english composition 2 essay topics

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401 Prompts for Argumentative Writing

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Opposing Viewpoints in Context

CQ Researcher

CQ Researcher  provides original, authoritative reports on newsworthy social and political issues. Covering topics in public policy, law, civil liberties, international affairs, economics, health, education, the environment, technology, and more. Each report includes the following sections: overview of the issue, current situation, chronology, pro/con debate, short features, maps or graphs, bibliography and next steps. (From publisher).

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English 102 Composition II / Research: Topic Selection

• English 102
• Topic Selection
• Library Catalog
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• Is My Source Credible?
• Primary or Secondary ?
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Getting Started

• Your instructor may provide a "prompt", give you a list of suggestions, or some other guidelines to get you started on a topic. 
• Selection of a topic might start with a question such as "Does race make a difference in getting into college?" or "What are the impacts of daily use of TikTok on young adults?".
•  At this point, it's a good idea to try doing some "pre-research" to see if there is information on the topic.  If there is too much information, you may need to narrow your topic.  If there is too little, you may need to broaden your topic.  You may also discover you might take a different direction with your topic or change it altogether.

Explore Topics with SVC Databases

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• Facts On File: Issues and Controversies Topic List List of Topics for Research
• ProCon: List of Topics ProCon is a nonprofit, nonpartisan, public charity that researches and publishes pro and con perspectives on critical issues of the day.
• Credo Reference Database This link opens in a new window Online encyclopedia source, including Encyclopedia of the United States in the 19th Century. Good source for images and graphics. Log in from home using MYSVC login & password.
• Encyclopedia Britannica This link opens in a new window Academic Wikipedia. Log in with full SVC email address and password.

Where to find Topics on the Internet

Allsides : Topics & Issues in the news

Pew Research Center : Topics

Tutorial Videos About Topics

1 minute tutorials from Credo Database:

• How to Select a Topic
• Using Pre-Research to Understand Your Topic
• What to do When Your Topic is Too Broad
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Composition II Research Guide for ENGL 102: Developing a Topic

• Developing a Topic
• Search Strategies
• Scholarly Journals and Articles
• Books and Media
• Finding Articles
• Local Topic Resources
• Evaluating Sources
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​Developing Your Topic

When you begin your research, you start with a broad topic. It is important that you focus your topic to make it manageable. For your assignment, you'll need to come up with a well-developed thesis statement.

Ask yourself these questions:

• Who  is affected by your topic? (people, culture, demographics)
• What  are the major issues and viewpoints to consider for your topic?
• Where  is your topic most important? (geographical regions- local, national, international)
• When  is/was your topic most important? Is it current, historical, ongoing?
• Why  did you choose this topic? Do you have an opinion on the issues surrounding your topic?

Source: Mesa Community College.  Determining your research question. 

From Topic to Research Question

• From Topic to Research Question - Credo Tutorial Feeling overwhelmed by all of the information around you? This video will show you how to narrow your topic without losing your way.

Focusing Your Topic: The 5 W's

Once you have a broad topic, it is important to come up with a manageable, focused research question -- one that is neither too broad or too narrow.

The 5 W's, described in the video below, are a helpful tool for focusing your research question/topic.

Issues-Oriented Databases

These are great places to begin research on current issues. Opposing Viewpoints and Points of View Reference Center contain viewpoints on current and controversial issues, but also much more: a variety of articles from magazines or scholarly journals, government information and primary sources, depending on the database.

• Issuelab This link opens in a new window Free resource used to collect and share social sector knowledge.
• Gale in Context: Opposing Viewpoints This link opens in a new window Library of current event topics: Facts as well as the arguments of each topic's proponents and detractors.
• Points of View Reference Center This link opens in a new window Articles and essays on both sides of many major topics.
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ENG 102 - English Composition 2

• Summary and Argumentative Writing
• Research Basics and Planning
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Exploring Topics Through the Databases

Use reference sources (like those found below) as a way to gain background information on a topic.  Reference sources provide factual information that can supplement your research and decide on your paper's stance. They are a good way to gain a fundamental understanding of a topic. Doing so will help you discover useful search terms, and have a solid jumping-off point for the rest of your research.

Many reference sources below are a great starting point but may not work as a standalone source for your paper. The links below summarize information in primary and secondary sources to provide background on a topic, idea, or event. 

Opposing Viewpoints is a rich resource for debaters and includes viewpoints, reference articles, infographics, news, images, video, audio, and more. A category on the National Debate Topic provides quick and easy access to content on frequently studied and discussed issues. Periodical content covers current events, news and commentary, economics, environmental issues, political science, and more.

In-depth, peer-reviewed summaries on a range of topics. 

With today’s overabundance of information, and misinformation, students and researchers alike can be overwhelmed in identifying what’s trustworthy, what’s up-to-date, and what’s accurate. Oxford University Press has invested in the Oxford Research Encyclopedias to meet this challenge. Working with international communities of scholars across all fields of study, we are developing new comprehensive collections of in-depth, peer-reviewed summaries on an ever-growing range of topics.

TOPICsearch is a current events database that allows researchers to explore social, political and economic issues, scientific discoveries and other popular topics discussed in today's classrooms. TOPICsearch contains full text for articles from magazines, newspapers, pamphlets, biographies, book reviews, public opinion polls, EBSCO's Current Issues database, and government information.

Points of View Reference Center is designed to assist researchers in understanding the full scope of controversial subjects. High school and undergraduate students can use Points of View as a guide to debating, developing arguments, writing position papers, and developing critical thinking skills. Each Points of View Essay includes a series of questions and additional material to generate further thought. Also included are thousands of supporting articles from the world's top political and societal publications. The Points of View Debate Blog is a forum for students to express and exchange their unique views on topics in the news.

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Essay Topics – List of 500+ Essay Writing Topics and Ideas

List of 500+ essay writing topics and ideas.

Essay topics in English can be difficult to come up with. While writing essays , many college and high school students face writer’s block and have a hard time to think about topics and ideas for an essay. In this article, we will list out many good essay topics from different categories like argumentative essays, essays on technology, environment essays for students from 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th grades. Following list of essay topics are for all – from kids to college students. We have the largest collection of essays. An essay is nothing but a piece of content which is written from the perception of writer or author. Essays are similar to a story, pamphlet, thesis, etc. The best thing about Essay is you can use any type of language – formal or informal. It can biography, the autobiography of anyone. Following is a great list of 100 essay topics. We will be adding 400 more soon!

But Before that you may wanna read some awesome Essay Writing Tips here .

Get the Huge list of 100+ Speech Topics here

Argumentative Essay Topics

• Should plastic be banned?
• Pollution due to Urbanization
• Education should be free
• Should Students get limited access to the Internet?
• Selling Tobacco should be banned
• Smoking in public places should be banned
• Facebook should be banned
• Students should not be allowed to play PUBG

Essay Topics on Technology

• Wonder Of Science
• Mobile Phone

Essay Topics on Festivals on Events

• Independence Day (15 August)
• Teachers Day
• Summer Vacation
• Children’s Day
• Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
• Janmashtami
• Republic Day

Essay Topics on Education

• Education Essay
• Importance of Education
• Contribution of Technology in Education

Essay Topics on Famous Leaders

• Mahatma Gandhi
• APJ Abdul Kalam
• Jawaharlal Nehru
• Swami Vivekananda
• Mother Teresa
• Rabindranath Tagore
• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
• Subhash Chandra Bose
• Abraham Lincoln
• Martin Luther King
• Lal Bahadur Shashtri

Essay Topics on Animals and Birds

• My Favorite Animal

Essays Topics About Yourself

• My Best Friend
• My Favourite Teacher
• My Aim In Life
• My Favourite Game – Badminton
• My Favourite Game – Essay
• My Favourite Book
• My Ambition
• How I Spent My Summer Vacation
• India of My Dreams
• My School Life
• I Love My Family
• My Favourite Subject
• My Favourite Game Badminton
• My Father My Hero
• My School Library
• My Favourite Author
• My plans for summer vacation

Essay Topics Based on Environment and Nature

• Global Warming
• Environment
• Air Pollution
• Environmental Pollution
• Water Pollution
• Rainy Season
• Climate Change
• Importance Of Trees
• Winter Season
• Deforestation
• Natural Disasters
• Save Environment
• Summer Season
• Trees Our Best Friend Essay In English

Essay Topics Based on Proverbs

• Health Is Wealth
• A Stitch in Time Saves Nine
• An Apple a Day Keeps Doctor Away
• Where there is a will, there is way
• Time and Tide wait for none

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Essay Topics for Students from 6th, 7th, 8th Grade

• Noise Pollution
• Environment Pollution
• Women Empowerment
• Time and Tide Wait for none
• Science and Technology
• Importance of Sports
• Sports and Games
• Time Management
• Cleanliness is next to Godliness
• Cleanliness
• Rome was not Built in a Day
• Unemployment
• Clean India
• Cow Essay In English
• Describe Yourself
• Festivals Of India
• Ganesh Chaturthi
• Healthy Food
• Importance Of Water
• Plastic Pollution
• Value of Time
• Honesty is the Best Policy
• Gandhi Jayanti
• Human Rights
• Knowledge Is Power
• Same Sex Marriage
• Childhood Memories
• Cyber Crime
• Kalpana Chawla
• Punctuality
• Rani Lakshmi Bai
• Spring Season
• Unity In Diversity
• Artificial Intelligence
• Online Shopping
• Indian Culture
• Healthy Lifestyle
• Indian Education System
• Disaster Management
• Environmental Issues
• Freedom Fighters
• Grandparents
• Save Fuel For Better Environment
• Importance Of Newspaper
• Lal Bahadur Shastri
• Raksha Bandhan
• World Environment Day
• Narendra Modi
• What Is Religion
• Charity Begins at Home
• A Journey by Train
• Ideal student
• Save Water Save Earth
• Indian Farmer
• Safety of Women in India
• Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
• Capital Punishment
• College Life
• Natural Resources
• Peer Pressure
• Nature Vs Nurture
• Romeo And Juliet
• Generation Gap
• Makar Sankranti
• Constitution of India
• Girl Education
• Importance of Family
• Importance of Independence Day
• Brain Drain
• A Friend In Need Is A Friend Indeed
• Action Speaks Louder Than Words
• All That Glitters Is Not Gold
• Bhagat Singh
• Demonetization
• Agriculture
• Importance of Discipline
• Population Explosion
• Poverty in India
• Uses Of Mobile Phones
• Water Scarcity
• Train Journey
• Land Pollution
• Environment Protection
• Indian Army
• Uses of Internet
• All that Glitters is not Gold
• Balanced Diet
• Blood Donation
• Digital India
• Dussehra Essay
• Energy Conservation
• National Integration
• Railway Station
• Sachin Tendulkar
• Health And Hygiene
• Importance Of Forest
• Indira Gandhi
• Laughter Is The Best Medicine
• Career Goals
• Mental Health
• Save Water Save Life
• International Yoga Day
• Winter Vacation
• Soil Pollution
• Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining
• Indian Culture And Tradition
• Unity Is Strength
• Unity is Diversity
• Wildlife Conservation
• Cruelty To Animals
• Nelson Mandela
• Of Mice And Men
• Organ Donation
• Life in a Big City
• Democracy in India
• Waste Management
• Biodiversity
• Afforestation
• Female Foeticide
• Harmful Effects Of Junk Food
• Rain Water Harvesting
• Save Electricity
• Social Media
• Social Networking Sites
• Sound Pollution
• Procrastination
• Life in an Indian Village
• Life in Big City
• Population Growth
• World Population Day
• Greenhouse Effect
• Statue of Unity
• Traffic Jam
• Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
• Importance of Good Manners
• Good Manners
• Cyber Security
• Green Revolution
• Health And Fitness
• Incredible India
• Make In India
• Surgical Strike
• Triple Talaq
• A Good Friend
• Importance of Friends in our Life
• Should Plastic be Banned
• Nationalism
• Traffic Rules
• Effects of Global Warming
• Fundamental Rights
• Solar System
• National Constitution Day
• Good Mother
• Importance of Trees in our Life
• City Life Vs Village Life
• Importance of Communication
• Conservation of Nature
• Man vs. Machine
• Indian Economy
• Mothers Love
• Importance of National Integration
• Black Money
• Greenhouse effect
• Untouchability
• Self Discipline
• Global Terrorism
• Conservation of Biodiversity
• Newspaper and Its Uses
• World Health Day
• Conservation of Natural Resources
• A Picnic with Family
• Indian Heritage
• Status of Women in India
• Child is Father of the Man
• Reading is Good Habit
• Plastic Bag
• Terrorism in India
• Library and Its Uses
• Life on Mars
• Urbanization
• Pollution Due to Diwali
• National Flag of India
• Vocational Education
• Importance of Tree Plantation
• Summer Camp
• Vehicle Pollution
• Women Education in India
• Seasons in India
• Freedom of the Press
• Caste System
• Environment and Human Health
• Mountain Climbing
• Depletion of Natural Resources
• Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
• Health Education
• Effects of Deforestation
• Life after School
• Starvation in India
• Jan Dhan Yojana
• Impact of Privatization
• Election Commission of India
• Election and Democracy
• Prevention of Global Warming
• Impact of Cinema in Life
• Subhas Chandra Bose
• Dowry System
• Ganesh Chaturthi Festival
• Role of Science in Making India
• Impact of Global Warming on Oceans
• Pollution due to Festivals
• Ambedkar Jayanti
• Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat
• Family Planning in India
• Democracy vs Dictatorship
• National Festivals of India
• Sri Aurobindo
• Casteism in India
• Organ trafficking
• Consequences of Global Warming
• Role of Human Activities in Global Warming
• Issues and Problems faced by Women in India
• Role of Judiciary in the Country Today
• Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan
• PUBG Mobile Game Addiction
• Role of Youths in Nation Building
• Value of Oxygen and Water in Life/Earth
• Farmer Suicides in India
• Start-up India
• Pollution Due to Firecrackers
• Life of Soldiers
• Child Labour
• Save Girl Child
• Morning Walk
• My School Fete
• Essay on Financial Literacy
• Essay On Sustainable Development
• Essay On Punjab
• Essay On Travel
• My Home Essay
• Child Marriage Essay
• Importance Of English Language Essay
• Essay On Mass Media
• Essay On Horse
• Essay On Police
• Essay On Eid
• Essay On Solar Energy
• Animal Essay
• Essay On Mango
• Gender Discrimination Essay
• Essay On Advertisement
• My First Day At School Essay
• My Neighborhood Essay
• True Friendship Essay
• Work Is Worship Essay
• Essay On Self Confidence
• Essay On Superstition
• Essay On Bangalore
• Sex Vs Gender Essay
• Essay On Social Issues
• Time Is Money Essay
• Essay About Grandmothers
• Essay On Hard Work
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• Flowers Essay
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• Essay on Birds
• Essay on Humanity
• Essay on Sun
• Essay on Kargil War
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• Francis Bacon Essays
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• Solar Energy Essay
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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 113 perfect persuasive essay topics for any assignment.

General Education

Do you need to write a persuasive essay but aren’t sure what topic to focus on? Were you thrilled when your teacher said you could write about whatever you wanted but are now overwhelmed by the possibilities? We’re here to help!

Read on for a list of 113 top-notch persuasive essay topics, organized into ten categories. To help get you started, we also discuss what a persuasive essay is, how to choose a great topic, and what tips to keep in mind as you write your persuasive essay.

What Is a Persuasive Essay?

In a persuasive essay, you attempt to convince readers to agree with your point of view on an argument. For example, an essay analyzing changes in Italian art during the Renaissance wouldn’t be a persuasive essay, because there’s no argument, but an essay where you argue that Italian art reached its peak during the Renaissance would be a persuasive essay because you’re trying to get your audience to agree with your viewpoint.

Persuasive and argumentative essays both try to convince readers to agree with the author, but the two essay types have key differences. Argumentative essays show a more balanced view of the issue and discuss both sides. Persuasive essays focus more heavily on the side the author agrees with. They also often include more of the author’s opinion than argumentative essays, which tend to use only facts and data to support their argument.

All persuasive essays have the following:

• Introduction: Introduces the topic, explains why it’s important, and ends with the thesis.
• Thesis: A sentence that sums up what the essay be discussing and what your stance on the issue is.
• Reasons you believe your side of the argument: Why do you support the side you do? Typically each main point will have its own body paragraph.
• Evidence supporting your argument: Facts or examples to back up your main points. Even though your opinion is allowed in persuasive essays more than most other essays, having concrete examples will make a stronger argument than relying on your opinion alone.
• Conclusion: Restatement of thesis, summary of main points, and a recap of why the issue is important.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Essay Topic?

Theoretically, you could write a persuasive essay about any subject under the sun, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should. Certain topics are easier to write a strong persuasive essay on, and below are tips to follow when deciding what you should write about.

It’s a Topic You Care About

Obviously, it’s possible to write an essay about a topic you find completely boring. You’ve probably done it! However, if possible, it’s always better to choose a topic that you care about and are interested in. When this is the case, you’ll find doing the research more enjoyable, writing the essay easier, and your writing will likely be better because you’ll be more passionate about and informed on the topic.

You Have Enough Evidence to Support Your Argument

Just being passionate about a subject isn’t enough to make it a good persuasive essay topic, though. You need to make sure your argument is complex enough to have at least two potential sides to root for, and you need to be able to back up your side with evidence and examples. Even though persuasive essays allow your opinion to feature more than many other essays, you still need concrete evidence to back up your claims, or you’ll end up with a weak essay.

For example, you may passionately believe that mint chocolate chip ice cream is the best ice cream flavor (I agree!), but could you really write an entire essay on this? What would be your reasons for believing mint chocolate chip is the best (besides the fact that it’s delicious)? How would you support your belief? Have enough studies been done on preferred ice cream flavors to support an entire essay? When choosing a persuasive essay idea, you want to find the right balance between something you care about (so you can write well on it) and something the rest of the world cares about (so you can reference evidence to strengthen your position).

It’s a Manageable Topic

Bigger isn’t always better, especially with essay topics. While it may seem like a great idea to choose a huge, complex topic to write about, you’ll likely struggle to sift through all the information and different sides of the issue and winnow them down to one streamlined essay. For example, choosing to write an essay about how WWII impacted American life more than WWI wouldn’t be a great idea because you’d need to analyze all the impacts of both the wars in numerous areas of American life. It’d be a huge undertaking. A better idea would be to choose one impact on American life the wars had (such as changes in female employment) and focus on that. Doing so will make researching and writing your persuasive essay much more feasible.

List of 113 Good Persuasive Essay Topics

Below are over 100 persuasive essay ideas, organized into ten categories. When you find an idea that piques your interest, you’ll choose one side of it to argue for in your essay. For example, if you choose the topic, “should fracking be legal?” you’d decide whether you believe fracking should be legal or illegal, then you’d write an essay arguing all the reasons why your audience should agree with you.

Arts/Culture

• Should students be required to learn an instrument in school?
• Did the end of Game of Thrones fit with the rest of the series?
• Can music be an effective way to treat mental illness?
• With e-readers so popular, have libraries become obsolete?
• Are the Harry Potter books more popular than they deserve to be?
• Should music with offensive language come with a warning label?
• What’s the best way for museums to get more people to visit?
• Should students be able to substitute an art or music class for a PE class in school?
• Are the Kardashians good or bad role models for young people?
• Should people in higher income brackets pay more taxes?
• Should all high school students be required to take a class on financial literacy?
• Is it possible to achieve the American dream, or is it only a myth?
• Is it better to spend a summer as an unpaid intern at a prestigious company or as a paid worker at a local store/restaurant?
• Should the United States impose more or fewer tariffs?
• Should college graduates have their student loans forgiven?
• Should restaurants eliminate tipping and raise staff wages instead?
• Should students learn cursive writing in school?
• Which is more important: PE class or music class?
• Is it better to have year-round school with shorter breaks throughout the year?
• Should class rank be abolished in schools?
• Should students be taught sex education in school?
• Should students be able to attend public universities for free?
• What’s the most effective way to change the behavior of school bullies?
• Are the SAT and ACT accurate ways to measure intelligence?
• Should students be able to learn sign language instead of a foreign language?
• Do the benefits of Greek life at colleges outweigh the negatives?
• Does doing homework actually help students learn more?
• Why do students in many other countries score higher than American students on math exams?
• Should parents/teachers be able to ban certain books from schools?
• What’s the best way to reduce cheating in school?
• Should colleges take a student’s race into account when making admissions decisions?
• Should there be limits to free speech?
• Should students be required to perform community service to graduate high school?
• Should convicted felons who have completed their sentence be allowed to vote?
• Should gun ownership be more tightly regulated?
• Should recycling be made mandatory?
• Should employers be required to offer paid leave to new parents?
• Are there any circumstances where torture should be allowed?
• Should children under the age of 18 be able to get plastic surgery for cosmetic reasons?
• Should white supremacy groups be allowed to hold rallies in public places?
• Does making abortion illegal make women more or less safe?
• Does foreign aid actually help developing countries?
• Are there times a person’s freedom of speech should be curtailed?
• Should people over a certain age not be allowed to adopt children?

Government/Politics

• Should the minimum voting age be raised/lowered/kept the same?
• Should Puerto Rico be granted statehood?
• Should the United States build a border wall with Mexico?
• Who should be the next person printed on American banknotes?
• Should the United States’ military budget be reduced?
• Did China’s one child policy have overall positive or negative impacts on the country?
• Should DREAMers be granted US citizenship?
• Is national security more important than individual privacy?
• What responsibility does the government have to help homeless people?
• Should the electoral college be abolished?
• Should the US increase or decrease the number of refugees it allows in each year?
• Should privately-run prisons be abolished?
• Who was the most/least effective US president?
• Will Brexit end up helping or harming the UK?

• What’s the best way to reduce the spread of Ebola?
• Is the Keto diet a safe and effective way to lose weight?
• Should the FDA regulate vitamins and supplements more strictly?
• Should public schools require all students who attend to be vaccinated?
• Is eating genetically modified food safe?
• What’s the best way to make health insurance more affordable?
• What’s the best way to lower the teen pregnancy rate?
• Should recreational marijuana be legalized nationwide?
• Should birth control pills be available without a prescription?
• Should pregnant women be forbidden from buying cigarettes and alcohol?
• Why has anxiety increased in adolescents?
• Are low-carb or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
• What caused the destruction of the USS Maine?
• Was King Arthur a mythical legend or actual Dark Ages king?
• Was the US justified in dropping atomic bombs during WWII?
• What was the primary cause of the Rwandan genocide?
• What happened to the settlers of the Roanoke colony?
• Was disagreement over slavery the primary cause of the US Civil War?
• What has caused the numerous disappearances in the Bermuda triangle?
• Should nuclear power be banned?
• Is scientific testing on animals necessary?
• Do zoos help or harm animals?
• Should scientists be allowed to clone humans?
• Should animals in circuses be banned?
• Should fracking be legal?
• Should people be allowed to keep exotic animals as pets?
• What’s the best way to reduce illegal poaching in Africa?
• What is the best way to reduce the impact of global warming?
• Should euthanasia be legalized?
• Is there legitimate evidence of extraterrestrial life?
• Should people be banned from owning aggressive dog breeds?
• Should the United States devote more money towards space exploration?
• Should the government subsidize renewable forms of energy?
• Is solar energy worth the cost?
• Should stem cells be used in medicine?
• Is it right for the US to leave the Paris Climate Agreement?
• Should athletes who fail a drug test receive a lifetime ban from the sport?
• Should college athletes receive a salary?
• Should the NFL do more to prevent concussions in players?
• Do PE classes help students stay in shape?
• Should horse racing be banned?
• Should cheerleading be considered a sport?
• Should children younger than 18 be allowed to play tackle football?
• Are the costs of hosting an Olympic Games worth it?
• Can online schools be as effective as traditional schools?
• Do violent video games encourage players to be violent in real life?
• Should facial recognition technology be banned?
• Does excessive social media use lead to depression/anxiety?
• Has the rise of translation technology made knowing multiple languages obsolete?
• Was Steve Jobs a visionary or just a great marketer?
• Should social media be banned for children younger than a certain age?
• Which 21st-century invention has had the largest impact on society?
• Are ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft good or bad for society?
• Should Facebook have done more to protect the privacy of its users?
• Will technology end up increasing or decreasing inequality worldwide?

Tips for Writing a Strong Persuasive Essay

After you’ve chosen the perfect topic for your persuasive essay, your work isn’t over. Follow the three tips below to create a top-notch essay.

Do Your Research

Your argument will fall apart if you don’t fully understand the issue you’re discussing or you overlook an important piece of it. Readers won’t be convinced by someone who doesn’t know the subject, and you likely won’t persuade any of them to begin supporting your viewpoint. Before you begin writing a single word of your essay, research your topic thoroughly. Study different sources, learn about the different sides of the argument, ask anyone who’s an expert on the topic what their opinion is, etc. You might be tempted to start writing right away, but by doing your research, you’ll make the writing process much easier when the time comes.

Make Your Thesis Perfect

Your thesis is the most important sentence in your persuasive essay. Just by reading that single sentence, your audience should know exactly what topic you’ll be discussing and where you stand on the issue. You want your thesis to be crystal clear and to accurately set up the rest of your essay. Asking classmates or your teacher to look it over before you begin writing the rest of your essay can be a big help if you’re not entirely confident in your thesis.

Consider the Other Side

You’ll spend most of your essay focusing on your side of the argument since that’s what you want readers to come away believing. However, don’t think that means you can ignore other sides of the issue. In your essay, be sure to discuss the other side’s argument, as well as why you believe this view is weak or untrue. Researching all the different viewpoints and including them in your essay will increase the quality of your writing by making your essay more complete and nuanced.

Summary: Persuasive Essay Ideas

Good persuasive essay topics can be difficult to come up with, but in this guide we’ve created a list of 113 excellent essay topics for you to browse. The best persuasive essay ideas will be those that you are interested in, have enough evidence to support your argument, and aren’t too complicated to be summarized in an essay.

After you’ve chosen your essay topic, keep these three tips in mind when you begin writing:

• Do your research
• Make your thesis perfect
• Consider the other side

What's Next?

Need ideas for a research paper topic as well? Our guide to research paper topics has over 100 topics in ten categories so you can be sure to find the perfect topic for you.

Thinking about taking an AP English class? Read our guide on AP English classes to learn whether you should take AP English Language or AP English Literature (or both!)

Deciding between the SAT or ACT? Find out for sure which you will do the best on . Also read a detailed comparison between the two tests .

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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20 English Essay Topics/Questions | B2 First (FCE)

The language of an English essay should be formal . Also, make sure that you justify all your ideas and that you use appropriate connectors to link your sentences and paragraphs .

How to write B2 First (FCE) essay?

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B2 First (FCE) Essay: Example Topics / Questions

Below is a sample list of academic essay writing topics/tasks for B2-level (intermediate) students. You can use them to practice writing English essays or to prepare for the Cambridge B2 First (FCE) exam

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 1 | First (FCE)

You have watched a documentary about young children in poor areas who leave school to work. Your English teacher has asked you to write an essay.

Write an essay using all the notes and give reasons for your point of view.

Teenagers are dropping out of school to find a job. How can we help them to continue their education?

Write about:

• family problems
• financial difficulties
• …………… (your own idea)

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 2 | First (FCE)

In your social studies course, you have watched a documentary on the potential effects of too much pollution on the air quality of city centres. Your professor has assigned you an essay to write.

Keeping the air quality in city centres at healthy levels for their residents is a concern for many places. How can we solve the problem of pollution in city centres?

• automobiles
• ………………  (your own idea)

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 3 | First (FCE)

In your education class, you have listened to a lecture on the importance of teaching foreign languages in school. Your teacher has asked you to write an essay.

Learning a foreign language helps students develop a set of important skills. Why should foreign languages be taught in schools?

• new cultures
•  employment
• …………. (your own idea)

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 4 | First (FCE)

You have listened to a radio programme about the problem of widespread starvation in many parts of Africa. Your English teacher has asked you to write an essay.

In many parts of Africa, people are dying of starvation and lack of freshwater. Can these problems be solved?

• lack of organised farming
• …….. …….. (your own idea)

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 5 | First (FCE)

You have watched a video on a non-profit organisation working to stop the use of animals for testing medicines used by human beings. Now, your professor has asked you to write an essay.

Testing on animals is a standard in scientific research. What is the best way to deal with this problem?

• animals suffer
• outdated form of research
• …… ……..  (your own idea)

Get Your (FCE) Essay Checked!

B2 - essay topic / question 6 | first (fce).

You have listened to a radio programme about deforestation, the cutting down of trees in many wild areas around the world. Now, your English teacher has asked you to write an essay.

Many forests around the world are being destroyed for agricultural, commercial, or housing use without allowing time for the forests to regenerate themselves. What can be done to improve the situation?

• what contributes to the greenhouse effect
• ………. (your own idea)

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 7 | First (FCE)

In your English class, you have been talking about endangered species, animals or plants that will likely become extinct. Your English teacher has asked you to write an essay.

Around the world, many wildlife species are in danger of extinction. How can we protect endangered animals?

• hunting wild animals
• ………..  (your own idea)

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 8 | First (FCE)

You have watched a Youtube video about the problem of computer game addiction in children. Your English teacher has asked you to write an essay.

More and more young people spend most of their time playing computer games. How can we help children to overcome this addiction?

• bad grades at school
• no social life
• ………… (your own idea)

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 9 | First (FCE)

You have listened to a radio programme about the impact of smoking on people’s health. Now, your English teacher has asked you to write an essay.

Smoking is responsible for many health problems throughout the world. Do you think it should be made illegal?

• lung cancer
•  passive smoking
• ……………… (your own idea)

FCE, CAE, CPE

More than practice tests, b2 - essay topic / question 10 | first (fce).

In your English class, you have been talking about the problem of obesity in young people. Now your English teacher has asked you to write an essay.

In Europe and the USA a lot of young people have an obesity problem. What can be done to solve this problem?

• (your own idea)

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 11 | First (FCE)

Has technology made a positive contribution to sport today?

• The use of technology to improve performance
• The use of technology in refereeing decisions

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 12 | First (FCE)

It is better to work at home than in an office. Do you agree?

• Contact with people
• Working hours

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 13 | First (FCE)

Life is harder for young people now than in the past. Do you agree?

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 14 | First (FCE)

Is it better to go shopping in small local businesses or large out-of-town shopping centres?

• Where things are cheaper
• Where service is better

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 15 | First (FCE)

Is it better to spend a summer holiday in the countryside or on the coast?

• Leisure options

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 16 | First (FCE)

Your teacher has asked you to write your response to the following statement taken from a recent newspaper article:

Do you agree that community service works better than fines?

• effort and time
• lesson learned
• ………………(your own idea)

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 17 | First (FCE)

Is it true that we help the environment when we plant a tree?

• clear the air
•  ………….( your own idea)

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 18 | First (FCE)

Nowadays children are suffering from obesity, that was once considered to be meant for adults only. What are its causes and what solutions can be offered?

• busy lifestyle

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 19 | First (FCE)

Is it better to be the oldest or the youngest in a family?

• role of older sibling

B2 - Essay Topic / Question 20 | First (FCE)

Modern lifestyles can seriously endanger our health.

Do you agree?

• physical activity
• …….. (your own choice)

B2 First (FCE) Essay: Download (PDF)

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B2 first (fce) essay: assessement criteria.

Your essay will be assessed according to these four criteria:

What is your level of English?

• Kids Learning
• Class 2 Essay

Essays For Class 2

Creative essay writing is considered one of the most effective ways to encourage kids to utilise their creative minds and use their imagination while writing an essay on a given topic. Reading and writing essays for Class 2 will enhance their mental ability to come up with alternative ways to write an essay.

Writing an essay for Class 2 broadens their thought processes and helps in improving their problem-solving and analysis skills. As young learners start writing an essay for Class 2 in English, it helps them to assess their thinking power and talent along with their writing prowess.

For a youngster, composing an essay or paragraph for Class 2 in English is like a golden opportunity to express his/her views about a topic in black and white and aids in understanding and analysing his/her writing expertise.

Here we bring you a list of English essays for Class 2 that kids would enjoy writing. This will help them to enhance their creativity and broaden their mindset and intellect.

List of Essay topics for Class 2:

What’s unique about the essays provided by us.

• The language of the essay has been kept quite simple and compelling.
• Each essay has been divided into 10 concise lines so that kids find the essays easy to understand.
• For each topic, all its important aspects have been covered. 
• The essays have been drafted and verified by our team of subject-matter experts in order to bring the most appropriate essays for your little one.

Writing an essay for Class 2, however, encourages young learners to exercise their own thinking ability and expand their imagination in weaving their ideas into simple words.

As kids gradually understand the importance of reading essays for Class 2, they become more competent and proficient in understanding a topic of interest and look forward to writing a paragraph in a standard English format.

Writing an essay for Class 2 helps children improve their communication skills and vocabulary. Kids can be given a few essay topics for grade 2 and asked to choose one. Later, you can ask them to write a simple paragraph or 10 lines essay. In addition, you can also let them explore topics and compose an essay. By doing this, they feel confident and remember the new words they have learnt. You can also let the kids choose random topics to write an essay, and help them find appropriate words to form meaningful sentences. A solid vocabulary plays an important role in building a child’s communication skills.

You can explore a huge variety of topics in English essays for grade 2. Take a look at our Kids Learning section, and you will find the best learning materials for kids .

Search Essays by Class:

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IELTS Preparation with Liz: Free IELTS Tips and Lessons, 2024

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• Writing Task 1
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100 IELTS Essay Questions

Below are practice IELTS essay questions and topics for writing task 2. The 100 essay questions have been used many times over the years. The questions are organised under common topics and essay types. IELTS often use the similar topics for their essays but change the wording of the essay question.

In order to prepare well for writing task 2, you should prepare ideas for common topics and then practise applying them to the tasks given (to the essay questions). Also see model essays and tips  for writing task 2.

Below you will find:

• Essay Questions By Topic
• Essay Questions by Essay Type

Please also note that my new Grammar E-book is now available in my store along with my Ideas for Essay Topics E-book and Advanced Writing Lessons. To visit store, click here: Liz’s Store

1) Common IELTS Essay Questions

IELTS practice essay questions divided by topic. These topics have been reported by IELTS students in their tests. Essay questions have been recreated as accurately as possible.

• Art   (5 essay questions)
• Business & Money   (17 essay questions)
• Communication & Personality   (20 essay questions)
• Crime & Punishment   (12 essay questions)
• Education   (17 essay questions)
• Environment   (12 essay questions)
• Family & Children   (8 essay questions)
• Food & Diet (13 essay questions)
• Government (6 essay questions)
• Health   (9 essay questions)
• Housing, Buildings & Urban Planning (8 essay questions)
• Language (6 essay questions)
• Leisure (1 essay question)
• Media & Advertising   (12 essay questions)
• Reading  (5 essay questions)
• Society   (10 essay questions)
• Space Exploration (3 questions)
• Sport & Exercise   (6 essay questions)
• Technology  (6 essay questions)
• Tourism and Travel   (11 essay questions)
• Transport  (7 essay questions)
• Work (17 essay questions)

2) IELTS Essay Questions by Essay Type 

There are 5 main types of essay questions in IELTS writing task 2 (opinion essays, discussion essay, advantage/disadvantage essays, solution essay and direct question essays). Click on the links below to see some sample essay questions for each type.

• Opinion Essay Questions
• Discussion Essay Questions
• Solution Essay Questions
• Direct Questions Essay Titles 
• Advantage / Disadvantage Essay Questions

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• Secondary 2 English

10 Common Secondary 2 Composition Topics And How To Achieve Good Grades?

• March 26, 2021
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Table of Contents

What are some of the most used topics? For secondary 2, the genre is always in descriptive and narrative writing with a hybrid.

Students are expected to write on a variety of descriptive/ narrative topics with hybrid topics comprising of reflective and personal recounts.

Below, we will explore some common topics which require the Secondary 2 student to write confidently and subjectively on several topics which are of personal interest.

Writing on all of these requires one to delve into personal experiences or imagining a personal experience that is relevant.

Secondary 2 Topic #1: What is the importance of honesty?

This topic is a narrative composition about an important value.

For this topic, the student needs to write a story that denotes how a situation evolved to reveal that the honest method was the only way to deal effectively with it.

It should show that to choose to be dishonest would lead to undesirable consequences and how the honest choice was the best as it was the most truthful.

Virtues, principles and the need to be truthful should be revealed as being important character accomplishments.

Secondary 2 Topic #2: Your first day in secondary school

This topic is a descriptive composition. The first day is all about observing important activities, encounters with people and learning within the education spectrum.

It should be informative, lively and above all, reflect one’s own engagement with others on different levels. There should also be observations made about learning some fundamental principles which will make an impact on oneself.

Secondary 2 Topic #3: A friend who helped you when you were in trouble

This topic is a narrative topic and it should have a well developed plot. A friend helping oneself is about providing a back story and tracing the path to a climax where something of great urgency developed.

Then, the gradual realisation of the great truth in finding that the friend was such an important and valuable person. All these should be reflected in the narrative story.

Secondary 2 Topic #4: How did a community event teach you important values

This topic is about a community event teaching one values. This is a hybrid topic where the community event is descriptive but the teaching of values is very subjective so it becomes reflective.

Describing a community event means to find a useful topic where the event can actually help one to realise these values. It can be a learning experience through active participation.

Eg. Learning how teamwork is very useful or realising that one’s neighbours can be very kind and helpful people.

Secondary 2 Topic #5: How an act of kindness affected you

This topic is a learning event. This is a narrative and reflective topic about an act of kindness shown by someone to you which made you realise something of great value.

It should reflect a truth and display how you matured and became more insightful. Compositions like these are some of the best ways to score really well if you choose to write on an original sounding story with a twist.

This will create that moment of realisation and sinking in of that truth.

Secondary 2 Topic #6: Write about a time when you experienced a difficult challenge

This topic is one of the most common topics. Practising this narrative composition topic really well will be of great use as it usually appears in examination papers even up till the ‘O’ levels.

The trick in this question is to choose that difficult challenge. It should not be too common or too easy to accomplish. Neither should it be too difficult or out of the bounds of the ordinary.

The challenge should reveal how it caused you moments of anguish when you had to work hard to overcome it.

Secondary 2 Topic #7: Write about losing something of value to yourself

This topic is a narrative topic and it should be all about that ‘thing’ of value. This should not be too simple and it most certainly should be a sentimental object.

How did losing it affect you so much that you could not bear to be without it? The topic says losing something of value to ‘yourself’. This means that it is personal.

Therefore, choosing a suitable item is very important.

Secondary 2 Topic #8: How did advice from a parent teach you something of value?

This topic is a reflective and narrative topic. It is about parental advice which was valuable.

A story should be written to show the flow from how it all began to the culmination of the climax where the realisation of that usefulness of that advice is seen.

The advice should reflect how useful it was to oneself and how that became such a help in the future. There should be gratitude and a sense of accomplishment by the end of this story.

Secondary 2 Topic #9: An unforgettable holiday

An unforgettable holiday is another very popular topic. It could be transposed with another unforgettable type of experience such as a birthday or trip.

Choosing that destination and ‘who’ goes along with oneself should be given careful thought.

A sketch of the outline of this narrative story should be done to avoid going out of point as is commonly done. It should not be too descriptive as the key word is ‘unforgettable’.

That means something of value happened which resonated with oneself. This means care should be taken to explore this.

Secondary 2 Topic #10: Write about some of the most important qualities you admire

This topic is also very common. Some of the qualities you admire are narrative and reflective. Why you admire it should be very subjective and therefore, narrative.

The reflective part is about the person or people who possess these values. Learning from them is a reflective experience and should prove to be a learning point.

It could be that one person or more but they should be in a ‘role model’ position or a place one could aspire to reach.

This concludes the subject of the most common secondary 2 compositions. These have surfaced time and again in tests, school exams and final exams.

Practising these will ensure that you have a firm control of the writing paper and your grades will be at the top range.

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ENGL001: English Composition I

Unit 2: what makes academic writing unique.

University students need to know how to write an effective academic essay. At its core, any academic essay is essentially an argument. This does not mean you are penning a series of aggressive verbal attacks; rather, you are using language to persuade someone to adopt a certain perspective.

For example, you may be asked to write an essay on how the revolution changed the culture in your country. Your response is an argument, in which you try to persuade your audience that the war changed cultural norms in three or four specific ways. As you create your argument, think about your writing as a conversation between yourself and an audience.

The way you choose to build and support your argument has a great deal to do with how you see yourself as part of the conversation. If you envision your work as a response to an existing prompt, the reader with whom you are "speaking" should shape the way you write.

For example, imagine someone asks you why a politician acted in a certain way. You will probably respond in one way if the questioner is your five-year-old cousin, another way if they are a friend who is your same age, and yet another if they are your boss. You should approach every writing project with this same awareness of audience. Keep these ideas about argument and conversation in mind as we explore how to develop an academic essay.

The rhetorical situation we discussed in Unit 1 should influence the argument you choose, the type of essay you write, and the way you organize your ideas. In Unit 2 we review these issues in detail and discuss a highly-structured approach to writing an argument. By the end of this unit, you should be ready to write an academic essay.

Throughout Unit 2 we ask you to complete a number of activities which will culminate in writing an argumentative essay. Choose one point you promoted in your Unit 1 essay topic and develop it further. The assigned topic for the Unit 2 activities and the essay is how your selected activity or characteristic affects success in an Internet-based college course.

Completing this unit should take you approximately 11 hours.

Upon successful completion of this unit, you will be able to:

• identify various genres in academic writing;
• identify and practice developing the essential components of a written argument;
• identify academic tone;
• explain how academic writing is a conversation between different writers and researchers:
• practice techniques for identifying the rhetorical situation and forming persuasive rhetorical appeals;
• demonstrate competence in various rhetorical strategies and logical structures by developing, analyzing, and revising original essays; and
• practice techniques for using research to support various logical structures and rhetorical strategies, including analysis, discussion, and comparison/contrast.

Throughout this unit, you will be asked to complete a number of activities that build up to writing an argumentative essay. Select one point from your Unit 1 essay topic and develop it further. The topic the essay in this unit is:

"How does my selected activity or characteristic affect success in an Internet-based college course?"

2.1: Argument and Thesis

How will you inform or persuade your audience? For example, is your purpose of your research paper to offer background information or to frame an argument so your audience will render a judgment regarding an historical event or current practice? Perhaps you are writing to persuade your audience to change its previous beliefs or to act in a certain way to improve their lives or help them avoid a certain danger.

What information does your audience need to know to make a decision or render a point of view? What opinions do they already have about your topic? How will you persuade them – do you want them to simply agree with your argument, or are you trying to provoke them to act in a certain way?

These study materials review how you can present your argument to your readers. You may also wish to review  Research Writing and Argument  from Unit 1.

Read this article and review the list of academic genres you could be expected to write in.

2.1.1: Creating an Argument

Read this article about how to craft an argument.

Read this article and complete the exercises to learn about crafting a guiding idea or a thesis statement, depending on the genre of writing. Every essay needs a main point, regardless of the genre. How are the guiding idea and the thesis statement different?

2.1.2: Warrant – How Do Your Reasons Support Your Claim?

Read article on the parts of an argument, especially warrants. How do warrants differ from reasons and evidence?

In this practice exercise, create a warrant you might use to help make your case in the argumentative essay you will write for this unit:

2.1.3: Qualify Your Claim

Read this article to review the Toulmin method and qualifiers. Do you need to qualify your claim to avoid overgeneralization (assertions that are too broad)?

In this practice exercise, write an introductory paragraph in which you develop a claim that will later be the basis for your Unit 2 essay:

Remember to include a strong thesis statement, which is a one-sentence claim or argument of the position you will take in your essay. Try to go beyond simply announcing your topic and listing the discussion points you plan to make in the body of your paper; keep in mind that you will work to prove your thesis in the body of your essay.

2.2: An Overview of Academic Genres

2.2.1: personal narrative.

Read this article, which looks at an example of a personal narrative. How does this type of writing differ from literary analysis or a research paper? When is this type of writing appropriate?

2.2.2: Comparison and Contrast

Read this article to learn about compare and contrast essays. How is this form of writing important beyond the classroom? Attempt the exercises to test your understanding.

In this practice exercise, sketch a comparison outline for your essay topic from the perspective of a comparison essay. The topic is:

What topics would you be comparing, and why? Think also about how you would adapt your claim according to these comparisons.

2.2.3: Cause and Effect Analysis

Read this article to learn about cause and effect and how it compares to correlation. How can type of writing help you beyond the classroom? What professions rely on cause and effect reasoning?

Read this article to learn how cause and effect can influence your writing.

In this practice exercise, sketch an outline for your essay topic from the perspective of a causation essay. The topic is:

What would be the causes of your claim? What would be the effects of the claim? Adapt your claim accordingly.

2.2.4: Academic Tone

Read this article on using an academic tone in your writing. Why is it important to use appropriate academic language in college-level writing?

In this practice exercise, read an article, either online or in print, that discusses a current event. Identify the author's claim, audience, purpose, and tone.

In three to five paragraphs, explain your reaction to the article. For example, you might consider the following questions:

• Do you agree with the author's claim?
• Do you think you are a member of the intended audience?
• Does the tone of the article seem appropriate to the intended audience and purpose?
• If not, what would you change to better accomplish the author's purpose?

After you complete this activity, identify the audience of your own argumentative essay. The topic is:

"How does my selected activity or characteristic impact success in an Internet-based college course?"

2.3: Academic Writing as an Ongoing Conversation

Read this article to learn how conversations develop over time and how writers enter into a conversation when making claims in their writing. As you begin to write, keep the questions in this article in mind to help you consider how you might add new insights to the conversation through your writing. How can considering the conversation about your topic help during the research process of your writing?

2.4: Organizing Ideas

2.4.1: introduction – the funnel approach.

Read this article to learn more about the role of introductions and effective strategies for developing your opening paragraph. The introduction is the most important part of an essay because it provides first impressions for your audience. In general, your introduction should provide an overview of your topic and should lead into your thesis statement. Try using one of the "attention grabber" suggestions in the reading for the exercise below.

In this practice exercise, use the prewriting and writing techniques you know from Unit 1 to write an introductory paragraph for your essay for this unit. The topic is:

2.4.2: Body – the Skeleton of Your Paper

Read this article, which will help you understand how to organize paragraphs in the body of your essay to help make your paragraphs cohesive and to smoothly transition between one discussion point to the next. Keep in mind that the paragraphs in the body of your essay should work to prove or address your main purpose or argument set out by your thesis statement.

Read this article about the PIE method of structuring and organizing body paragraphs. This method breaks a paragraph into three parts: the point, the illustration, and the explanation. By using this method, you can keep your paragraphs focused and connected to your thesis.

2.4.3: Conclusion – What is in the Conclusion, and What is Not?

Read this article on how to write a conclusion. Conclusions can be just as important as introductions. A conclusion provides the last opportunity to make your point to your audience. Which of the strategies provided in the reading do you feel would make the strongest conclusion? Which strategy would be best for an argumentative essay and why?

In this practice exercise, use the prewriting and writing techniques you know from Unit 1 to write a concluding paragraph for your essay for this unit. The topic is:

2.5: The Anatomy of a Sentence

This is the first of two "Grammar Capsules" in this course. While the writing process is primarily concerned with the big issues of an essay (the thesis and argument, supporting evidence, organized thoughts, and so on), you want to be sure your writing is easy to read. This grammar capsule and the one in the next unit will cover common grammar and punctuation errors found in academic writing. Take your time through these capsules and make sure you're comfortable with the concepts before moving on.

2.5.1: Subjects and Predicates

Read this article to learn about the components that make a complete sentence. Every sentence needs a subject (noun or pronoun) and a predicate (verb). What is the subject of an imperative sentence? Pick a literary work, article, or one of your own essays, and try to identify the subject and predicate in 5–10 different sentences.

2.5.2: Parsing the Constituents of a Sentence

Read this article. Varying sentence structure in your writing helps your writing flow for your audience and can help keep your readers' interest.

2.5.3: Identifying Fragments and Run-On Sentences

Read this article on sentence fragments.

Read this article on run-on sentences.

If you feel you need additional help with fragments and run-ons, read this guide.

2.5.4: Subject-Verb Agreement

Subject-verb disagreement, where the conjugation of the verb does not match the point of view (first, second, or third) and number (singular or plural) of the subject, is a common error in writing.

Review this page on subject-verb agreement.

2.5.5: Verb Tenses

Read this article about when to use the present simple, past simple, and present perfect verb tenses. A common mistake in writing is to shift verb tenses, such as by writing in the present tense and then shifting to the past tense. To avoid this, try to choose the appropriate verb tense and use it consistently throughout your writing.

Unit 2 Essay

Write an essay (500 to 1,000 words) in which you assert and defend your opinion on the topic for this unit:

Use the prewriting techniques we reviewed in Unit 1 to develop a thesis for your paper and identify supporting reasons and evidence for your argument. Try to develop a rough outline that you can flesh out to create a first draft. When you have completed your first draft, use the questions in the Toulmin method to evaluate your argument. Then, revise your essay as needed to reflect the results of your analysis.

Reading aloud to yourself can help you finalize your work when you do not have someone else to edit or grade it for you. As you read, jot notes about anything that does not seem to fit logically or that sounds incorrect to you.

Unit 2 Assessment

Take this assessment to see how well you understood this unit.

• This assessment does not count towards your grade . It is just for practice!
• You will see the correct answers when you submit your answers. Use this to help you study for the final exam!
• You can take this assessment as many times as you want, whenever you want.

EnglishComposition.Org

Be a Better Writer

What is English Composition?

English Composition is a course designed to improve your reading, writing, and critical thinking skills. You are usually required to take the course during your first year of college, often broken into two sections. Typical course titles include English Composition 1 & 2 or 101 & 102, but the course titles and course requirements vary considerably.

The goal of English Composition is to teach students how to read and write effectively.

What to Expect in an English Composition Course

English composition courses teach you how to use language and other communicative elements (e.g., visual elements) for a variety of purposes. Whether it's learning how to write an essay or research paper, speak confidently in class, or work on group projects, the skills taught in these courses can help you succeed in college and beyond. You'll be able to build your professional prospects with valuable analytical ability and communication skills. Composition courses almost universally address the aforementioned skills, though they vary a great deal in the types of assignments and projects they assign to students in order to promote development of these skills. 

Learning Outcomes from an ENG 101 Course - Example

By the end of the course, students will...

1. Use writing for learning, thinking and communicating to solve problems, draw logical conclusions and create innovative ideas.  

2. Identify and evaluate the main idea, major points and supporting details in a text, film, image or presentation.

3. Identify and evaluate the author's rhetorical choices in a text, film, image or presentation.

4. Differentiate between credible and noncredible sources and select appropriate sources for the writing task.

5. Identify multiple viewpoints pertaining to a given topic and engage in verbal or written discussion of those viewpoints.

6. Recognize writing as a recursive process of inventing, planning, drafting, revising and editing, and employ these strategies in written work.

7. Collaborate with instructor and peers to evaluate written work and incorporate feedback into one's writing.

8. Learn to recognize and adapt content, form, style and tone to the audience, purpose, context and requirements of a composition assignment.

9. Organize one's writing logically using a thesis statement and other organizational strategies such as topic sentences, transitions, and/or specific introductory and conclusion techniques to create cohesive, clear writing.

10. Integrate research into written work.

11. Define plagiarism and avoid plagiarism in written work and oral presentations through proper quoting, paraphrasing and summarizing.

12. Use an appropriate system of documentation in written work, such as MLA, APA, or Chicago Style.

13. Employ the conventions of standard written English and grammar, language usage, punctuation, word choice and style.

Learning Outcomes from an ENG 102 Course - Example

1. Replicate the outcomes for ENG 101 in more complex discursive samples with particular attention to interpretation, analysis and synthesis, while emphasizing analytical reading and writing, critical thinking, logical forms of reasoning and research methodologies.

2. Demonstrate the ability to adapt language and rhetoric that serves a persuasive purpose in written argument and anticipates audience considerations.

3. Demonstrate proficiency at incorporating source material into written work through the use of sophisticated research strategies to locate both primary and secondary sources in scholarly research. All sources are properly documented to avoid plagiarism.

4. Demonstrate an understanding of logical, ethical and emotional appeals in written and oral discourse and evaluate the impact of such appeals in a given rhetorical situation.

5. Identify and evaluate the claim, grounds and warrants in a given work for logical progression of thought and quality of argument.

6. Define and identify examples of logical fallacies in a given work and explain how they weaken the claim and/or support for the argument/analysis.

7. Explain inductive and deductive forms of logic and explain how arguments are constructed around these logical forms of reasoning.

8. Assess and interpret visual arguments in a variety of media as a form of textual analysis. Media can include film, photo journalism, print advertisements, billboards, commercials or other visual representations of argument.

9. Summarize, analyze, and critically evaluate both published and student-written arguments.

10. Utilize standard written English, language usage, punctuation, word choice, style and grammar within the conventions of academic writing.

11. Demonstrate the ability to present academic work in an appropriate system of documentation.

Types of Assignments in English Composition 

English Composition is a course that teaches you how to analyze a variety of texts through close reading and constructing meaningful arguments and critiques using textual evidence from a wide range of credible sources .

Unsurprisingly, essays are one of the most common types of writing assignments in the composition course. Being able to write a decent essay is essential to your success in the modern academic environment. There are many different types of essays; here are some of the kind you are likely to see:

• Narrative Essay
• Reflective Essay
• Descriptive Essay
• Explanatory Essay
• Compare and Contrast Essay
• Evaluation/Analytical Essay
• Process Essay
• The Problem/Solutions Essay
• Persuasive/Argumentative Essasy
• The Research Paper
• Rogerian Essay

Formal essays are a large portion of your grade in any college-level writing class. You may be required to write several different types of essays on a variety of topics. Though there is overlap in the characteristics that define these essays, you will find they are distinguished by their preferences for certain organizational arrangements and modes of discourse . 

English Composition and Career Success

The ability to write and communicate well is now the core of many professional career paths. Employers want writers who can promote their product or service through compelling language, narrative, tone, style, and grammar. Those with good writing skills are a hot commodity in today's job market since they can also increase productivity by creating effective marketing materials, such as sales pages on websites or brochures intended for clients.

Employers may seek out those with strong English composition abilities even if they have experience in an entirely different field because it indicates that they will likely be able to adapt easily to new areas of work without extensive (and expensive) re-training.

English composition is also closely linked with other important 21st century skill sets such as critical thinking, analytical reasoning, and communication since it requires that students learn how to form arguments using facts, while being coherent enough that others will understand their points of view clearly. These skills are becoming increasingly valuable assets to employers who need employees who are both competent and creative.  

What are some ways to improve your English Composition skills?

First, you should read more. A wealth of knowledge is readily available on the internet and in free or low-cost ebooks. Reading will help you improve your vocabulary, grammar, spelling, punctuation skills, and your writing style. Second, you should study grammar rules, but don't fall into the trap of believing that good grammar equals good writing. Rather, keep in mind that most important skills a writer needs are analytical and rhetorical. You should expand and refine your knowledge of grammar and style as you build your rhetorical skills.  Third, you should write, and then write some more. Writing is—in a way—its own language, and you can't get better at a language without practice. Immerse yourself in the practice of writing, and not just for school assignments. Keep a journal, write to friends on social media or in email exchanges. When you combine consistent reading with consistent writing, you will accelerate your development as a writer.

5 Excellent University Writing Websites for English Composition Students

An Online Writing Lab (OWL) is a website or an online resource designed to help students improve their writing skills and be successful in their writing-intensive courses across the curriculum. A good OWL will support students at every stage of the writing process and provide resources for a variety of writing situations.

Most colleges and universities offer some type of writing lab or resource center, though not always online—here are 5 of the best online writing labs you will find. 

1. The Excelsior Online Writing Lab

The Excelsior online writing lab may be the most extensive college writing lab in terms of interactive resources, hosting a vast range of H5P -based content, such as interactive slides, quizzes, and videos—in addition to numerous web articles. It's a great resource for both students and instructors of writing. The following video provides an overview of their site, and also illustrates the quality of their video resources. 

2. Purdue OWL

One of the most trusted online writing labs, and certainly the most visited, Purdue University's online writing lab offers an impressive vault of writing resources. Unfortunately, its greatest strength is also its biggest challenge, which is in trying to maintain a clean, organized presentation of so much information. Ads, pop-ups, and layout issues distract from an already daunting organizational scheme, but it has a search box and terrific sitemap to counter these issues.  

3. Colorado State University

Another fantastic website for writers and instructors is Colorado State University's writing resource page . Here you will find a generous and impressive number of guides, articles, writing samples, and links to additional resources for writers, including a collection of open-source textbooks on writing.

As with the Purdue OWL, navigating the site could pose a challenge, but it does provide a much less distracting reading environment. 

4. The Writing Center - UNC at Chapel Hill

User-friendly and extensive in its coverage of academic writing topics, the Writing Center by University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is easily one of the best you'll see online—bookmark it if you're a student or teacher.

The Tips and Tools section is well organized and easy to use. Each of the topics is covered in great detail—the topic pages are good enough to be assigned reading or given as handouts in class if you're a writing teacher. 

With a few exceptions, the content pages illustrate important characteristics of online writing, such as the use of headings, bullet points, and white space. This page about blogging is a good example. 

You'll also find video icons next to the topics that include videos to supplement the instruction. 

5. Duke - Thompson Writing Program

Duke's Thompson Writing Program provides and curates a laudable selection of writing resources on its website . Many of their resources take the form of handouts, which makes the content convenient for teachers and students who want or need to work with print copies. 

The Writing Center - University of Wisconsin Madison

The Writing Center at UW-Madison provides an online writer's handbook covering an extensive list of topics to assist student writers with academic and professional writing—many of which can be printed as handouts. 

Note : their content menu is in the right panel of the webpage—most sites display menus on the left or on top of the page, while showing related or popular links on the right—so don't be thrown off; use the right-side menu to navigate topics (This advice applies to desktop browsers—the layout on mobile browsers was not tested).  

10 Reasons Students Drop Out of Composition Class

And finally, here's an entertaining video in which one particular English instructor combines the genres of the listicle, personal rant, and talking-head explainer video to help English students avoid common pitfalls—you might ask your own English teacher or professor for their top 10, as each will have their own preferences...and personalities :  ) 

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University Writing Program

Unit 2 essay: topics in morality, research proposal.

Good research is driven by analytical questions. However, in order to know what questions to ask, it is necessary to learn what research already exists on your topic. What are the gaps in the literature? What conflicts exist? Why do these questions matter? How will you manage to insert yourself into the larger conversation on your topic?

Therefore, in preparation for the draft of the multi-source research paper, please prepare a research proposal. As noted on the syllabus, the research proposal is not graded for quality, but on completion. If you fully execute all requested components of the proposal, you will receive full credit (10% of the final grade).

Your proposal should include the following sections, preferably in this order:

Introduction to the project (~1 paragraph)

Provide an introduction to your chosen topic. Attempt to frame for the reader what you’re planning to explore and why this topic is interesting. There likely will not be a thesis yet, since your research will not be complete (but there could be a preliminary thesis).

Preliminary literature review (~1-2 pages)

Based on your preliminary foray into the literature, synthesize for the reader what you have learned about your topic. What does the initial literature seem to show? What questions are unanswered? What conflicts or contradictions exist in the literature (e.g., many cultures find infidelity to be immoral – though not all – but some evidence suggests humans are predisposed to cheat)? Don’t be afraid of complications – messiness is an opportunity to intervene. NOTE: you should be citing the literature at the sentence-level in this section.

Library research method (~1 page)

How will you research this topic? What types of searches will you want to do? What information will you seek out? What keywords might you use? Are you interested in exploring sources outside of the sciences? Don’t rush past this section – really consider your plan for your research.

Significance / motive (~1-2 paragraphs)

What do you hope to accomplish with your research? What is the larger motivation for exploring this topic? Why does the research matter? Think about why a reader might want to know about this topic.

Weekly timeline (~1/2 page)

In order to facilitate your research over the remainder of the semester, please come up with a week-by-week plan for how you will approach your research. What do you plan to do each week? Be specific.

March 22-28:                                  (Conferences this week)

March 29-April 4: April 5-11: April 11 – Draft due April 12-18:                                    (Conferences this week) April 19-25:                                    (Spring break this week) April 26-May 2: May 5 – Revision due

Annotated bibliography (minimum of 3-4 sources)

In addition to providing a list of the sources you have included thus far (in APA format), please include a sentence or two explaining how each source informs your research topic. For example: Lieberman, D., Tooby, J. and Cosmides, L. 2003. Does morality have a biological basis? An empirical test of the factors governing moral sentiments relating to incest. Proceedings of the Royal Society of London B 270: 819-826. This article shows how people have an aversion to sexual interactions with people that they grow up with. This argument conflicts with arguments that people avoid partners that look like themselves. Due: Thursday, March 21st, by 5 pm (via LATTE) 

Student quote: “I feel that this proposal was able to really ground my thoughts pertaining to what I want to do with this essay. Before writing it, I did not have a very good idea of the direction that I wanted to go in, but the proposal really allowed me to think about it in depth and generate ideas for the paper.”

Elissa Jacobs

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The IELTS Writing Task 2: The second portion of the writing test, known as IELTS Writing Task 2, asks you to produce an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem. Your essay should be written in a formal tone, be at least 250 words long, and take no more than 40 minutes to finish.

Table of Content

IELTS Writing Task 2- Format

1. task question, 2. word limit, 4. response structure, 5. evaluation criteria, difference between ielts writing task 2- academic vs general, understanding the evaluation criteria, common ielts writing task 2 topics, band descriptors ielts writing task 2, ielts essay types for writing task 2, ielts writing task 2 preparation tips, ielts writing task 2 sample, ielts writing task 2- faqs, what are indigenous cultures and languages, why is it important to protect indigenous cultures and languages, what are some challenges in protecting indigenous cultures and languages, what role can governments play in protecting indigenous cultures and languages, are there any potential drawbacks to prioritizing the protection of indigenous cultures and languages.

• You will be presented with a topic or statement related to a contemporary issue or problem.
• The task question may ask you to discuss a particular problem, present a solution, evaluate a situation, or provide your opinion on a given topic.
• You are expected to write at least 250 words for the IELTS Writing Task 2.
• It is advisable to write within the range of 250300 words, as responses shorter than 250 words are penalized, and longer responses do not necessarily receive higher scores.
• 3. Time Allotment:
• You have 40 minutes to complete the IELTS Writing Task 2.
• Your response should be structured as an essay with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• The introduction should provide an overview of the topic and outline the main points you will discuss.
• The body paragraphs should develop your ideas and arguments, with one main idea per paragraph supported by relevant examples or evidence.
• The conclusion should summarize your main points and provide a final perspective on the topic.
• Your response will be evaluated based on four criteria: Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource (vocabulary), and Grammatical Range and Accuracy.
• You should aim to address all parts of the task question, present a clear and coherent argument, use a wide range of vocabulary accurately, and demonstrate a good command of grammar and sentence structures.

Must Read: IELTS Academic vs General Tests – What’s the Difference?

The IELTS Writing Task 2 covers a wide range of topics related to contemporary issues and problems. Here are some common topics that frequently appear in the IELTS Writing Task 2:

1. Education:

• The role of technology in education
• The importance of extracurricular activities
• The advantages and disadvantages of single gender schools

2. Environment:

• Climate change and its impacts
• Sustainable development and environmental conservation
• The use of renewable energy sources
• The impact of lifestyle choices on health
• The role of government in promoting public health
• The advantages and disadvantages of alternative medicine

4. Society and Culture:

• The effects of globalization on local cultures
• The impact of social media on human interactions
• The role of religion in modern society

5. Technology:

• The advantages and disadvantages of artificial intelligence
• The impact of technology on employment and job markets
• The role of technology in communication and information sharing

6. Urbanization and Transportation:

• The challenges of urban growth and city planning
• The benefits and drawbacks of public transportation
• The impact of transportation on the environment

7. Crime and Justice:

• The causes and prevention of crime
• The effectiveness of different types of punishment
• The role of the criminal justice system in society

8. Economics and Business:

• The impact of globalization on international trade
• The role of advertising in influencing consumer behavior
• The advantages and disadvantages of outsourcing

9. Government and Politics:

• The importance of freedom of speech and press
• The role of government in regulating the economy
• The impact of immigration on societies

10. Arts and Culture:

• The importance of preserving cultural heritage
• The role of art in society
• The impact of censorship on artistic expression

In the IELTS Writing Task 2, candidates are required to write an essay in response to a prompt or question. There are several common types of essays that may appear in Task 2:

1. Argumentative/Opinion Essays: These essays require candidates to express their opinion on a given topic and support it with reasons and examples. They often involve discussing both sides of an issue and presenting a clear argument in favor of one viewpoint.

2. Discussion/Two-sided Essays: Similar to argumentative essays, discussion essays require candidates to discuss both sides of an issue before expressing their opinion or preference. They need to provide balanced arguments and consider opposing viewpoints.

3. Advantages and Disadvantages Essays : In these essays, candidates need to discuss the pros and cons of a particular issue, situation, or trend. They should provide examples to illustrate each point and offer a balanced analysis.

4. Problem-Solution Essays: These essays involve identifying a problem or issue, discussing its causes and effects, and proposing possible solutions or measures to address it. Candidates need to present logical arguments and support their solutions with evidence.

5. Cause and Effect Essays: Cause and effect essays focus on analyzing the reasons behind a specific phenomenon or event and its subsequent effects. Candidates should clearly outline the causal relationships and provide relevant examples.

6. Comparison/Contrast Essays: These essays require candidates to compare and contrast two or more ideas, concepts, or approaches. They should highlight similarities and differences and draw conclusions based on their analysis.

7. Process Essays: Process essays explain a sequence of steps or actions involved in a particular process, such as how to do something or how something works. Candidates need to provide clear explanations and use appropriate transition words to guide the reader through each step.

8. Agree/Disagree Essays: In these essays, candidates are given a statement or opinion, and they need to express whether they agree or disagree with it. They should support their stance with reasons and examples.

IELTS Writing Task 2 preparation tips to help you improve your performance:

1. Understand the Task Question

• Read the task question carefully and identify the key components, such as the topic, the instructions (e.g., discuss, evaluate, give your opinion), and any specific aspects to be addressed.
• Underline or highlight the essential elements to ensure you address all parts of the question.

2. Plan Your Essay

• Spend a few minutes planning your essay before you start writing.
• Brainstorm ideas and organize them into an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Develop a clear thesis statement and main points to guide your essay.

3. Manage Your Time

• Allocate your time wisely, allowing enough time for planning, writing, and reviewing.
• Aim to spend around 510 minutes planning, 2530 minutes writing, and 5 minutes reviewing and making corrections.

4. Use Appropriate Structure and Paragraphing

• Follow a standard essay structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Each body paragraph should focus on one main idea and include supporting details, examples, or evidence.
• Use clear topic sentences and logical transitions between paragraphs.

5. Develop Your Ideas

• Provide relevant and welldeveloped ideas to support your main points.
• Use examples, personal experiences, facts, or hypothetical situations to illustrate your arguments.
• Show critical thinking by analyzing different perspectives and addressing counterarguments.

6. Use Appropriate Language and Vocabulary

• Use a range of appropriate vocabulary related to the topic.
• Vary your sentence structures and avoid repetition.
• Demonstrate your ability to use idiomatic expressions and collocations accurately.

7. Pay Attention to Grammar and Accuracy

• Review and proofread your essay for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, and punctuation issues.
• Ensure subjectverb agreement, correct tense usage, and appropriate word forms.
• Avoid overly complex sentences that may increase the risk of errors.

8. Practice with Sample Questions

• Familiarize yourself with different types of IELTS Writing Task 2 questions by practicing with sample prompts.
• Set a timer and practice writing complete essays under timed conditions.
• Seek feedback from experienced IELTS teachers or online resources to identify areas for improvement.

9. Learn from Model Answers

• Study highscoring model answers to understand the expected level of writing and the organization of ideas.
• Analyze the structure, language use, and development of arguments in these model answers.
• Incorporate effective strategies and techniques into your own writing practice.

10. Stay UptoDate with Current Affairs

• Stay informed about current events, global issues, and debates related to various topics.
• Read reputable news sources, magazines, or online articles to broaden your knowledge and enhance your ability to discuss contemporary topics.

Here is a practice IELTS Writing Task 2 topic for you: Topic: Some people believe that governments should make more efforts to protect indigenous cultures and languages from disappearing. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write at least 250 words discussing both viewpoints and giving your opinion.

• Make a plan before you start writing. Outline your introduction, body paragraphs and conclusion.
• The introduction should paraphrase the topic and outline what will be discussed.
• Discuss both sides of the argument in the body paragraphs. One paragraph arguing for protecting indigenous cultures/languages, one paragraph arguing against or giving the opposite view.
• Use examples, data or personal experiences to support your arguments.
• The conclusion should summarize your main points and give a clear opinion.
• Use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures. Avoid repetition.
• Check for grammar, spelling and punctuation errors.

In conclusion, while protecting indigenous cultures and languages is undoubtedly important for preserving human diversity and heritage, it should be balanced with practical considerations and the interests of the wider community. A nuanced approach that promotes understanding and appreciation while accommodating evolving societal needs is ideal.

Also Read: IELTS Full Form: Check Its Significance IELTS Average Score: Across Worldwide and India IELTS Minimum Score for Top Universities in 2024 IELTS Exam Pattern 2024: Section-wise IELTS Exam Paper Pattern, Question Types

Indigenous cultures and languages refer to the traditional practices, belief systems, and modes of expression of ethnic groups native to a particular region or country.

Protecting indigenous cultures and languages helps preserve unique identities, traditional knowledge, and cultural diversity, which are valuable aspects of human heritage and can contribute to our understanding of history, societies, and the environment.

Challenges include globalization, urbanization, lack of resources, and a shift towards more dominant cultures and languages, which can lead to the erosion of indigenous practices and languages over time.

Governments can implement policies to support the use and teaching of indigenous languages, provide funding for cultural preservation efforts, and promote awareness and appreciation of indigenous cultures through education and media.

Potential drawbacks include the allocation of limited resources towards this effort at the expense of other priorities, the potential for cultural stagnation or resistance to cultural evolution, and the risk of creating divisions or conflicts within diverse societies.

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