Persuasive essay prompts provide high schoolers with opportunities to articulate a main point (thesis statement) and build supporting arguments. Use these persuasive writing topics for research paper assignments, timed writing practice, or formal discussions with your teen.
When choosing examples for their persuasive papers, high school students should draw from their studies, reading, and personal experience. Remember, this is excellent practice for the SAT!
1. State of Emergency
When natural disasters strike, victims often need immediate emergency relief—including water, food, shelter, and medical services—as well as long-term help rebuilding communities and rebuilding lives. Some say the responsibility to send financial aid lies exclusively with private individuals and charitable organizations, while others believe this is a proper use of tax dollars by the federal government. Develop your opinion with persuasive facts and arguments.
2. All My Brothers and Sisters
International adoptions have become more and more popular in recent years. In light of both glowing reports and horror stories, should we encourage or discourage international adoptions? Take a stance on this issue, and back up your assertions with compelling narratives and facts.
3. Animal, Vegetable, or Mineral?
For centuries, men obtained valuable food sources by raising livestock or hunting in the wild. Today, however, many Americans have chosen vegetarian or vegan lifestyles, proving that our industrialized society provides plenty of alternate food options. Where do you stand on the issue of consuming animal meat? Write an essay to support your point of view.
4. True Education
We’ve all heard the phrase, “Actions speak louder than words.” Is this true when it comes to academic, sports, or music teachers? Develop your thoughts into one key point with persuasive arguments.
If you enjoyed these essay prompts, be sure to check back each week for more Writing Prompt Wednesdays! Once a month, we feature topics especially suited for high schoolers, including:
