal and Informal Letters

• Speechwork: Contrasting /p/ and /t/

Grammar: Past Tense Aspects

Reading: The Lorry Trip page 79-80

                        Vocabulary Development; Register of Sports.

                        Writing: Narrative Essay: A Frightening Experience

• Speechwork: Consonant Contrast /f/ and /v/

Grammar: Conjunctions

Reading: Okonkwo page 92-93

Vocabulary Development: Journalism

Writing: Informal Letter: A Letter to Your Father on Why You Like Your New School.

Literature: More on Figures of Speech: Onomatopoeia, Personification, Antithesis, Euphemism, Apostrophe, Oxymoron.

• Speechwork: Consonant Contrast: /l/ and /r/

Grammar: Making Requests and Commands page 94

Writing: Descriptive Essay: My Favourite Teacher

• Speechwork: Consonant /h/

Direct and Indirect Speech

Writing: Formal Letter: A Letter of Invitation

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