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The Big List of Essay Topics for High School (150+ Ideas!)

Ideas to inspire every young writer.

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 roundup 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
• Opinion 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 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.
• 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?
• Schools should require recommended vaccines for all students, with very limited exceptions.
• Animal testing should be banned.
• Does social media do more harm than good?
• Is single-sex education better than co-education?
• Capital punishment does/does not deter crime.
• Are men and women treated equally?
• Should plastic be banned?

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 137 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.
• 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 cartoons, movies, or video games have on kids?
• Traveling to new places opens people’s minds to new ideas.
• Racism is caused by …
• Immigration benefits the United States.

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 125 compare-contrast essay topics for all ages here. )

• Public and private schools
• Capitalism vs. communism
• Monarchy or democracy
• 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. X (or choose any other two social media platforms)
• Gas-powered cars vs. electric cars
• High school vs. college
• Volunteering vs. paid work
• Your teacher vs. your parent/guardian
• Oldest child and youngest child
• Introverts vs. extroverts

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 and why?
• What is your favorite childhood 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’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. ( You can also get 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?
• How has modern technology changed teaching and learning?
• 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?
• What is video game addiction, and how does it affect teens?

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 .
• What is the role of resilience and hope in The Hate U Give ?
• Analyze the exploration of racism and social injustice in Dear Martin .
• 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 .
• Explore the use of satire in The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy .
• What does Death of a Salesman say about the concept of the American dream?
• Explore the effects of trauma on mental health in The Perks of Being a Wallflower .

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. ADVERTISEMENT

• 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.
• What is your biggest fear?
• 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.

Opinion Essay Topics for High School

When writing an opinion essay, you don’t need to rely as much on facts or persuasive techniques. You’re simply sharing your thoughts on a topic, as well as your justifications for your beliefs. You may include evidence if you like, but an opinion essay is more personal than persuasive. These topics work well for opinion essays:

• Is technology too isolating?
• What animal makes the best pet?
• Everyone should be vegetarian or vegan.
• 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 physical education be graded?
• The best country in the world is …
• 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?
• Which is better, book smarts or street smarts?
• Who faces more peer pressure, girls or boys?
• Is it better to be kind or truthful?

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

Persuasive essays are similar to argumentative essays , 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 130 more intriguing persuasive essay topics here. )

• Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?
• Should schools be allowed to ban some books from their libraries?
• 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 parents use their children’s cell phones to track where they are?
• What’s the best way to handle constantly rising college education costs?
• Should little kids be allowed to play competitive sports?
• Are professional athletes/musicians/actors overpaid?
• The best music genre is …
• Should schools have dress codes?
• Is climate change reversible?
• If I could change one school rule, it would be …
• Is year-round school a good idea?
• Selling tobacco should be banned.

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, e.g., “What instigated World War II?”
• 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.
• Explore the impact of income inequality on education in this country.
• Conduct an exploration of healthcare in this country, and make recommendations for improvement.
• Explain the importance of participating in government by voting, running for office, campaigning, etc.
• 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.
• Explain how space exploration has changed our understanding of the universe.
• Explore the effects of sleep deprivation on academic and physical performance.

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

Plus, check out the ultimate guide to student writing contests , you might also like.

100 Thought-Provoking Argumentative Writing Prompts for Kids and Teens

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

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 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?

WeAreTeachers

• 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.
• 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
• 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’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?
• 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.
• 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 Essay Topics

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 .
• 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.
• 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. )

• 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?

Research Essay Topics

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?
• 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 , dig deeper with our longreads, newsletter sign up to get our best longform features, investigations, and thought-provoking essays, in your inbox every sunday..

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50 Engaging Narrative Essay Topics for High Schoolers

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What’s Covered:

Narrative essays vs. analytical essays, how to pick the right narrative essay topic, elements of a strong narrative essay, engaging narrative essay topics for high schoolers, where to get your narrative essay edited for free.

Narrative essays are an extensive form of writing that gives readers the opportunity to follow along as a person goes through a journey or sets of experiences. Rather than providing analytic insight, narrative essays simply share a story and offer a first-person account. These essays may seem easy to write at first, but it takes a certain finesse to write a narrative essay that is interesting, cohesive, and well-researched. Whether you’re looking for a unique topic to write about, or just want some new inspiration, CollegeVine is here to help! These 50 narrative essay topics are engaging, unique and will have you writing in no time.

A narrative essay is a great way to express your personal experiences and opinions, but it is important to remember that this type of essay is different from an analytical paper. In a narrative essay, you do not need to provide background information or explain your thoughts and feelings; instead, you simply tell a story. It’s important to avoid too much telling in your writing; instead, use creative details and vivid imagery to make readers feel as if they are actually right there with you.

Where You Will Encounter Narrative Essays

This type of essay is typically encountered in high school, where students may be required to write personal statements to prepare for their Common App essay . Narrative essays are also commonly seen in AP Language and Composition. Therefore, it’s important you are aware of the style because you are bound to have a narrative essay assignment.  

Of course, before you start writing, it is important to pick the right essay topic. There are many factors involved in the process of picking the perfect narrative essay topic for your story.

You should always choose a topic that you are passionate about, since writing on something you care about will make the process much easier. Not only will it be more interesting to create your paper around something that truly interests you, but it will also allow you to fully express yourself in your essay. You also want to be sure that the topic has enough material to work with. If your chosen topic is too short, you will not have enough content to write a complete paper. For example, if you are writing about your experience getting lost at the mall, make sure that you have enough information to work with to craft an engaging narrative. 

The best topic for an engaging narrative essay is one that focuses on showing versus telling, has a clear structure, and provides a dialogue. These elements come together to form an engaging narrative essay. Regardless of what subject you pick, any topic may be turned into a fascinating, A+ worthy narrative using the tips below.

Show, Don’t Tell

To write a good narrative essay, it’s important to show, not tell. Instead of simply informing your audience, show them what you mean. For example, instead of saying “I was nervous,” you could say “My heart began to race and my stomach filled with butterflies.” Also make sure to use sensory details, such as sights, sounds and tastes, and include a personal reflection at the end of your narrative. 

Begin with a Strong Opening Line

A good narrative essay will begin with an attention-grabbing opening line. But make sure to avoid common clichés, such as “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” Instead, come up with something original and specific to you and your situation. For example: “My pre-calc teacher was obsessed with circles. I mean, he even used circular note cards.” Or, “It all started the day my mom brought home a guinea pig.”

Follows a Three-Act Structure

A strong narrative essay follows the same three-act structure as other essays. But in order to make it interesting, you’ll need to come up with a creative way to break things down into sections. For example, using the guinea pig example from above, you could write the following:

• Act 1 – Introduction: The day my mom brought home a guinea pig.
• Act 2 – Conflict: The day I had to say goodbye to my beloved pet.
• Act 3 – Conclusion: Looking back at how much I miss him now that he’s gone.

Conclude with Personal Reflection

To conclude your narrative essay, you’ll want to explain what this specific experience taught you or how you’ve changed. For example, upon realizing that her pre-calc teacher was obsessed with circles, the writer of the previous example begins to notice circular shapes everywhere. Another way to conclude your narrative essay is by touching on how this experience impacted you emotionally. For example, after losing his guinea pig, the writer explains how much he missed it.

Use Dialogue

Include a conversation in your essay to make it come alive. For example, instead of simply saying that you met a new friend, talk about how you introduced yourselves or what they were wearing when you met them.

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The following list of 50 narrative essay topics is divided into categories. This will make it easier to find a topic that fits your writing style.

1. What is a childhood song that still sticks with you today?

2. Your first day of Kindergarten

3. Talk about a time when you’re siblings looked up to you

4. Describe the best birthday party you’ve ever had

5. Talk about the best day you ever spent with a childhood friend

6. Explain your first childhood hobby

7. Describe your first halloween costume

8. A family vacation gone wrong

9. Your first family reunion

10. Describe a tradition that is unique to your family

11. Describe your family to a person who’s never met them before

12. What frustrates you most about your family

13. If you could only keep one memory of your family, what would it be and why?

14. Describe a time your family embarrassed you in public

15. The most beautiful place in the world

16. Your favorite season and why

17. If you were a part of nature, what element would you be? Why?

18. When you go outside, which of your senses are you most thankful to have?

19. Describe the first time you witnessed a tornado 

20. Write a poem about your favorite season

21. Describe yourself as one of the four seasons

22. Describe a time in which you felt connected with nature

23. Describe the first time you played an instrument and how you felt

24. What major event would be much worse if music was removed, and why?

25. If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

26. What would a life without music look like?

27. If you could master one instrument, what would it be and why?

Relationships

28. What if you had never met your best friend?

29. Describe a time when you fixed a broken relationship

30. Talk about a movie that defined a relationship for you

31. Describe your first date

32. Describe the first time you made a friend

33. Describe your relationship with your parents

Self Reflection

34. Have you ever fooled someone? If so, describe what happened and how you felt about it

35. What is the worst thing you’ve done to someone else?

36. Write about the difference between how things seem and how they really are. 

37. Have you ever been embarrassed in some way? If so, describe the situation and how it affected you as well as those around you

38. Have you ever witnessed something really beautiful? Describe it

39. Is your glass half empty or half full?

Overcoming Adversity 

40. Have you ever been very afraid of something but tried your hardest to appear fearless? If so, describe that experience

41. When have you ever succeeded when you thought you might fail

42. What are your secret survival strategies?

43. Describe the last time you were stressed and why?

44. Describe a time when you were discriminated against

45. The most memorable class you’ve had and why

46. Your favorite study abroad memory

47. Describe your kindergarten classroom

48. Describe your first teacher

49. The first time you experienced detention

50. Your first field trip

Hopefully these topics will get you thinking about a personal experience that could make for a thoughtful and engaging narrative essay. Remember, a strong narrative essay must contain relatable details and a clear flow that keeps the reader entertained and engaged to read all the way to the end.

If you need some additional guidance on your narrative essay, use CollegeVine’s free peer review essay tool to get feedback for free!

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A High School Curriculum Essay Topic List for Busy Students

High school is a whirlwind of weekly challenges, extracurricular activities, and personal growth. It’s even a daily struggle for students to balance assignments, social life, and countless responsibilities. In the midst of this chaos, writing an essay often becomes a protracted homework assignment. Therefore, you need to think about a suitable topic and arguments beforehand.

I will happily share a curated list of essay topics I’ve done for high school students. This is an expanded list of a wide variety of topics that meet the requirements of teachers. By choosing the best topic for your needs, you will make the essay writing process manageable and enjoyable. I love to share my rich experiences and this article is no exception. You can express your gratitude and support by following me on social media, I will be pleased.

So, go ahead! EssayPay essay writing service opens up new opportunities. Choosing the right topic is a chance to get a good grade.

• What Essay Topics Are Suitable for HighSchool Students

High school is a time of self-discovery, exploration, and development, and your essay topics should reflect these important years in your life. Good essay topics for high school students cover a full range – from analyzing classic literature to researching contemporary social issues. You should choose a suitable topic according to your age and teacher’s assignment.

Choosing the right topic encourages a deeper understanding of the subject. It is an opportunity to express your unique point of view and voice. In my selection, there is a topic for even the most curious high school students. Are you a science enthusiast or a history buff? There is something interesting for everyone. It’s time to choose the best one out of 110 highschool essay topics.

• English and Literature

In the realm of English Language and Literature, we find a treasure trove of thought-provoking topics waiting to be explored. From timeless classics to contemporary gems, the power of storytelling and language unfolds in rich narratives, complex characters, and profound themes.

• A Source of Timeless Essay Ideas
• The Symbolism of “The Great Gatsby” (Unraveling Fitzgerald’s Masterpiece)
• The Tragic Hero in Shakespearean Plays (A Comparative Analysis of Macbeth and Hamlet)
• The Role of Women in Jane Austen’s Novels (A Study of Pride and Prejudice)
• The Power of Metaphor in “To Kill a Mockingbird” (Analyzing Harper Lee’s Craft)
• The Theme of Revenge in “The Count of Monte Cristo” (A Journey Through Dumas’ Epic)
• Exploring Modern Themes and Issues
• Social Commentary in “The Handmaid’s Tale” (Examining Atwood’s Dystopian Vision)
• Identity and Belonging in “The Hate U Give” (A Look into Angie Thomas’ Bestseller)
• Climate Change and Speculative Fiction (Analyzing “The Ministry for the Future”)
• Race and Inequality in “Americanah” (Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s Perspective)
• LGBTQ+ Representation in Young Adult Literature (A Study of “Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda”)
• Literary Analysis: Unlocking Hidden Meanings in Texts
• Freudian Analysis of “Lord of the Flies” (The Dark Psychology of William Golding’s Novel)
• The Use of Allegory in George Orwell’s “Animal Farm” (A Political Reading)
• The Role of Nature in the Works of Henry David Thoreau (A Transcendentalist Exploration)
• Postcolonial Themes in Salman Rushdie’s “Midnight’s Children” (An In-Depth Study)
• The Gothic Elements in Edgar Allan Poe’s Poetry (A Haunting Analysis of the Macabre)

Also, check out the guide to writing an analysis paper that will prompt you to dissect the written word. Draft your insights while examining the nuances of language, and ultimately engage with the art of literature.

• History and Social Studies

Here you will travel through time and modern society. Explore critical events, political landscapes, and social change. Within this section, you will find a diverse array of essay topics that will enable you to delve into the past, conquer your apprehensions about the present, and analyze the transformative power of social movements.

• Crafting Essays on the Past
• The Legacy of the American Civil Rights Movement (Reflections on Equality and Justice)
• World War II (Examining the Impact of a Global Conflict on Nations and People)
• The Renaissance and Its Influence on Art, Science, and Culture
• The French Revolution (A Turning Point in History and Its Lasting Effects)
• Ancient Civilizations (Comparative Analysis of Mesopotamia and Egypt)
• Engaging with Current Affairs
• The Role of Social Media in Shaping Political Discourse and Activism
• Climate Change Policy (Analyzing Global Efforts and Challenges)
• The Impact of Immigration Policies on Society and Culture
• Electoral Systems (A Comparative Study of Democracies Around the World)
• The Role of International Organizations in Promoting Peace and Cooperation
• Analyzing the Impact of Change
• The Women’s Suffrage Movement (Examining the Fight for Gender Equality)
• Civil Rights Movements Worldwide (Lessons from Struggles for Justice)
• LGBTQ+ Rights and Activism (Progress and Challenges in the 21st Century)
• Environmental Activism (The Role of Youth in Combating Climate Change)
• Black Lives Matter and Racial Justice (A Critical Analysis of a Modern Movement)

If you’re ready to dive deeper into history and current social issues, see the list of cause and effect essay topics . These will help you confront the historical and contemporary factors that have contributed to profound social change.

• Science and Technology

It is about the limits of human knowledge and innovation. I offer a separate collection of essays on topics that delve into scientific discoveries, new technological trends, and the critical intersection of science and environmental issues.

• Topics in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics
• The CRISPR Revolution (Genetic Engineering’s Impact on Medicine and Agriculture)
• The Periodic Table’s Legacy (A Century of Chemistry Advancements)
• Quantum Mechanics and Its Role in Modern Technology
• The Wonder of Photosynthesis (How Plants Power Our World)
• From Penicillin to Antibiotic Resistance (The Evolution of Medicine)
• Essays on Innovation and its Effects
• Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work (Automation and Ethical Considerations)
• The Internet of Things “IoT” (Transforming Daily Life and Security Concerns)
• Renewable Energy Technology (Advancements in Sustainable Power Sources)
• Cybersecurity Challenges in the Digital Age (Protecting Data and Privacy)
• Space Exploration Technology (The Race to Mars and Beyond)
• Connecting Science to the World
• Climate Change and Global Warming (Causes, Consequences, and Mitigation)
• The Impact of Deforestation on Biodiversity and Climate
• Plastic Pollution in Oceans (A Global Crisis in Need of Solutions)
• Sustainable Agriculture (Feeding the World Without Harming the Planet)
• Clean Energy Initiatives (Transitioning to a Greener Future)

I have a selection of biology research topics for the most inquisitive students. These topics will allow you to immerse yourself in the fascinating world of scientific discovery.

• Arts and Humanities

Wander through the realms of creativity, self-expression, and philosophical inquiry. My next section provides a variety of essay topics as recommendations to help you overcome writer’s block. By choosing one of the topics, you will have the opportunity to interpret visual art, explore the deep connection between music and culture, or delve into the complex world of philosophy and ethics.

• Interpreting Paintings, Sculptures, and Photography
• The Power of Impressionism (A Deep Dive into Monet’s Water Lilies)
• Sculpture as Storytelling (Analyzing Michelangelo’s David)
• The Role of Photography in Social Change (Documenting History Through the Lens)
• Surrealism and the Art of Dreamscapes (Examining Salvador Dalí’s Work)
• Street Art and Graffiti (Urban Expression and Social Commentary)
• Essays on Musical Trends and Influence
• The Influence of Hip-Hop on Contemporary Culture (A Multifaceted Examination)
• Rock ‘n’ Roll’s Impact on Youth Culture (Rebellion, Revolution, and Evolution)
• Classical Music’s Timeless Appeal (The Legacy of Beethoven)
• Music and Identity (How Folk Music Reflects Cultural Diversity)
• Pop Music’s Global Reach (The Evolution of Sound and Style)
• Exploring Life’s Fundamental Questions
• The Problem of Evil (Philosophical Explorations of Suffering and Morality)
• The Ethical Dilemmas of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
• Existentialism and the Search for Meaning (Camus, Sartre, and Nietzsche)
• Bioethics and the Moral Implications of Modern Medicine
• Environmental Ethics (Balancing Human Interests with Nature’s Rights)

By the way, here are additional topics for descriptive essays that foster a deep appreciation for human expression and the exploration of life’s fundamental questions.

• Personal Development and Reflection

I invite you to explore the canvas of your own experiences, aspirations, and personal growth. These high school essay topics will allow you to share your unique story, engage in self-discovery, and imagine your future through the art of writing.

• Personal Experiences: Sharing Short Story Through Essays
• A Turning Point in My Life (Reflecting on a Life-Changing Experience)
• Lessons from Adversity (How Challenges Shaped My Perspective)
• My Cultural Heritage (Celebrating Identity and Family Traditions)
• Travel Adventures (Exploring New Horizons and Embracing Diversity)
• Personal Passions (How My Hobbies Define My Identity and Interests)
• Reflective Essays: Self-Discovery and Growth
• The Journey to Self-Acceptance (Embracing Flaws and Celebrating Strengths)
• The Power of Resilience (How I Overcame Obstacles and Found Inner Strength)
• Personal Growth Through Mentorship (Reflecting on Guiding Influences)
• Changing Perspectives (How Travel and New Experiences Shaped My Worldview)
• The Art of Mindfulness (Exploring the Benefits of Self-Reflection)
• Goals and Aspirations: Crafting Essays About Your Future
• My Vision for the Future (Defining Career and Life Goals)
• Overcoming Challenges on the Path to Success (A Personal Journey)
• The Role of Education in Achieving Long-Term Aspirations
• Environmental Advocacy (My Commitment to a Sustainable Future)
• The Power of Giving Back (How I Plan to Contribute to Society)

These essay topics encourage personal exploration and growth. Learn more about the reflection essay to share your unique experiences and aspirations through the art of writing.

• 10 Additional Essay Topics That Require Strong Argumentation

I understand the needs of high school students quite well, so I have 10 examples of good topics for argumentative essays.

• Should School Uniforms Be Mandatory In All High Schools?
• Is Social Media A Positive or Negative Influence On Teenagers?
• Should Standardized Testing Be The Primary Means of Assessing Students’ Academic Abilities?
• Is The Legal Voting Age (18 Years) Appropriate, or Should It Be Lowered or Raised?
• Are Video Games Contributing to Increased Levels of Violence In Society?
• Should High School Students Be Required to Complete Community Service Hours for Graduation?
• Is the Use of Technology In the Classroom Improving or Hindering Students’ Learning?
• Should the School Day Start Later to Accommodate Teenagers’ Sleep Needs?
• Is the Consumption of Sugary Drinks and Junk Food A Significant Health Concern Among High School Students?
• Should Sex Education Be A Mandatory Part of the High School Curriculum?

Are these ideas not interesting enough? Well, take a look at the more extensive list of argumentative essay topics on the Essaypay blog.

• Fun and Unique Essay Topics for High School

This part of the list is for those who were looking for fun essay topics for high school. By choosing one of these topics, you can write about the fascinating world of pop culture, viral trends on the Internet, exciting adventures, favorite hobbies and passions, and your creative imagination. There are plenty of opportunities to demonstrate your curiosity and creativity.

• Exploring the Impact of Music, Movies, and TV Shows
• The Influence of Music on Youth Culture (Analyzing Lyrics and Trends)
• The Power of Superhero Movies (A Study of the Marvel Cinematic Universe)
• TV Series and Social Change (How “The Crown” Shaped Perceptions of Royalty)
• The Role of Anime in Global Pop Culture (A Comparative Analysis)
• The Impact of Celebrity Endorsements on Brand Marketing
• Analyzing Memes, Viral Videos, and Social Media
• Memes as a Form of Modern Expression (Humor and Cultural Commentary)
• The Psychology of Viral Videos: Why Do Some Clips Capture Our Attention?
• Social Media and Mental Health (The Effects of Online Validation)
• Influencer Culture (The Rise of Internet Celebrities and Their Impact)
• The Art of Online Activism (Mobilizing Change Through Social Media)
• Sharing Your Exciting Experiences Through Essays
• Exploring Natural Wonders (Essays on Visiting National Parks)
• Cultural Immersion (Learning from Traveling and Meeting New People)
• Traveling Solo (Personal Growth and Adventures Beyond Your Comfort Zone)
• The Joys of Road Trips (Stories from the Open Road)
• The Impact of Travel on Understanding Global Perspectives
• Essays on Your Favorite Activities
• From Pencils to Pixels (The Art of Sketching in the Digital Age)
• The Zen of Gardening (Cultivating Green Spaces and Inner Peace)
• The Culinary Adventure (Exploring the World Through Cooking and Food)
• Beyond the Canvas (The Art of Crafting and DIY Projects)
• The Magic of Board Games (Connecting and Competing with Friends and Family)
• Creative Essay Ideas and Fictional Scenarios
• The Art of World-Building (Crafting Your Fantasy Universe)
• Time Travel Adventures (A Journey to the Past or Future)
• Alternate History Scenarios (What If Historical Events Unfolded Differently?)
• The Existence of Parallel Universes (Exploring Multiverse Theories)
• The Unseen World (Crafting Tales of Mythical Creatures and Legends)

If these playful topics are not enough for you, choose an equally good narrative essay topic for your future paper. I hope I have succeeded in encouraging you to explore your interests in order to prepare a creative narrative.

• Tips and Resources for Busy High School Students

Before you start writing, I want to provide some practical tips and valuable resources that will definitely come in handy. This information will be very useful in a busy schedule. You might even want to share it with your classmates.

• Balancing Essays with a Hectic Schedule
• Create a schedule or use a time management app to allocate specific time blocks for essay writing.
• Set realistic goals and break your essay tasks into smaller, manageable steps.

Time management apps: Trello , Todoist, or Google Calendar.

Online time tracking tools: Toggl or RescueTime.

• Navigating the World of Academic Sources
• Use reputable academic databases and libraries for research, such as JSTOR, Google Scholar, or your school’s library resources.
• Learn the basics of citation styles (e.g., APA, MLA) and use citation management tools like Zotero or EndNote.

Purdue OWL (Online Writing Lab) for comprehensive citation style guides.

Citation generators: Citation Machine or InTextCitation.com.

• Strategies to Improve Your Essay Skills
• Practice writing regularly, focusing on different essay types (argumentative, descriptive, narrative, etc.).
• Seek feedback from teachers, peers, or online writing communities to improve your writing.

Grammarly or ProWritingAid for grammar and style checks.

Writing forums and groups like Reddit’s r/Writing or Wattpad for feedback and inspiration.

These tips and resources will help you give your best. I hope you found your killer essay topic. I’m sure you’ll be able to handle all the challenges even in the midst of a busy school schedule. I sincerely wish everyone effective writing a high school essay!

Arlene McCoy has extensive writing, teaching, and mentoring experience. She graduated from the University of Southern California with a master’s degree in applied psychology. Thanks to her experience, teaching expertise, and genuine passion for writing, she consistently develops high-quality course materials that inspire and engage students.

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101 Argument Essay Prompts for High School

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

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

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

Here are 101 Argument Essay Prompts:

Argument essay topics teens love.

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

Argument Essay  Prompts About Technology

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

Argument Essay  Topics about the Environment

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

Argument Essay  Prompts about Entrepreneurship

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

Teaching Argument Essay: Instructional Unit

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

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

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

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

Argument Essay  Topics about Animals

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

Argument Essay  Prompts about Sports

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

Argument Essay Topics about School

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

Argument Essay  Prompts about Teens and Politics

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

Argument Essay  Topics about Vehicles

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

Argument Essay  Prompts about Space and Space Exploration

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

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

Need argument essay instructional materials?

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

Teaching Writing? You Need This Book!

If you are teaching writing this school year, you will want to grab a copy of my writing teaching strategies book, “ Building Strong Writers: Strategies and Scaffolds for Teaching Writing in Secondary ELA .” This book has it all: useful strategies that you can use in your classroom, practical writing applications, and tried and true advice for teaching writing!

This will be your new favorite PD book!

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How to Generate Strong Essay Topics, With 30 Topic Examples

Whether you’re writing an analytical essay, a reflective essay, or a compare-and-contrast essay, you are generally focused on one central theme. An essay topic is the subject—it’s what an essay is about. Essay topics can be broad or narrow, simple or complex—every essay has a topic. Determining your topic is generally the first step in writing an essay.

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What is an essay topic?

Essay topics are the broad subjects essays discuss. The purpose of an essay topic is to shape your essay. By defining your essay topic, you determine what you’ll explore in your writing, how you will investigate the topic, the elements you’ll cover (and which you’ll leave out), and the sources you will use to support your thesis statement.

For example, you might write an argumentative essay in support of requiring all students at your university to take a media literacy course during their first year . This potential new requirement would be your essay topic.

Sometimes, your instructor will assign an essay topic. When this is the case, you can jump right to thinking up ways of exploring that topic and developing your thesis statement. Other times, you will need to determine your own essay topic—and your instructor might or might not provide guidance in choosing the topic. When you’re on your own with determining ideas for an essay topic, there are a few different strategies you can use:

• Freewriting. Start with the type of essay you’ve been assigned (analytical, compare-and-contrast, personal, etc.) and let your mind wander. Write down any questions that come to mind, insights you have, observations about these questions or insights, and points that interest you.
• Researching others’ thoughts about the subject. This strategy works when you have a general idea of the subject you’d like to write about. You can familiarize yourself with the discourse surrounding that subject and read what others have said about it. Getting familiar with others’ writing can inspire you to add your take to the existing body of knowledge surrounding the subject.
• Answering the question you want to know the answer to. Think about the type of essay you plan to write and questions you would find satisfying to have answered in essay form.
• Finding gaps in the existing knowledge about your subject. This piggybacks on the strategy of exploring what others have said about it—what hasn’t been said? This could be your opportunity to write a thought-provoking original essay about your topic.

You can use these strategies for other kinds of writing, too, like creative writing and blog posts.

How to come up with an essay topic

Before you start exploring potential essay topic ideas, think about the kind of essay you are planning to write. Strong essay topics vary between types, so make your essay’s goal a significant part of choosing a topic. Keep the following in mind for each of the following types of essays :

Argumentative

An argumentative essay needs to support an argument. It also needs to demonstrate the flaws in a counter-argument. When you’re tasked with writing an argumentative essay, generate essay topics that have clear “sides” that can be supported and defended by discussing specific pieces of evidence. Choose an issue you can support through strong evidence, such as likely repercussions for changing the legal voting age.

Compare-and-contrast

In a compare-and-contrast essay , you need to show the similarities and differences between two subjects. Kick-start your topic development (or brainstorm if it’s a collaborative project) by thinking about subjects you can compare and contrast, such as the themes in two poems. Think about the specific angles you can take on the subjects you’ll focus on, and consider the comparisons you’ll make in your writing.

A political essay is an essay that examines present social and political challenges and proposes solutions to them. For example, a political essay might propose improvements to the housing market in the United States. To generate essay topics for a political essay, think about the issues that affect you or people you know, or historical trends and current events. You might have a unique perspective on proposed legislation or present political challenges, or you might simply provide a fresh voice in this discourse. Another strategy is to read the news and find a topic that’s trending, relevant, and something you have the knowledge and/or resources to write a strong essay about.

An analytical essay drills down to the components present in a work or an issue and addresses these components to reach conclusions. For example, your analytical essay topic might be how online classes have changed our relationship to education forever. As you explore essay topics for an analytical essay, think about something that interests or confuses you. In your analytical essay, you engage with the topic by questioning it and breaking it down, so choose a topic that’s got room to dive deep.

A personal essay is a reflective piece of writing that explores and discusses a topic from your own life. Unlike other kinds of essays, which support their positions through objective references to facts, statistics, scholarly insights, and other written works, a personal essay discusses its author’s own thoughts and feelings. There is no pressure to be objective in a personal essay; think of it as a chapter from your autobiography or a diary entry. To come up with essay topic ideas for a personal essay, think about events and experiences that have left a lasting impression on you.

Similar to an argumentative essay, a persuasive essay aims to persuade the reader to support a specific action or stance. The difference is that in a persuasive essay, the author’s goal is to persuade the reader to agree with their position, while an argumentative essay aims to show the reader why its thesis statement is objectively true. Strong persuasive essay topics are topics that are trending and divisive, such as the merits of dropping SAT scores from university admissions decisions.

Essay topic vs. thesis statement

An essay topic isn’t the same as its thesis statement. However, the two are closely related. An essay’s thesis statement concisely states the author’s position on the essay’s topic. In other words, the thesis statement narrows the topic down to a specific statement that the author then explores, analyzes, and—depending on the type of essay—defends in the body paragraphs.

Here are a few examples of essay topics and accompanying thesis statements:

Topic: Changing the legal voting age

Thesis statement: When nations lower the legal voting age to 16, youth civic participation increases. To combat low voter turnout among young adults, the United States should reduce the voting age to 16.

Topic: Does exercise matter if you eat a healthy diet?

Thesis statement: Research shows that while diet plays a significant role in an individual’s overall health and fitness, regular exercise plays a crucial role in strengthening bones and muscles, maintaining weight, and reducing an individual’s risk of disease.

Similarly, an essay topic is not the same as an essay title—but there is a relationship between an essay’s topic and title. An essay title should make its essay’s topic clear to the reader.

30 essay topic examples

Persuasive essay topics.

• The harms of single-use plastic
• Planned obsolescence
• Pineapple on pizza
• How can we be better neighbors?
• Ways to make writing easier for high school students

Personal essay topics

• My grandmother’s cooking
• My favorite dinosaur
• A pivotal trip I took
• My reaction to reading my own published writing
• Why I’ll never have another pet pig

Argumentative essay topics

• Should cars be banned from downtown?
• Why do we get addicted to social media?
• Should the library be open 24/7?
• Should high schools eliminate summer vacation?
• Are we too apathetic about the amount of data we share?

Analytical essay topics

• Themes of love in Frankenstein and House of Leaves
• Grammar’s role in communication
• Information retention when writing notes by hand
• Dogs as symbolism in Wuthering Heights
• Music education in elementary schools

Political essay topics

• The Electoral College’s validity in modern elections
• Student debt forgiveness
• Strategies for increasing voter turnout
• Potential outcomes of redrawing voting districts
• What if we let AI govern us?

Compare and contrast essay topics

• For commuters, are trains or buses a more environmentally friendly option?
• Vegan versus vegetarian diets
• A comparison of the writing styles of Toni Morrison’s early and later works
• Qualitative versus quantitative data in sociology
• The Handmaid’s Tale television show versus the original novel

Essay topics FAQs

An essay topic is a subject area about which an essay is written. An essay topic can be fairly broad or quite narrow.

What’s the purpose of an essay topic?

The purpose of an essay topic is to give the author something to discuss in their writing. An essay topic is what an essay is “about,” giving the author a subject to explore, analyze, discuss, defend, or describe.

What’s the difference between an essay topic and a thesis statement?

An essay topic is much broader than a thesis statement. A thesis statement summarizes the essay author’s position on the essay’s topic or a specific aspect of the essay’s topic.

What are examples of strong essay topics?

100 Fresh and Unexpected Essay Topics for High School Students

charleswritershub.com

Check out our new selection of 100 high school essay topics to inspire your best papers! Grouped by paper type and subject, easy to navigate, original, and accessible.

Looking for topics to write an essay on for a high school assignment, and all the lists seem to suggest endless variations of the same 10 basic ideas? Kind of reminds you of that 999 in 1 vintage video game that your dad still keeps in the attic. Annoyingly repetitive.

No such stale stuff here. Find only the most interesting essay topics for high school students below. Make this assignment one of a kind — just like your favorite ship!

We have divided our suggestions by essay types and subjects. However, keep in mind that these topics are given as examples and do not cover the entirety of the high school curriculum. If you need essay inspiration on class material not covered here, request personalized recommendations and assistance from our paper writing service .

Fun Essay Topics for High School

As a warmup, let’s start with some easy essay topics for high school. If the teacher said you can write about anything, why not have fun with your essay and be creative?

• A day in the mind of a cat
• Which superpower would you choose to have?
• If you could remove one stressor in your life, what would it be? How would your life be better without it?
• What role does music play in your life?
• Which reason to skip school should be made legitimate?
• Makeup today is gendered as a female attribute. Do you believe that with growing equality, it becomes outdated? If not, will men start using makeup more instead?
• Do you believe plants could be considered pets?
• Which invention/technology considered obsolete do you wish were around today? Why?
• Why do you think we so often crush on book characters?
• Pick three objects to symbolize the past decade and explain your choice

Good Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

Now let’s up our game. Persuasive essays test your eloquence since they must change your opponent’s perspective. Which side will you take on these issues?

• School classes start too early, contributing to sleep deprivation. Agree or disagree?
• Do you believe teachers should be armed to protect underage students?
• Homework is obsolete and useless. Agree or disagree?
• Is it ethical to engage service animals in dangerous tasks?
• Do you think keeping wild animals as pets is ever ethical?
• Do you think students should resolve conflicts independently, or school authorities must interfere?
• Do you believe that exposing a cheating student in front of the class amounts to shaming and is unacceptable?
• Classroom learning is outdated, and we all should study remotely. Agree or disagree?
• Do you believe your school’s cafeteria could offer more vegan options?
• Should unhealthy food be taxed?

Argumentative Essay Topics for High School

Moving from amateur to professional: an argumentative essay is a hard nut to crack. You must persuade people only with the power of ice-cold logic. Can you change people’s minds on these topics by giving only objective reasons and facts?

• Do you believe cancel culture has a positive or negative influence on public discourse?
• Do you think the voting age should be raised, lowered, or left as is?
• In your opinion, should the minimum marrying age in your state be raised, lowered, or left as is?
• Do you think the legal drinking age should be lowered in the US?
• Do you believe your school dress code is too restrictive or too permissive?
• Do you believe weight-based airline fares are discriminatory?
• Is it discriminatory to show job ads to a specific age group of social media users?
• Do you agree with the statement, “Gun violence is caused by mental illness, so gun control won’t prevent another mass shooting tragedy?” Why/why not?
• Can a job application requirement to have a college degree be discriminatory?
• Do you think standardized tests are obsolete?

Informative Essay Topics for High School

Writing an informative essay is easy. If you are well-informed, that is. If not, you will need to spend a couple of hours researching your topic. Which is always great in our book. Here at Charles Writers Hub, we love learning!

• The black Death pandemic and its cultural influence
• Climate change and its impact on wildlife
• Literary archetypes, stock characters, and stereotypes
• Write about one of the New Seven Wonders of the World
• Write about your favorite Polar explorer
• The Life and challenges of the early American Settlers
• Bipolar disorder: myths and Facts
• The Brief History of Piracy
• Cultural appropriation and Why it’s problematic
• Privacy vs. security dilemma and ways of resolving it

Expository Essay Topics for High School

Expository essays thoroughly investigate a topic, objectively laying it out in all its complexity. Care to dig into some of these?

• Types of cognitive bias and ways to overcome it
• History of women in coding
• A brief history of romantic love
• Were the knights of the Middle Ages chivalrous?
• Maslow’s hierarchy of needs and its modern forms
• Abortion rights debate: timeline of confrontation
• The benefits of art therapy for mental and physical health
• Cold war and its impact on American culture
• Indigenous languages of America and political recognition
• Imperialism and Internal Colonization

Narrative Essay Topics for High School

Students Basically, you have to tell a story for this assignment. It doesn’t have to be super-creative, but expressive means and figurative language are welcome. Paint a picture with words — and here is your inspiration.

• Tell a story of your perfect day: real or imaginary
• What was the scariest thing you have ever done?
• Tell about the first time you fell in love
• Describe your first day in a new school
• Have you ever been in a dangerous situation? What happened? How did it make you feel?
• What was the most memorable summer trip you had?
• Share a story from your family lore (how your parents met, how your grandparents came to live in a new place, etc.)
• What is your most treasured possession? Why is it so dear to you? How did you obtain it?
• Tell a story from the perspective of a library book
• Tell a story about luck (good or bad)

World History Essay Topics for High School Students

World history is huge, insane, and fascinating. Unfortunately, too huge to fit here in all its glory. Here are some highlights if you want to explore particular topics closely.

• Stone Age technology and most significant inventions
• Findings of the Cactus Hill Archeological Site
• Sumerian tablets and the dawn of the writing system
• Egyptian belief system and architecture: evolutions and revolutions
• Viking legacy in Europe and around the world
• Imperial Tombs of the Ming and Qing Dynasties
• Economic and social outcomes of the Age of Exploration
• Enlightenment and its impact on political systems
• The primary outcomes of the Springtime of the Peoples in 19th-century Europe
• World War I and its impact on society and culture

Science High School Essay Topics

Science in its pure form might seem boring to many. Yet once you see how it works in everyday life, it’s nothing short of awesome. See for yourself!

• The technology that transformed the world: which is the greatest invention of all time, in your opinion?
• A brief history of electricity
• Why is a perpetual motion machine impossible?
• Which of the science fiction antigravity devices could hypothetically exist without breaking the laws of physics?
• Food waste as a source of clean energy
• Colloids, solutions, and suspensions and their application in everyday life
• The chemistry behind diagnostic reagent strips
• The primary evidence of evolution we can observe today
• The history of blood transfusion
• Urban ecosystems and their influence on biodiversity

Literature High School Essay Topics

Literature is the closest thing to a time machine we have. Dive into the life, dreams, and fears of yore with these topics.

• Feminist icons of Greek tragedies
• Kennings and their use in modern culture
• Anglo-Saxon values and culture in Beowulf
• Fourteenth-century Christian society structure in Geoffrey Chaucer’s The Canterbury Tales
• Why don’t we laugh at Shakespeare’s comedies anymore?
• Andrew Marvell as a poet of nature
• Heathcliff from Emily Bronte’s Wuthering Heights : Gothic villain or Byronic hero?
• Edgar Allan Poe: the epitome of a tormented genius
• Steam of consciousness writing and its influence beyond the Modernist era
• Wealth and glamour in the F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Great Gatsby

Geography High School Essay Topics

We talk a lot about the world getting small and turning into one global village. Yet do we know this “little” place all that well? Let’s find out!

• What are the main five themes of geography as a science?
• What were the main seafaring limitations in the Age of Sail?
• Modern tools of geography: maps, GPS, GIS
• Choose one macrogeographic region and describe its terrain, climate zones, and population
• The timeline of anthropogenic influences on climate
• What are the main objections to the terraforming of deserts on Earth?
• Greatest volcanic eruptions and their aftermath
• Choose one alternative source of energy and describe its advantages and challenges
• The geopolitics of rare Earth elements and their role in the globalization
• Main tools of meteorology and weather forecasting

If you find some of the topics above fascinating but a bit too complex, request a customized sample! Our expert writers will prepare a model essay for you. Learn working with sources, structuring, formatting, and writing from the pros!

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