Persuasive essays are a common assignment in high school, as they aim to develop students’ critical thinking, analytical, and persuasive skills.
These essays require students to present compelling arguments and evidence to sway the audience’s opinion on a particular topic.
Choosing the right topic for a persuasive essay is crucial as it sets the tone for the entire essay. High school students often struggle to find a suitable and interesting topic for their essays.
Therefore, in this article, we will discuss some persuasive essay topics that are relevant and suitable for high school students.
1. Should high schools enforce a dress code?
School dress codes have been a topic of debate for a long time. Some argue that they promote a sense of discipline and prevent distractions, while others believe that they are restrictive and limit students’ freedom of expression.
Writing a persuasive essay on this topic can allow students to express their opinions and present evidence to support their argument.
2. Should high schools have a mandatory community service requirement?
Community service is often seen as a way to give back to the community and instill a sense of responsibility in individuals.
However, many argue that making it mandatory for high school students takes away from the spirit of volunteering and can be seen as a form of forced labor.
This topic can allow students to explore the benefits and drawbacks of mandatory community service and present their stance on the issue.
3. Should standardized tests be the primary measure of academic success?
Standardized testing has been a long-standing practice in the education system, but it has been a topic of controversy in recent years.
While some believe that these tests accurately measure a student’s knowledge and academic progress, others argue that they are not an accurate reflection of a student’s abilities and can lead to high levels of stress and anxiety.
Writing a persuasive essay on this topic can allow students to delve into the complexities of standardized testing and present their arguments for or against it.
4. Should junk food be banned in schools?
With the rise in childhood obesity and other health concerns, many schools have implemented strict rules on serving junk food in their cafeteria.
However, some argue that these restrictions limit students’ choices and are an infringement on their personal rights.
This topic allows students to explore the effects of junk food and present their opinions on whether it should be banned in schools or not.
5. Should high school students have a part-time job?
Having a part-time job while attending high school can have several benefits, such as teaching students time management, responsibility, and financial independence.
However, others argue that it may affect students’ academic performance and can also lead to burnout and exhaustion.
Students can use this topic to delve into the pros and cons of having a part-time job in high school and present their arguments for or against it.
6. Should cellphones be allowed in the classroom?
Cellphones have become an integral part of students’ lives, and many schools have implemented policies to restrict their use in classrooms. Some argue that cellphones can be a distraction and hinder learning, while others believe that they can be a valuable learning tool if used correctly.
This topic allows students to explore both sides of the argument and present their stance on whether cellphones should be allowed in the classroom or not.
7. Should the minimum voting age be lowered to 16?
With the recent increase in political engagement among youth, there has been a growing debate on whether the minimum voting age should be lowered from 18 to 16.
Proponents argue that 16-year-olds are mature enough to make informed decisions, while opponents believe that they may not have the necessary knowledge and understanding to cast an informed vote.
This topic allows students to explore the importance of democratic participation and express their opinion on the voting age.
8. Is online learning a viable alternative to traditional classroom learning?
Due to the pandemic, online learning has become the primary mode of education for many students.
Some argue that it provides flexibility and accessibility, while others believe that it is not as effective as in-person learning.
Students can delve into the benefits and drawbacks of online learning and present their stance on whether it can be a viable alternative to traditional classroom learning in the long term.
9. Should high schools offer classes on personal finance?
Financial literacy is a crucial life skill, but it is not often taught in schools.
Some argue that high schools should offer classes on personal finance to prepare students for real-world scenarios, while others believe that it is the responsibility of parents to educate their children.
This topic allows students to explore the importance of financial literacy and present their stance on whether it should be taught in high school.
10. Should high school students be required to learn a second language?
In an increasingly globalized world, knowing a second language can be a valuable skill.
However, some argue that making it mandatory for high school students may not be effective, as the students may not have a genuine interest in learning the language.
Students can explore the benefits and drawbacks of learning a second language and present their opinion on whether it should be a requirement in high schools.
In conclusion, choosing the right topic for a persuasive essay is crucial for high school students.
It should be relevant, interesting, and debatable, allowing students to express their opinions and present evidence to support their argument.
The above-mentioned topics can serve as a starting point for students to choose a topic that resonates with them and allows them to write a compelling and persuasive essay.