In the realm of intellectual discourse, few endeavors rival the art of argumentation. With its ability to shape opinions, challenge established beliefs, and ignite change, the power of a well-crafted argument is undeniable. High school, a pivotal period of personal growth and intellectual exploration, provides the perfect backdrop for honing this skill. Whether debating global issues, dissecting literary works, or analyzing scientific phenomena, argumentative writing serves as a platform for students to express their thoughts, defend their positions, and engage in meaningful dialogue.

But what is it about argumentative writing that captivates the mind and spurs us to action? Is it the thrill of pitting ideas against one another, the artful dance of persuasive language, or the sheer potential to make a lasting impact? Whatever the driving force may be, this essay aims to unravel the intricacies of argumentation, shedding light on the tools, techniques, and strategies that transform ordinary words into compelling weapons of persuasion. So, let us explore the possible argumentative essay writing prompts, shall we?

What Exactly Is an Argumentative Essay?

The goal of an argumentative essay is to provide reasons and supporting evidence to develop a stance or viewpoint on a topic. A well-written argumentative essay will: introduce and interest the reader in a compelling topic;

• Fairly explain and evaluate all sides of a subject;
• Address any plausible counterarguments to the author’s point of view; and
• Persuade the reader to accept or consider a fresh viewpoint.
• What should an excellent argumentative essay contain?
• In the introduction, there is a clear thesis statement.
• Logical argument and points that support the thesis.
• Examples or proof that support the points.

How to Write an Argumentative Essay in Three Steps

Step 1: Select a topic and develop a thesis statement

A thesis statement is a one or two-phrase summary of your essay’s key idea or main claim.  A great thesis statement is essential since it informs the reader about the topic of the essay, allowing them to determine whether or not to read it.

A strong thesis statement will often state a claim, your position on the claim, and the primary points that will support your position within the context of your chosen topic. It will also function as a guideline for you when you write the essay’s body points.

If you’re given the option of choosing your own topic for an argumentative essay, go with your hobbies or enthusiasm. An excellent place to start would be to consider things that influence you every day or a subject on which you have strong feelings. But be cautious, because most people’s opinions are not supported by strong evidence. So, if you think you’ve narrowed down a topic or area of interest, start your investigation and define your perspective. Your writing will also improve if you plan ahead of time and use the strategies in this article while writing.

Step 2: Conduct research and organize your findings

If you’ve ever had writer’s block, it was most likely caused by one of two factors. First, it’s because you’re gazing at a blank screen and don’t know where to begin. 

Second, you’re probably unsure of your thesis statement and supporting points because you haven’t done enough research. Writer’s block can be comparable to a mental block when studying, so try utilizing some of the strategies described below to clear your mind and get back into the writing mood.

Planning is essential for any essay, but especially for an argumentative essay because you are providing an argument that must be supported by good data. All types of reference sources and materials (books, journals, articles, blogs, films) from trustworthy sources and industry experts should be included in your research. 

When conducting research, keep the following in mind:

• Read widely to get a good overview of the topic, including the important disputes that have occurred or are ongoing, arguments and counter-arguments, and the main authorities in the field. 
• Use an e-reader for university or college to help you focus while reading your study.
• Maintain an open mind and try to see the challenges through the eyes of various individuals and parties. 
• Recognizing and responding to these points will guarantee that your essay is well-balanced.
• Keep an eye out for any interesting angles that haven’t been adequately explored yet.
• Remember that while Google makes research easier, you will never be able to properly explore a topic owing to the huge number of information available online. 

We recommend going on to the next phase whenever you feel you have enough material because you can always perform more research later if necessary.

Step 3: Create a structure for your essay and write it

This phase entails outlining the material of your essay in a framework that produces a logical flow for both your argument and your reader. 

An Argumentative Essay’s Structure

Background and thesis statement in the first paragraph

Your opening statement is where you try to pique the reader’s interest or ‘hook’ them. This serves as a smooth transition into your background and thesis statement, where you will eventually establish your position on the problem. You can begin with a startling figure that is not widely recognized in the field. You can be creative here, but make sure you stick to scholarly or academic writing standards. That means no personal experiences, inspirational phrases, or the like. Keep those for narrative pieces.

Next, provide background information about your issue to help readers prepare for the rest of your essay. Answer the following questions to engage the reader:

• What is the significance of this issue?
• What are the underlying causes of this issue?
• What or who is impacted?
• Is it possible to find a solution?
• What can or should be done to address it?

Body paragraphs: Provide Evidence and Develop Your Arguments

It is ideal to devote one paragraph to each supporting point in your argument. All arguments or body paragraphs must always include the three components listed below:

Part 1: The Claim

A claim is a statement that you make to support your point of view. It’s essentially a reason that indicates your thesis statement is correct.

Part 2: Proof and Explanation

Every claim should be backed up with relevant evidence and an explanation of how that evidence backs up your assertion. This is where you will include the results of your research from trustworthy sources.

Part 3: Return to the thesis

This illustrates that placing a sin tax on sugary drinks is one method of reducing sugar-based product consumption. (Assuming your thesis is on lowering sugary product consumption and methods for doing so).

Additional Sections: Challenging Your Own Arguments and Reinforcing Your Claims

A strong argumentative essay will also include counterargument paragraphs. This indicates your expertise of the subject as well as your awareness of current competing views, which will impress the majority of readers. If you are writing at the university level, though, this is virtually always expected of you.

The success of these additional paragraphs will be determined by how well you reject these counterarguments and use them to reinforce your thesis statement and/or supporting points. To understand how to break down and counter these counterarguments, it’s always helpful to discuss them with classmates or someone with an opposite viewpoint.

Conclusion: Recapitulating and Closing with Impact

The conclusion summarizes your thesis statement and primary reasons and attempts to persuade the reader that your argument is the best. 

Here are some suggestions for how to end your essay:

• Incorporate a call to action. Inspire and persuade the reader to agree with your point of view. 
• Tell them what they should think, do, feel, or believe from now on.
• Provide hypotheticals. Describe the sequence of events that will occur if the reader embraces your beliefs. 
• Use real-life examples from the past or present to anchor these depictions in truth.
• Consider the “big picture.” What are the consequences of accepting (or not adopting) your ideas if you are arguing for policy changes? What effect will they have on the reader (or the relevant group of people)?

When you’ve finished your conclusion, go back and see if there are any adjustments you want to make to your introduction. You may have discovered or added points to your essay that you did not have previously. You may have expressed your ideas persuasively, which you’d like to emulate in the introduction. This will undoubtedly enhance the flow of your article.

Argumentative Essay Prompts: Hot Topics To Get Students Engaged

Are you looking for some engaging and relevant topics for your argumentative essays? Argumentative essays are a great way to practice your critical thinking and writing skills, as well as to express your opinions on various issues. However, choosing a good topic can be challenging, especially if you want to avoid the same old clichés. 

That’s why I have compiled a list of 50 argumentative essay prompts that are hot, fresh and interesting. These prompts cover a range of subjects, from social media and technology to sports and education. You can use them as they are, or tweak them to suit your interests and preferences. 

Here are the 50 argumentative essay prompts for high school students:

1. Should students be allowed to use smartphones in class?
2. Is social media a positive or negative influence on young people?
3. Should video games be considered a form of art?
4. Should college athletes be paid for their performance?
5. Should schools require students to wear uniforms?
6. Should the legal drinking age be lowered to 18?
7. Should animal testing be banned for cosmetic products?
8. Should graffiti be considered a form of vandalism or expression?
9. Should junk food be taxed to combat obesity?
10. Should celebrities be role models for young people?
11. Should euthanasia be legalized for terminally ill patients?
12. Should the death penalty be abolished or reinstated?
13. Should marijuana be legalized for recreational use?
14. Should vaccinations be mandatory for children?
15. Should schools teach sex education or abstinence-only education?
16. Should online dating be encouraged or discouraged?
17. Should cloning be allowed for medical purposes?
18. Should nuclear weapons be banned or maintained?
19. Should immigration laws be more lenient or strict?
20. Should plastic surgery be regulated or unrestricted?
21. Should homework be abolished or reduced?
22. Should students have more say in their curriculum and assessment?
23. Should parents have the right to monitor their children’s online activity?
24. Should zoos and aquariums be closed or improved?
25. Should fast fashion be boycotted or supported?
26. Should beauty pageants be banned or reformed?
27. Should violent sports like boxing and MMA be banned or regulated?
28. Should music lyrics with explicit language be censored or uncensored?
29. Should reality TV shows be banned or regulated?
30. Should public transportation be free or subsidized?
31. Should recycling be mandatory or voluntary?
32. Should genetically modified foods be labeled or unlabeled?
33. Should school start later or earlier in the day?
34. Should students have the option to study abroad or stay local?
35. Should bilingual education be mandatory or optional?
36. Should censorship of books and movies be increased or decreased?
37. Should organ donation be opt-in or opt-out?
38. Should social media platforms be held accountable for fake news and hate speech?
39. Should artificial intelligence be feared or embraced?
40. Should driverless cars be allowed or banned on the road?
41. Should human space exploration be continued or discontinued?
42. Should stem cell research be supported or opposed?
43. Should cyberbullying be punished more severely or less severely than physical bullying?
44. Should students have the right to protest or not protest in school?
45. Should minimum wage be raised or lowered?
46. Should gun control laws be stricter or looser?
47. Should abortion rights be protected or restricted?
48. Should same-sex marriage rights be recognized or denied?
49. Should freedom of speech have limits or not have limits? 
50. Should students learn more about global issues or local issues?

We hope you find these prompts useful and inspiring for your argumentative essays.

Bottom Line

The topics discussed in this essay highlight the importance of critical thinking and considering multiple perspectives. While the viewpoints may differ, it is crucial to engage in thoughtful discussions and embrace diverse opinions. If you need assistance with your academic writing, consider reaching out to Peachy Essay Writing Services for professional support. Expand your horizons with their expert guidance today.