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Top 100 Factual Essay Topics for 2020

factual essay questions

  • Right to Internet Access: boon or bane?
  • Artificial Intelligence is undermining human value.
  • Cyber Security: WhatsApp Snooping
  • Is Indian Democracy under threat?
  • Make in India- vs Incredible India
  • Advertisement is all glitter but no truth.
  • Cultural diversity hinders democratic governance.

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  • Citizenship Act and its implications
  • Australian Bushfires: Climate Change or Man-made Hazard?
  • Internet censorship
  • Is India a really secular country?
  • Nuclear Energy- The Good, Bad and Ugly
  • ISRO’s space missions - funds of country misused
  • Should India destroy the terrorist camps in Pakistan?
  • Should reservation in higher education be allowed?
  • Should Juvenile offenders be given a death penalty?
  • Facebook - A curse to personal space?
  • What is the impact of reduction in oil prices in the global economy?
  • Right to education: issues & implications
  • How to boost manufacturing sector in India?
  • Moral policing is an obstruction to country's art and culture
  • How should India be protected from global economic crisis?
  • How would you control farmer suicides?
  • What should managers learn from MS Dhoni?
  • Do celebrities have a responsibility towards consuming and believing in the products and causes they endorse?
  • Globalization is helping a lot of third world countries. Does it really help the underprivileged people who actually need it?
  • Is education being diluted by increasing number of seats and decreasing the course load?
  • Suicides in colleges are on an increase. Analyze and give comments regarding this trend. How would you act to counteract this?
  • Our PM has taken the initiative for skill building and vocational training. What steps will you follow to achieve this idea?
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  • Make for India vs Make in India. Give your views.
  • Is the concept of paid news a threat to the integrity and honesty of print media?
  • Reality shows are escapism or entertainment?
  • What are the after effects of making euthanasia legal?
  • Should India have a uniform civil code?
  • What should be the priority of India in the 21st century - employment or entrepreneurship?
  • Is privatization the only way to bring down the real prices in the power & electricity industry?
  • Which is more important: experience or talent of the youth?
  • National heroes are created and destroyed by government. Should we revisit our history?
  • Criminalization and Criminality of Politics
  • Need for exorbitant Traffic Challans ?
  • People in college are eligible for voting, but they don’t register, what should be done?
  • Sexual violence against women has increased. News agencies report high profile cases. Are these genuine or hyped?
  • Demand for new states, is it justifiable?
  • Technology is a double edge sword. It should be managed carefully
  • Knowledge based economy is important to achieve the economic boom of India
  • Dowry system in India is curtailed only in law and not practically
  • Should government give more subsidies to farmers or provide better mechanism for loan?
  • The influence of western companies on Indian culture
  • India lives in villages but the villages don’t seem to live in India
  • Parliamentary democracy is obstructing the growth of India
  • Environmental concerns should take the highest priority in people's minds
  • Lower voter turnout: A blot on democracy?
  • Swachh Bharat Campaign. Success or failure?
  • Harms of increasing trend of social media. Suggest solutions. 
  • People do not verify the validity of information before posting opinions, facts, etc on social media. What problems can this lead to? Suggest steps to improve this situation. Give examples.
  • Mob censorship challenges artistic freedom and rights of creative people. Should a writer be allowed to express his / her views, even if they oppose views of some individuals or groups? Give your views with examples.
  • Why ‘Make in India’ when we can buy cheap material from China?
  • Primary Education v/s Secondary Education- Should the government of India builds more IIMs or should it focus on building primary schools?
  • Political parties should be funded by state and not by industrialists or public donations.
  • Contribution of agriculture in Indian economy
  • Start-up culture: a fad or a game changer?
  • Strategies to improve sports in India.
  • India should move to a Presidential form of Government. 
  • National security is a priority over right to privacy.
  • Ways to control pollution in Delhi.
  • Solar power is the energy source of the future.
  • Is population of India an asset or liability?
  • Impact of social media on Indian society
  • Domestic violence is an outcome of lack of education
  • Outsourcing in India is shifting from services to manufacturing
  • E-Commerce is the face of the new economy
  • Women make better managers than men: comment
  • India and China- Enemies or Friends?
  • How businesses can survive and thrive in the current times
  • Low Agricultural Productivity. Suggest ways to increase productivity?
  • Can India become an economic super power till 2020?
  • Gender sensitivity needs special attention from childhood
  • Online learning is more efficient than traditional learning. Your views?
  • Cricket, Cinema, Culture & Politics: turning points of India
  • According to UN studies, Indian masses have more access to cell phones rather than basic sanitation. Point out reasons and give solutions
  • IPL - has cricket lost its essence
  • Are we heading towards a new era of Indian Politics?
  • Pvt. Health insurance in India “Advantage and Disadvantage”
  • Global Warming: reality or myth
  • Indian Judicial System: from here to where
  • Can online shopping eradicate shopping malls?
  • Challenges faced in implementing e-learning in India
  • Should highly paid employees enjoy protection under labor laws?
  • Is India taking adequate advantage of decreasing oil prices to reduce fiscal deficit?
  • Literary Freedom: What is the limit?
  • Environment - What man is doing to Nature
  • Merits and Demerits of cashless economy.
  • After demonetization what next steps should be taken to clean up the system?
  • With the advent of photography techniques do you think natural zoo's can be replace by virtual zoo's? What are the impacts on zoo's if such thing happens?
  • “Some people consider nuclear weapons as a deterrent to war. While others claim that they’re dangerous and hence of no use”. What is your opinion?
  • Building monuments on the names of great leader is a waste of public money.
  • Corruption and Poverty go hand in hand.
  •  Private sector promotes employability whereas public sector promotes employment.
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10 Factual Essay Topics That Will Help You Score Better

Linda Davis

A factual essay is an informative piece of academic writing that aims at providing facts and solid pieces of evidence on the matter. Based on researched data, the writer develops an original argument. As the text consists mainly of hard facts, it is referred to as a factual essay. However, some scholars regard it as an expository essay .

How to write a factual essay? It is anybody’s guess. The worst nightmare for every new learner or so they say about this assignment. Not every teacher explains to students the main purpose of doing it. But even with a detailed template, it is still quite a challenge. How to choose a proper format, how to develop a helpful plan and what are the main specifications of the writing process? Our professional writers made a complete guide to help you succeed with this written assignment without difficulties.

Table of Contents

How To Write A Factual Essay – A Step-By-Step Guide

Follow these steps and they will lead you to the desired result.

First, don’t be afraid to ask for direct instructions from your teacher. Only with a full set of guidelines provided by the instructor, one can make a proper factual essay format. There might be specific requirements that are not foreseen by standard academic styles of writing. So before you start, make sure that your outline is well-considered and formalized. It is essential to have a strong plan to keep track of your paper development.

Second, explore factual essay topics and determine the one that suits you the best. You will need a sufficient amount of information to work on, so do not risk choosing a non-resourceful subject. Make a quick investigation, and write out topics that have the longest list of facts to work with. Then cut out outdated topics and the ones that seem too difficult to handle. Finally, favor the only matter that seems the most exciting for you.

Third, think of an outline. It has to be your ultimate guide throughout the entire writing process. Refer to you whenever you experience difficulties with something. Do not ignore planning, as it is always beneficial for your essay – one way or another.

Fourth, proceed to write the paper. Explain the purpose of writing in the factual essay introduction , list all the facts gathered in the main part, make conclusions in the summary. Follow your instructions and blueprint sharply.

Finally, do your text a favor and re-examine it. Check it for possible mistakes, logical non-conformities, accidental misprints, etc. Ask someone to read the final copy, just in case you have missed something out.

And done! Not that scary after all, right?

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Factual Essay Introduction – Ways To Start

There are several ways to start your composition. Every writer finds his perfect opening line depending on a situation. Some like to begin with a rhetorical question, some prefer a strong statement. Some like to put their outcomes in front, some explain their expectations toward the research.

Check our free factual essay samples to gain inspiration. Examine different opening lines and think of a good one for you. Be creative and feel free to express your imagination the way you like.

Plus, if you don’t have a clear vision of the introduction, do not spend time racking your brains over it. Leave it for the end. The moment you finish with the body part, an inspiration for an ideal beginning may come all of a sudden and out of nowhere. So, better wait for a muse to appear.

Factual Argument Essay Topics – Get The Perfect Match

Got lost among factual argument essay topics? Here’s your survival guide with trending subjects to develop in an expository essay:

  • What are the cheapest ways to stop the global environmental crisis?
  • What is the best superpower and why?
  • What is the best century of all time?
  • What is the worst disease that has ever existed on a planet?
  • Who is the most dangerous animal on Earth?
  • Should we trust in Darwin’s theory or not?
  • What is the ultimate lifetime duration for a human?
  • What are the positive effects of music therapy?
  • Should we all give up on religion?
  • What are the perks of being lonely?

These topics cover various subject fields and not necessarily have to be used word-for-word. They are listed here for your inspiration. Take them as templates to develop your own idea on factual writing.

For example, you are interested in exploring the worst disease ever. Here is a quick suggestion for a unique factual essay: “Smoking is the worst addiction that causes irreversible consequences within the mankind”.  Continue to develop this thought and you will inevitably come to your perfect topic.

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To answer an essay question (EQ), students must assess the purpose of the essay question: factual recall, analysis (explanation of relationships) synthesis (application/transfer of previously learned principles) opinion

How much information to include, repeat, restate (intro needed? details needed?).

The chart below outlines 4 main types of essay questions, the verbs/cues that indicate the type of essay question and its purpose, and the strategy to be used to answer it.

 è   Restate or summarize from your notes.

  (Main ideas and Major supporting points)

 è explain in detail, based on the
            information in a lecture or reading

 è  è use Cause/Effect; (C/E)
 è use Comparison/Contrast (C/C)

 è transfer the principles or material  
      learned in class to another example or
      situation (synthesis /“think”-question)

 è State your opinion and it with
            examples and/or supporting points by
            referring to information from a lecture
            or reading.

Read the questions very carefully at least 2 or 3 times. Circle  the main verb (= action verb/imperative) in the question and decide on the necessary rhetorical strategy for answering the question (cause-effect, comparison-contrast, definition, classification, problem-solution). Make sure you understand what type of answer the main verb calls for (a diagram a summary, details, an analysis, an evaluation). Circle all the keywords in the question. Decide if you need to write a 1-paragraph or a multi-paragraph answer. Write a brief outline of all the points you want to mention in your answer. Restate the question and answer it with a topic sentence (for a 1-paragraph answer) or a thesis statement (for a multi-paragraph answer).  Answer the question according to general rules of academic writing.  Use indentations; begin each paragraph with a topic sentence; support the topic sentence(s) with reasons and/or examples; use transition words to show logical organization; write a conclusion.  Use correct punctuation throughout. Read over your answer again and check if all the main ideas have been included. Check your answer for grammar and punctuation.

© 2005: Christine Bauer-Ramazani ; last updated: September 02, 2019

           

                             

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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factual essay questions

52 Argumentative Essay Ideas that are Actually Interesting

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

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

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

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

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

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

Convincing Thesis Statement

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

Ample Research

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

Clear Structure

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

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

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

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

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

Art / Culture

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

Where to Get More Argumentative Essay Topic Ideas

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

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Language Comprehension Interventions

  • All Literacy Interventions
  • Activate Prior Knowledge
  • Build Background Knowledge
  • High Frequency and Domain Specific Vocabulary
  • Defining Words in Context
  • Defining Words in Isolation
  • Morphology (Prefixes, Suffixes, Roots)
  • Sentence Length, Structure, and Type
  • Punctuation
  • Asking and Answering Factual Questions

Introduction

How do i break down this skill for students, response to error: answering factual questions, feedback during the lesson, strategies to try after the lesson.

  • Asking and Answering Inferential Questions
  • Asking and Answering Questions Using Mnemonics
  • Summarizing Text
  • Synthesizing Text (Critical Thinking)
  • Narrative Text Structures
  • Informational Text Structures
  • Instructional Scopes and Sequences

Factual, or explicit, questions are answered with information stated directly from the text. Students need to be able to answer factual questions to check that they are understanding basic ideas from the text. This is the foundational skill upon which all other questions are built. Once students are able to answer factual questions, they can then learn how to use textual evidence to make inferences, and to think critically.  This page includes intervention strategies that you can use to support your students' ability to ask and answer factual questions. As you read, consider how you can teach your students the question-asking skills that best align with their strengths and needs in the whole-learner domains.

Explicit Instruction

To support your students' understanding of asking and answering factual questions, you should start by explicitly teaching this concept. This sounds like:

Explain the Skill/Concept.  Define factual questions, and explain the activity.  ( "Factual, or explicit, questions can be answered with information stated directly from the text. It is important to ask and answer factual questions so that we are sure that we understand what we read. It also helps us learn to use text evidence to back up our answers." "Today, we are going to learn how to ask and answer factual questions as we read."   ) Model Skill with Examples.  Think aloud about how you ask and answer factual questions as you read. ( "Watch as I read this line and share my thinking with you: 'Toad ran to Frog's house. (Teacher pauses- Where is Toad running? Oh, to Frog's house.) 'Frog, Frog,' cried Toad, 'taste these cookies that I have made'. (Teacher pauses- What is he bringing to Frog? He's bringing cookies.) " While I was reading, I asked two factual questions. I asked who was running, and I asked what he was bringing to Frog.  Asking and answering factual questions helps me make sure I am keeping track of important parts of the story. Asking these questions also helps me check that I am understanding the text as I go. If I couldn't answer a question, I could go back and reread. ) Model Skill with Non-Examples . Think aloud about how to read without asking and answering factual questions.  ( "If I read that line without asking myself factual questions, I might be confused later on. I might wonder who ran to whose house, and I might wonder why he ran to go get Frog. " ) Practice the Skill.  Engage in teaching students to ask and answer specific questions, providing feedback as necessary. ( "Now you try asking and answering factual questions as you read. " )

Look at the following document to see how you might teach students to ask and answer factual questions in narrative and informational texts:

Factual Questions Resource PDF

Wilson, A. (2016). Asking and answering factual questions. Copyright at Relay GSE. New York, NY:  Relay Graduate School of Education.

Teaching Factual Questions in Action

To learn about how to ask and answer factual questions, start by reading the following excerpt from Frog and Toad Together , by Arnold Lobel.

Frog and Toad PDF

Lobel, A. (1979). Frog and toad together. New York, NY: Harper Collins.

Now, look at the following lesson plan to see an exemplar lesson plan that teaches students how to ask and answer factual questions.

Factual Lesson Plan PDF

Wilson, A. (2016). Factual questions lesson plan. Copyright at Relay GSE. New York, NY:  Relay Graduate School of Education.

Think about the following scenario, which takes place after a teacher has explicitly taught students to ask and answer factual questions and given them multiple opportunities to practice. Refer to the Frog and Toad Together  text above.      Teacher: "Is this a factual question or not: Who baked cookies? If so, tell me the answer."      Student: "Yes, it is. Frog did."

In such a case, what might you do? 

When you are planning your lessons, you should anticipate that your student will make errors throughout. Here are a series of prompts that you can use to respond to errors. Keep in mind that all students are different, and that students might respond better to some types of feedback than others.

Smallest Scaffold Allows student multiple opportunities to practice new skill. You are trying to determine whether the student needs to be retaught the skill or just needs an opportunity to try again.
Medium Scaffold Allows the student to use resources to figure out the answer (including helpful supports such as a visual or a prompt).

Prompt the student to go back and reread a specific section or page.

Highest Scaffold If students aren't understanding how to use one of the strategies you've provided, then go back and explicitly reteach the activity, and practice using the student's text. 

If your student struggles to meet your objective, there are various techniques that you might try to adjust the activity so as best to meet your student's needs. 

Activity Description of Strategy Script
Factual Questions

Have students point to the answers in the text to show that they can use textual evidence to answer them.

 If students aren't able to answer more complex factual questions, then start by asking a question that only requires a student to find a character's name. 

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  • Next: Asking and Answering Inferential Questions >>
  • Last Updated: Jul 30, 2024 10:39 AM
  • URL: https://relay.libguides.com/language-comprehension

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50 Great Argumentative Essay Topics for Any Assignment

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General Education

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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?

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  • 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?

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  • 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?

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How to Argue Effectively

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

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

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

Introduction

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Be Rational

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

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

What’s Next?

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

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

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

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

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Informative Essay Topics to Suit Every Preference

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Hey there! Let's chat about informative essays - they're pretty cool when you think about it.

You know how sometimes you just want to learn about something without someone trying to convince you one way or another? That's where informative essays come in. They're like your friendly neighborhood knowledge-spreader, covering everything from the wild ride of internet history to why meditation might be your new best friend.

Discover the essence of informative writing as our paper writing experts delve into what is an informative essay and unravel the art of selecting a compelling topic.

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A List of Good Informative Essay Topics

The key to a compelling, informative essay lies in selecting the right topic, a choice that significantly influences the quality and engagement of your piece. With numerous options available, the challenge often lies in where to begin. In the following paragraphs, we'll delve into various informational topics to write about, spanning current events, social issues, science, and technology, offering a diverse array of subjects for students. These topics not only provide ample opportunities for research but also cater to different purposes—whether your goal is to educate, persuade, or simply inform. So, let's explore some great informative essay examples , sparking inspiration and setting you on a path for a successful academic writing journey!

Easy Informative Essay Topics

These easy informative essay topics are great starting points for those who want to write a straightforward and informative essay without getting too complicated.

  • The impact of artificial intelligence on daily life
  • How renewable energy sources work
  • The life cycle of plastic in our oceans
  • What causes climate change?
  • Types of electric vehicles and their environmental impact
  • Why do coral reefs bleach?
  • How do lab-grown meats work?
  • The importance of digital privacy
  • Why is sleep crucial for mental health?
  • What causes wildfires and how to prevent them
  • The journey of an e-waste item
  • How do mRNA vaccines work?
  • Why do some animals face extinction?
  • The role of social media in modern society
  • The process of vertical farming
  • What causes ocean acidification?
  • How do wearable health devices work?
  • Why do some stars become black holes?
  • The importance of mental health awareness
  • How do electric car batteries work?

Informative Essay Topics for Middle School Students

The following informative paper topics are tailored specifically for middle school students and cover a wide range of subjects that are both interesting and relevant to their age group.

  • How smartphones work: Inside the device
  • Amazing animal adaptations to climate change
  • Exploring Mars: Recent discoveries and future missions
  • The life cycle of plastic: From production to recycling
  • All about renewable energy: Solar, wind, and beyond
  • Discovering new species: Recent finds in biodiversity
  • The water cycle in a changing climate
  • Volcanoes and earthquakes: Earth's dynamic processes
  • Understanding the human immune system
  • Unraveling the mystery of gene editing
  • The power of artificial intelligence in everyday life
  • The wonders of coral reefs: Ecosystems at risk
  • Incredible inventions: From 3D printing to nanotechnology
  • The importance of pollinator conservation
  • Exploring ancient civilizations through modern technology
  • Ocean pollution: Causes, effects, and solutions
  • Climate phenomena: El Niño, La Niña, and global impacts
  • The magic of modern materials science
  • Famous scientists: Pioneers in STEM fields
  • The importance of digital literacy in the modern world

Informative Essay Topics for High School Students

Here are some great essay topics for high school students. Our college essay writing service recommends conducting thorough research, providing evidence to support your claims, and presenting your findings in a clear and organized manner.

  • The evolution of social media and its impact on society
  • Blockchain technology: Beyond cryptocurrency
  • CRISPR gene editing: Potential and ethical concerns
  • The science of renewable energy storage
  • Mental health in the digital age: Challenges and solutions
  • The future of transportation: Autonomous vehicles and beyond
  • From farm to table: Sustainable food systems
  • Cybersecurity in the age of IoT (Internet of Things)5G technology: Benefits and potential risks
  • Neuroplasticity: How our brains adapt and learn
  • The impact of microplastics on marine ecosystems
  • The evolution of virtual reality: Applications beyond gaming
  • Biomimicry: Nature-inspired technological innovations
  • The science of climate change: Causes and potential solutions
  • Understanding artificial intelligence and machine learning
  • The gig economy: Reshaping work in the 21st century
  • Space exploration: Recent achievements and future missions
  • The science of sleep: Its importance for health and performance
  • Quantum computing: Potential applications and challenges
  • Biodiversity loss: Causes, consequences, and conservation efforts

Informative Essay Topics for College Students

Here are some informative essay topics for college students that span a wide range of subjects that will help you in your academic and professional endeavors.

  • Cryptocurrency and the future of global finance
  • The psychology of misinformation in the digital age
  • Sustainable urban planning for growing populations
  • The ethics of AI in healthcare decision-making
  • Global food security in the face of climate change
  • The impact of social media on political discourse
  • Renewable energy integration into existing power grids
  • The role of gut microbiome in mental health
  • Space law: Regulating the final frontier
  • The future of work: Remote, hybrid, and AI-assisted models
  • Genetic privacy in the era of direct-to-consumer DNA testing
  • Sustainable fashion: Addressing the environmental impact of clothing
  • The psychology of conspiracy theories in the internet age
  • Neurotechnology: Advancements in brain-computer interfaces
  • The impact of streaming services on the film industry
  • Ocean acidification: Causes, effects, and potential solutions
  • The ethics of gene editing in human embryos
  • The role of social entrepreneurship in addressing global issues
  • Cybersecurity in critical infrastructure: Challenges and solutions
  • The impact of automation on the job market and economy

Controversial Informative Essay Topics

  • The debate over universal basic income
  • Ethical considerations of human genetic enhancement
  • The impact of social media on democratic processes
  • The pros and cons of nuclear energy in combating climate change
  • The ethics of AI in criminal justice systems
  • The debate over data privacy vs. national security
  • The controversy surrounding lab-grown meat
  • The impact of cancel culture on free speech
  • The ethics of mandatory vaccinations
  • The debate over regulating Big Tech companies
  • The controversy surrounding geoengineering as a climate solution
  • The ethics of facial recognition technology in public spaces
  • The impact of cryptocurrency on traditional banking systems
  • The debate over the right to be forgotten online
  • The ethics of using AI in warfare and defense
  • The controversy surrounding gene-edited babies
  • The impact of automation on employment and inequality
  • The debate over internet censorship and freedom of information
  • The ethics of animal testing for medical research
  • The controversy surrounding the use of algorithms in hiring processes

Informative Essay Topics About Education

  • The impact of AI and machine learning on personalized learning
  • The effectiveness of project-based learning in STEM education
  • Digital literacy: Preparing students for an interconnected world
  • The role of emotional intelligence in modern curriculum design
  • The impact of remote learning on educational equity
  • Gamification in education: Enhancing engagement and retention
  • The importance of financial literacy in school curricula
  • Addressing mental health in educational institutions
  • The role of arts education in developing critical thinking skills
  • Multicultural education in increasingly diverse classrooms
  • The impact of standardized testing on learning outcomes
  • Integrating sustainability and environmental awareness in education
  • The role of soft skills in preparing students for future careers
  • Addressing the digital divide in global education
  • The impact of social media on student learning and socialization
  • Inclusive education practices for students with diverse needs
  • The role of mindfulness and meditation in educational settings
  • STEAM education: Integrating arts into STEM curricula
  • The impact of school nutrition programs on academic performance
  • Lifelong learning in the age of rapid technological change

Fun Informative Speech Topics

These fun, informative speech topics are designed to engage and entertain audiences while still providing informative and educational content.

  • The science behind viral dance trends
  • Unusual Olympic sports you've never heard of
  • The psychology of meme culture
  • How AI is creating art and music
  • The fascinating world of competitive eating
  • Strange but true animal superpowers
  • The science of laughter: Why we find things funny
  • Bizarre world records and the people who set them
  • The psychology of procrastination and how to beat it
  • Unusual holidays celebrated around the world
  • The science behind optical illusions
  • Weird and wonderful food combinations that actually work
  • The psychology of color in marketing and everyday life
  • Unusual jobs of the future
  • The science of déjà vu
  • Strange sleep habits of famous historical figures
  • The psychology of conspiracy theories
  • Unusual and creative uses for common household items
  • The science behind "earworm" songs
  • Bizarre beauty treatments throughout history

Compare and Contrast Informative Essay Topics

  • Traditional classrooms vs. virtual learning environments
  • Renewable energy sources: Solar power vs. wind power
  • Artificial intelligence vs. human intelligence in problem-solving
  • Plant-based meat alternatives vs. traditional meat production
  • Social media influencers vs. traditional celebrities
  • Cryptocurrency vs. traditional banking systems
  • Remote work vs. office-based work: Productivity and well-being
  • Electric vehicles vs. hydrogen fuel cell vehicles
  • Virtual reality vs. augmented reality in education and training
  • Traditional journalism vs. citizen journalism in the digital age
  • Gene therapy vs. traditional medical treatments
  • 5G networks vs. previous generation networks
  • Vertical farming vs. traditional agriculture
  • Streaming services vs. traditional television broadcasting
  • Digital books vs. print books: Reading experiences and environmental impact
  • Artificial sweeteners vs. natural sugars: Health effects and taste
  • Traditional art forms vs. digital art: Creativity and preservation
  • Fast fashion vs. sustainable fashion: Environmental and social impacts
  • Human translators vs. AI translation tools: Accuracy and nuance
  • Traditional vs. alternative medicine approaches in modern healthcare

Pop Culture Informative Essay Topics

  • The rise of TikTok and its impact on social media trends
  • The evolution of superhero movies in the streaming era
  • The influence of K-pop on global music and fashion
  • The impact of true crime podcasts on public interest in cold cases
  • The role of social media influencers in shaping consumer behavior
  • The resurgence of vinyl records in the digital music age
  • The impact of streaming services on TV show production and consumption
  • The evolution of esports and its recognition as a legitimate sport
  • The influence of drag culture on mainstream entertainment
  • The impact of cancel culture on celebrity behavior and public discourse
  • The rise of virtual influencers and digital avatars in marketing
  • The evolution of fan conventions in the post-pandemic world
  • The impact of streaming on the music industry and artist revenues
  • The influence of reality TV on social norms and expectations
  • The role of social media in modern political movements
  • The impact of binge-watching culture on TV show narratives
  • The evolution of meme culture and its reflection of societal issues
  • The influence of YouTube creators on traditional media
  • The impact of nostalgia marketing on consumer trends
  • The role of virtual concerts and digital performances in the music industry

Creative Informative Speech Topics

These creative essay topics are designed to spark curiosity and interest in unique and unconventional subjects.

  • The hidden language of emojis in digital communication
  • The psychology behind the appeal of tiny homes
  • The art and science of coffee roasting
  • The unexpected benefits of forest bathing
  • The fascinating world of urban foraging
  • The psychology of color in interior design
  • The art of origami in mathematics and engineering
  • The science behind ASMR and its rising popularity
  • The unexpected uses of mushrooms in technology and design
  • The psychology of minimalism and its impact on well-being
  • The art and science of perfume creation
  • The unexpected applications of blockchain beyond cryptocurrency
  • The psychology of comfort foods across cultures
  • The art of creative problem-solving: Design thinking explained
  • The unexpected benefits of learning a musical instrument as an adult
  • The psychology of nostalgia and its influence on consumer behavior
  • The art and science of fermentation in food and beverages
  • The unexpected applications of 3D printing in various industries
  • The psychology of color in branding and marketing
  • The science behind the perfect cup of tea

Extra Ideas for Informative Essay

These unique ideas cover various informative writing topics that can appeal to various interests and tastes.

  • The impact of digital nomadism on local economies
  • The role of vertical forests in urban air quality improvement
  • The psychology of decision-making in the age of information overload
  • The impact of microplastics on human health
  • The role of citizen science in modern research
  • The psychology of conspiracy theories in the digital age
  • The impact of light pollution on wildlife and human health
  • The role of gut bacteria in mental health
  • The psychology of hoarding and minimalism
  • The impact of noise pollution on urban wildlife
  • The role of virtual reality in treating phobias and PTSD
  • The psychology of procrastination and productivity
  • The impact of fast fashion on global water resources
  • The role of biomimicry in sustainable design
  • The psychology of brand loyalty in the digital age
  • The impact of ocean acidification on marine ecosystems
  • The role of green roofs in urban heat island mitigation
  • The psychology of online dating and relationship formation
  • The impact of space debris on future space exploration
  • The role of circadian rhythms in productivity and health

Informative Essay Topics About Animals

  • The impact of climate change on migratory patterns of birds
  • The role of elephants in maintaining forest ecosystems
  • The intelligence of octopuses: Recent discoveries and implications
  • The impact of light pollution on nocturnal animals
  • The social structures of wolf packs in changing environments
  • The role of bees in global food security
  • The impact of ocean noise pollution on marine mammals
  • The adaptations of animals to urban environments
  • The role of keystone species in ecosystem balance
  • The impact of microplastics on marine life
  • The social intelligence of dolphins: Latest research findings
  • The role of animal-assisted therapy in mental health treatment
  • The impact of invasive species on local ecosystems
  • The adaptations of animals to extreme environments
  • The role of zoos in conservation efforts
  • The impact of deforestation on primate populations
  • The intelligence and problem-solving abilities of corvids
  • The role of animal communication in ecosystem health
  • The impact of domestic cats on wildlife populations
  • The adaptations of animals to climate change

Informational Paper Topics about Sports

These informative essay topic ideas cover a broad range of sports-related subjects that can be explored in an informative paper.

  • The impact of data analytics on professional sports strategies
  • The role of mental health support in athlete performance
  • The evolution of e-sports and its recognition as a legitimate sport
  • The impact of climate change on outdoor sports and events
  • The role of technology in improving sports equipment and safety
  • The impact of social media on athlete branding and sponsorships
  • The evolution of sports medicine in injury prevention and recovery
  • The role of diversity and inclusion initiatives in professional sports
  • The impact of streaming services on sports broadcasting
  • The evolution of nutrition science in athletic performance
  • The role of virtual reality in sports training and fan experiences
  • The impact of doping scandals on sports integrity and public trust
  • The evolution of women's sports and gender equality in athletics
  • The role of sports in diplomacy and international relations
  • The impact of COVID-19 on the structure of sports seasons and events
  • The evolution of sports betting in the digital age
  • The role of youth sports in child development and social skills
  • The impact of extreme sports on adventure tourism
  • The evolution of adaptive sports for athletes with disabilities
  • The role of sports psychology in improving athletic performance

Informative Essay Topics About Politics

  • The impact of social media on political campaigns and voter behavior
  • The role of fact-checking organizations in combating misinformation
  • The evolution of digital diplomacy in international relations
  • The impact of climate change on global migration patterns and policies
  • The role of grassroots movements in shaping national politics
  • The impact of AI and big data on election predictions and strategies
  • The evolution of privacy laws in the digital age
  • The role of corporate lobbying in policy-making
  • The impact of term limits on political leadership and governance
  • The evolution of voting systems and electoral reform
  • The role of political satire in shaping public opinion
  • The impact of demographic shifts on political party strategies
  • The evolution of campaign finance laws and their effects
  • The role of think tanks in shaping public policy
  • The impact of populism on traditional political party structures
  • The evolution of environmental policy in the face of climate change
  • The role of youth activism in political discourse
  • The impact of trade policies on global economic relations
  • The evolution of cybersecurity as a national security priority
  • The role of political polling in shaping public opinion and policy

Informative Essay Topics About Stress

  • The impact of chronic stress on the immune system
  • The role of mindfulness practices in stress management
  • The impact of workplace stress on productivity and employee health
  • The role of exercise in reducing stress and improving mental health
  • The impact of financial stress on personal relationships and well-being
  • The role of sleep quality in stress resilience
  • The impact of social media use on stress levels and mental health
  • The role of nature exposure in stress reduction
  • The impact of pandemic-related stress on global mental health
  • The role of nutrition in stress management and mental well-being
  • The impact of academic stress on student performance and health
  • The role of social support systems in stress resilience
  • The impact of chronic stress on cardiovascular health
  • The role of time management techniques in reducing stress
  • The impact of noise pollution on stress levels in urban environments
  • The role of art and creative expression in stress relief
  • The impact of parenting stress on child development
  • The role of cognitive behavioral therapy in managing stress
  • The impact of tech-related stress in the digital age
  • The role of workplace design in reducing occupational stress

What Is an Informative Essay

Informative Essay stands as a unique form of writing with the primary objective of imparting knowledge rather than steering opinions. This genre encapsulates a diverse array of subjects, ranging from the historical trajectory of the Internet to the tangible advantages associated with meditation practices. What distinguishes these essays is their adaptability, accommodating various writing styles such as descriptive, comparative, cause and effect, and even narrative approaches.

Contrary to being exclusive to academia, this type of essay writing offers a pathway for inquisitive minds to expand their knowledge horizons.

Hey there, future info-wizards! Let's chat about these awesome informative essays. They're like the Swiss Army knife of writing - super versatile! You can describe cool stuff, compare things, dive into cause and effect, or even spin a yarn - all while dropping knowledge bombs left and right. It's like being the coolest teacher ever, but with a pen (or keyboard) as your magic wand!

Now, here comes the fun part - research! I know what you're thinking: "Research? Boooring!" But hold up a sec! It's actually like going on a treasure hunt for mind-blowing facts. You're basically an information detective, digging up golden nuggets of knowledge. Before you know it, you're the go-to expert on your topic. How cool is that?

And guess what? These essays aren't just for school - they're for anyone with a curious mind (that's you, right?). It's like having an all-access pass to learn about whatever makes your brain tingle with excitement.

The best part? When you're crafting one of these bad boys, you get to be a fact superhero. Your mission, should you choose to accept it: Deliver the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. No bias, no opinions - just pure, unadulterated info-goodness.

So, ready to pick a topic that'll make your informative essay sparkle like a diamond? Stick around, and we'll explore how to choose something that'll not only hook your readers but also teach them something awesome. Trust me, it's going to be way more fun than binge-watching cat videos (well, almost)!

How to Choose Informative Essay Topics

Choosing the right informative essay topic is essential for crafting an engaging and insightful piece. The topic should be interesting, relevant, and informative. So, what is the first step to creating an informative essay? Here are five tips from our custom essay writing service for selecting a great topic for an informative essay:

Identify your interests and passions ❤️ Start your informative essay journey by tapping into your passions and interests. Consider topics that resonate with you personally, whether it's a hobby, a specific field, or an experience you've encountered. This personal connection not only makes the research process more enjoyable but also enriches your writing with genuine enthusiasm. If you're passionate about environmental sustainability, you might explore ideas for informative essay like the impact of urbanization on local biodiversity, the effectiveness of recycling programs, or innovations in eco-friendly technologies.
Research current events and trends 📰 Stay in the know by researching current events and trends that capture your interest. This approach ensures that your informative essay remains relevant and addresses topics that are both timely and engaging. Dive into topics such as the influence of social media on public discourse, the evolving landscape of remote work, or the ethical considerations surrounding emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
Consider your audience 👥 Tailor your informative essay to your audience by considering their age group, interests, and needs. Think about what would resonate with them and what knowledge they might find valuable or intriguing. If your audience comprises young adults, you might explore topics like the impact of social media on mental health, sustainable lifestyle choices, or the role of technology in shaping future career paths.
Focus on a specific aspect of a broader topic 🔍 Narrow down broad topics to a specific aspect, allowing for a focused and in-depth exploration in your essay. Instead of tackling the broad theme of 'global health,' narrow your focus to the impact of a specific disease on a particular demographic or the effectiveness of a public health intervention in a specific region.
Brainstorm with others 💬 Collaborate with peers, classmates, or colleagues to brainstorm informative essay ideas. Engaging in discussions with others can bring fresh perspectives and novel ideas to the table. Discuss with classmates the potential informational paper topics related to advancements in technology, environmental sustainability, or societal changes. Their insights might lead to unique angles or specific aspects of these broad themes that you hadn't considered.

The Final Thoughts

In conclusion, selecting a topic for an informative essay can be challenging, but choosing a subject that is engaging, informative, and relevant to the target audience is crucial. Whether you are writing for high school, college, or professional audiences, there are endless possibilities for good topics for informative essays. Now that you understand what is the purpose of an informative essay, you must know that the key is to identify a topic you are passionate about, conduct thorough research, and present your findings in a clear and organized manner.

Meanwhile, you can always get top-notch papers from our team of experienced writers. You can even do math homework of any degree of complexity using our paper writing platform!

Looking for a High-quality Informative Essay Paper?

Look no further than our professional writing services

What Are Some Informative Essay Topics?

What are good informative essay topics.

Daniel Parker

Daniel Parker

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

factual essay questions

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

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22 Essay Question Words You Must Understand to Prepare a Well-Structured Essay

(Last updated: 3 June 2024)

Since 2006, Oxbridge Essays has been the UK’s leading paid essay-writing and dissertation service

We have helped 10,000s of undergraduate, Masters and PhD students to maximise their grades in essays, dissertations, model-exam answers, applications and other materials. If you would like a free chat about your project with one of our UK staff, then please just reach out on one of the methods below.

Now, we may be experts in best essay writing , but we’re also the first to admit that tackling essay questions can be, well, a bit of a challenge. Essays first require copious amounts of background reading and research so you can include accurate facts in your writing. You then have to figure out how to present those facts in a convincing and systematic argument. No mean feat.

But the silver lining here is that presenting your argument doesn’t have to be stressful. This goes even if you’re a new student without much experience and ability. To write a coherent and well-structured essay , you just have to really understand the requirements of the question. And to understand the requirements of the question, you need to have a good hold on all the different question words. For example, 'justify', 'examine', and 'discuss', to name a few.

Lacking this understanding is a pitfall many students tumble into. But our guide on essay question words below should keep you firmly above on safe, essay-acing ground.

Definition of Question Words with Examples

No matter their nature, question words are key and must always be adhered to. And yet, many students often overlook them and therefore answer their essay questions incorrectly. You may be a font of all knowledge in your subject area, but if you misinterpret the question words in your essay title, your essay writing could be completely irrelevant and score poorly.

For example, if you are asked to compare the French and British upper houses of parliament, you won’t get many points by simply highlighting the differences between the two parliamentary systems.

So, what should you do? We advise you start by reading this guide – we’ve divided the question words either by ‘critical’ or ‘descriptive’ depending on their nature, which should help you identify the type of response your essay requires.

Critical question words Descriptive question words
Analyse Define
Evaluate Demonstrate
Justify Describe
Critically evaluate Elaborate
Review Explain
Assess Explore
Discuss Identify
Examine Illustrate
To what extent Outline
Summarise
Clarify
Compare
Contrast

factual essay questions

Question Words that Require a Critical Approach

Once you have done this, it’s also important that you critically (more on this word later) examine each part. You need to use important debates and evidence to look in depth at the arguments for and against, as well as how the parts interconnect. What does the evidence suggest? Use it to adopt a stance in your essay, ensuring you don’t simply give a narration on the key debates in the literature. Make your position known and tie this to the literature.

2. Evaluate

It is essential to provide information on both sides of the debate using evidence from a wide range of academic sources. Then you must state your position basing your arguments on the evidence that informed you in arriving at your position.

Also, you may want to consider arguments that are contrary to your position before stating a conclusion to your arguments. This will help present a balanced argument and demonstrate wide knowledge of the literature. Here, a critical approach becomes crucial. You need to explain why other possible arguments are unsatisfactory as well as why your own particular argument is preferable.

4. Critically evaluate

The key to tackling these question words is providing ample evidence to support your claims. Ensure that your analysis is balanced by shedding light on, and presenting a critique of, alternative perspectives. It is also important that you present extensive evidence taken from a varying range of sources.

State your conclusion clearly and state the reasons for this conclusion, drawing on factors and evidence that informed your perspective. Also try to justify your position in order to present a convincing argument to the reader.

Put another way, ‘review’ questions entail offering your opinion on the validity of the essay question. For example, you may be asked to review the literature on electoral reform in Great Britain. You'll need to give an overview of the literature. and any major arguments or issues that arose from it. You then need to comment logically and analytically on this material. What do you agree or disagree with? What have other scholars said about the subject? Are there any views that contrast with yours? What evidence are you using to support your assessment? Don’t forget to state your position clearly.

Review answers should not be purely descriptive; they must demonstrate a high level of analytical skill. The aim is not simply to regurgitate the works of other scholars, but rather to critically analyse these works.

However, when assessing a particular argument or topic, it is important that your thoughts on its significance are made clear. This must be supported by evidence, and secondary sources in the literature are a great start. Essentially, you need to convince the reader about the strength of your argument, using research to back up your assessment of the topic is essential. Highlight any limitations to your argument and remember to mention any counterarguments to your position.

Give a detailed examination of the topic by including knowledge of the various perspectives put forward by other scholars in relation to it. What are your thoughts on the subject based on the general debates in the literature? Remember to clearly state your position based on all the evidence you present.

You should also try to provide some context on why the issues and facts that you have closely examined are important. Have these issues and facts been examined differently by other scholars? If so, make a note of this. How did they differ in their approach and what are the factors that account for these alternative approaches?

‘Examine’ questions are less exploratory and discursive than some other types of question. They focus instead on asking you to critically examine particular pieces of evidence or facts to inform your analysis.

9. To what extent

Such questions require that you display the extent of your knowledge on a given subject and that you also adopt an analytical style in stating your position. This means that you must consider both sides of the argument, by present contrasting pieces of evidence. But ultimately, you must show why a particular set of evidence, or piece of information, is more valid for supporting your answer.

factual essay questions

Question Words that Require a Descriptive Response

It is important that you provide more than one meaning if there are several of them as it shows that you are very familiar with the literature.

2. Demonstrate

Make sure you assert your position with these types of questions. It's even more important that you support your arguments with valid evidence in order to establish a strong case.

3. Describe

‘Describe’ question words focus less on the basic meaning of something, therefore, and more on its particular characteristics. These characteristics should form the building blocks of your answer.

4. Elaborate

In addition, always remember to back any claims with academic research. In explanatory answers it is important that you demonstrate a clear understanding of a research topic or argument. This comes across most convincingly if you present a clear interpretation of the subject or argument to the reader. Keep in mind any ‘what’, ‘how’ and ‘why’ questions as this will help you to structure a clear and logically coherent response. Coherence is extremely important in providing explanatory answers.

A somewhat detached, dispassionate tone can be particularly effective, in contrast to the more assertive, argumentative tone you might adopt for other types of essay question. Just remember that the key objective here is to give a nuanced account of a research topic or argument by examining its composite parts.

7. Identify

8. illustrate, 10. summarise, 11. clarify.

Such questions require you to shed light on a topic or, in some instances, break down a complex subject into simple parts. Coherence is very important for acing such questions, remembering to present your answer in a systematic manner.

12. Compare

Furthermore, you may also want to emphasise any differences, although the focus of your essay should be on establishing similarities.

13. Contrast

factual essay questions

How to Strategically Structure Essay Based on Question Words

Understanding how to structure an essay based on question words is crucial for producing clear, focused, and compelling academic writing. The question words we analised above guide the direction of your response and dictate the type of content required. Recognising the demands of each question word allows you to strategically organise your essay, ensuring that your arguments are relevant and comprehensive. By mastering this approach, you can enhance the clarity and impact of your writing, making your academic work more persuasive and effective.

Here are a few more handy tips to bear in mind when addressing your essay questions:

When you first get your essay question, always try to understand exactly what the question means and what it is asking you to do. Look at the question word(s) and think about their meaning before you launch into planning what to write. Hopefully, our guide has shown you how to do this expertly.

Remember to read the question several times and consider any underlying assumptions behind the question. Highlight the key words and if possible, make a very basic draft outline of your response. This outline does not have to be detailed. But if you follow it as you write, it will help keep your response coherent and systematic.

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Best factual questions examples

best factual questions examples

Home » Questions » Best factual questions examples

As humans, we are naturally curious beings who constantly seek knowledge and information. Factual questions are a great way to satisfy our curiosity and expand our understanding of the world around us. These types of questions are objective and seek to elicit a specific answer based on verified facts and information. In this article, we will explore various factual question examples that can help you enhance your knowledge and engage in meaningful conversations.

Factual questions can cover a wide range of topics, from history and science to geography and current events. They are often used in educational settings, trivia games, and casual conversations to test knowledge and stimulate critical thinking. By asking and answering factual questions, you not only gain knowledge but also strengthen your analytical skills and ability to process information.

Now, let’s delve into some interesting factual question examples that will challenge your intellect and broaden your horizons.

See these factual questions examples:

  • What is the capital city of Australia?
  • Who painted the Mona Lisa?
  • What is the chemical symbol for gold?
  • Which planet is known as the “Red Planet”?
  • Who wrote the famous novel “Pride and Prejudice”?
  • What is the tallest mountain in the world?
  • What is the chemical formula for water?
  • Who discovered penicillin?
  • What is the largest ocean on Earth?
  • Which country is famous for the Taj Mahal?
  • Who was the first person to walk on the moon?
  • What is the largest desert in the world?
  • Which scientist developed the theory of relativity?
  • What is the capital city of Brazil?
  • Who is the author of the Harry Potter book series?
  • What is the chemical symbol for sodium?
  • What is the longest river in the world?
  • Who painted the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel?
  • What is the formula for calculating the area of a circle?
  • What is the largest country in the world by land area?
  • Which element has the atomic number 1?
  • Who invented the telephone?
  • What is the deepest ocean trench called?
  • What is the capital city of Japan?
  • Who wrote the play “Romeo and Juliet”?
  • What is the chemical formula for carbon dioxide?
  • What is the highest waterfall in the world?
  • Who is the author of the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird”?
  • What is the capital city of France?
  • Who is credited with discovering electricity?
  • What is the largest lake in Africa?
  • Which scientist proposed the theory of evolution?
  • What is the chemical symbol for iron?
  • What is the currency of India?
  • Who painted the famous artwork “The Starry Night”?
  • What is the largest island in the world?
  • Which country is known as the “Land of the Rising Sun”?
  • Who is the author of the novel “1984”?
  • What is the capital city of China?
  • Who discovered gravity?
  • What is the highest mountain peak in North America?
  • What is the chemical formula for table salt?
  • What is the official language of Brazil?
  • Who painted the famous artwork “The Last Supper”?
  • What is the largest city in the United States?

These are just a few examples of factual questions that cover various fields of knowledge. Whether you use them for educational purposes or engaging conversations, factual questions are an excellent tool to expand your knowledge and challenge yourself. So, keep asking questions, seeking answers, and never stop learning!

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Essay Writing Guide

Essay Topics

Last updated on: Jun 28, 2024

Essay Topics: 100+ Best Essay Topics for your Guidance

By: Nova A.

13 min read

Reviewed By: Rylee W.

Published on: Jan 29, 2019

Essay Topics

Let’s face it, essay writing can be tedious and boring. Spending hours to write a good essay is difficult, and brainstorming essay topic ideas can be even more confusing.

This is what makes writing essays difficult and time-consuming. Luckily, you can learn  essay writing  with practice and by following some good examples. But before that, you should know how to choose a good and engaging topic for your essay.

To help you get started, we have categorized a list of a number of different types of essay topic lists.

Essay Topics

On this Page

Argumentative Essay Topics

An argumentative essay investigates a topic in great detail, forms an argument over it, and defends it using supporting data.

Below are some good argumentative essay topic ideas to help you draft winning essays.

  • School students should be allowed to curate their high school curriculum.
  • The role of physical education in the school system.
  • Should the death sentence be implemented globally?
  • It should be illegal to use certain types of animals for experiments and other research purposes.
  • Should the government do more to improve accessibility for people with physical disabilities?
  • Do people learn the art of becoming a politician, or are they born with it?
  • Social media platform owners should monitor and block comments containing hateful language.
  • Does technology play a role in making people feel more isolated?
  • Will there ever be a time when there will be no further technological advancements?
  • It should be illegal to produce and sell tobacco.
  • Girls should be motivated to take part in sports.
  • Rape victims should abort their unborn children.
  • Fathers should get equal paternity leave.
  • Do teenagers get into trouble because they are bored?
  • Individuals who have failed at parenting should be punished.
  • Vaping is less harmful than smoking cigarettes.
  • Covid-19 vaccination has more cons than pros.
  • Social media is the real cause of teenage depression.
  • Is the American education system perfect for society?
  • Recycling should be made compulsory.

Choosing a strong topic is key to writing a great essay. Have a look at our blog to select good  argumentative essay topics  to impress the audience.

Persuasive Essay Topics

A persuasive essay is similar to an argumentative paper. However, in it, the writer wants to convince the readers of their point of view. Simple essay topics would make better essays as they help the students stay focused.

Below is a list of some good persuasive essay topics for you:

  • Energy drinks should be banned in schools and colleges.
  • Gambling should be banned in the United States.
  • Should abortions be banned worldwide?
  • Hunting is an immoral act.
  • Is it okay to use animals in a circus?
  • Harmful dogs should be euthanized.
  • Cell phones should not be allowed in schools.
  • Teachers should pass a professional exam, just like students.
  • Schools should reduce the workload on students.
  • Sex education should be mandatory in high schools.
  • Vlogging isn’t an actual profession.
  • Is LinkedIn helpful for finding a job?
  • Social media has played a big role in increasing business opportunities.
  • Is Java becoming obsolete?
  • Should employers go through the candidate’s social media profiles?
  • Animal testing should be banned.
  • Violent video games should be banned.
  • Parents with mental disabilities should not be allowed to adopt children.
  • Alcohol consumption should be legalized in Muslim countries.
  • Every person should get Covid-19 vaccination.

For your help, we have gathered a wide range of  persuasive essay topics . Give it a read.

Descriptive Essay Topics

A descriptive essay describes a specific thing by using sensory data. It is done to engage the reader’s five senses (taste, touch, smell, hearing, sight).

The following is a list of descriptive essay topic ideas for the students.

  • The person who is responsible for making a difference in my life.
  • Describe a smartphone and its benefits to someone from the ‘60s.
  • The most interesting piece of art I have ever seen.
  • Describe the experience of falling in love.
  • What does a place that only exists in your imagination look like?
  • Describe meeting a famous person.
  • Describe yourself and your personality to a stranger.
  • What will life be like in 2050?
  • An experience that changed my life forever.
  • Your idea of the perfect day.
  • My first trip abroad.
  • The most significant event in American History.
  • A popular book series that disappointed you.
  • A look into my daily life.
  • A day in the life of an ER doctor.
  • A trip to the museum.
  • The most interesting movie I watched during my summer vacation.
  • My favorite childhood memory.
  • An incident that changed my life.
  • An incident that restored my faith in humanity.

Here are some more  descriptive essay topics  to help you find a good idea for your essay.

Topic Generator

Discover Captivating Topics in a Click!

Narrative Essay Topics

In a narrative essay, your goal is to share a personal experience by telling a story. This creative form of writing depends on how strong and exciting the theme is. The article topics for students given here are carefully curated and would help the students do good in their essays.

Some examples and topics of narrative topic ideas are presented below.

  • The experience that taught me how looks could be deceiving.
  • A week without internet and technology.
  • The impact your first love had on your life.
  • How much did your teachers contribute to making you the person you are today?
  • An experience that made you realize your parents were or weren’t always right.
  • A moment when someone you didn’t like surprised you with kindness.
  • The influence technology has had on your hobbies and life.
  • An achievement outside of academic life?
  • Which school lesson had the biggest influence on your life?
  • A day when you fought procrastination.
  • The time you faced rejection.
  • The time when you stood against your parents.
  • An experience that left you helpless.
  • The time you prayed to be an only child.
  • An act of kindness you can never forget.
  • Death of a loved one.
  • Your biggest pet peeve.
  • Your definition of a perfect weekend.
  • The things you regret most in life.
  • Your first experience of an air trip.

Choosing interesting  narrative essay topics  is essential to make the content compelling for the readers.

Research Essay Topics

While writing a research essay, the most crucial step is choosing a topic for your essay. Select a topic that is broad enough to compose an entire research essay on it.

Below are some of the best topics for your research essay.

  • Effects of violent cartoons on children.
  • Should universities provide accommodations to disabled students?
  • Events and experiences I agree are causing the increase in terrorism.
  • How do technology and gadgets affect the studies of children?
  • Do children who attend preschool do better in school?
  • Universities are becoming business-driven.
  • Does college debt affect the future lives of students?
  • Why has the divorce rate changed in the past decade?
  • Schools should allow the use of smartphones in school.
  • Effective ways to decrease depression among our youth.
  • Analyze the relationship between the United States of America and North Korea.
  • Why did the UK decide to leave the EU?
  • Is it true that students learn better in a same-sex school?
  • How does giving kids different gadgets affect their studies?
  • Compare the immigration policies of two different countries.
  • Events that lead to World War I.
  • Pros and cons of studying abroad.
  • How has Covid-19 influenced the education system of the world?
  • Individual acts that lead to Global Warming.
  • Effectiveness of the policies made to control Covid-19.

Looking for more? We have an extensive range of  research essay topics  to make the audience fall in love with your work.

Expository Essay Topics

While writing an expository essay, you have to explain and clarify your topic clearly to the readers.

Below is a list of expository essay topics:

  • Why do teenagers commit suicide?
  • What is the impact of music on our youth?
  • What are the consequences of skipping school?
  • Why do teenagers use drugs?
  • How can pets make you happy and improve your life?
  • Consequences of having alcoholic drinks within a school campus.
  • How does drug use affect relationships?
  • Is global warming a cause of skin cancer?
  • Is sodium bad for your health?
  • What is the line between being overweight and being obese?
  • Why do you want to pursue your desired career?
  • Explain how advancements in science improve the quality of life for humans.
  • What are some unconventional ways of relieving stress?
  • If you could swap your lives with someone, who would it be and why?
  • What are some major stress factors in a teenager’s life?
  • Why is getting a degree important for job life?
  • Pros and cons of getting financial aid.
  • How emotional support animals help in treating mental conditions.
  • How does prostitution influence society?
  • The environmental causes of smoking.

5StarEssays.com has gathered an additional and extensive list of  expository essay topics .

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Compare and Contrast Essay Topics

In a compare and contrast essay, you evaluate and analyze the similarities and differences between the two subjects. Your reader must be able to form an opinion after weighing the pros and cons you have set forth.

Below are some topics for you to choose for your compare and contrast paper:

  • Extroverts and introverts.
  • Generation Y Vs. Generation Z.
  • Traditional Helicopters Vs. Lifesize Drones.
  • Unemployed students Vs. students with a part-time job.
  • SAT and TOEFL.
  • Persuasive and argumentative essays - How are they similar?
  • How were the causes of World War I different from the causes of World War II?
  • Education vs. professional career: what is more difficult?
  • Real-life or spending your time daydreaming.
  • Consequences of earthquake and tsunami: what’s worse?
  • Being popular in high school or alone?
  • Part-time work or studying for a higher degree?
  • Getting married at an old age or a young age?
  • Fashion today Vs. twenty years ago.
  • Donald Trump Vs. Hillary Clinton.
  • Democracy Vs. Dictatorship
  • Vietnam War Vs. War on Terror.
  • Benefits of drinking tea Vs. coffee.
  • Greek and Roman methodologies - Similarities and differences.
  • Traditional Vs. distant learning.

Get more interesting  compare and contrast essay topics  at 5StarEssays.com to impress your instructors.

Cause and Effect Essay Topics

The cause and effect essay explains why something happens and what happens as a result of those happenings. A cause and effect essay is a type of expository essay.

Here are a few topics for your cause and effect essay:

  • What are the causes of eating disorders?
  • Effects of climate change and global warming.
  • The effects of the Feminism movement.
  • What are the causes of increasing depression among teenagers?
  • What are the causes of suicidal thoughts?
  • Is keeping a pet effective in calming your mind?
  • How does divorce affects children?
  • Why are men afraid of commitment?
  • Effects of social media on youth.
  • Has social media affected relationships among families?
  • Discuss the effects of homeschooling on children.
  • Causes of heart diseases.
  • Causes of sibling rivalry.
  • Cramming doesn't help improve test scores.
  • Cause and effect of depression in the workplace.
  • How do abusive parents influence the mental stability of a child?
  • Causes and effects of bullying.
  • Causes of obesity in teenagers.
  • Effects of taking a balanced diet on health?
  • Causes and effects of insomnia.

To get more ideas, visit our  cause and effect essay topics  that are remarkable and well-suited for a great essay.

Controversial Argumentative Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics are quite popular assignments in universities. If you are a student searching for a captivating argumentative essay topic, here is a list of ideas you can consider.

  • Third world war should be prevented by the Russian and US governments.
  • Political policies and practices affecting students.
  • Is gun control effective in reducing crime?
  • Same-sex marriage and constitutional law.
  • Is society over-regulated?
  • Are leaders born or made?
  • No one should be above the law.
  • Monarchy: pros and cons.
  • Rules on Political Activities by Federal Employees.
  • The most corrupt countries in the world.
  • Mercy killing should be legalized in all countries of the world.
  • Death penalties should be abolished.
  • Third-world countries should be provided with education plans by the developed countries.
  • Muslims should not be labeled as terrorists.
  • Illegal immigrants should be given equal rights.
  • Abortions should be legalized.
  • Live-in relationships should be encouraged.
  • Professional athletes should be allowed to consume steroids.
  • Should physical punishments be given to children?
  • Smoking in public should be an offensive crime.

Funny Argumentative Essay Topics

Are you looking for some funny argumentative essay topics for your essay? If so, choose a topic from the following list.

  • Why do people like watching funny videos?
  • What your cat is really thinking.
  • Why spam emails should be your favorite type of email.
  • Why wearing braces is fun.
  • School dropouts are the best in our society.
  • Why I don't like country music.
  • Types of dates.
  • A better way to get things done.
  • What organic food really is.
  • Things guys do that girls hate.
  • How to annoy your friend.
  • Why do women pretend that they enjoy sports?
  • Things preventing you from completing your homework in time.
  • Funny things we see in wedding ceremonies.
  • Why are spam emails more interesting?
  • Why does Starbucks coffee taste better?
  • Why are backbenchers smarter than other students?
  • Clowns are scarier than funny.
  • Should we be maintaining social distancing even after Covid-19?
  • Why is watching movies better than reading books?

Informative Essay Topics for Students

Essay writing requires depth. However, you don’t have to choose a complex topic in middle school, high school, or college.

Here is a list of interesting essay topics for middle school, high school, and college students.

Essay Topics for College Students

  • Virtual classes cannot replace the traditional class system.
  • Advantages and disadvantages of online classes.
  • Is there a need to reform the college education system?
  • Assault weapons should not be legal.
  • People with a history of mental illness should not be allowed to purchase firearms.
  • The taxation system needs to be changed around the globe.
  • Kids should not be the target audience in advertising.
  • The number of calories should be mentioned with every meal.
  • Feminists have effectively improved the workforce for women.
  • Is the death penalty effective?
  • How to identify fake news?
  • How to maintain a healthy life?
  • How to treat PTSD naturally?
  • Should people be judged on their appearance?
  • How is technology influencing the work performance of people?
  • Private Vs. public schools
  • How to choose majors in high school?
  • Impact of legalizing drugs on society.
  • Significance of learning social values.
  • How to prevent bullying on campus?

Essay Topics for High School

  • The choice to join the armed forces should be an individual decision.
  • Listening to music can increase work efficiency.
  • Being honest has more cons than pros.
  • People who have been in an accident value life more than others.
  • Embarrassing moments help boost your confidence.
  • Kindness is the most valuable personal trait.
  • Spontaneity can improve your life.
  • Can hobbies help improve the richness of one’s life?
  • Dressing properly in the office improves work efficiency
  • Being organized can help in school as well as the office.
  • Impact of homosexuality on society.
  • What is feminism?
  • How to overcome fears and phobias?
  • Significance of having leadership skills in job life?
  • Causes and treatments for bipolar disorder.
  • Side effects of consuming antidepressants.
  • How important is mental health in succeeding professionally?
  • How do teaching methods influence learning abilities?
  • Should specially-abled people be allowed to work in offices?
  • Discrimination and racism in the US.

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Essay Topics for Middle School

  • Every child should have chores at home.
  • There should not be any summer classes.
  • Should students continue studying during summer vacation?
  • Parents should pay attention to the amount of time their children spend watching television.
  • Favorite family summer vacation.
  • Sports should be mandatory in every school.
  • Processed foods should not be part of private and public school lunch.
  • Do students still use newspapers for research?
  • Every individual should spend a year doing community service.
  • The weekend should be 3 days long.

Still need help choosing an essay topic? 5StarEssays is a professional  essay writing service  that helps you get a high quality essay. We have a team of essay writers who are professionals and can do your essay . 

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Debate Topics

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

Abortion – Should abortion be legal?

Alternative Energy – Can alternative energy effectively replace fossil fuels?

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

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

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

Artificial Intelligence – Is artificial intelligence good for society?

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

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

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

CBD for Pets – Is CBD good for pets?

Cell Phone Radiation – Is cell phone radiation safe?

Cheerleading – Is cheerleading a sport?

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

College Education – Is a college education worth it?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Death Penalty – Should the death penalty be legal?

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

Dress Codes – Should dress codes be implemented and enforced?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Fighting in Hockey – Should fighting be allowed in hockey?

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

Fracking – Should the United States continue fracking

Free College – Should public college be tuition-free?

Fur Clothing Bans – Should fur clothing be banned?

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

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

Golf – Is golf a sport and are golfers athletes?

Gun Control – Should more gun control laws be enacted?

Historic Statue Removal – Should historic statues be taken down?

Homework – Is homework beneficial?

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

Internet – Is the internet “making us stupid?”

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

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

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

Medical Marijuana – Should medical marijuana be legal?

Milk – Should humans consume dairy milk?

Minimum Wage – Should the federal minimum wage be increased?

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

Obesity – Is obesity a disease?

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

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

Penny – Should the penny stay in circulation?

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

Pokémon – Is Pokémon Go good for our society?

Police Body Cameras – Should police officers wear body cameras?

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

Presidential Election, 2024 – 2024 Presidential Election Site

Private Prisons – Should prisons be privatized?

Recreational Marijuana – Should recreational marijuana be legal?

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

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

Sanctuary Cities – Should sanctuary cities receive federal funding?

Santa Claus – Is there really a Santa Claus?

Saturday Halloween – Should Halloween be moved permanently to Saturday?

School Uniforms – Should students have to wear school uniforms?

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

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

Social Security Privatization – Should social security be privatized?

Space Colonization – Should humans colonize space?

Standardized Tests – Do standardized tests improve education in America?

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

TikTok Bans – Should TikTok be banned?

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

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

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

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

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

Vegetarianism – Should people become vegetarian?

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

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

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

Zoos – Should zoos exist?

Archived Topics

Please note that ProCon no longer updates these debates.

ACLU – Is the ACLU good for America?

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

Born Gay – Is sexual orientation determined at birth?

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

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

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

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

Gay Marriage – Should gay marriage be legal?

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

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

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

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

President Bill Clinton – Was Bill Clinton a good president?

President Ronald Reagan – Was Ronald Reagan a good president?

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

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

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

Presidential Election, 2020 – 2020 Presidential Election Site

Prostitution – Should prostitution be legal?

School Vouchers – Should states have school voucher programs?

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

Teacher Tenure – Should teachers get tenure?

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

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

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

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

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

Natalie Leppard Managing Editor [email protected]

© 2023 Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc. All rights reserved

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  • 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
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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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Are you stuck in choosing a research question for your informative essay? You’ve come to the right place. This article seeks to demystify informational writing topics. To help you get started on your essay, we’ve defined informative essay topics, described their characteristics, and even elaborated on the correct way to choose them. In addition, we’ve compiled several lists of informational writing topics on various subjects in various levels of learning. Explore this article to find winning ideas for your informative essay. In case you need further assistance with your informative writing, turn to StudyCrumb to buy essay online . Let us know instructions and have a paper crafted to your needs. 

What Are Informative Essay Topics?

Informative essay is written to inform, explain, or teach a reader about any information.  Informative essay topics are ideas that focus on providing relevant facts, new information, as well as unique perspectives, to readers. They highlight data that may have not been discussed extensively in other sources. These research questions are designed to enlighten your audience about a particular topic in a detailed and elaborate manner, enabling them to make informed decisions.  Additionally, topics for informational writing should be well researched to allow providing accurate information. Usually, informative topics ought to be interesting and engaging to both the writer and the target audience. They may cover ideas related to history, science, current events, health, philosophy, literature, culture, among others.

Characteristics of Good Informative Essay Topics

Good informative essay topics should have the following characteristics:

  • Relevant All good topics for informative essays should cover subjects that interest the readers and provide meaningful insights into relevant issues.
  • Unbiased Outstanding informative writing topics do not take sides on any issue. They present facts and allow the readers to draw their conclusions themselves.
  • Specific Good topics for informative essays should be precise enough to narrow down the focus of your paper but broad enough to still present room for exploration and argumentation. You should provide enough details for the reader to understand the subject matter.
  • Engaging Perfect informative topics to write about should be stimulating for your audience. Ensure that the essay topic captures their attention and makes them want to learn more.
  • Suited to your writing style Make sure that your ideas match your unique writing style so that you can feel comfortable expressing them in an informed and intelligent way.

How to Choose an Informative Essay Topic?

When choosing an informative essay topic, follow the procedure below:

  • Identify your interests Start by brainstorming topics that you are passionate about. Think about your hobbies, desires, history, or current events, and consider a topic related to those interests.
  • Consider your audience It is important to consider who your audience will be when choosing informative essay prompts. Think about your readers' interests and choose a topic that will be informative, interesting, and relevant to them.
  • Research the topic Once you have narrowed down your list of potential ideas, it is important to study them thoroughly. Such investigation can help determine if your topic has enough information to make a good essay.
  • Narrow down the topic Once you have identified several potential informative essays ideas, choose one that is most interesting and relevant to your assignment. Consider the scope of the essay when selecting a topic—it should be neither too broad nor too narrow. Be mindful of how much information you can cover within the paragraph limit assigned to an informative essay.
  • Choose an appropriate tone When selecting a topic, consider the tone of your essay. Some ideas are better suited to a humorous approach, while others may require a more serious and professional tone.

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Best Informative Essay Topics List

When writing lists for topics for informative essays, you should consider interesting and challenging ideas. You should explore different issues, present facts and opinions, and develop a unique perspective. Doing this will enable you to educate your readers about areas that may not be familiar to them. It also allows you to express your views on issues often neglected by society. Such topics range from current events and history to science or technology. Below is a list of informative essay topics to get you started on your essay.

  • The history of the American Civil War.
  • Pros and cons of genetically modified foods.
  • Causes and effects of global warming.
  • Characteristics of successful entrepreneurs.
  • How technology has affected education.
  • The impact of social media on society.
  • Key aspects of self-care.
  • The pros and cons of nuclear energy.
  • Popular myths about the environment.
  • The science behind alternative medicine.

Good Topics for an Informative Essay

What are good informative essay topics? An informative essay idea should be based on factual information and should take a neutral stance on the subject matter. It needs to be educational, thought-provoking, interesting, and accurate. Coming up with top ideas requires researching, brainstorming, and thinking critically. Below is a list of good topics to write an informative essay on.

  • Impact of climate change on the environment.
  • Our solar system.
  • The development of AI technology.
  • How social media influences society.
  • Genetics and its effects on human health.
  • Benefits of exercising regularly.
  • Agriculture and its impact on the environment.
  • The history of the internet.
  • Poverty and hunger in developing nations.
  • Alternative energy sources.
  • Gender equality, its challenges, and solutions.
  • Immigration policy in America.
  • Mental health awareness and treatment
  • Cybersecurity : protecting online privacy.
  • The impact of globalization on world politics.

Easy Informative Essay Topics

Writing an informative paper can be easy if you choose the right idea. Easy topics for an informative essay are uncomplicated to research. With these topics, you can make your essay interesting and engaging while still providing reliable facts and data. These research questions mostly appeal to the younger audience. No matter what ideas you choose for your informative paper, it's important to ensure that the information you give is accurate and understandable. Whether you need easy ideas for an informative essay assignment or want to explore some informational topics to write about, this list will help you find the perfect one!

  • The advantages and disadvantages of online shopping.
  • How air pollution affects human health.
  • A history of space exploration.
  • An overview of the evolutionary process.
  • Different types of natural disasters.
  • Impact of globalization on developing countries.
  • How to save energy at home.
  • The role of education in society.
  • Differences between traditional and modern medicine.
  • The history of the internet and its effects on communication.
  • Causes and effects of climate change.
  • The role of technology in our lives.
  • Benefits and drawbacks of social media.
  • Types of alternative energy sources.

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Interesting Informative Essay Topics

Essay on an interesting informational essay topic should arouse curiosity, provide insights, and provoke original discussions. It should create an opportunity for your audience to learn something new or gain a different perspective on a given area. Some topics that can make for engaging, inspiring, and thought-provoking essays include current events and issues, scientific and technological advances, cultural phenomena, politics, and global challenges. Below are some interesting topics to write an informative essay on:

  • The impact of artificial intelligence on business.
  • How to save money.
  • The impact of the internet on commerce.
  • The role of technology in curing diseases.
  • Benefits and pitfalls of modern technology.
  • The benefits of yoga and meditation.
  • Principles of sustainable development.
  • Causes and effects of gender inequality in the workplace.
  • Human rights issues in developing nations.
  • Domestic animals’ testing practices and their impact on society.
  • How global warming has impacted our environment.
  • Globalization's impact on small businesses.
  • The power of social media and its effect on society.
  • The hidden dangers of social networking sites.

Funny Informative Essay Topics

Funny informative essay topics can be a great way to make your readers laugh, while at the same time giving them useful and interesting information. To create funny informative essay topics, you'll want to come up with ideas that are humorous but also relevant and factual. They can encompass a wide range of subjects, from fairly absurd to more serious ones, guaranteeing a captivating reading experience. By writing on fun informative essay topics, you engage your audience's attention and curiosity while simultaneously educating them on substantial, important information. From the world's most unusual inventions to the science behind why we laugh, there are several funny information topics to write about. Here are humorous tips for you to explore:

  • The weirdest laws around the world.
  • Unusual uses for ordinary objects.
  • The science of pranks and practical jokes.
  • The origin and benefits of laughing.
  • Historical misconceptions.
  • Surprising facts about dreams.
  • The most bizarre inventions of all time.
  • Unconventional uses for superglue.
  • How to fake your death and get away with it.
  • Grandma's cures that worked.
  • Amazing animal abilities you didn't know about.
  • The history of the selfie.
  • How to get out of an awkward conversation.
  • The psychology of losing money.
  • The real history behind fairy tales and fables.

Current Informative Essay Topics

Current informative paper topics provide readers with up-to-date information about a particular issue. Such ideas often focus on new developments in a certain field or delve deeper into existing knowledge. When selecting a current informative paper topic, it’s advisable to choose something interesting and relevant to your field. Below are some potential informative research topics:

  • The increasing automation uses within the workplace.
  • Ways to combat cybercrime.
  • Economic impact on globalization.
  • Effects of social media on mental health .
  • Impact of climate change on agriculture.
  • Technological evolution and its effects.
  • Benefits and drawbacks of online education.
  • Causes and solutions for income inequality.
  • How automation can help ease unemployment issues.
  • Outcomes of political policies on economic growth.
  • Effects of unregulated carbon emissions.
  • Benefits and drawbacks of nuclear power.
  • Impact of global trade on local economies.
  • Different approaches to climate change mitigation.
  • How technology is changing healthcare delivery systems.

Informative Essay Ideas for Students

Informational essay ideas for students represent topics that are timely, relevant, as well as engaging. They should provide insights into subjects or concepts studied in particular educational institutions while also being creative and unique, if possible. When choosing these essay topics, it is important to consider the students’ interests as well as their current knowledge. It is also essential to think about how your research can be supported by proper factual evidence. In this section, we will explore some informative essay topic ideas for students in middle school, high school, different grades, and college:

Informative Essay Topics for Middle School

Writing informative essays provides middle school children with an opportunity to explore various topics and express their ideas. By researching topics and creating well-structured essays, you can refine your critical thinking skills while discovering more about the world around you. When choosing topics for an informative essay for middle school, it's important to select interesting, relevant, and age-appropriate ideas. Here are some middle school informative essay topics that may help you get started:

  • The history of the American civil rights movement.
  • The impact of technology on society.
  • The role of media in our lives.
  • The importance of environmental conservation.
  • How to manage stress and anxiety.
  • The science behind global warming.
  • Effects of bullying on a child's mental health.
  • Mental health awareness and prevention.
  • Different cultures and their customs.
  • Political issues that impact the life and well-being of middle school students.
  • How to stay safe online.
  • How to make healthy food choices.
  • Ways to foster creativity and innovation.
  • Importance of nutrition for physical and mental health.
  • The power of money and how to manage it responsibly.

Informative Essay Topics for 6th Grade

Exploring informational essay ideas enables pupils to gain an in-depth understanding of their subject matter and learn more about topics that are important in today’s world. By researching these ideas, 6th grade students have the opportunity to develop critical thinking skills, make connections between different topics, as well as gain an appreciation for diverse cultures along with their perspectives. Ultimately, these topics can help children become informed citizens and positive contributors to their communities. Here are some topics to write an informative essay on for your elementary level:

  • The industrial revolution.
  • The solar system.
  • Advantages and disadvantages of technology.
  • Causes of climate change.
  • History of ancient civilizations.
  • The water cycle.
  • Role of women in society.
  • Immigration trends and laws.
  • Different types of governments.
  • The revolutionary war.
  • Evolution and natural selection.
  • Causes and effects of air pollution.
  • Oceanic currents and tides.
  • Human rights violations around the world.
  • Causes and impact of bullying.

Informative Essay Topics for 7th Grade

As a 7th grade student, you are expected to come up with informative essay topics for your papers in order to demonstrate your knowledge and creativity. These ideas must be educational, appropriate for your age group, relevant, interesting, and also carefully selected to consider your strengths. They can include current events, matters of personal interests, history, science, mathematics, and more. Here are some topics for informational writing that you could consider:

  • Causes and effects of the Civil War .
  • The role of genetics in human development.
  • Impact of media on society.
  • The process of photosynthesis.
  • Different types of energy.
  • Benefits of volunteering in local communities.
  • Human migration trends.
  • Uses of natural resources.
  • Factors contributing to poverty.
  • The development of the internet.
  • Benefits of recycling for our planet.
  • Different types of rocks and minerals.
  • Ancient religious beliefs around the world.
  • The role of immigration in U.S. history.
  • Globalization and its impact on society.

Informative Essay Topics for 8th Grade

8th grade is an important transition year for students, as they prepare to move on to high school and take on more challenging academic tasks. Studying informative writing topics at this level can provide them with valuable insights into various topics, such as the history of their community, conformity in society, or the effects of technology on everyday life. Here are some informative topics that you can consider writing an essay on as an 8th grader:

  • The history of the United Nations.
  • Causes of global warming.
  • Bullying prevention and intervention strategies.
  • Ancient Greek philosophy.
  • The challenges of living in a multicultural society.
  • Historical events in Europe.
  • Major trade routes around the world.
  • Ethical issues behind animal testing and experimentation.
  • Different types of ecology.
  • Evolution of technology.
  • Different types of government systems.
  • Air pollution causes and effects.

Informative Essay Topics for High School

Studying informative essay topics for high school students can be both challenging and rewarding. It requires you to thoroughly research a chosen idea within this level and present your findings in an informative and organized way. You can learn about different subjects, explore unknown aspects of these topics, and develop new areas for discussion. High school essay topics should be thought-provoking and relate to your school experience. Below are some high school informative essay topics to review:

  • How social media has affected high school education.
  • Strategies for overcoming stress in high school.
  • Pros and cons of taking advanced placement courses.
  • New technologies transforming education.
  • How bullying affects students in high school.
  • Solutions to homelessness.
  • How climate change will affect future generations.
  • Causes of teen pregnancies.
  • How technology is affecting students' mental health.
  • Effects of fast-food consumption.
  • International travel for high school students.
  • Gender roles in society and their effects on personal identity.
  • How social media has contributed to political activism.
  • How to protect the environment by reducing waste.
  • Effects of drug abuse on high school students.

Informative Essay Topics for College

Selecting appropriate informative essay topics for college students is often complex but instructive. College-level essays require a higher degree of research and critical thinking skills to analyze. When exploring these topics, you should utilize your knowledge about the preferred one, explore new fields and ideas, and write your findings in an enlightening and systematic fashion. College essay topics should be engaging enough to encourage you to get creative with your research while remaining factual to showcase your ability to think critically. With dedication and hard work, you can become an expert in writing a compelling essay. Here are some college informative essay topics for you to explore:

  • How genetics determines human behavior.
  • Relationship between education and income inequality.
  • How technology is transforming healthcare.
  • Pros and cons of artificial intelligence.
  • Prevention of overpopulation.
  • The role of the government in combating climate change.
  • Causes of homelessness.
  • How to improve gender equality within the workplace.
  • Strategies for managing time wisely as a college student.
  • Impact of social media on our political choices.
  • Impact of globalization on local cultures.
  • How to deal with student debt responsibly.
  • Effects of mass migration.
  • Impacts of mobile phone addiction.
  • Effects of social stratification.

Informative Writing Topics by Subject

Exploring a topic for an informative essay by subject can range from discussing the latest pedagogical trends to examining the impact of technology in the classroom. In this section, we have classified topics into various categories. We will provide helpful tips for choosing an essay topic that is suitable for your project, along with a list of informative writing ideas to get you started. Below are subsections dedicated to specific subjects such as education, business, religion, culture among others.

Topics for Informative Essays About Education

Exploring informational writing topics about education allows you to research and perform an analysis of various didactic issues. For example, it enables you to understand how technology changes our learning and teaching. You can also explore modern educators' challenges, such as bullying, mental health, as well as drug abuse. Here are some informative essay topics about education:

  • Long-term effects of early childhood education programs.
  • Strategies used to stop bullying in schools.
  • The challenges of homeschooling and its effectiveness.
  • Effective methods of teaching for special needs students.
  • The role of standardized testing in student assessment.
  • Use of technology for promoting student engagement.
  • Impact of educational achievement on mental health.
  • Challenges faced by rural schools.
  • The growing trend towards online learning.
  • How to create an inclusive classroom environment.
Read more: Research Paper Topics on Education

Informative Essay Topics on Social Issues

Social issues can range from poverty and homelessness to education reform or gender inequality. By writing on informative essay topics related to social matters, you can better understand the complexities and nuances of your community. You can also explore solutions required to improve the lives of those around you and challenge yourself to think critically about how you can make a difference. Here are some ideas for an informative essay on social issues:

  • Impact of social injustice on the criminal justice system .
  • How to promote positive values in our society through music.
  • Effects of climate change on vulnerable communities.
  • How to reduce poverty and its associated social issues.
  • Implications of technology on our privacy and freedom of speech.
  • Impact of media on our ideas about gender roles and relationships.
  • Gender inequality in the workplace.
  • Immigration policies and their impacts.
  • Impact of the current immigration policies in the U.S. on communities.
  • How to deal with the stigma around mental health issues.

Business Topic Ideas for an Informative Essay

Business informational writing ideas allow you to examine the ins and outs of the business world. By delving into marketing, finance, strategic planning, product development, and customer service, you can better understand how businesses function and develop. By exploring informative essay topics about business, you are able to analyze the complexities of the corporate environment as well as the potential solutions to help improve organizational operations. Explore the following informative report topics for your business project:

  • The role of marketing in a successful business strategy.
  • Impact of sales on the customer.
  • How to improve employee engagement.
  • Role of technology in the modern business environment.
  • Impact of the global economy on business operations.
  • How to protect intellectual property.
  • Advantages and disadvantages of franchising a business.
  • How businesses use data analytics to make decisions.
  • Impact of sustainability practices on a business’s bottom line.
  • How businesses leverage technology to stay competitive.
View more: Best Business Topics for Students

Informational Essay Topics on Religion

When researching on topics for informational writing on religion, you gain insight into the unique aspects of faith, culture, and spirituality. Religion has shaped societies in numerous ways throughout history. By engaging with topics related to ethics, scripture, traditions, customs and beliefs, we can understand how religion influences our lives. To effectively write an informative essay about religion, you must first research your topic and consider relevant topics such as the history of a particular faith, its scriptures, language, laws, and customs. Additionally, it would help if you thought critically about how religion has influenced different cultures during the past and in the present. Examine the following informative essay topic ideas on religion for your project:

  • The relationship between science and religion in our society today.
  • How faith has influenced our modern society.
  • The pros and cons of interfaith dialogue.
  • The role of religion in ancient civilizations.
  • Similarities between religious faiths .
  • How religion impacts the cultural identity of a people.
  • Different types of religious ceremonies and rituals.
  • The role played by spiritual beliefs in healing and human well-being.
  • Impact of religion on political discourse within a region or country.
  • Impact of proselytizing on religious beliefs.

Informative Essay Topics on Culture

Exploring cultural informative paper topics can cover a broad range of societal aspects. From customs, values, beliefs, and identity to the history and development of different societies, there are various ideas related to people’s heritage that are worth exploring for your essay. When looking for interesting topics to write about, it's important to consider aspects that are relevant and timely. Here are some topics for cultural informative paper to get you started:

  • Role played by language in shaping cultural identity.
  • How traditions shape our identities.
  • Gender roles in different cultures.
  • How societal values influence cultural practices.
  • Migration patterns and their impact on culture.
  • Ethnocentrism and its effects on society.
  • Cultural aspects of food and eating habits.
  • The relationship between art and society.
  • Effects of technology on cultural development.
  • Intercultural communication strategies for effective cross-cultural dialogue.

Racism Informative Essay Topics

Informative topics on racism can help to educate readers on various aspects of this complex issue, from the history and evolution of racism to its impact on society. When researching racial discrimination topics, ensure that your ideas are informational, thought-provoking, and backed up by credible sources. In addition, ascertain that your research questions are current and relevant. Consider the following topics to write about for an informative essay on racism:

  • Effects of racial stereotypes in media.
  • Racial inequality in healthcare.
  • The psychological effects of racism .
  • The relationship between immigration policies and racism.
  • How intersectional identities contribute to experiences of racism.
  • Impact of cultural appropriation on racial representations.
  • Discriminatory policies and their consequences for people of color.
  • Racism in sports and games and its impact on performance.
  • The correlation between poverty and race.
  • The role of language in maintaining racial hierarchies. ​

Informative Essay Topics About Health

Research on informational writing topics about health provides a way to explore various aspects related to physical and mental well-being. These topics can be used to write essays that inform, educate, and enlighten readers on the importance of being healthy. Some of these ideas may include diet and nutrition, physical activity, mental health, illnesses and diseases, healthcare policy, and more. Depending on the angle or emphasis, these ideas can provide a comprehensive overview of health and medicine, or delve into specific details related to certain conditions or treatments. Here are some informative essay ideas about health to help get you started:

  • Impact of stress on mental health.
  • The role of diet in maintaining a healthy body.
  • How exercise affects physical performance.
  • Health social determinants and their impact.
  • Environmental factors’ impact on health.
  • Use of vaccines to control disease outbreaks.
  • Mental health stigmas and their consequences.
  • Genetic disorders and their impact on health.
  • Healthcare accessibility for marginalized communities.
  • The relationship between mental and physical health.

>> Read more: Mental Health Research Topics

Topics for an Informative Essay on Stress

Research on informative paper topics on stress covers a wide range of issues related to physical, psychological, and emotional pressures. These research questions could include the causes of stress, its manifestation on people, strategies for managing it, and potential solutions to reduce its impact. Additionally, an informative essay on stress may explore ways to identify its sources in everyday life and recognize the signs of excessive stress. Below are informational topics to write about in relation to stress:

  • Genetics' role in stress disorders.
  • How to de-stress in under five minutes.
  • Social support networks and their effectiveness in reducing stress.
  • The link between stress, anxiety, and depression .
  • Coping mechanisms for dealing with stress.
  • How stress affects physical health and performance.
  • The relationship between workplace stressors and productivity.
  • Gender impact on experiences of stress.
  • Cultural differences in responses to stress.
  • How neuroscience helps to understand stress.

Informative Essay Topics on Science

Research in informative paper topics on science requires you to examine scientific phenomena and findings in a way that is easy for the average person to understand. These ideas can cover anything from the latest advancements in technology to the basics of physics, chemistry and biology. Here are some scientific information topics to write about in your next project:

  • Physics’ laws and their applications.
  • How advancements in genetics have impacted our society.
  • Important developments in space exploration.
  • Scientific methods for studying human behavior.
  • How the human genome project is transforming medicine.
  • The role of chemistry in everyday life.
  • Social and ethical issues in genetics research.
  • New developments in the field of medical science.
  • Technology's impact on environmental sustainability.
  • Advances in energy sources and their impact.
View more: Science Topics to Write Your Paper On 

Informative Essay Topics on Technology

From the invention of the wheel to artificial intelligence, information essay topics usually entail discussing modern conveniences that have made a profound impact on human history. Undoubtedly, technology has become a vital part of our lives, revolutionizing the way we live, work, communicate, and entertain ourselves. Here are some informational writing ideas to help get you started:

  • How technology is shaping healthcare delivery.
  • How the internet has changed communication.
  • How artificial intelligence affects human society.
  • Big data and its applications in everyday life.
  • Cybersecurity challenges within a connected world.
  • Robotics' role in manufacturing and automation.
  • Impact of the internet on globalization.
  • Emerging technologies and their potential impact.
  • Social media platforms and their influence on society.
  • Biotechnology and its impact on human health.

You might also be interested in other title suggestions for your academic assignments. Browse our Blog to find best ideas for expository essay topics , narrative essay topics , or definition essay topics .  

Bottom Line on Informative Essay Topics

In summary, exploring informative essay concepts can be a great way to educate readers on a wide range of topics. When deciding on informative topics for your essay, it is important to consider what you are passionate about, your audience's interests, and the subject's relevance. You should also ensure that your topic provides new and stimulating information. With a great topic, your essay can be an invaluable source of knowledge for readers. Whether you are writing about history, science, or technology, this article provides a guide on how to come up with good ideas for an informative essay.

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How to Write an Informative Essay

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The Big List of Essay Topics for High School (120+ Ideas!)

Ideas to inspire every young writer!

What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?

High school students generally do a lot of writing, learning to use language clearly, concisely, and persuasively. When it’s time to choose an essay topic, though, it’s easy to come up blank. If that’s the case, check out this huge round-up of essay topics for high school. You’ll find choices for every subject and writing style.

  • Argumentative Essay Topics
  • Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics
  • Compare-Contrast Essay Topics
  • Descriptive Essay Topics
  • Expository and Informative Essay Topics
  • Humorous Essay Topics

Literary Essay Topics

  • Narrative and Personal Essay Topics
  • Personal Essay Topics
  • Persuasive Essay Topics

Research Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics for high school.

When writing an argumentative essay, remember to do the research and lay out the facts clearly. Your goal is not necessarily to persuade someone to agree with you, but to encourage your reader to accept your point of view as valid. Here are some possible argumentative topics to try. ( Here are 100 more compelling argumentative essay topics. )

  • The most important challenge our country is currently facing is … (e.g., immigration, gun control, economy)
  • The government should provide free internet access for every citizen.
  • All drugs should be legalized, regulated, and taxed.
  • Vaping is less harmful than smoking tobacco.
  • The best country in the world is …
  • Parents should be punished for their minor children’s crimes.
  • Should all students have the ability to attend college for free?
  • Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

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  • Schools should require recommended vaccines for all students, with very limited exceptions.
  • Is it acceptable to use animals for experiments and research?
  • Does social media do more harm than good?
  • Capital punishment does/does not deter crime.
  • What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?
  • Do we really learn anything from history, or does it just repeat itself over and over?
  • Are men and women treated equally?

Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics for High School

A cause-and-effect essay is a type of argumentative essay. Your goal is to show how one specific thing directly influences another specific thing. You’ll likely need to do some research to make your point. Here are some ideas for cause-and-effect essays. ( Get a big list of 100 cause-and-effect essay topics here. )

  • Humans are causing accelerated climate change.
  • Fast-food restaurants have made human health worse over the decades.
  • What caused World War II? (Choose any conflict for this one.)
  • Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

  • How does playing sports affect people?
  • What are the effects of loving to read?
  • Being an only/oldest/youngest/middle child makes you …
  • What effect does violence in movies or video games have on kids?
  • Traveling to new places opens people’s minds to new ideas.
  • Racism is caused by …

Compare-Contrast Essay Topics for High School

As the name indicates, in compare-and-contrast essays, writers show the similarities and differences between two things. They combine descriptive writing with analysis, making connections and showing dissimilarities. The following ideas work well for compare-contrast essays. ( Find 80+ compare-contrast essay topics for all ages here. )

  • Public and private schools
  • Capitalism vs. communism
  • Monarchy or democracy
  • Dogs vs. cats as pets

Dogs vs. cats as pets

  • Paper books or e-books
  • Two political candidates in a current race
  • Going to college vs. starting work full-time
  • Working your way through college as you go or taking out student loans
  • iPhone or Android
  • Instagram vs. Twitter (or choose any other two social media platforms)

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School

Bring on the adjectives! Descriptive writing is all about creating a rich picture for the reader. Take readers on a journey to far-off places, help them understand an experience, or introduce them to a new person. Remember: Show, don’t tell. These topics make excellent descriptive essays.

  • Who is the funniest person you know?
  • What is your happiest memory?
  • Tell about the most inspirational person in your life.
  • Write about your favorite place.
  • When you were little, what was your favorite thing to do?
  • Choose a piece of art or music and explain how it makes you feel.
  • What is your earliest memory?

What is your earliest memory?

  • What’s the best/worst vacation you’ve ever taken?
  • Describe your favorite pet.
  • What is the most important item in the world to you?
  • Give a tour of your bedroom (or another favorite room in your home).
  • Describe yourself to someone who has never met you.
  • Lay out your perfect day from start to finish.
  • Explain what it’s like to move to a new town or start a new school.
  • Tell what it would be like to live on the moon.

Expository and Informative Essay Topics for High School

Expository essays set out clear explanations of a particular topic. You might be defining a word or phrase or explaining how something works. Expository or informative essays are based on facts, and while you might explore different points of view, you won’t necessarily say which one is “better” or “right.” Remember: Expository essays educate the reader. Here are some expository and informative essay topics to explore. ( See 70+ expository and informative essay topics here. )

  • What makes a good leader?
  • Explain why a given school subject (math, history, science, etc.) is important for students to learn.
  • What is the “glass ceiling” and how does it affect society?
  • Describe how the internet changed the world.
  • What does it mean to be a good teacher?

What does it mean to be a good teacher?

  • Explain how we could colonize the moon or another planet.
  • Discuss why mental health is just as important as physical health.
  • Describe a healthy lifestyle for a teenager.
  • Choose an American president and explain how their time in office affected the country.
  • What does “financial responsibility” mean?

Humorous Essay Topics for High School

Humorous essays can take on any form, like narrative, persuasive, or expository. You might employ sarcasm or satire, or simply tell a story about a funny person or event. Even though these essay topics are lighthearted, they still take some skill to tackle well. Give these ideas a try.

  • What would happen if cats (or any other animal) ruled the world?
  • What do newborn babies wish their parents knew?
  • Explain the best ways to be annoying on social media.
  • Invent a wacky new sport, explain the rules, and describe a game or match.

Explain why it's important to eat dessert first.

  • Imagine a discussion between two historic figures from very different times, like Cleopatra and Queen Elizabeth I.
  • Retell a familiar story in tweets or other social media posts.
  • Describe present-day Earth from an alien’s point of view.
  • Choose a fictional character and explain why they should be the next president.
  • Describe a day when kids are in charge of everything, at school and at home.

Literary essays analyze a piece of writing, like a book or a play. In high school, students usually write literary essays about the works they study in class. These literary essay topic ideas focus on books students often read in high school, but many of them can be tweaked to fit other works as well.

  • Discuss the portrayal of women in Shakespeare’s Othello .
  • Explore the symbolism used in The Scarlet Letter .
  • Explain the importance of dreams in Of Mice and Men .
  • Compare and contrast the romantic relationships in Pride and Prejudice .

Analyze the role of the witches in Macbeth.

  • Dissect the allegory of Animal Farm and its relation to contemporary events.
  • Interpret the author’s take on society and class structure in The Great Gatsby .
  • Explore the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia.
  • Discuss whether Shakespeare’s portrayal of young love in Romeo and Juliet is accurate.
  • Explain the imagery used in Beowulf .

Narrative and Personal Essay Topics for High School

Think of a narrative essay like telling a story. Use some of the same techniques that you would for a descriptive essay, but be sure you have a beginning, middle, and end. A narrative essay doesn’t necessarily need to be personal, but they often are. Take inspiration from these narrative and personal essay topics.

  • Describe a performance or sporting event you took part in.
  • Explain the process of cooking and eating your favorite meal.
  • Write about meeting your best friend for the first time and how your relationship developed.
  • Tell about learning to ride a bike or drive a car.
  • Describe a time in your life when you’ve been scared.

Write about a time when you or someone you know displayed courage.

  • Share the most embarrassing thing that ever happened to you.
  • Tell about a time when you overcame a big challenge.
  • Tell the story of how you learned an important life lesson.
  • Describe a time when you or someone you know experienced prejudice or oppression.
  • Explain a family tradition, how it developed, and its importance today.
  • What is your favorite holiday? How does your family celebrate it?
  • Retell a familiar story from the point of view of a different character.
  • Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision.
  • Tell about your proudest moment.

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

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 these topics to persuade someone to come around to your point of view. ( Discover 60 more intriguing persuasive essay topics here. )

  • Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?
  • Everyone should be vegetarian or vegan.
  • 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.
  • Who is the world’s best athlete, present or past?
  • Should little kids be allowed to play competitive sports?
  • Are professional athletes/musicians/actors overpaid?
  • The best music genre is …

What is one book that everyone should be required to read?

  • Is democracy the best form of government?
  • Is capitalism the best form of economy?
  • 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?

A research essay is a classic high school assignment. These papers require deep research into primary source documents, with lots of supporting facts and evidence that’s properly cited. Research essays can be in any of the styles shown above. Here are some possible topics, across a variety of subjects.

  • Which country’s style of government is best for the people who live there?
  • Choose a country and analyze its development from founding to present day.
  • Describe the causes and effects of a specific war.
  • Formulate an ideal economic plan for our country.
  • What scientific discovery has had the biggest impact on life today?

Tell the story of the development of artificial intelligence so far, and describe its impacts along the way.

  • Analyze the way mental health is viewed and treated in this country.
  • Explore the ways systemic racism impacts people in all walks of life.
  • Defend the importance of teaching music and the arts in public schools.
  • Choose one animal from the endangered species list, and propose a realistic plan to protect it.

What are some of your favorite essay topics for high school? Come share your prompts on the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out the ultimate guide to student writing contests .

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How To Tackle The Weirdest Supplemental Essay Prompts For This Application Cycle

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Writing the college essay

How do you write a letter to a friend that shows you’re a good candidate for the University of Pennsylvania? What reading list will help the Columbia University admissions committee understand your interdisciplinary interests? How can you convey your desire to attend Yale by inventing a course description for a topic you’re interested in studying?

These are the challenges students must overcome when writing their supplemental essays . Supplemental essays are a critical component of college applications—like the personal statement, they provide students with the opportunity to showcase their authentic voice and perspective beyond the quantitative elements of their applications. However, unlike the personal essay, supplemental essays allow colleges to read students’ responses to targeted prompts and evaluate their candidacy for their specific institution. For this reason, supplemental essay prompts are often abstract, requiring students to get creative, read between the lines, and ditch the traditional essay-writing format when crafting their responses.

While many schools simply want to know “why do you want to attend our school?” others break the mold, inviting students to think outside of the box and answer prompts that are original, head-scratching, or downright weird. This year, the following five colleges pushed students to get creative—if you’re struggling to rise to the challenge, here are some tips for tackling their unique prompts:

University of Chicago

Prompt: We’re all familiar with green-eyed envy or feeling blue, but what about being “caught purple-handed”? Or “tickled orange”? Give an old color-infused expression a new hue and tell us what it represents. – Inspired by Ramsey Bottorff, Class of 2026

What Makes it Unique: No discussion of unique supplemental essay prompts would be complete without mentioning the University of Chicago, a school notorious for its puzzling and original prompts (perhaps the most well-known of these has been the recurring prompt “Find x”). This prompt challenges you to invent a new color-based expression, encouraging both linguistic creativity and a deep dive into the emotional or cultural connotations of color. It’s a prompt that allows you to play with language, think abstractly, and show off your ability to forge connections between concepts that aren’t typically linked—all qualities that likewise demonstrate your preparedness for UChicago’s unique academic environment.

The Backlash Against Blake Lively, Explained

Today’s nyt mini crossword clues and answers for thursday, august 15, it’s ‘over’—leak sparks serious u.s. crypto crackdown fears as the bitcoin price bounces back.

How to Answer it: While it may be easy to get distracted by the open-ended nature of the prompt, remember that both the substance and structure of your response should give some insight into your personality, perspective, and characteristics. With this in mind, begin by considering the emotions, experiences, or ideas that most resonate with you. Then, use your imagination to consider how a specific color could represent that feeling or concept. Remember that the prompt is ultimately an opportunity to showcase your creativity and original way of looking at the world, so your explanation does not need to be unnecessarily deep or complex—if you have a playful personality, convey your playfulness in your response; if you are known for your sarcasm, consider how you can weave in your biting wit; if you are an amateur poet, consider how you might take inspiration from poetry as you write, or offer a response in the form of a poem.

The goal is to take a familiar concept and turn it into something new and meaningful through a creative lens. Use this essay to showcase your ability to think inventively and to draw surprising connections between language and life.

Harvard University

Prompt: Top 3 things your roommates might like to know about you.

What Makes it Unique: This prompt is unique in both form and substance—first, you only have 150 words to write about all 3 things. Consider using a form other than a traditional essay or short answer response, such as a bullet list or short letter. Additionally, note that the things your roommate might like to learn about you do not necessarily overlap with the things you would traditionally share with an admissions committee. The aim of the prompt is to get to know your quirks and foibles—who are you as a person and a friend? What distinguishes you outside of academics and accolades?

How to Answer it: First and foremost, feel free to get creative with your response to this prompt. While you are producing a supplemental essay and thus a professional piece of writing, the prompt invites you to share more personal qualities, and you should aim to demonstrate your unique characteristics in your own voice. Consider things such as: How would your friends describe you? What funny stories do your parents and siblings share that encapsulate your personality? Or, consider what someone might want to know about living with you: do you snore? Do you have a collection of vintage posters? Are you particularly fastidious? While these may seem like trivial things to mention, the true creativity is in how you connect these qualities to deeper truths about yourself—perhaps your sleepwalking is consistent with your reputation for being the first to raise your hand in class or speak up about a cause you’re passionate about. Perhaps your living conditions are a metaphor for how your brain works—though it looks like a mess to everyone else, you have a place for everything and know exactly where to find it. Whatever qualities you choose, embrace the opportunity to think outside of the box and showcase something that admissions officers won’t learn about anywhere else on your application.

University of Pennsylvania

Prompt: Write a short thank-you note to someone you have not yet thanked and would like to acknowledge.

What Makes it Unique: Breaking from the traditional essay format, this supplement invites you to write directly to a third party in the form of a 150-200 word long letter. The challenge in answering this distinct prompt is to remember that your letter should say as much about you, your unique qualities and what you value as it does about the recipient—all while not seeming overly boastful or contrived.

How to Answer it: As you select a recipient, consider the relationships that have been most formative in your high school experience—writing to someone who has played a large part in your story will allow the admissions committee some insight into your development and the meaningful relationships that guided you on your journey. Once you’ve identified the person, craft a thank-you note that is specific and heartfelt—unlike other essays, this prompt invites you to be sentimental and emotional, as long as doing so would authentically convey your feelings of gratitude. Describe the impact they’ve had on you, what you’ve learned from them, and how their influence has shaped your path. For example, if you’re thanking a teacher, don’t just say they helped you become a better student—explain how their encouragement gave you the confidence to pursue your passions. Keep the tone sincere and personal, avoid clichés and focus on the unique role this person has played in your life.

University of Notre Dame

Prompt: What compliment are you most proud of receiving, and why does it mean so much to you?

What Makes it Unique: This prompt is unique in that it invites students to share something about themselves by reflecting on someone else’s words in 50-100 words.

How to Answer it: The key to answering this prompt is to avoid focusing too much on the complement itself and instead focus on your response to receiving it and why it was so important to you. Note that this prompt is not an opportunity to brag about your achievements, but instead to showcase what truly matters to you. Select a compliment that truly speaks to who you are and what you value. It could be related to your character, work ethic, kindness, creativity, or any other quality that you hold in high regard. The compliment doesn’t have to be grand or come from someone with authority—it could be something small but significant that left a lasting impression on you, or it could have particular meaning for you because it came from someone you didn’t expect it to come from. Be brief in setting the stage and explaining the context of the compliment—what is most important is your reflection on its significance and how it shaped your understanding of yourself.

Stanford University

Prompt: List five things that are important to you.

What Makes it Unique: This prompt’s simplicity is what makes it so challenging. Stanford asks for a list, not an essay, which means you have very limited space (50 words) to convey something meaningful about yourself. Additionally, the prompt does not specify what these “things” must be—they could be a physical item, an idea, a concept, or even a pastime. Whatever you choose, these five items should add depth to your identity, values, and priorities.

How to Answer it: Start by brainstorming what matters most to you—these could be values, activities, people, places, or even abstract concepts. The key is to choose items or concepts that, when considered together, provide a comprehensive snapshot of who you are. For example, you might select something tangible and specific such as “an antique telescope gifted by my grandfather” alongside something conceptual such as “the willingness to admit when you’re wrong.” The beauty of this prompt is that it doesn’t require complex sentences or elaborate explanations—just a clear and honest reflection of what you hold dear. Be thoughtful in your selections, and use this prompt to showcase your creativity and core values.

While the supplemental essays should convey something meaningful about you, your values, and your unique qualifications for the university to which you are applying, the best essays are those that are playful, original, and unexpected. By starting early and taking the time to draft and revise their ideas, students can showcase their authentic personalities and distinguish themselves from other applicants through their supplemental essays.

Christopher Rim

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An illustration of a flexible pipe tearing through a blue and beige colored background.

Opinion Guest Essay

Will We Have to Pump the Great Lakes to California to Feed the Nation?

Credit... Alma Haser

Supported by

By Jay Famiglietti

Dr. Famiglietti is a professor at Arizona State University and the director of science for the Arizona Water Innovation Initiative.

  • Aug. 5, 2024

This essay is part of What to Eat on a Burning Planet, a series exploring bold ideas to secure our food supply. Read more about this project in a note from Eliza Barclay, Opinion’s climate editor.

Driving north through California’s Tejon Pass on Interstate 5, you spill down out of the mountains onto a breathtaking expanse of farm fields like few others in the world. Rows of almond, pistachio and citrus trees stretch as far as the eye can see, dotted by fields of grapes. Truckloads of produce zoom by, heading for markets around the country.

The Central Valley of California supplies a quarter of the food on the nation’s dinner tables. But beneath this image of plenty and abundance, a crisis is brewing — an invisible one, under our feet — and it is not limited to California.

Coast to coast, our food producing regions, especially those stretching from the southern Great Plains across the sunny, dry Southwest, rely heavily and sometimes exclusively on groundwater for irrigation. And it’s disappearing — fast.

What happens to the nation’s food production if the groundwater runs out altogether? Unless we act now, we could soon reach a point where water must be piped from the wetter parts of the country, such as the Great Lakes, to drier, sunnier regions where the bulk of the nation’s food is produced. No one wants unsightly pipelines snaking across the country, draining Lake Michigan to feed the citrus groves of the Central Valley. But that future is drawing closer by the day, and at some point, we may look back on this moment and wish we’d acted differently.

For over a century, America’s farmers have overpumped groundwater, and now, as the world warms and the Southwest becomes drier, the situation is only growing more dire. Rivers are slowing to a trickle, water tables are falling, land is sinking, and wells are drying up. Each year, roughly 25,000 more farmers fallow their fields, putting both food and water security in the United States at risk.

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