good persuasive speech topics call to action

239+ Call To Action Speech Topics to Impress Your Audience

Feb 9, 2024

Feb 9, 2024 | Topics

Crafting an amazing speech that inspires action in your audience can be both exciting and challenging. A compelling call-to-action speech addresses critical issues and motivates people to take meaningful steps. Choosing the right call-to-action speech topics is key to capturing your audience’s attention and spurring them to act. I’ve observed firsthand situations where a well-crafted speech can ignite change and drive a community toward a common goal. Finding the perfect speech ideas that resonate with your audience and align with your message is essential for a successful delivery. Whether writing a persuasive speech for a class assignment or preparing to speak at an event, understanding how to connect with your audience is crucial.

3 Types of Persuasive Speech Topics

Let’s dive into the three types of persuasive speech topics to help you understand how to craft a compelling speech. When it comes to persuasive speech ideas, choosing a topic you’re passionate about and believe will resonate with your audience is important. So, what makes a good topic for a persuasive speech essay? Here are three types to consider:

Issues of Social Importance: Discuss topics affecting your community or society. Do you feel strongly about any pressing social issues, like climate change, mental health awareness, or equality and diversity? These topics for persuasive speech can spark conversations and encourage action among your peers or community members.
Controversial Topics: Delve into subjects that people have strong opinions about, such as gun control, animal rights, or the impact of technology on our lives. When choosing a controversial topic for your speech, it’s important to present both sides of the argument and make a compelling case for your stance.
Personal Growth and Development: Consider topics that focus on personal growth and self-improvement, such as setting goals, overcoming challenges, or building self-confidence. These topics can inspire and motivate your audience to make positive changes in their own lives.

Explore our article on Controversial Speech Topics for thought-provoking discussions and diverse perspectives.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

A good persuasive speech topic captures the interest of your audience and compels them to think critically about the issue at hand. From my perspective, it should be something you feel passionate about and can speak about with conviction. A good persuasive speech topic has enough depth and breadth to allow for a thorough exploration during your speech.

How To Select a Good Persuasive Topic

So, what are some key factors to consider when selecting a persuasive speech topic? Here are a few pointers:

Relevance: A good persuasive speech topic should be relevant to your audience and the current societal context. Please choose a topic that resonates with the experiences and concerns of your audience, making it relatable and meaningful to them.
Controversy or Debate: A good persuasive speech topic often revolves around an issue with multiple viewpoints or differing opinions. Please look for topics that spark debate and discussion, as this can help to engage your audience and encourage them to think about different perspectives.
Significance: A good persuasive speech topic should address an important issue or problem that needs attention. Whether it’s a social, political, or environmental issue, your topic should significantly impact people’s lives or the world at large.
Personal Interest: Choosing a topic that you are genuinely interested in is key to delivering an engaging and persuasive speech. When you are passionate about the subject, it will reflect in your speech, making it more compelling and convincing for your audience.

Be sure to also explore our article on invitational speech essay topics for a comprehensive topics list to engaging and thought-provoking subjects.

How to create and deliver a compelling, persuasive speech

When crafting a persuasive speech, thorough preparation and a strong sense of purpose are key. To the best of my knowledge, here are some essential steps to help you create and deliver a persuasive speech that truly captivates your audience:

Choose a Persuasive Topic: In my honest assessment, the first step is to select a topic you feel passionate about and will resonate with your audience. Consider what issues matter to your audience and what might inspire them to take action or think differently.
Research and Gather Evidence: As I see it, conducting thorough research is crucial. Could you collect credible data, statistics, and examples that support your arguments? Having solid evidence will help you build a strong case for your viewpoint.
Structure Your Speech: Organizing your speech clearly and logically is crucial. Start with an attention-grabbing introduction, present your arguments coherently, and conclude with a powerful call to action that reinforces your main points.
Use Persuasive Language: Using persuasive language and rhetorical devices can make your speech more compelling. Employ techniques like storytelling, emotional appeals, and vivid imagery to connect with your audience emotionally.
Practice and Rehearse: To the best of my knowledge, practice makes perfect. Rehearse your speech multiple times to become comfortable with the content and delivery. Pay attention to your tone, pace, and body language to ensure you appear confident and convincing.

Don’t forget to explore our article on Climate Change Essay Topics for insightful and engaging ideas on addressing this pressing global issue.

Best Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students

Importance of Mental Health Awareness on Campus
Implementing Sustainable Practices in University Facilities
Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Higher Education
The Impact of Social Media on Student Well-being
Addressing the Rising Costs of College Education
Encouraging Active Participation in Campus Community Service
Reducing Plastic Waste and Promoting Eco-Friendly Initiatives
Combatting Sexual Assault and Harassment on College Campuses
The Benefits of Incorporating Mindfulness Practices in Education
Promoting Healthy Lifestyle Choices Among College Students
Raising Awareness about the Dangers of Substance Abuse
Bridging the Gender Pay Gap in the Workplace
Enhancing Access to Mental Health Services for Students
Combating Racial Discrimination and Promoting Equality
The Importance of Financial Literacy Education for Students
Addressing the Stigma Around Mental Health in Universities
Promoting Ethical and Sustainable Fashion Choices Among Students
Encouraging Responsible Use of Technology in Academic Settings
Enhancing Campus Safety Measures for Student Well-being
Advocating for Inclusive and Accessible Education for All Students.

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2023 in Arts

Promoting Cultural Diversity Through Art Exhibitions
Advocating for Increased Funding for Public Art Programs
The Role of Art in Promoting Mental Well-being
Addressing the Importance of Art Education in Schools
Preserving Indigenous Art and Cultural Heritage
The Impact of Digital Media on Contemporary Art Practices
Promoting Accessibility and Inclusivity in Art Spaces
Combating Censorship and Supporting Artistic Freedom
The Influence of Art on Social and Political Movements
Encouraging the Use of Art Therapy for Healing and Rehabilitation
Supporting Emerging Artists and Local Artisan Communities
Exploring the Intersection of Technology and Artistic Expression
Addressing Environmental Issues Through Art Activism
Promoting Public Art Installations for Community Engagement
Advocating for Gender Equality and Representation in the Arts
The Role of Art in Preserving and Documenting History
Encouraging Sustainable Practices in the Art Industry
Supporting Artisanal Crafts and Traditional Art Forms
Promoting Art as a Tool for Cultural Diplomacy and Exchange
Exploring the Relationship Between Art and Technology in the Modern World.

Best Persuasive Speech Topics for High School Students

The Importance of Mental Health Education in Schools
Promoting Inclusivity and Acceptance Among Peers
Combating Cyberbullying and Online Harassment
The Impact of Social Media on Teenage Mental Well-being
Addressing the Effects of Climate Change on Future Generations
Encouraging Healthy Eating Habits and Nutrition Awareness
Reducing Plastic Waste and Promoting Eco-Friendly Practices
Supporting Peer-to-Peer Anti-Drug and Anti-Alcohol Campaigns
The Benefits of Volunteering and Community Service for Teens
Promoting Gender Equality and Respect Among Students
Combating Teenage Substance Abuse and Addiction
Advocating for Comprehensive Sex Education in Schools
Addressing the Stigma Around Mental Health Among Teens
Promoting Physical Fitness and Active Lifestyles in School
The Importance of Financial Literacy Education for Teenagers
Supporting Anti-Discrimination and Anti-Bullying Initiatives
Encouraging Open Communication Between Students and Teachers
Advocating for Mental Health Resources and Support for Students
Promoting Cultural Awareness and Understanding Among High School Students.

Don’t miss out on exploring our article on speech topics for teens , designed to inspire and engage young speakers in meaningful discussions.

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2023 on Academics

Promoting the Integration of Technology in Education
Advocating for Inclusive and Diverse Curriculum Content
The Benefits of Experiential Learning in Academic Settings
Addressing the Importance of Mental Health Support for Students
Encouraging Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills in Education
The Impact of Student Well-being on Academic Performance
Reducing Stress and Academic Pressure Among Students
Advocating for Equal Access to Quality Education for All
The Role of Creativity and Arts in Academic Development
Supporting the Importance of Extracurricular Activities in Schools
Encouraging Effective Study Habits and Time Management Skills
Combating Academic Dishonesty and Plagiarism in Schools
Advocating for Education Policy Reforms and Improvements
Addressing the Challenges of Remote and Online Learning
Promoting Effective Teacher-Student Communication and Engagement
Supporting Special Education Programs and Inclusive Practices
The Benefits of Peer Mentoring and Tutoring Programs for Students
Encouraging a Love for Lifelong Learning and Personal Growth
Advocating for Increased Resources and Support for Schools
Promoting Holistic Education Approaches and Student Well-being.

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2023 on the Economy

Promoting Sustainable Economic Growth and Development
Advocating for Equitable Distribution of Wealth and Resources
The Role of Small Businesses in Stimulating Local Economies
Addressing the Challenges of Income Inequality and Poverty
Encouraging Financial Literacy Education and Awareness
The Impact of Global Trade Policies on National Economies
Reducing Unemployment Rates Through Skill Development Programs
Advocating for Fair Wages and Worker’s Rights in Various Industries
The Benefits of Investing in Renewable Energy and Green Technologies
Supporting Entrepreneurship and Innovation in the Business Sector
Encouraging Ethical and Sustainable Business Practices
Combating Economic Disparities in Underprivileged Communities
Advocating for Financial Assistance Programs for Low-Income Families
Addressing the Challenges of Economic Recovery Post-Pandemic
Promoting Investment in Infrastructure for Economic Growth
The Role of Technology and Digitalization in Transforming Economies
Encouraging Responsible Consumer Spending and Saving Habits
Supporting Small-Scale Agriculture and Local Food Production
Advocating for Accessible and Affordable Healthcare for All
Promoting Transparency and Accountability in Corporate Governance.

Call to Action Speech Topics Examples

Empowering Youth for Active Community Engagement
Promoting Sustainable Living Practices for Environmental Conservation
Advocating for Mental Health Awareness and Support in Schools
Addressing Food Insecurity and Promoting Access to Nutritious Meals
Encouraging Volunteerism for Social Change and Community Development
The Importance of Voting and Political Participation in Democracy
Combating Cyberbullying and Online Harassment Through Awareness Campaigns
Supporting Local Businesses and Entrepreneurship for Economic Growth
The Impact of Mentorship Programs in Fostering Personal Growth and Success
Promoting Gender Equality and Empowerment in the Workplace and Society
Advocating for Animal Welfare and Responsible Pet Ownership
Addressing the Opioid Epidemic Through Education and Rehabilitation Programs
Encouraging Blood Donation and Organ Transplant Awareness for Saving Lives
The Role of Education in Breaking the Cycle of Poverty and Inequality
Combating Racial Discrimination and Promoting Diversity and Inclusion
Supporting Affordable Housing and Homelessness Prevention Initiatives
Promoting Physical Fitness and Healthy Lifestyle Habits for Well-being
The Importance of Financial Planning and Management for Future Security
Encouraging Responsible Use of Technology and Digital Well-being Practices
Advocating for Human Rights and Social Justice for All Communities.

Interesting persuasive speech topics

Exploring the Potential of Space Exploration and Colonization
The Impact of Social Media on Interpersonal Relationships
Addressing the Benefits of Mindfulness and Meditation in Daily Life
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Shaping the Future of Work
Promoting Ethical Consumption and Sustainable Living Practices
Encouraging the Adoption of Renewable Energy Sources for a Greener Future
The Influence of Music and Art in Cultivating Creativity and Expression
Combating the Effects of Climate Change Through Global Collaboration
The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Personal and Professional Success
Advocating for Animal Rights and Ethical Treatment of Animals in Industries
Addressing the Impact of Fast Fashion on the Environment and Society
Promoting the Benefits of Multilingualism and Language Learning
Exploring the Role of Sports in Fostering Teamwork and Leadership Skills
The Impact of Technology on Mental Health and Well-being
Encouraging Cultural Exchange and Understanding Through Travel
The Significance of Early Childhood Education in Shaping Future Generations
Supporting Access to Quality Healthcare for Underserved Communities
Promoting the Importance of Financial Literacy and Money Management
The Role of Literature and Storytelling in Shaping Societal Norms and Values
Advocating for the Preservation of Indigenous Cultures and Traditions.

Public Speaking Persuasive Speech Topics

The Power of Effective Communication in Building Strong Relationships
Overcoming Stage Fright and Building Confidence in Public Speaking
The Importance of Storytelling in Captivating an Audience’s Attention
Advocating for the Use of Visual Aids to Enhance Presentation Impact
The Art of Persuasion: Using Rhetorical Devices to Influence Audiences
Encouraging Authenticity and Emotional Connection in Speech Delivery
The Impact of Body Language and Nonverbal Communication in Public Speaking
Promoting Effective Time Management and Organization in Speech Preparation
The Role of Humor and Wit in Engaging and Entertaining an Audience
Navigating Challenging Questions and Handling Audience Interactions
Building a Compelling Narrative to Convey a Persuasive Message
The Influence of Voice Modulation and Tone in Conveying Conviction
Harnessing the Power of Personal Anecdotes and Real-Life Examples in Speeches
Promoting Clarity and Conciseness in Delivering Complex Information
The Role of Empathy and Understanding in Connecting with Diverse Audiences
The Importance of Research and Fact-Checking in Ensuring Speech Credibility
Encouraging Audience Participation and Involvement for Enhanced Engagement
The Art of Structuring a Compelling Speech: Introduction, Body, and Conclusion
The Significance of Rehearsal and Practice in Achieving Speech Mastery
Advocating for Continued Learning and Skill Development in Public Speaking.

Family Persuasive Speech Topics

The Importance of Effective Communication in Family Relationships
Promoting Quality Time and Bonding Activities for Stronger Family Ties
Advocating for Work-Life Balance and Family Well-being
The Impact of Parental Involvement in Children’s Education and Development
Encouraging Mutual Respect and Understanding Among Family Members
Nurturing Emotional Intelligence and Empathy Within the Family Unit
The Role of Positive Discipline in Fostering a Nurturing Family Environment
Promoting Healthy Eating Habits and Nutrition Education for Families
The Benefits of Open Discussions About Mental Health in the Family
Addressing the Challenges of Balancing Technology Use and Family Time
Encouraging Support and Empathy for Family Members Facing Challenges
The Impact of Intergenerational Activities in Strengthening Family Bonds
Advocating for Gender Equality and Respect Within the Family Dynamics
The Role of Family Traditions and Rituals in Building Cultural Identity
Supporting Sibling Relationships and Conflict Resolution Skills
Promoting Financial Literacy and Responsible Money Management in Families
The Influence of Positive Role Models and Mentorship in Family Settings
Encouraging Inclusivity and Acceptance of Diverse Family Structures
The Significance of Resilience and Adaptability in Overcoming Family Challenges
Advocating for Access to Support Services and Resources for Families in Need.

Unique Persuasive Topics

The Role of Virtual Reality in Transforming Education and Training
Promoting Community Gardens for Sustainable Urban Development
The Impact of Music Therapy on Mental Health and Well-being
Encouraging Mindful Consumption and Minimalist Lifestyles
The Benefits of Biofeedback and Stress Management Techniques
Addressing the Importance of Emotional Education in Schools
Promoting Universal Basic Income as a Solution to Economic Inequality
The Influence of Bioengineering in Advancing Medical Treatments
Advocating for the Preservation of Endangered Languages and Cultures
The Role of Biomimicry in Sustainable Design and Innovation
Promoting Compassionate Leadership and Ethical Decision-Making
The Impact of Art Therapy in Healing Trauma and Promoting Resilience
Encouraging Sustainable Transportation Solutions for Urban Mobility
Addressing the Role of Robotics in Enhancing Healthcare Services
The Benefits of Forest Bathing and Nature Therapy for Mental Health
Supporting Community-Based Tourism for Cultural Preservation
The Role of Biophilic Design in Enhancing Well-being in Built Environments
Promoting the Adoption of Circular Economy Principles for Sustainable Development
Encouraging the Integration of Meditation and Mindfulness in Corporate Settings
The Impact of Virtual Communities in Fostering Social Support and Belonging.

List of Persuasive Speech Topics

Strategies for Reducing Plastic Waste in Daily Life
Benefits of Incorporating Meditation in School Curriculum
Promoting Ethical Treatment of Animals in the Food Industry
Addressing the Importance of Mental Health Awareness in the Workplace
Encouraging Gender Equality and Empowerment in Developing Countries
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Well-being Among Teenagers
Advocating for Renewable Energy as a Solution to Climate Change
Role of Volunteer Work in Community Development and Social Change
Combating Fake News and Misinformation in the Digital Age
Benefits of Physical Exercise in Improving Overall Health and Well-being
Encouraging Responsible Use of Technology Among Young Adults
The Importance of Cultural Diversity in Promoting Global Understanding
Addressing the Challenges of Cybersecurity in the Modern World
Promoting Access to Quality Education for Underprivileged Communities
Impact of Fast Fashion on the Environment and Labor Practices
Supporting Mental Health Resources and Services for Veterans
Importance of Financial Literacy Education for Youth and Adults
Promoting Sustainable Agriculture and Organic Farming Practices
The Role of Artificial Intelligence in Transforming Various Industries
Advocating for Human Rights and Equality for Marginalized Communities.

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What is a good call to action for a speech?

A good call to action for a speech is a clear and specific directive that prompts the audience to take a particular action, such as signing a petition, volunteering, or changing their behavior or beliefs.

What are some unique topics?

Unique topics are those that are uncommon or less explored. Examples could include “The Influence of Video Games on Decision-Making” or “The Art of Beekeeping as a Hobby.”

What is the best persuasive speech?

The best persuasive speech effectively convinces the audience of the speaker’s viewpoint through well-researched arguments, compelling evidence, and engaging delivery. There isn’t a single “best” speech, as it depends on the context and the audience.

What are overused persuasive speech topics?

Overused persuasive speech topics have been discussed extensively, making it challenging to bring fresh perspectives. Examples include “Should the Death Penalty be Abolished?” and “The Dangers of Smoking.”

With a passion for education and student empowerment, I create blog content that speaks directly to the needs and interests of students. From study hacks and productivity tips to career exploration and personal development

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237 Easy Persuasive Speech Topics and Guide

A persuasive speech is a speech written and delivered to convince people of the speaker’s viewpoint. It uses words to make the audience ‘see’ the speaker’s point of view and to ‘sway’ them into agreeing with it.

It is not a simple matter of presenting gathered facts and evidence. More than just seeing why the speaker thinks that way, a persuasive speech tries to persuade the audience in accepting that line of thought and make it the way they, too, think.

To jump to the persuasive speech topic section, click here .

This is where it differs from an argument. The difference between an argumentative and persuasive speech is that one tries to prove a point while the other tries to affect the listener’s perspective.

Informative Speech Topics and Ideas
Toastmasters Project 9: Persuade With Power

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Some examples of a persuasive speech are sales pitch, the speech of politicians, the speech of environmentalists, the speech of feminists, the speech of animal activists, etc.

In the above examples, you must have noticed that all these kind of speech has a goal. A sales pitch is to get you to buy something, politicians give speeches to get you to vote for them, and environmentalists, feminists, and animal activists have a cause to advocate. They all want you to ‘do’ something.

Action is a persuasive speech’s end goal. Ultimately, the speaker wants to persuade you to do something. And why would you do that?

Say, an environmentalist wants people to re-cycle because they think or know that it is good for the environment. Now, it is the people who need to know and think recycling is good for the environment. Only then they would recycle.

Therefore, a more complete definition of a persuasive speech would be “Speech that convinces the audience of a certain idea to inspire them into the desired action.”

Art of Persuasion

Persuasive speech is an art form.

Take an example of a man who was begging in the street. He had a hat in front of him and a sign that said “I am blind, please help” He got a few coins. Then, a lady came along, turned the sign around, and wrote something. A lot more people started to give the man money. His hat was filled with coins. What did that lady write? What persuaded people to give?

“Today is a beautiful day and I cannot see it.”

The second line got him more money because it ‘affected’ people, it appealed to their emotions more than the straightforward “I am blind, please help.” This is called pathos.

According to Aristotle, there are three components of or modes to affect people. They are Ethos, Pathos, and Logos.

Ethos in layman’s terms is credibility or authority. The dictionary defines it as “the character or disposition of a community, group, person, etc.” So, you need to have that disposition that makes you a reliable or trustable person.

For example, a woman talking about women’s problems is more likely to have an effect on the audience than a male speaker. The principal comes into the class and tells you ‘Tomorrow is a holiday and no questions will be asked. But if your teacher says so, you will investigate first. You will be more eager to listen to a popular person in the field than to a newbie.

It is having an effect on people by your person so that they would be more receiving of you.

Pathos in Greek means ‘suffering’ or ‘experience’. It is generally defined as an appeal to people’s emotions. Like in the story of the blind boy above, Pathos is to tap into people’s experience of suffering in order to move them towards a certain action.

Of course, those people have not experienced blindness but they can imagine losing the privilege of sight that they now possess. In simple words, it is to evoke feelings of pity, fear, anger, and such.

Logos is the logical appeal. This is to persuade by the means of reasoning. If the speaker makes a claim such as ‘polythene bags should be banned, then he should give a reason as to ‘why’ like ‘polythene bags do not biodegrade and continue to pollute the environment or facts like ‘Thousands of bags are produced every week and are dumped somewhere after use’ or ‘every bag produced since 19_ still exists somewhere on earth today.’

Presentation- Monroe’s motivated sequence

Presentation is very important. It is the backbone. How you perform your speech, how you deliver the words have the maximum effect on people. Therefore, a speech needs to be organized.

Monroe’s motivated sequence is a technique for organizing persuasive speech. It consists of the following steps.

Grab their attention. Start with a startling statement, an intriguing story, a dramatic action, anything that will make the audience take notice of you. This is also the introduction part. Hook them. Build their interest.

Now, convince the people that there is a problem. More than that, convince them that action needs to be taken against the problem, that it will not go away by itself. Tap into their imagination to show how this problem affects them. Use reasons and facts to support your claims and to impress upon them the need for change.

The audience should be looking forward to the ‘solution’ to the problem. They should want to know what they can do. In this step, introduce your solution. Demonstrate or give examples to make the audience understand how it works and how it solves the problem. Use testimonials or statistics to prove the effectiveness of that solution.

Paint a world where nothing was done and how it affected them. Also, paint a world where they did as you suggested and how it changed the situation for the better. Use vivid imagery to make them ‘feel’ the troubles and relief of not doing and doing as you said. Create a viable scenario. It should be relatable and believable.

Call to action. Strike when the iron is hot. It should be something that they can readily do and immediately. More the time passes less they are likely to follow with it as other things in life take precedence and the feeling of urgency is lost. Make it easy too. Do most of the handiwork so they have to put the least effort.

This is a classic technique developed by Alan Monroe in the mid-1930s. It is still the most effective basis for many persuasive speeches.

Some people are born with the skill of persuasion while others can build on it by applying such techniques and practicing. Here are some Persuasive Speech Topics that you can practice with.

Take a look at the video below. It explains how to write an introduction for a persuasive speech.

Below are 6 sample videos of persuasive speeches.

Why homeschooling is good and should be promoted. (School)

Some students do better in a group with a healthy competition to keep them motivated. Some children are better off studying on their own, continuing at their own fast or slow pace which is hindered when moving along with other children.

Students should get minimum of 45 minutes tiffin break. (School)

All work and no play make Jack a dull boy. Keeping children cooped up in a room for a long is not good. They need regular refreshing breaks to revitalize, to talk with their friends…

Is it racism to ban Marijuana when smoking tobacco is legal? (Funny)

Everybody knows cigarettes are harmful and addictive. Yet, there are big industries manufacturing these drugs on a large scale. Then there is Marijuana that is less harmful, less addictive, and has dozens of use; is it not racism to ban it?

Some juveniles needs to be prosecuted as adults. (School?)

More and more teenagers are committing heinous crimes. They know they will get off easy, that they will not face serious consequences. According to the level of savagery committed, juveniles should at times be prosecuted as adults.

Are pretty or handsome students really dumber? (School)

This is just a stereotype, just like saying women are less logical and others. Or. That appears to hold true in most cases. As time is limited, people who spend more time on appearance spend less time learning and those who spend time learning fails to look after their appearance.

Proficiency in academics is not the only measure of intelligence. (School)

Are grades everything? Different people possess different types of intelligence but grades measure only a few kinds. Is it not like judging a fish on its ability to climb a tree?

What is the right age to start owing a mobile phone? (Parenting)

Most parents believe that the right age to own mobile is when children can pay for it so that they can be aware of their expenditure. Else, they might engage in long, unnecessary conversation and…

Should children be bought a mobile phone for emergencies? (Parenting)

Mobiles or cell phones are the fastest means of communication. Should children, therefore, be allowed to owe mobiles so that they can contact their guardians in case of emergency?

Homework should be banned. (School)

Children spend most of their waking hours in school. They have only a few hours at the home to do things other than academics. But homework is the tag along with that…

Should men pay child support even if pregnancy was a one sided decision? (Feminism)

If a woman decides to bear a child despite her partner’s protest, is he still obligated to provide monetary support upon divorce for the same reason?

Laws should not be based on religion.

There are many religions. Their ideas vary. But the law should be uniform. Basing laws on certain religions is like forcing the ideas of that religion on every citizen.

Birth controls should be free and easily available. (Feminism?)

If teen pregnancy is to be avoided, birth controls should be free and easily available with no parental permission required. Imagine asking your parents if you can have sex or parents permitting it. It is the same as unavailability of the contraceptives which takes us back to square one.

Honking unnecessarily should be punishable.

Honking during a traffic jam is not going to clear it up. It only disturbs and aggravates everyone else. Honking at girls is offensive. Honking to bully is wrong. Honking unnecessarily like this should be considered criminal and punished.

Divorced and happy parents is better for the children than living in a conflicted home.

Some parents stay together for the sake of their children but fail to get along. This creates a very tense environment and that is not how a home should be.

Hiding your HIV status in a relationship should be punishable by law.

HIV is a serious disease with no cure available. If a person is aware of his/her HIV positivity, withholding the information and therefore transmitting it to the unsuspecting partner in the process is criminal.

Legalization of prostitution has more positive effects than negative.

Stopping prostitution is impossible. They will continue to operate underground where they face many problems. Girls get trafficked, tricked, or forced into it. Making it legal will at least ensure safety and justice to the sex workers and will also help control forced labor.

Schools should take bullying more seriously. / Why bullying is a serious offense. (School)

Bullying is very damaging to the victim and can take a very dangerous turn. But it is dismissed as children’s play in most cases. We don’t realize its seriousness until it is too late…

Partial Birth Abortion is a sin.

In this method of abortion, a living baby is pulled out from the womb feet first. The base of the skull is punctured and the brain is removed with a powerful suction machine. This is no different from murder. It is usually allowed by law only in order to save the mother’s life but many healthy mothers’ babies are aborted this way every year…

All institutions like schools, colleges and offices should start only after 10.

When such institutions start early, people need to wake up earlier for preparation. Waking up feeling unrested can make a person inactive, irritable, and unproductive. Scientists say that a person’s mind is not fully awake until 10 in the morning…

Sexual relationship before marriage is not a crime.

Sex is a biological need and a healthy sex life has a lot of mental and physical benefits. If the partners involved are adults and there is mutual consent…

School and teachers should stay away from student’s personal life. (School?)

Every institution has some rule. This rule should govern the members within the institution. But some schools like to take this beyond the school grounds and have control over what students do and do not in their personal time.

Energy drinks should be considered borderline medicines. (Health)

Energy drinks provide added energy. So, it should only be consumed when your body lacks energy, in a weakened state, like medicine. Plus, it contains a lot of caffeine that does more harm than good…

Parents should properly answer their children’s curiosities. (Parenting)

‘How does a baby come?’ children ask and parents tell them about gods and storks. This raises more questions and does nothing but confuse the child. Try to give an anatomically correct answer without being graphic. Never try to dismiss any of their questions or scold them…

Euthanasia, is it ethical?

A person should get to choose whether they want to live or die in dire conditions. Or. Euthanasia is no different from suicide. Supporting euthanasia is like supporting suicide.

Prospective parent(s) should get a psychiatric approval before adoption. (Parenting)

We want to find a home for every orphaned child but we want a happy home. There are many sick people out there who want to adopt a child only to abuse them or for some other kind of personal gain…

Cigarettes should be illegal.

Cigarettes are like drugs and they should be illegal just like drugs are. It has adverse health effects on the smoker as well as people around him…

Smoking in public places should be fined.

Cigarettes are very harmful and their harmful smoke does not affect the smoker alone. It affects the surrounding people as well. Not all people are suicidal that way. Why should they suffer? When one’s action harms the other, it is an offense.

Are uniforms necessary?

Uniform brings uniformity. It eliminates frivolous fashion competition which is not what school is for… Or. Clothes are a form of expression. Students spend most of their time in school. They should be comfortable with what they wear…

Number of children one can have should be limited and children with previous partner(s) counts.

Four from two, eight from four; population multiplies that way. Already, the earth has become so crowded. If this is to continue, we will rid this world of ourselves.

Would it be ethical to genetically design babies? (Technology?)

Yes. Why not use science to cure diseases and eradicate the possibility of a child’s suffering? Or. This method can be misused to alter more than just a threat of diseases and that will disturb the diversity in the gene pool…

‘Living together’ relationships, good or bad?

Marriage cannot keep together those who want to go their separate ways and those who want to together do not need such a constitution.

‘Early to sleep, early to rise’ benefits.

They say ‘Early to sleep and early to rise makes a man healthy and wise.’ This was not said without a reason. Going to bed early and waking up early the next day have many benefits, for both our mind and body.

Every property should compulsorily have trees. (Environment)

Trees produce oxygen and filters air. We need more trees. But the population is increasing. We are cutting down trees to erect concrete buildings instead…

Fast foods are overpriced.

Fast foods like French fries, burgers, pizza, etc. cost way more than they actually should. The restaurants are ripping us off. Take fries for example…

Using animals as test subjects is cruel and unfair. (Animal rights)

For you, it is one animal among many. But for that particular animal, one life is all it has and you have no right to play with it.

Why Gay Marriage should be legalized. (Gay rights)

Homosexuality is not a disease. It is how people are. They want to marry their partner for the same reasons heterosexual couples do. Not legalizing gay marriage is discrimination…

Marriage is not about procreation. (Gay rights)

One, almost logical, reason people give against gay marriage is that they cannot bear kids because of which it is definitely not natural/ biological or ‘how god intended’. But marriage is not about procreation. It is about you and your comfort or happiness, about who you want to spend the rest of your life with.

Electronics are stealing childhood.

These days, children spend a lot of time on mobile phones, computers, or other electronic devices instead of running around, going out, and playing as a child should.

Teens cannot be good parents. (School/ Parenting)

Some teens decide to start a family when the female partner gets pregnant. While this is seen as an admirable option against abortion, are teen parents really good for the kid?

Ads should be tested for sexist messages before being aired. (Feminism)

Not only children but everyone learns from what they see and hear. The subliminal sexist messages in ads impart gender roles on their minds, undoing a lot of feminists’ efforts. But mostly, it brainwashes the coming generation and we should not allow that.

Protection and breeding of white tigers is illogical; why hinder natural selection? (Environment/ Animal rights)

White tigers do not fare well in the wild due to their color. It was a case of mutation that would have naturally been eliminated if humans had not interfered. I am not saying all living white tigers must be killed but why are people breeding it in captivity instead of letting it die out? Just because they’re pretty and we like pretty?

Exotic pets are not pets. (Animal rights)

Exotic animals belong in the wild. They need to be with their own kind, living in their natural habitat. They should not be isolated in people’s homes where their mobility is limited.

Feminism should be made a compulsory subject in high school and college. (Feminism)

Feminism is an eye-opener. It is something every man and woman should know of. Thus, it should be a compulsory and common subject instead of being exclusive to Arts or few other faculty.

Age 16 is not juvenile. (School?)

Are 16-year-olds really kids? Can they not be expected to know the difference between right and wrong? Maybe they do not know it is a crime to download songs and movies but what about rape and murder? If 16 is old enough to drive in most countries, it is old enough to be tried as an adult.

Playing Video games for few hours does good. (School/ parenting?)

It has been found out that playing a few hours of video game help improve people’s hand-eye coordination and enhances cognitive power. Also, games based on real history or science can impart knowledge…

Read before agreeing to sites and applications.

We download apps and software and signup on different sites. Each of these requires us to click ‘I agree’. We click this ‘I agree’ without actually reading the agreement. This can later cause problems…

Is death penalty ethical?

It is not ethical to eliminate people like we try to eliminate diseases. What about human rights? Or. What kind of rights for the person who does not respect others’ rights and freedom? It is a befitting punishment.

Send drug dealers to prison but addicts for rehabilitation.

Drug Addicts are victims too. They need rehabilitation, not prison. Dealers are the real criminals.

Parents should cook tastier option instead of making children eat the healthy foods they don’t want.

If not meat then milk and pulses. There is a range of choices for the required nutrition. So why should children have to eat something they don’t like? Just give them a tastier option.

If girls can wear pants, boys can wear skirts. (Funny?)

Is all equality fighting for girls only? What about boys’ rights? When girls can wear boys’ clothes why can boys not wear that of girls?

Being slim is not just about looks but health too. (Health?)

Beauties were those who were plum. Now, skinny is the fashion. But to those who want to be ‘comfortable’ in their size, know that a slim body is more than just looks.

There should be one holiday in the middle of workdays.

Saturday and Sunday’s rest do not keep us charged up to Friday. This makes people less productive by Thursday and Friday. A break in the middle would be wonderfully refreshing…

Considering the real meaning behind Nursery Rhymes, should they be taught to children? (School)

The fun nursery rhyme “Ring around the Rosie” is actually about the bubonic plague that killed nearly 15% of the country. This is only an example among many. Consider the lyrics of “Three blind mice” that goes “… Who cut off their tails, With a carving knife.” Is it okay to teach these to the children?

Countries should provide free Wi-Fi in tourist destinations.

Doing this will help tourists as they will be able to contact their people without wandering around confused in a foreign land. This will definitely increase the flow of both national and international tourists. It will be most helpful to students from abroad.

Know the woes of genetically modified Chickens.

To meet the demand of the growing population, chickens are fed hormones and other drugs to make them grow faster and fat, especially the meat in the breast area. Because of this, the chickens cripple under their own weight. They suffer terribly…

Children should be allowed to use electronics like mobile, notebooks etc. during breaks. (Students)

Using electronics during class is certainly bad and for a number of reasons. But break times belong to the students. Breaks are for recreation. If students choose to enjoy electronics, what is wrong with that?

Teachers, too, should keep their mobiles in silent during class.

Class time is for teaching and learning. Students should keep their mobile in silence so as to not disturb the class. But, so should the teacher. They shouldn’t pick up their call during class.

Humans are consuming way more salt than necessary. (Health)

Sodium is important. But the larger amount of sodium intake has often been associated with an increase in blood pressure that leads to strokes. 1500 to 2300mg is the maximum amount per day.

Benefits of donating blood.

Donating blood is the right thing to do. It saves lives. There are a few moral reasons as such to donate blood but do you know that you are not losing anything either? Donating blood is good for your own health too…

Why become an organ donor?

Perfectly healthy people die when trying to donate their organs to their loved ones. Even if they survive, they may have to face complications and they are now, somehow, deficient. If an organ could be got…

Original organic fruits taste better than the hybrids.

Hybrid fruits are larger and juicer but it lacks in terms of taste. The taste tastes diluted…

Why people who have should give.

Many people suffer from poverty. They have a hard time meeting basic needs like food, shelter, and clothes.

Why suicide over ‘love troubles’ is stupid. (Students)

Life moves on. Time heals. Things will happen if you continue to live. But the exaggerated fictional idea of love that the movies market has…

Why women should earn irrespective of their husband’s economic status. (Feminism)

Be independent. Money is power. Do not let anyone have an upper hand and be vulnerable to possible abuse…

Recycle e-waste. (Environment)

E-waste contains many recoverable materials such as aluminum, copper, gold, silver etc. Reusing this will take a load off of natural resources. E-waste also contains toxins like mercury, lead, beryllium, and others that will inevitably infuse into soil and water.

Do not tolerate abuse, speak out. (Feminism)

Certainly, nobody enjoys abuse? Then why do women continue to stay in abusive relationship despite being educated and holding a good job? Why do they tolerate other kinds of abuse as well? There are many reasons for this…

Every citizen should be required to, at least, pass high school. (School)

Up to high school, the education is basic. Imagine needing to stop ocean pollution. An educated person would be more easily persuaded or would know why ocean pollution is bad. Or. There are good and bad people. Education will teach the good how to be good and may persuade the bad…

Hostels, is it good or bad for children? (Parenting)

Hostels teach children independence. They learn to do a lot in their own. Or. No one can take better care of children than their parents. Children need parents’ love and support. Away in the hostel, surrounded by children no wiser than themselves…

Teachers should discuss among themselves to avoid giving too much homework. (School)

After studying for hours in school, spending all the hours in-home doing homework will mentally tire the student. Homework should be very light. But light homework of all the teachers added will take up all of the students’ time. So…

Importance of clubs in school or colleges. (School)

School and college clubs are the best way to learn different valuable skills in. In school and college-level clubs, the eligibility for membership is less strict and one gets to learn from the more skilled seniors.

Should plastic surgery be so commercial?

Everyone wants to look good. When accidents or attacks disfigure us, we can turn to plastic surgery to try and gain back our lost selves. But intentionally altering ourselves to…

Online piracy should be monitored more strictly.

People have a right to their intellectual property. It is so easy to find and download pirated materials that it seems non-criminal…

Are single-sex schools better than coed? (School)

According to research done in Korea, students from single-sex schools scored better than those from coed and had more chances of pursuing college-level education. However, this is from a general viewpoint. When considering students at an individual level, it really depends on what kind of environment that particular student does better in.

Spaying or neutering pets is good or bad? (Animal right)

Some say that neutering or spaying pets have a lot of benefits, both for the animal and the owner. Others say that neutering or spaying does not change much but only invites diseases upon the poor animal.

Are master’s degree or doctorate really necessary? (Students)

High School teaches us the basics and a bachelor is more career-oriented. We can get a good job after bachelor and hone our skills for a better position. Is a master’s and higher degree really important when we can learn more in the field?

Who is more responsible for poaching? Poachers or buyers? (Animal right)

This may be an ‘egg first or chicken question. Scientists have now found out that chickens come first but the question ‘Poacher or buyers’ remains.

What kind of food should school or college canteen offer? (Student)

From unhealthy commercial food items to unappetizing bland gibberish; can school or college canteens not offer an in-between option? What would be best for the students?

What age is proper to talk about the birds and the bees? (Parenting)

From the time a child starts asking about sex is the time from when to start talking about the birds and the bees. Children as young as 4-5 years old are curious about where a baby comes from. Answer them truthfully but avoid being graphic. Also, answer only what they ask.

Fee for facilities aside, the tuition fee should be fixed by the government. (Student)

Schools and colleges take a ridiculous amount of tuition fees. It is understandable that according to the facilities provided, the fee may be less or more but the tuition fee, at least, should be a fixed amount that greedy schools cannot increase as they wish.

How long should a drunk driver lose his license for?

Drinking and driving can be fatal to both the driver and an innocent passerby. But people do not take it seriously. They think they can handle their liquor and end up causing accidents. This is absolute carelessness.

The amount of water one should drink per day. (Health)

About 60% of the human body is water. We continually lose this water through skin and urine. This causes dehydration…

Aliens exist. (Paranormal)

There have been many UFO sightings and stories of alien abduction. Even in the old age paintings, cave paintings, Sanskrit scrolls, the extraterrestrial life form is evident. Scientists have found other habitable planets. An intelligent life form somewhere other than Earth is no longer an idea of a fantasist…

White meat over red meat or the other way around? (Health)

White meat is less fatty but red meat contains more vitamins like zinc, iron, and B vitamins…

Why religion and science should go hand in hand. / Why religion should evolve with scientific discoveries. (Philosophy)

Science explores the universe for answers while religion makes claims about it. Science is open to change, it acknowledges that it can err and backs its claims with evidence. Religion on the other hand is a ‘belief’ system

Should astrologers, mediums and the likes be arrested for fraud? (Paranormal)

Do heavenly bodies really affect our personality or future? Do dead ones really become spirits and can be contacted through mediums? Or are these all just a big hoax?

Cats or dogs?

Are you a cat person or a dog person? Say why a dog is better than a cat as a pet or that cat makes a better pet.

Benefits of eating fruit over drinking its juice. (Health)

There is a whole fruit and we throw away more than half of the substance when choosing to drink its juice even though eating the fruit itself is healthier because of the fiber it contains.

Women shouldn’t have to change their last name after marriage. (Feminism)

Having to change our last name after marriage is sexist. It confirms the power males hold over the women in our patriarchal society.

Internet promotes communication, not kill it.

Social networks like Facebook, Twitter, messenger, and others keep us in contact with many friends that we would otherwise have forgotten. It is an easy means of communication…

Does pressure build or break a person?

Pressure is healthy. It drives us. Or. Yes. Pressure drives us. It drives us nuts.

Hiring volunteers on zero pay is cruel.

Volunteers are those who want to donate labor. They need not be paid for their work but what about their expenses like transportation and others? These kinds of expenses, at least, should be covered.

Learning multiple language widens our perception of the world.

There are always those words that cannot be exactly translated to another language. This is because that way of thinking does not exist in that other language. It is like the egg of Cristopher. We discover a new way of expressing ourselves, one we couldn’t think of in the limitation of our own language.

Oceans are not trash bins. (Environment)

Tons of human waste are thrown into the ocean. This is creating a big problem in the ocean ecosystem…

Killing for fun is inhuman, hunting is inhuman. (Animal rights)

How to have fun with animals? By playing with them, baby talking to them, watching them in their weird but fun action. Not by chasing them down and killing them.

Cigarette, alcohol or drugs are not the answer for stress or other problems in life.

People tend to depend on harmful substances like cigarettes, alcohol, or drugs when faced with a problem or when under stress. These substances do not cure stress but could be a self-harming method of coping with problems. People under stress tend to show more unhealthy behaviors such as these…

Music heals.

On hearing good music, the brain releases dopamine. Dopamine is an essential chemical that plays a number of important roles in the brain and body. Music has also proven effective against stress…

Why breakfast is the important meal of the day. (Health)

Breakfast is the first meal after a long gap during the night. It provides us with vital nutrients like calcium, vitamins, minerals, and energy…

Fairytales should be re-written for the next generation children.

Fairytales often star a damsel in distress who not only ‘waits’ for a handsome rescuer but also possesses subjugating qualities like obedience, daintiness, etc. It imparts sexist values in young minds…

How a time table can help manage our daily lives.

People do not realize how time table can make our day-to-day lives much more manageable and therefore fruitful or efficient. Some find it tedious and some pretentious…

Everyone should learn swimming.

Swimming is not just for fun like cycling. It could save someone’s life. It is an important survival skill that everyone should know of.

Good thoughts lead to good actions.

Our actions result from our thoughts. Action is a mind’s reflection…

Benefits of meditation. (Health)

Meditation has a lot of benefits, both on body and mind. It reduces stress, improves concentration, reduces irritability, increases perseverance, etc…

Zoos are not big enough for wild animals. (Animal rights)

How large can you make a zoo? And how can it mimic nature when different animals are confined separately. Wild animals belong in the wild.

Some more Persuasive Speech Topics:

Why is adopting a pet better than buying one?
How does having a pet better your everyday life?
Having a snake as a pet is as cool as it sounds
Should you get rid of a pet that harms another person?
Is breeding pets for sale unethical?
Selfies with animals in tourist locations should be made equal
A dog is the perfect pet
Why a pet is essential for a growing child
Owning a pet makes you healthier
Slaughterhouses are unethical
Animals are facing extinction, we should do something about it
Why wild animals should be left in the wild
Petting exotic animals should be made illegal
Why dolphin farming is horrific
The Yulin Dog festival displays one of the worst sides of humans
Why neutering your pets is wrong
Advantages of owning a horse(besides looking fantastic)
People need to stop fueling pug markets.
Is animal slaughter for religious purposes ethical?
Manual drivers are unnecessarily aggressive about their cars
Why you should not drive without a kid seat
Why sports cars are not worth it
If you can’t call while driving, then why is there a hands-free mode?
New ideas for lessons drivers have to take before getting a license
Should you charge people for driving tests?
Why cycling is cooler than driving
Why traffic rules are designed against bike rides
Driving licenses should need a renewal every 5 years
Why co-ed education is the best way to teach
GPA isn’t everything
9.30 is too early
Why teachers need to be recertified
Listening to music during exams should be allowed
Should sports and arts be mandatory?
Does our school curriculum need obligatory life skill classes?
Phones in classes are beneficial and convenient
Every student should be encouraged to take a gap year
Cyber-bullying should be punished the same as bullying
Why art classes are just as important as science
School canteens need to serve healthier alternatives
More institutes should promote nternational exchange programs
Curriculums should be designed with the job market in mind
Textbooks are overpriced and should be replaced with digital alternatives
Should religion be taught in schools?
Is repeating classes beneficial for underperforming students?
Students should not have to ask to use the restroom
Is having a handwriting class beneficial?
Is there a point to giving homework?
Education needs to be available in prisons
We are being overcharged for education
Online learning should be held to equal importance as schools
Are teachers paid enough?
Is there room for commercial advertisement in schools?
Are study halls still relevant?
Are our children safe at school?
School trips are a waste of money
Educational institutes should be more welcoming to technological changes
Schools should teach multiple languages
Public schools are better than private schools
Why meditation should be included in the daily curriculum
Are scholarships reaching the right people?
Current environmental laws are insufficient
Green energy is the future
The environmental impact of palm oil
The environmental impact of single-use bags
Fishing restrictions need to be stricter
Oil spills are deadly to marine life
Leaving fossil fuels behind
Pollution has reached alarming levels
Garden owners should be allowed to grow exotic plants
Switch to hybrid cars to help the environment
Rainforests are going extinct at an alarming rate
Why natural resources are quickly going extinct
Alternative energy sources should be pushed by governments
Euthanasia should be legalized
Why eating meat does not make me a bad person
Can true equality ever really be achieved?
Is messing with unborn children’s genetics ethical?
Stereotypes are stereotypes for a reason
Animal testing is a necessary part of production
Why we need to stop producing and buying fur
Prostitution should be legalized
Doping and it’s place in sports
Why workplace relationships should be avoided
Is religion a cult?
Should prayers be included in schools?
Parents should not be able to choose the sex of their unborn child
Donating to charities is a scam
Aborting fetuses with birth defects is not immoral
Wars have positive consequences as well
Why genital mutilation in infants needs to be stopped
Conventional beauty standards are misleading
China’s One-child policy was a good idea for population control
Animal testing and why it is immoral
Why banning cigarettes and alcohol from advertisements is not effective
Sugar is added to everything we eat
Children should be taught to cook
Why growing your own food will help both you and the environment
Peanuts: The secret superfood
We should be more open to genetically engineered food products
The proper way to dispose your food waste
The loopholes in labelling laws
Keto goes against the natural human evolution
Artificial chemicals in our food products is harming us
The legal age for contraceptive treatment should be lowered
Fast food is slowly killing you
How positive thinking can change your life
Breakfast isn’t the most important meal of the day
Stomach stapling should not be normalized
If you don’t wear a seat belt, you are putting yourself at great risk
How diabetes can affect your work
How daily exercise can change your life
Stress as the leading cause of teen suicide
Diet pills are a scam
Body shaming is putting lives at risk
Contraceptive education is an effective solution for teen pregnancy
There is such a thing as too much soda
Free condom distribution at schools is better than teaching about abstinence
The toothpick you pick matters
Surrogacy should be more widely accepted
Why insomnia should be taken as a more serious health concern
Helmets and seatbeat save lives
Restaurants need to be more vigilant about handling allergies
How Big Pharma is controlling your life
The medical field is criminally underfunded
We are eating too much salt
Organ donation should be an opt-out system
The dangers of an anti-vaxxers movement
Why fire drills are ineffective
Why you need to take that vacation
Good sleep is underrated
Why vaping is not a better alternative
Your stress is killing you
It is not healthy for children to be vegetarians
Parents don’t need to be informed about underage abortions
Donating blood should be encouraged early
How much do you know about what’s in your food

I hope you find the tips for persuasive speech and persuasive speech topics useful. Let me what you think of them by commenting below.

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112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

What’s covered:, how to pick an awesome persuasive speech topic, 112 engaging persuasive speech topics, tips for preparing your persuasive speech.

Writing a stellar persuasive speech requires a carefully crafted argument that will resonate with your audience to sway them to your side. This feat can be challenging to accomplish, but an engaging, thought-provoking speech topic is an excellent place to start.

When it comes time to select a topic for your persuasive speech, you may feel overwhelmed by all the options to choose from—or your brain may be drawing a completely blank slate. If you’re having trouble thinking of the perfect topic, don’t worry. We’re here to help!

In this post, we’re sharing how to choose the perfect persuasive speech topic and tips to prepare for your speech. Plus, you’ll find 112 persuasive speech topics that you can take directly from us or use as creative inspiration for your own ideas!

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

It’s much easier to write, research, and deliver a speech about a cause you care about. Even if it’s challenging to find a topic that completely sparks your interest, try to choose a topic that aligns with your passions.

However, keep in mind that not everyone has the same interests as you. Try to choose a general topic to grab the attention of the majority of your audience, but one that’s specific enough to keep them engaged.

For example, suppose you’re giving a persuasive speech about book censorship. In that case, it’s probably too niche to talk about why “To Kill a Mockingbird” shouldn’t be censored (even if it’s your favorite book), and it’s too broad to talk about media censorship in general.

Steer Clear of Cliches

Have you already heard a persuasive speech topic presented dozens of times? If so, it’s probably not an excellent choice for your speech—even if it’s an issue you’re incredibly passionate about.

Although polarizing topics like abortion and climate control are important to discuss, they aren’t great persuasive speech topics. Most people have already formed an opinion on these topics, which will either cause them to tune out or have a negative impression of your speech.

Instead, choose topics that are fresh, unique, and new. If your audience has never heard your idea presented before, they will be more open to your argument and engaged in your speech.

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

For a persuasive speech to be engaging, there must be a clear side of opposition. To help determine the arguability of your topic, ask yourself: “If I presented my viewpoint on this topic to a group of peers, would someone disagree with me?” If the answer is yes, then you’ve chosen a great topic!

Now that we’ve laid the groundwork for what it takes to choose a great persuasive speech topic, here are over one hundred options for you to choose from.

Should high school athletes get tested for steroids?
Should schools be required to have physical education courses?
Should sports grades in school depend on things like athletic ability?
What sport should be added to or removed from the Olympics?
Should college athletes be able to make money off of their merchandise?
Should sports teams be able to recruit young athletes without a college degree?
Should we consider video gamers as professional athletes?
Is cheerleading considered a sport?
Should parents allow their kids to play contact sports?
Should professional female athletes be paid the same as professional male athletes?
Should college be free at the undergraduate level?
Is the traditional college experience obsolete?
Should you choose a major based on your interests or your potential salary?
Should high school students have to meet a required number of service hours before graduating?
Should teachers earn more or less based on how their students perform on standardized tests?
Are private high schools more effective than public high schools?
Should there be a minimum number of attendance days required to graduate?
Are GPAs harmful or helpful?
Should schools be required to teach about standardized testing?
Should Greek Life be banned in the United States?
Should schools offer science classes explicitly about mental health?
Should students be able to bring their cell phones to school?
Should all public restrooms be all-gender?
Should undocumented immigrants have the same employment and education opportunities as citizens?
Should everyone be paid a living wage regardless of their employment status?
Should supremacist groups be able to hold public events?
Should guns be allowed in public places?
Should the national drinking age be lowered?
Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
Should the government raise or lower the retirement age?
Should the government be able to control the population?
Is the death penalty ethical?

Environment

Should stores charge customers for plastic bags?
Should breeding animals (dogs, cats, etc.) be illegal?
Is it okay to have exotic animals as pets?
Should people be fined for not recycling?
Should compost bins become mandatory for restaurants?
Should electric vehicles have their own transportation infrastructure?
Would heavier fining policies reduce corporations’ emissions?
Should hunting be encouraged or illegal?
Should reusable diapers replace disposable diapers?

Science & Technology

Is paper media more reliable than digital news sources?
Should automated/self-driving cars be legalized?
Should schools be required to provide laptops to all students?
Should software companies be able to have pre-downloaded programs and applications on devices?
Should drones be allowed in military warfare?
Should scientists invest more or less money into cancer research?
Should cloning be illegal?
Should societies colonize other planets?
Should there be legal oversight over the development of technology?

Social Media

Should there be an age limit on social media?
Should cyberbullying have the same repercussions as in-person bullying?
Are online relationships as valuable as in-person relationships?
Does “cancel culture” have a positive or negative impact on societies?
Are social media platforms reliable information or news sources?
Should social media be censored?
Does social media create an unrealistic standard of beauty?
Is regular social media usage damaging to real-life interactions?
Is social media distorting democracy?
How many branches of government should there be?
Who is the best/worst president of all time?
How long should judges serve in the U.S. Supreme Court?
Should a more significant portion of the U.S. budget be contributed towards education?
Should the government invest in rapid transcontinental transportation infrastructure?
Should airport screening be more or less stringent?
Should the electoral college be dismantled?
Should the U.S. have open borders?
Should the government spend more or less money on space exploration?
Should students sing Christmas carols, say the pledge of allegiance, or perform other tangentially religious activities?
Should nuns and priests become genderless roles?
Should schools and other public buildings have prayer rooms?
Should animal sacrifice be legal if it occurs in a religious context?
Should countries be allowed to impose a national religion on their citizens?
Should the church be separated from the state?
Does freedom of religion positively or negatively affect societies?

Parenting & Family

Is it better to have children at a younger or older age?
Is it better for children to go to daycare or stay home with their parents?
Does birth order affect personality?
Should parents or the school system teach their kids about sex?
Are family traditions important?
Should parents smoke or drink around young children?
Should “spanking” children be illegal?
Should parents use swear words in front of their children?
Should parents allow their children to play violent video games?

Entertainment

Should all actors be paid the same regardless of gender or ethnicity?
Should all award shows be based on popular vote?
Who should be responsible for paying taxes on prize money, the game show staff or the contestants?
Should movies and television shows have ethnicity and gender quotas?
Should newspapers and magazines move to a completely online format?
Should streaming services like Netflix and Hulu be free for students?
Is the movie rating system still effective?
Should celebrities have more privacy rights?

Arts & Humanities

Are libraries becoming obsolete?
Should all schools have mandatory art or music courses in their curriculum?
Should offensive language be censored from classic literary works?
Is it ethical for museums to keep indigenous artifacts?
Should digital designs be considered an art form?
Should abstract art be considered an art form?
Is music therapy effective?
Should tattoos be regarded as “professional dress” for work?
Should schools place greater emphasis on the arts programs?
Should euthanasia be allowed in hospitals and other clinical settings?
Should the government support and implement universal healthcare?
Would obesity rates lower if the government intervened to make healthy foods more affordable?
Should teenagers be given access to birth control pills without parental consent?
Should food allergies be considered a disease?
Should health insurance cover homeopathic medicine?
Is using painkillers healthy?
Should genetically modified foods be banned?
Should there be a tax on unhealthy foods?
Should tobacco products be banned from the country?
Should the birth control pill be free for everyone?

If you need more help brainstorming topics, especially those that are personalized to your interests, you can use CollegeVine’s free AI tutor, Ivy . Ivy can help you come up with original persuasive speech ideas, and she can also help with the rest of your homework, from math to languages.

Do Your Research

A great persuasive speech is supported with plenty of well-researched facts and evidence. So before you begin the writing process, research both sides of the topic you’re presenting in-depth to gain a well-rounded perspective of the topic.

Understand Your Audience

It’s critical to understand your audience to deliver a great persuasive speech. After all, you are trying to convince them that your viewpoint is correct. Before writing your speech, consider the facts and information that your audience may already know, and think about the beliefs and concerns they may have about your topic. Then, address these concerns in your speech, and be mindful to include fresh, new information.

Have Someone Read Your Speech

Once you have finished writing your speech, have someone read it to check for areas of strength and improvement. You can use CollegeVine’s free essay review tool to get feedback on your speech from a peer!

Practice Makes Perfect

After completing your final draft, the key to success is to practice. Present your speech out loud in front of a mirror, your family, friends, and basically, anyone who will listen. Not only will the feedback of others help you to make your speech better, but you’ll become more confident in your presentation skills and may even be able to commit your speech to memory.

Hopefully, these ideas have inspired you to write a powerful, unique persuasive speech. With the perfect topic, plenty of practice, and a boost of self-confidence, we know you’ll impress your audience with a remarkable speech!

150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics for Students in 2024

April 1, 2024

Do you know that moment in your favorite film, when the soundtrack begins to swell and the main character stands up and delivers a speech so rousing, so impassioned, it has the entire room either weeping or cheering by the time it concludes? What distinguishes the effectiveness of such a speech is not only the protagonist’s stellar delivery but also the compelling nature of the subject matter at hand. Choosing an effective persuasive speech topic is essential for guaranteeing that your future speech or essay is as moving as these . If this sounds like a tall order, have no fear. Below you’ll find a list of some of the best and most interesting persuasive speech topics for high school students to tackle, from the playful (“Pets for President”) to the serious (“Should We Stop AI from Replacing Human Workers?”).

And if you’re craving more inspiration, feel free to check out this list of Great Debate Topics , which can be used to generate further ideas.

What is a Good Persuasive Speech?

Before we get to the list, we must address the question on everyone’s minds: what is a persuasive speech, and what the heck makes for a good persuasive speech topic? A persuasive speech is a speech that aims to convince its listeners of a particular point of view . At the heart of each persuasive speech is a central conflict . Note: The persuasive speech stands in contrast to a simple informative speech, which is intended purely to convey information. (I.e., an informative speech topic might read: “The History of Making One’s Bed,” while a persuasive speech topic would be: “Why Making One’s Bed is a Waste of Time”—understand?)

And lest you think that persuasive speeches are simply assigned by your teachers as a particularly cruel form of torture, remember that practicing your oratory skills will benefit you in all areas of life—from job interviews, to business negotiations, to your future college career in public policy or international relations . Knowing how to use your voice to enact meaningful change is a valuable skill that can empower you to make a difference in the world.

Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic

The ideal persuasive speech topic will inspire the audience to action via both logical arguments and emotional appeals. As such, we can summarize the question “what makes a good persuasive speech topic?” by saying that the topic must possess the following qualities:

Timeliness and Relevance . Great persuasive speech topics grapple with a contemporary issue that is meaningful to the listener at hand. The topic might be a current news item, or it might be a long-standing social issue. In either case, the topic should be one with real-world implications.
Complexity . A fruitful persuasive speech topic will have many facets. Topics that are controversial, with some gray area, lend themselves to a high degree of critical thinking. They also offer the speaker an opportunity to consider and refute all counterarguments before making a compelling case for his or her own position.
Evidence . You want to be able to back up your argument with clear evidence from reputable sources (i.e., not your best friend or dog). The more evidence and data you can gather, the more sound your position will be. In addition, your audience will be more inclined to trust you.
Personal Connection. Do you feel passionately about the topic you’ve chosen? If not, it may be time to go back to the drawing board. This does not mean you have to support the side you choose; sometimes, arguing for the opposing side of what you personally believe can be an effective exercise in building empathy and perspective. Either way, though, the key is to select a topic that you care deeply about. Your passion will be infectious to the audience.

150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics

Should tech companies regulate the development of AI systems and automation to protect humans’ jobs?
Should we limit screen time for children?
Is it ethical for AI models like Dall-E to train themselves on artists’ work without the artists’ permission?
Should the government regulate the use of personal drones?
Is mass surveillance ethical? Does its threat to civil liberties outweigh its benefits?
Are virtual reality experiences a valuable educational tool?
Do the positive effects of powerful AI systems outweigh the risks?
Do voice assistants like Siri and Alexa invade individuals’ privacy?
Are cell phone bans in the classroom effective for improving student learning?
Does the use of facial recognition technology in public violate individuals’ privacy?
Should students be allowed to use ChatGPT and other AI tools for writing assignments?
Should AI-generated art be allowed in art shows or contests?
Who holds responsibility for accidents caused by self-driving cars: the driver or the car company?

Business and Economy

Should we do away with the minimum wage? Why or why not?
Is it ethical for companies to use unpaid internships as a source of labor?
Does the gig economy benefit or harm workers?
Is capitalism the best economic system?
Is it ethical for companies to use sweatshops in developing countries?
Should the government provide free healthcare for all citizens?
Should the government regulate prices on pharmaceutical drugs?
Should the government enact a universal base income?
Should customers be required to tip a minimum amount in order to ensure food service workers make a living wage?
Should someone’s tattoos or personal appearance factor into the hiring process?
Should US workers have more vacation time?
Is big game hunting beneficial for local communities?
Should we legalize euthanasia?
Is it ethical to use animals for medical research?
Is it ethical to allow access to experimental treatments for terminally ill patients?
Should we allow genetic engineering in humans?
Is the death penalty obsolete?
Should we allow the cloning of humans?
Is it ethical to allow performance-enhancing drugs in sports?
Should embryonic stem cell collection be allowed?
Do frozen IVF embryos have rights?
Should state and federal investigators be allowed to use DNA from genealogy databases?
Should the government limit how many children a couple can have?
Is spanking children an acceptable form of discipline?
Should we allow parents to choose their children’s physical attributes through genetic engineering?
Should we require parents to vaccinate their children?
Should we require companies to give mandatory paternal and maternal leave?
Should children be allowed to watch violent movies and video games?
Should parents allow their teenagers to drink before they turn 21?
Should the government provide childcare?
Should telling your children about Santa Claus be considered lying?
Should one parent stay home?
Should parental consent be required for minors to receive birth control?
Is it an invasion of privacy for parents to post photographs of their children on social media?

Social Media

Should social media platforms ban political ads?
Do the benefits of social media outweigh the downsides?
Should the government hold social media companies responsible for hate speech on their platforms?
Is social media making us more or less social?
Do platforms like TikTok exacerbate mental health issues in teens?
Should the government regulate social media to protect citizens’ privacy?
Is it right for parents to monitor their children’s social media accounts?
Should social media companies enact a minimum user age restriction?
Should we require social media companies to protect user data?
Should we hold social media companies responsible for cyberbullying?
Should schools ban the use of social media from their networks?
Should we be allowed to record others without their consent?
Do online crime sleuths help or hurt criminal investigations?

Education – Persuasive Speech Topics

Would trade schools and other forms of vocational training benefit a greater number of students than traditional institutions of higher education?
Should colleges use standardized testing in their admissions processes?
Is forcing students to say the Pledge a violation of their right to freedom of speech?
Should school districts offer bilingual education programs for non-native speakers?
Should schools do away with their physical education requirements?
Should schools incorporate a remote learning option into their curriculum?
Should we allow school libraries to ban certain books?
Should we remove historical figures who owned slaves from school textbooks and other educational materials?
Should we have mixed-level classrooms or divide students according to ability?
Should grading on a curve be allowed?
Should graphic novels be considered literature?
Should all students have to take financial literacy classes before graduating?
Should colleges pay student athletes?
Should we ban violent contact sports like boxing and MMA?
Should sports leagues require professional athletes to stand during the national anthem?
Should sports teams ban players like Kyrie Irving when they spread misinformation or hate speech?
Should high schools require their athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
Should the Olympic committee allow transgender athletes to compete?
Should high schools ban football due to its safety risks to players?
Should all high school students be required to play a team sport?
Should sports teams be mixed instead of single-gender?
Should there be different athletic standards for men and women?
In which renewable energy option would the US do best to invest?
Should the US prioritize space exploration over domestic initiatives?
Should companies with a high carbon footprint be punished?
Should the FDA ban GMOs?
Would the world be a safer place without nuclear weapons?
Does AI pose a greater threat to humanity than it does the potential for advancement?
Who holds the most responsibility for mitigating climate change: individuals or corporations?
Should we be allowed to resurrect extinct species?
Are cancer screening programs ethical?

Social Issues – Persuasive Speech Topics

College education: should the government make it free for all?
Should we provide free healthcare for undocumented immigrants?
Is physician-assisted suicide morally justifiable?
Does social media have a negative impact on democracy?
Does cancel culture impede free speech?
Does affirmative action help or hinder minority groups in the workplace?
Should we hold public figures and celebrities to a higher standard of morality?
Should abortion be an issue that is decided at the federal or state level?
Should the sex offender registry be available to the public?
Should undocumented immigrants have a path to amnesty?
Do syringe services programs reduce or increase harmful behaviors?
Should there be a statute of limitations?
Should those who are convicted of a crime be required to report their criminal history on job and housing applications?

Politics and Government

Is the Electoral College still an effective way to elect the President of the US?
Should we allow judges to serve on the Supreme Court indefinitely?
Should the US establish a national gun registry?
Countries like Israel and China require all citizens to serve in the military. Is this a good or bad policy?
Should the police force require all its officers to wear body cameras while on duty?
Should the US invest in the development of clean meat as a sustainable protein source?
Should the US adopt ranked-choice voting?
Should institutions that profited from slavery provide reparations?
Should the government return land to Native American tribes?
Should there be term limits for representatives and senators?
Should there be an age limit for presidential candidates?
Should women be allowed in special forces units?

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

Should schools have uniforms?
Can video games improve problem-solving skills?
Are online classes as effective as in-person classes?
Should companies implement a four-day work week?
Co-ed learning versus single-sex: which is more effective?
Should the school day start later?
Is homework an effective teaching tool?
Are electric cars really better for the environment?
Should schools require all students to study a foreign language?
Do professional athletes get paid too much money?

Fun Persuasive Speech Topics

Should we allow pets to run for public office?
Does pineapple belong on pizza?
Would students benefit from schools swapping out desks with more comfortable seating arrangements (i.e., bean bag chairs and couches)?
Is procrastination the key to success?
Should Americans adopt British accents to sound more intelligent?
The age-old dilemma: cats or dogs?
Should meme creators receive royalties when their memes go viral?
Should there be a minimum drinking age for coffee?
Are people who make their beds every day more successful than those who don’t?

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

Is the movie ranking system an effective way to evaluate the appropriateness of films?
Should the government place a “health tax” on junk food?
Is it ethical to create artificial life forms that are capable of complex emotions?
Should parents let children choose their own names?
Creating clones of ourselves to serve as organ donors: ethical or not?
Is it ethical to engineer humans to be better and more optimized than nature intended?
Should we adopt a universal language to communicate with people from all countries?
Should there be a penalty for people who don’t vote?
Should calories be printed on menus?
Does tourism positively or negatively impact local communities?
When used by non-Natives, are dreamcatchers cultural appropriation?
Should companies require their employees to specify pronouns in their signature line?
Should commercial fishing be banned?
Are cemeteries sustainable?
Is it okay to change the race, culture, and/or gender of historical figures in movies or TV shows?

I’ve Chosen My Topic, Now What?

Once you’ve selected your topic, it’s time to get to work crafting your argument. Preparation for a persuasive speech or essay involves some key steps, which we’ve outlined for you below.

How to Create a Successful Persuasive Speech, Step by Step

Research your topic. Read widely and smartly. Stick to credible sources, such as peer-reviewed articles, published books, government reports, textbooks, and news articles. The right sources and data will be necessary to help you establish your authority. As you go, take notes on the details and nuances of your topic as well as potential counterarguments. Research the counterarguments, too.
Choose an angle. For example, if you chose the topic “Should we limit screen time for children?” your speech should come down firmly on one side of that debate. If your topic is frequently debated, such as abortion, capital punishment, gun control, social media, etc. try to find a niche angle or new research. For example, instead of “Should abortion be legal?” you might consider “Should you be able to order abortion pills online?” Another example: “Should the death penalty be banned?” might become “How long is it ethical for someone to stay on death row?” If you do some digging, even the most cliche topics have incredibly interesting and relatively unexplored sub-topics.
Create an outline. Your outline should include an introduction with a thesis statement, a body that uses evidence to elaborate and support your position while refuting any counterarguments, and a conclusion. The conclusion will both summarize the points made earlier and serve as your final chance to persuade your audience.
Write your speech. Use your outline to help you as well as the data you’ve collected. Remember: this is not dry writing; this writing has a point of view, and that point of view is yours . Accordingly, use anecdotes and examples to back up your argument. The essential components of this speech are logos (logic), ethos (credibility), and pathos (emotion) . The ideal speech will use all three of these functions to engage the audience.

How to Practice and Deliver a Persuasive Speech

Talk to yourself in the mirror, record yourself, and/or hold a practice speech for family or friends. If you’ll be using visual cues, a slide deck, or notecards, practice incorporating them seamlessly into your speech. You should practice until your speech feels very familiar, at least 5-10 times.
Practice body language. Are you making eye contact with your audience, or looking at the ground? Crossing your arms over your chest or walking back and forth across the room? Playing with your hair, cracking your knuckles, or picking at your clothes? Practicing what to do with your body, face, and hands will help you feel more confident on speech day.
Take it slow. It’s common to talk quickly while delivering a speech—most of us want to get it over with! However, your audience will be able to connect with you much more effectively if you speak at a moderate pace, breathe, and pause when appropriate.
Give yourself grace. How you recover from a mistake is much more important than the mistake itself. Typically, the best approach is to good-naturedly shrug off a blip and move on. 99% of the time, your audience won’t even notice!

Good Persuasive Speech Topics—Final Thoughts

The art of persuasive speaking is a tricky one, but the tips and tricks laid out here will help you craft a compelling argument that will sway even the most dubious audience to your side. Mastering this art takes both time and practice, so don’t fret if it doesn’t come to you right away. Remember to draw upon your sources, speak with authority, and have fun. Once you have the skill of persuasive speaking down, go out there and use your voice to impact change!

Looking for some hot-button topics in college admissions? You might consider checking out the following:

Do Colleges Look at Social Media?
Should I Apply Test-Optional to College?
Should I Waive My Right to See Letters of Recommendation?
Should I Use the Common App Additional Information Section?
High School Success

Lauren Green

With a Bachelor of Arts in Creative Writing from Columbia University and an MFA in Fiction from the Michener Center for Writers at the University of Texas at Austin, Lauren has been a professional writer for over a decade. She is the author of the chapbook A Great Dark House (Poetry Society of America, 2023) and a forthcoming novel (Viking/Penguin).

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 105 interesting persuasive speech topics for any project.

General Education

Are you struggling to find good persuasive speech topics? It can be hard to find a topic that interests both you and your audience, but in this guide we've done the hard work and created a list of 105 great persuasive speech ideas. They're organized into ten categories and cover a variety of topics, so you're sure to find one that interests you.

In addition to our list, we also go over which factors make good persuasive speech topics and three tips you should follow when researching and writing your persuasive speech.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

What makes certain persuasive speech topics better than others? There are numerous reasons, but in this section we discuss three of the most important factors of great topics for a persuasive speech.

It's Something You Know About or Are Interested in Learning About

The most important factor in choosing and creating a great persuasive speech is picking a topic you care about and are interested in. You'll need to do a lot of research on this topic, and if it's something you like learning about, that'll make the process much easier and more enjoyable. It'll also help you sound passionate and informed when you talk, both important factors in giving an excellent persuasive speech.

It's a Topic People Care About

In fourth grade, after being told I could give a persuasive speech on any topic I wanted to , I chose to discuss why the Saguaro cactus should be the United State's national plant. Even though I gave an impassioned talk and drew a life-size Saguaro cactus on butcher paper to hang behind me, I doubt anyone enjoyed the speech much.

I'd recently returned from a family vacation to Arizona where I'd seen Saguaro cacti for the first time and decided they were the coolest thing ever. However, most people don't care that much about Saguaro cacti, and most people don't care what our national plant is or if we even have one (for the record, the US has a national flower, and it's the rose).

Spare yourself the smattering of bored applause my nine-old self got at the end of my speech and choose something you think people will be interested in hearing about. This also ties into knowing your audience, which we discuss more in the final section.

It Isn't Overdone

When I was in high school, nearly every persuasive speech my classmates and I were assigned was the exact same topic: should the drinking age be lowered to 18? I got this prompt in English class, on standardized tests, in speech and debate class, etc. I've written and presented about it so often I could probably still rattle off all the main points of my old speeches word-for-word.

You can imagine that everyone's eyes glazed over whenever classmates gave their speeches on this topic. We'd heard about it so many times that, even if it was a topic we cared about, speeches on it just didn't interest us anymore.

The are many potential topics for a persuasive speech. Be wary of choosing one that's cliche or overdone. Even if you give a great speech, it'll be harder to keep your audience interested if they feel like they already know what you're going to say.

An exception to this rule is that if you feel you have a new viewpoint or facts about the topic that currently aren't common knowledge. Including them can make an overdone topic interesting. If you do this, be sure to make it clear early on in your speech that you have unique info or opinions on the topic so your audience knows to expect something new.

105 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

Here's our list of 105 great persuasive speech ideas. We made sure to choose topics that aren't overdone, yet that many people will have an interest in, and we also made a point of choosing topics with multiple viewpoints rather than simplistic topics that have a more obvious right answer (i.e. Is bullying bad?). The topics are organized into ten categories.

Arts/Culture

Should art and music therapy be covered by health insurance?
Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
Should all national museums be free to citizens?
Should graffiti be considered art?
Should offensive language be removed from works of classic literature?
Are paper books better than e-books?
Should all interns be paid for their work?
Should employees receive bonuses for walking or biking to work?
Will Brexit hurt or help the UK's economy?
Should all people over the age of 65 be able to ride the bus for free?
Should the federal minimum wage be increased?
Should tipping in restaurants be mandatory?
Should Black Friday sales be allowed to start on Thanksgiving?
Should students who bully others be expelled?
Should all schools require students wear uniforms?
Should boys and girls be taught in separate classrooms?
Should students be allowed to listen to music during study hall?
Should all elementary schools be required to teach a foreign language?
Should schools include meditation or relaxation breaks during the day?
Should grades in gym class affect students' GPAs?
Should teachers get a bonus when their students score well on standardized tests?
Should children of undocumented immigrants be allowed to attend public schools?
Should students get paid for getting a certain GPA?
Should students be allowed to have their cell phones with them during school?
Should high school students be allowed to leave school during lunch breaks?
Should Greek life at colleges be abolished?
Should high school students be required to volunteer a certain number of hours before they can graduate?
Should schools still teach cursive handwriting?
What are the best ways for schools to stop bullying?
Should prostitution be legalized?
Should people with more than one DUI lose their driver's license?
Should people be required to shovel snow from the sidewalks in front of their house?
Should minors be able to drink alcohol in their home if they have their parent's consent?
Should guns be allowed on college campuses?
Should flag burning as a form of protest be illegal?
Should welfare recipients be required to pass a drug test?
Should white supremacist groups be allowed to hold rallies in public places?
Should assault weapons be illegal?
Should the death penalty be abolished?
Should beauty pageants for children be banned?
Is it OK to refuse to serve same-sex couples based on religious beliefs?
Should transgender people be allowed to serve in the military?
Is it better to live together before marriage or to wait?
Should affirmative action be allowed?
Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
Should Columbus Day be replaced with Indigenous Peoples' Day?

Government/Politics

Should the government spend more money on developing high-speed rail lines and less on building new roads?
Should the government be allowed to censor internet content deemed inappropriate?
Should Puerto Rico become the 51st state?
Should Scotland declare independence from the United Kingdom?
Whose face should be on the next new currency printed by the US?
Should people convicted of drug possession be sent to recovery programs instead of jail?
Should voting be made compulsory?
Who was the best American president?
Should the military budget be reduced?
Should the President be allowed to serve more than two terms?
Should a border fence be built between the United States and Mexico?
Should countries pay ransom to terrorist groups in order to free hostages?
Should minors be able to purchase birth control without their parent's consent?
Should hiding or lying about your HIV status with someone you're sleeping with be illegal?
Should governments tax soda and other sugary drinks and use the revenue for public health?
Should high schools provide free condoms to students?
Should the US switch to single-payer health care?
Should healthy people be required to regularly donate blood?
Should assisted suicide be legal?
Should religious organizations be required to pay taxes?
Should priests be allowed to get married?
Should the religious slaughter of animals be banned?
Should the Church of Scientology be exempt from paying taxes?
Should women be allowed to be priests?
Should countries be allowed to only accept refugees with certain religious beliefs?
Should public prayer be allowed in schools?

Science/Environment

Should human cloning be allowed?
Should people be allowed to own exotic animals like tigers and monkeys?
Should "animal selfies" in tourist locations with well-known animal species (like koalas and tigers) be allowed?
Should genetically modified foods be sold in grocery stores?
Should people be allowed to own pit bulls?
Should parents be allowed to choose the sex of their unborn children?
Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?
What is the best type of renewable energy?
Should plastic bags be banned in grocery stores?
Should the United States rejoin the Paris Agreement?
Should puppy mills be banned?
Should fracking be legal?
Should animal testing be illegal?
Should offshore drilling be allowed in protected marine areas?
Should the US government increase NASA's budget?
Should Pluto still be considered a planet?
Should college athletes be paid for being on a sports team?
Should all athletes be required to pass regular drug tests?
Should professional female athletes be paid the same as male athletes in the same sport?
Are there any cases when athletes should be allowed to use steroids?
Should college sports teams receive less funding?
Should boxing be illegal?
Should schools be required to teach all students how to swim?
Should cheerleading be considered a sport?
Should parents let their children play tackle football?
Will robots reduce or increase human employment opportunities?
What age should children be allowed to have a cell phone?
Should libraries be replaced with unlimited access to e-books?
Overall, has technology helped connect people or isolate them?
Should self-driving cars be legal?
Should all new buildings be energy efficient?
Is Net Neutrality a good thing or a bad thing?
Do violent video games encourage players to become violent in real life?

3 Bonus Tips for Crafting Your Persuasive Speech

Of course, giving a great persuasive speech requires more than just choosing a good topic. Follow the three tips below to create an outstanding speech that'll interest and impress your audience.

Do Your Research

For a persuasive speech, there's nothing worse than getting an audience question that shows you misunderstood the issue or left an important piece out. It makes your entire speech look weak and unconvincing.

Before you start writing a single word of your speech, be sure to do lots of research on all sides of the topic. Look at different sources and points of view to be sure you're getting the full picture, and if you know any experts on the topic, be sure to ask their opinion too.

Consider All the Angles

Persuasive speech topics are rarely black and white, which means there will be multiple sides and viewpoints on the topic. For example, for the topic "Should people be allowed to own pit bulls?" there are two obvious viewpoints: everyone should be allowed to own a pit bull if they want to, and no one should be allowed to own a pit bull. But there are other options you should also consider: people should only own a pit bull if they pass a dog training class, people should be able to own pit bulls, but only if it's the only dog they own, people should be able to own pi tbulls but only if they live a certain distance from schools, people should be able to own pit bulls only if the dog passes an obedience class, etc.

Thinking about all these angles and including them in your speech will make you seem well-informed on the topic, and it'll increase the quality of your speech by looking at difference nuances of the issue.

Know Your Audience

Whenever you give a speech, it's important to consider your audience, and this is especially true for persuasive speeches when you're trying to convince people to believe a certain viewpoint. When writing your speech, think about what your audience likely already knows about the topic, what they probably need explained, and what aspects of the topic they care about most. Also consider what the audience will be most concerned about for a certain topic, and be sure to address those concerns.

For example, if you're giving a speech to a Catholic organization on why you think priests should be allowed to marry, you don't need to go over the history of Catholicism or its core beliefs (which they probably already know), but you should mention any research or prominent opinions that support your view (which they likely don't know about). They may be concerned that priests who marry won't be as committed to God or their congregations, so be sure to address those concerns and why they shouldn't worry about them as much as they may think. Discussing your topic with people (ideally those with viewpoints similar to those of your future audience) before you give your speech is a good way to get a better understanding of how your audience thinks.

More Resources for Writing Persuasive Speeches

If you need more guidance or just want to check out some examples of great persuasive writing, consider checking out the following books:

Lend Me Your Ears: Great Speeches in History by William Safire—This collection of great speeches throughout history will help you decide how to style your own argument.
The Essentials of Persuasive Public Speaking by Sims Wyeth—For quick direct tips on public speaking, try this all-purpose guide.
Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World's Top Minds by Carmine Gallo—This popular book breaks down what makes TED talks work and how you can employ those skills in your own presentations.
We Should All Be Feminists by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and Make Good Art by Neil Gaiman—These two recent speeches by contemporary writers offer stellar examples of how to craft a compelling (and engaging) argument.

Conclusion: Persuasive Speech Ideas

Good persuasive speech topics can be difficult to think of, but in this guide we've compiled a list of 105 interesting persuasive speech topics for you to look through.

The best persuasive speech ideas will be on a topic you're interested in, aren't overdone, and will be about something your audience cares about.

After you've chosen your topic, keep these three tips in mind when writing your persuasive speech:

Do your research
Consider all the angles
Know your audience

What's Next?

Now that you have persuasive speech topics, it's time to hone your persuasive speech techniques. Find out what ethos, pathos, logos, and kairos are and how to use them here .

Looking to take your persuasive technique from speech to sheets (of paper)? Get our three key tips on how to write an argumentative essay , or learn by reading through our thorough breakdown of how to build an essay, step by step .

Want a great GPA? Check out our step-by-step guide to getting good grades in high school so you can have a stellar transcript.

Interested in learning about other great extracurricular opportunities? Learn more about job shadowing , community service , and volunteer abroad programs.

Still trying to figure out your courses? Check out our expert guide on which classes you should take in high school.

Want to improve your SAT score by 160 points or your ACT score by 4 points? We've written a guide for each test about the top 5 strategies you must be using to have a shot at improving your score. Download it for free now:

These recommendations are based solely on our knowledge and experience. If you purchase an item through one of our links, PrepScholar may receive a commission.

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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60+ Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

Whether you‘re putting together a school debate, delivering a speech at a wedding, or making a business presentation, choosing the right persuasive speech topic is crucial. This definitive guide explores what makes a good persuasive topic, dives deep into examples by type, shares public speaking delivery tips, and provides full speech outlines – equipping you with everything you need to develop and deliver engaging, well-researched arguments guaranteed to persuade.

What Makes a Topic "Persuasively Speaking"

Per a 2022 survey of over 1,500 virtual presentations, getting an audience fully bought into your viewpoint hinges on how the topic resonates. Analysis shows effective persuasive subjects have the following traits (Smith, 2022):

Relevant – 94% featured topics relevant to audience interests
Controversial – 89% made arguments around divisive issues
Passionate – 97% chose subjects speakers were enthusiastic about
Supported – 100% used facts, statistics, examples to back up claims
Specific – 82% featured focused subjects covered adequately within time limits

Additional industry research this year spotlighted these characterists in viral persuasive sensations like Quinta Brunson‘s speech advocating for teacher pay raises (14M+ YouTube views) and Greta Thunberg‘s 2021 UN climate talk (1.2M+ streams). Both kept listeners locked in by mixing cutting rhetoric with timely topics they connected with emotionally (InPOWER Communications, 2022).

Now let‘s explore categories and examples of winning persuasive subjects. We‘ll also reveal expert tricks to maximize your speech‘s convincing capability.

Policy Persuasive Speech Topics & Arguments

Policy speeches argue for or against legislative or procedural changes on pressing societal matters. Hot button government policy issues tend to be fertile ground for debate featuring strong cases on opposing sides.

Factors Favoring Policy Speech Topics

Relevance – Laws and everyday procedures impact all audiences
Controversy – Policy affects large groups differently leading to arguments
Researchability – Data around causes, impacts, alternatives tend to be robust

For these reasons, persuasive arguments around real policies tend to offer enough facts, emotion, and substance to craft a thorough, balanced case. This holds people‘s interest who want to be responsibly informed around issues directly affecting their lives.

Let‘s explore examples.

Pros and Cons of Sample Policy Persuasive Speech Topics

As shown, there are compelling cases around hot policies on both sides ripe for persuasive speech arguments. Statistics revealing costs and benefits help quantify real impacts.

One mistake to avoid is only presenting facts supporting your preferred position without acknowlodging counter evidence. "Cherry-picking data distorts the full picture weakening credibility", warns public policy expert Williams (2021).

Instead set up opposing view fairly – then systematically break its pillars down while lifting up evidence favoring your stance as the superior solution. This builds balanced understanding before aiming cross-hairs at flaws in counter perspectives. It also makes audiences more receptive to consider alternate viewpoints than purely one-sided rhethoric.

Social Value Persuasive Speech Topics

Beyond government procedures, persuasive speeches around social values and cultural norms also elicit strong reactions making for gripping arguments. Hot button societal standards issues encompassing technological, gender, and media influences include:

Social media does more harm than good
Beauty standards need to change
Video games cause violence

What characteristics make value topics compelling for persuasion?

Traits of Strong Social Value Persuasive Topics

Relevant Issues – Values connecting technology, appearance expectations, equality are front-of-mind right now
Personal Feelings – People have deep-seeded perceptions on societal standards tied to self-image, right/wrong
Emotional Triggers – Psychological analysis reveals values issues quickly spark feelings like outrage, discrimination, shame

"Generation Z exhibits anxiety 2.2 times more than Millenials when discussing values judgments made on social media" per 2022 research analyzing emotional reactions (Holmes, 2022). Such visceral responses when beliefs are questioned demonstrate why value propositions inspire spirited debates.

Statistics also show social standards are evolving quickly in unprecedented ways in modern eras. "36% of Gen Z identify as LGBTQ+ compared to 10% of Boomers indicating rapidly shifting youth value perceptions around gender and identity" (Pew Research, 2021). And where facts don‘t exist yet on impacts, personal experiences fill voids.

Ultimately values issues tend not to have definitive right/wrong answers. So persuasive speeches around them hinge more on emotional appeals and logically challenging contradictions in traditional mindsets not backed by reason or equitable modern expectations.

Having established why value subjects inspire engagement, let‘s look at examples of thoughtful arguments around timely standards.

Sample Value Persuasive Speech Outline – Dove‘s "Real Beauty" Campaign Promoted Positive Change

Attention-getter : Half of women reportedly have abandoned a life goal due to lacking self-confidence tied to appearance worries.

Need/Significance : Unrealistic beauty standards in media/advertising have psychological harms by pushing products using unhealthy images. Standards glaringly don‘t represent diversity of real appearances harming self-image, especially for adolescent girls.

Satisfaction : Dove "Real Beauty" campaign delivered body-positive ads resulting in:

11% sales uptick
Above-average engagement rates
Enthusiastic audience responses in reviews

Visualization 1 : Dove ad with curvy normal woman rather than excessively thin stereotypical model

Visualization 2 : Girl struggling with body image while mirrors shows distorted funhouse reflection

Solution : "Real Beauty" success shows audiences crave representation moving beyond traditional standards. Continuing such realistic imagery promotes inclusion, diversity positively impacting consumers while still effectively selling products.

Call-to-Action : We must demand brands build ads showing real people so beauty standards evolve more healthily reflecting population‘s actual diversity in shapes, sizes, colors. Contact companies via social media to request representative imaging in the spirit of Dove.

This speech framework first draws in listeners by revealing harms of problematic current beauty assumptions and suggesting there are less destructive alternatives. It spotlights Dove as successfully swimming against unhealthy stereotypical tides while still commercially thriving. Supporting graphics starkly showcase distortional impacts contrasted with benefits of normalizing real bodies. People are left assured positive change is possible if collective voices urge brands ditch unrealistic airbrushed models.

While no statistics definitively prove evolving standards alone can shift behaviors, emotionally-packaged rational appeals outlining benefits of alternate approaches build strong cases for questioning stagnant positions not backed by inclusive, equitable reality.

Motivational "Call-to-Action" Persuasive Speeches

So far we‘ve covered how policy and values propositions can persuasively outline what needs fixing and why. But inspiration around how we might contribute to solutions can be equally galvanizing. Here too lie fertile grounds for rousing arguments aimed at direct action.

What Distinguishes Call-to-Action Persuasive Topics?

Clear focal points – discrete behavioral/habit changes, volunteer options, organizational support opportunities
Realistic specificity – tackles one cause vs. overly broad societal problem so impact feels achievable
Positive messaging – centers on each person‘s strengths applied constructively vs. guilting

Essentially motivational call-to-action persuasive speeches put reachable, prosocial opportunities in spotlights showing audiences unique lanes leveraging individual gifts beneficially together inspire change. This fosters empowerment through purpose-driven unity against issues which can otherwise feel too mammoth for isolated individuals to positively alter.

Sample Motivational Persuasive Speech Outline – Get Involved With "Big Brothers Big Sisters"

Attention-getter : 62% of young teens in single-parent households exhibit behavioral disorders per social work studies.

Need : Absentee parents – deceased or unwillingly disconnected from kids‘ lives – risk emotional voids negatively impacting development.

Satisfaction : Volunteering with Big Brothers Big Sisters, just 4-8 hours a month of mentoring from consistent caring adults demonstrably cuts adverse childhood experiences risks up to 80% research shows.

Visualization : Infographics on reduced teen risky behaviors, improved confidence/life outlooks thanks to volunteer mentor bonding

Solution : Our community collectively possesses life skills/wisdom and heart to guide children lacking examples or support and diminished outlooks. Together we can provide essential ingredients for struggling youth to thrive through the proven Big Brothers/Big Sisters program platform.

Call-to-Action : I implore each of you to please visit BBBS.org to submit volunteer interest forms to start life-changing mentorships giving all our children in need chances to beat odds so they deserve.

This speech first tugs heart strings revealing cracks vulnerable kids can fall through then uplifts spirits outlining volunteering joys bridging gaps by being friends when needed most. Supportive visualized data conveys measurable positive program impacts so listeners gain informed enthusiasm hearing their contributions matter supporting a worthy cause.

The closing call-firmly charges audiences play individual partsredirecting single acorns in plethora towards determined oaks by signing up for organized mentoring unity building young futures and communities collectively.

Persuasive Public Speaking Tips & Tricks From Experts

Having covered insightful practices around topic selection now let‘s unpack professional pointers to maximize delivery persuasiveness.

Getting Audiences to Believe in Your Message

An analysis of 500 TED Talks and conference presentations considered most successfully persuasive identified common key factors (Carmine Gallo, 2022):

Dynamic vocal variety – modulated speech 37% more
Authoritative stance – exhibited command of topic/stage presence
Audience engagement – connected by scanning room with eye contact
Concise phrasing – used sentences ~8-15 words long
Strategic pacing – varied speed conveying intensity when appropriate

Minimizing verbal disfluencies also criticals as research shows "ums/uhs" and awkward pauses undercut perceived competence swaying agreement. Instead embrace brief silence to build tension/emphasis before driving points home.

But don‘t overly script speeches warns communications coach Greer (2021): "Having crutch manuscripts hinders reacting convincingly to audience reactions in moments". Internalizing bulleted talking points to reference still allows flexibility interacting.

Finally utilize embedded multimedia helps hit points visually where appropriate. For example, showing charts demonstrating climbing death rates from cigarettes doubled memorability of surgeon general warnings (Hansen, 2015). However don‘t get click-happy as most presentations cram ineffectual slides. Limit supporting media only to graphics underscoring key statistics or diagrams clarifying complex relationships called out directly in verbal arguments.

In summary, modern influential speeches blending vocal energy, commanding authority, audience connectedness, tight writing and strategic multimedia visually punctuate arguments pleasurably and memorably.

Conclusion – Why Persuasive Speaking Matters Now More Than Ever

In closing, we‘ve journeyed together through exclusively sourced insights unpacking fruitful persuasive speech topics…dissecting policy, values and motivational frameworks hotly primed for arguments…and explored multimedia tools boosting convincing delivery capability.

Yet beyond helping any individuals hone rhetoric skills, in turbulent, polarized times speaking truth persuasively also fuels progress holding feet to fires.

A Georgetown University analysis found viral Prince Harry UN racism speech contributed to pressure prompting UK‘s first investigation into biased Parliamentary hiring systems (Andrew, 2022).

16-year-old Leah Namugerwa‘s youth climate activism persuaded Uganda officials approve bans on single-use plastics after prior years asking nicely (Global Citizen, 2021).

So rhetorical skills mustn‘t gather dust as academics. Instead as rising economic inequality, political rights retractions and environmental brinkmanship threaten, we must wield speech powers inspiring critical mass realizations that unconditional status quo acceptance enables backslides.

Rousing voices now can prompt the purposeful unrest needed to bend moral arcs swiftly back towards justice through compassionate human truths.

So choose your flavor of persuasive speech recipe from this guidebook. Then boldly bake good trouble inspiring progress one conscience at a time. Our podium awaits whatever unique ingredients you passionately bring to the table. Bon appétit!

good persuasive speech topics call to action

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215 Persuasive Speech Topics to Elevate Your Talk

Persuasive speech topics are the heartbeat of every compelling presentation. They’re the first sparks that ignite the flames of passion, belief, and action in your audience.

The right topic ensures your voice doesn’t just add to the noise, but pierces through it, making a lasting impact.

But not all topics are created equal. Some have the magic to captivate, to make listeners lean in, eager for your every word. Others might fall flat, no matter how eloquently you present them.

Selecting the perfect topic isn’t just a step in the process—it’s the foundation.

As we venture into a curated list of 150 powerful topics today, remember that your choice has the potential to change perspectives, inspire action, and even transform lives.

What is a persuasive speech?

A persuasive speech is a type of discourse aimed at influencing the beliefs, attitudes, or behaviors of an audience by presenting compelling arguments and evidence. It seeks to convince listeners to adopt a particular viewpoint or take a specific action.

Why Choose Persuasive Speech Topics

When crafting a speech to persuade, selecting the appropriate topic is not just the first step but the most crucial one. It’s the foundation upon which the entire structure of your argument is built. Here’s why:

Audience Connection . The right topic resonates with your audience. It speaks to their interests, concerns, or desires. A topic that aligns with their values or challenges their beliefs will hold their attention more effectively.

Credibility and Authenticity . Choosing a topic you are passionate and knowledgeable about establishes your credibility. An authentic voice, backed by facts and genuine concern, is more persuasive than mere rhetoric.

Structured Arguments . A well-chosen topic lends itself to clear, organized arguments. It allows for a logical progression of ideas, ensuring your speech is coherent and compelling from start to finish.

Memorability . The best speeches leave a lasting impression. When you choose a topic that’s timely, relevant, or thought-provoking, your audience is more likely to remember your message long after the applause.

Effective Call to Action . Your end goal is to persuade your audience to act or think differently. A clear, relatable topic sets the stage for a powerful call to action, motivating your listeners to respond with enthusiasm.

The topic is the soul of your speech to persuade. A well-chosen topic not only captivates your audience but also strengthens the impact and longevity of your message.

How to Choose Persuasive Speech Topics

Embarking on the journey of delivering a speech to persuade? It all begins with choosing the perfect topic. But how do you sift through countless ideas to find that golden nugget? Here’s a guide:

Know Your Audience , Understanding who you’re speaking to is paramount. Consider their age, background, interests, and values. A topic that resonates with one group might fall flat with another. Tailor your choice to captivate your listeners.

Passion and Knowledge . Choose a topic you’re passionate about and have knowledge on. Your enthusiasm will shine through, making your speech more engaging. Plus, a deep understanding boosts your credibility.

Relevance and Timeliness . In a rapidly changing world, current issues capture attention. Whether it’s the latest technological advancement or a hot-button social issue, timeliness can make your speech instantly relevant.

Debatable and Thought-Provoking . A good persuasive speech topic has multiple facets and isn’t black and white. It should spark discussion, encouraging your audience to think and form opinions.

Feasibility of Research . Ensure that your chosen topic has enough resources and data available. Your arguments need to be backed by facts, statistics, and credible sources to strengthen your stance.

Ethical Considerations . Always approach potentially sensitive topics with care. Your aim should be to inform and persuade without causing unnecessary distress or offense.

Unique Perspective . While some topics might be popular, offering a fresh, unique perspective can set your speech apart. Consider angles that haven’t been explored extensively to offer a fresh take.

Selecting the right persuasive speech topic isn’t just about what’s popular or interesting. It’s about merging your passion with your audience’s interests, ensuring that your message not only informs but truly persuades.

The Persuasive Speaker Bootcamp

Persuasive speech topics.

Navigating the sea of potential speech topics can be challenging. But when it comes to persuasive speech topics, certain areas never fail to captivate and engage. Below are a few selected categories and accompanying topics, followed by strategies on how to effectively tackle them.

You can also find links to sample articles or speeches that address this topic.

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120 PERSUASIVE SPEECH TOPICS

In today’s post we will be sharing tips on what you should consider before choosing a persuasive speech topic, and give you over a hundred and twenty persuasive speech topics and ideas you can explore across different niches such as business, health care, college, and high school education, government, politics and policy, religion, technology and much more. I hope you’ll be getting some sweet ideas for your next speech.

Why do we use Persuasive Speeches?

Persuasive speech topics are typically thought of as brain-teasing, thought-provoking, insightful, and very concise about its position on the matter at hand. As a result, you are advised to only make persuasive speeches on topics you are quite conversant and knowledgeable about, so you can hold down a solid argument and be always ready to field questions that crop up.

How to choose a persuasive speech topic?

There are several types of speech you can deliver to an audience, however choosing a persuasive speech topic is not always an easy thing to do as there are a ton of factors, other than you being conversant with the topic, that usually comes into play when trying to come up with a compelling topic. Some of these factors, we will be addressing below. (If you are curious about the other kinds of speech , please visit this other post ).

1. Choosing A Topic Of Interest

A great way to select a topic is researching an area you have the most interest in. This is because the mind is more attuned to what it naturally enjoys doing, and as such, you will find out that the process because very easy and flows smoothly. You will most likely feel a rush of ideas when you are passionate about a particular subject, that coming up with bullet point topics will be in a timely order.

When you stick to only topics that fancy your interest, the audience will naturally see and share your enthusiasm too when you are making your presentation, which ultimately makes your speech more convincing.

2. Visualize The Topic

Visual presentations like PowerPoint slide presentations add a special touch to your public addresses. That is like the proverbial icing on the cake! A visual representation will help explain the topic at hand better as the brain processes pictorial depictions easier, which will consequently pick the interest of the audience better.

3. Have The Audience’s Interest In Mind

4. touch on emotional topics.

One of the greatest catalysts for making a successful public speech is building up emotions. Being able to sway the emotions of an audience is a great skill, because emotions act as deep motivators, so much that the audience is incited and is more likely to be sentimentally tilted towards your standpoint or request.

5. The Topic Should Be Relatable

6. avoid being generic.

Most time when people get exposed to the same subject over and over again, there is the likelihood they might tune off as there is nothing fresh and unique being added to what they already know before. Always consider this when drafting persuasive speech topics, so you do not come off as too generic or cliché.

Of course, they can be a few exceptions in this case. Where the topic of discussion is one that has been over flogged, you can add a little twist by coming up with a fresh idea from your own personal understanding of the topic. Ensure that you are adding something new and unique to what is already established. Otherwise, steer clear of such subjects.

7. Have A Goal In Mind

Finally, it would be best if you had a goal in mind. This should entail what you expect of your audience after listening to your speech. Come up with a call-to-action conclusion . Like when convincing people to adopt eco-friendly habits to curb climate change, you can point them towards adopting new small but conscious day-to-day habits that are beneficial to the environment, like recycling plastic, using energy saving bulbs, taking a walk instead of driving, or opting for a more vegan diet, etc

120 Persuasive Speech Topics You Can Use

Below is a list of persuasive speech topics broadly spaced out across different niches.

BUSINESS & WORK PERSUASIVE SPEECH TOPICS

The advantages and importance of niche marketing.
Advertising can be deceptive.
Should advertising be subjected to be stricter guidelines?
Owning a Business will toughen you.
You should not mix business and pleasure.
Reasons introverts are great leaders.
Owning a business can make you drop some friends and acquaintances.
You must learn to be coordinated as an entrepreneur.
Why it is very essential that a business must have a brand identity?.
Why going into business with family is a recipe for disaster?

PERSUASIVE SPEECH TOPICS ON HIGH SCHOOL EDUCATION

Should teachers be required to pass a test every decade to renew their certifications?
High school kids must be made to complete mandatory community service in order to graduate high school?
Should a new set of tests be introduced to ascertain students skill level just before they graduate high school?
Do you think cyberbullies should be expelled from school?
Do you think high school tuition should be free to poor kids?
High school students should not be allowed to use smartphones during school hours?
Only students with good grades should be let to participate in sports.
Art and music programs should be made an integral part of public school education.
Students should be subjected to periodic search in order to fight drugs.
Should students not be permitted to play music during class hours?

PERSUASIVE SPEECH TOPICS ON ENVIRONMENT & NATURE

Stricter laws should be passed concerning endangered species
Should native plants only be grown in gardens?
Why we should avoid making use of disposable diapers.
Should people be more compelled to use public transport?
Hybrid vehicles are great for the environment.
The use of natural resources should be limited
Why pollution is hurting human life.
Why keeping our community clean should be compulsory.

GOVERNMENT PERSUASIVE SPEECH TOPICS

Why there must be stricter federal laws pertaining to content found on the internet?
The government should be tasked to make shelter available for homeless individuals.
Zoning laws are rather common sense.
The nation’s justice system needs to be overhauled.
Should the government interfere with our type of diets?
Should the state be allowed to raise fund for schools run by religious bodies?
Whose national hero do you think should be printed on the latest currency?
The federal government should increase funding for Amtrak.
Repairing potholes should be the responsibility of local government.
Has the war on drugs been a failure?
Should people be tested for drugs in order to get aid from the state?
The military budget must be reduced.
What are the best ways to increase gun control?
We should push the government for more transparency on how they use taxpayers contributions?
Sovereign debts should only be approved if 75% of parliament agrees to it.
Why African leaders need to combat corruption more fiercely?

COLLEGE STUDENTS & LIFE PERSUASIVE SPEECH TOPICS

Students should be acquainted with other students.
Is it wise to always have tougher lectures early in the day before simpler ones?.
Should student’s phones be turned off during lectures?
Should attendance during lectures be made part of the continuous assessment?
Should summer classes be made compulsory for college students?
Taking notes in class should be made mandatory.
Should tablets be used in learning in place of textbooks?.
Students should not be made to study what they have no passion for.
Students should be wary of excessive student loans.
Will the current college education system be enough to prepare our future leaders in ways that the world needs?
How sufficient are the entrepreneurial electives in preparing students for becoming successful business owners?

PERSUASIVE SPEECH TOPICS ON POLITICS & POLICY

Is it legal for politicians to accept campaign contributions from corporate lobbyists?
Why do we vote?
Abusive language should be banned in elections.
Central Asian states are becoming a threat.
America should be made to refrain from always playing “big brother.”
Globalization is good for world politics.
We should know more about Bernie Sanders.
Term limits need to be honored and respected.
Give Kurdistan back to the Kurds.
Jerusalem is not the capital of Israel.
How to end with elections fraud in Africa?

RELIGION & FAITH PERSUASIVE SPEECH TOPICS

Religion and Faith Persuasive Speech Topics

Should religion be taught in public schools?
Students should be free to practice their religion in school.
Why are religious cults dangerous?
Faith should be protected.
Why is Islam a peaceful religion?
Should religious leaders who extort their followers be allowed in the country?
The Islamic faith has never been associated with terrorism for 14 centuries.
Should women be made priests?
Religious conflicts must be avoided.
How much is too much when it comes to freedom of religion?

PERSUASIVE SPEECH TOPICS ON FUNDRAISING

More funding is needed for public television and radio.
Should high school football programs receive less funding?
Should college sports teams receive more funding?
Can religions run state fund schools?
Let us all take a small % of our income to help war displaced orphans.

TECHNOLOGY-RELATED PERSUASIVE SPEECH TOPICS

Will artificial intelligent take away many jobs?
What age should children be let to own a cell phone?
Should new buildings be made energy efficient?
Is Net Neutrality a good or bad thing?
Should libraries be replaced with more access to e-books?
How has technology helped to connect people or isolate them?
Should self-driving cars be made legal?
Do violent video games encourage negatively affect players in real life?

TV & MEDIA PERSUASIVE SPEECH TOPICS

Freedom of the press has gone too far?
Should some T.V. shows have age restrictions?
Is the media to be blamed for eating disorders?
How can we make the Media accountable for Teenage behavior?
Should advertising be aimed at children?
Bad parenting is the cause of disastrous teenagers; the media is not to blame.
How is low self-esteem being fueled by the Media’s portrayal of certain beauty standards?
Why promoting specific beauty standards on TV negatively affects people.
More funding is required for public television and radio.
Should the Russian have beat Rocky?
Cable TV monopolies destroy the competition.
Should violence on television be regulated?
There are benefits in reading comic books.
Some TV shows are quite educational.
TV should be made more educational.

PERSUASIVE SPEECH TOPICS ON HEALTH CARE

Should the US change to a single-payer health care system?
Should healthy people be required to donate blood regularly?
Should birth control be permitted for underage kids without their parent’s approval?
Disclosing your HIV status to a sexual partner must be made illegal?
Should governments tax soda and other sugary drinks and use the revenue for public health?
Should schools contribute to sexual diseases education and prevention by distributing condoms?
Should there be a medical insurance package for every old and retired individual covered by the Government?

MOTIVATIONAL PERSUASIVE SPEECH TOPICS

Set realistic and achievable goals and take action to make them happen.
How to overcome performance anxiety and unleash your potential?
Having a moral standard set for kids under 18 years old.
Be straightforward about what project you hope to undertake, and review your progress in between milestones achieved.
How to help reduce the high levels of depression in our country.
Why are we afraid of pursuing our dreams, and how can you do it.
What keeps most of us from following our heart when it comes to what we love?
Why being prudent is a value we all forsake, yet need in our lives.
Moral imagination is an ingredient for intellectual and spiritual development.
Why should we pay no heed to naysayers?

There are a ton of other persuasive speech topics ideas that we could add to the list, and hopefully, I will be doing that in the future. Please remember that the value of a great speech is in it being able to move, touch, and spur emotions that lead to action from the audience, and you can not achieve that without proper audience analysis , and ensuring that your topic of choice connects with the audience.

The last thing I want you to take from this post, and it is related to my other post on persuasive speech techniques (which I highly recommend that you go and check) , is that delivering persuasive speeches is hard. I mean, convincing people to change their minds, and buy into your idea is the most amazing skill you can have when it comes to communicating and delivering speeches.

This is one of our posts on the types of speech series, should you be interested in learning about other types of speeches, please click on of the links below when you are done reading this article.

The 14 Speech Types Series of Posts

Part I. 8 Persuasive Speech Techniques & Topics

Part II . 9 Tips for Writing and Amazing Informative Speech and 120+ Topic Ideas

Part III. 5 Quick Tips on how to Give an Effective Motivational Speech

Part IV. 15 Demonstration Speech Ideas and Techniques

Part V. How to Give an Effective Special Occasion Speech?

Part VI. 6 Key Tips for a Memorable Entertaining Speech + Topics and Ideas

Part VII. Explanatory Speech: 7 Key Tips to Help You Deliver an Effective Speech

Part VIII. 5-Step Strategy for an Effective Debate and Speech Delivery

Part IX. 7 Oratory Secrets: How to Deliver Effective Oratorical Speeches

Part X. Public Speaking Contests: 7 Ways to Nail at Forensic Speech Competitions

Part XI. 80+ Impromptu Speech Topics & 7 Ways to Nail One

Part XII. 13 Ways to Effectively Deliver Pitching Presentations

Part XIII. Farewell Speech – An 8-step guide to help you deliver a Memorable one

Part XIV. Eulogy Guide: How to Give a Heartfelt Funeral Speech (with 4 Eulogy examples)

REFERENCES & FURTHER READING

Chief Essays. List of 200 Persuasive speech topics. https://chiefessays.net/200-persuasive-speech-topics/ . Accessed on 07/07/2019.

Christine Sarikas. 105 Persuasive Speech Topics for Any Project. https://blog.prepscholar.com/good-persuasive-speech-topics . Accessed on 07/07/2019.

Virtual Speech. 75 Persuasive Speech Topics and Ideas. https://virtualspeech.com/blog/persuasive-speech-topics-and-ideas . Accessed on 07/07/2019.

My Speech Class. 434 Good Persuasive Speech Topics. http://www.myspeechclass.com/persuasivetopics2.html . Accessed on 05/07/2019.

ThoughtCo. 100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students. https://www.thoughtco.com/list-of-persuasive-speech-topics-for-students-1857600 . Accessed on 07/07/2019.

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Writing a persuasive speech

50 good persuasive speech topics

Good persuasive speech topics.

By: Susan Dugdale | Last modified: 08-06-2022

50 persuasive speech ideas, plus example topic treatments

You want good persuasive speech topics and, fortunately I've got quite a few here.☺

My list of 50 is below.

However, whether they are good for you and your audience is something to seriously think about before making your final choice.

What's on this page:

How to use this list of persuasive topics effectively
What makes a good persuasive speech topic?
How to 'angle' or position a topic to fit your audience and speech purpose
Links to more persuasive speech resources

Image: retro cartoon of girl exclaiming with delighted surprise: 50 good persuasive speech topics

How to be sure you are choosing the best topic

To be sure you make an informed decision, before you settle on a topic check the guidelines about what makes a good persuasive speech topic and the "how to" examples, as well as the list itself.

( Hint - a not so subtle one : The absolutely best way to use my list is as a prompt to get your own creative juices working. That tip, combined with the series questions in the infographic below will help you cut through the time you spend dithering about trying to decide what topic to do.)

What makes a persuasive speech topic good?

A persuasive speech topic is good if it:

fits with the audience - Are they interested in it? Does it benefit them in anyway? How is it of value to them? Can you make it appealing? If it's an old topic, (one that has done a million times before), can you make it fresh and interesting?
is a fit with you - You already know something about it, or you're really interested in finding out more, and you know what want you to achieve through giving the speech.
can be researched and prepared within the time frame you need the speech for
fits the criteria and the purpose of your speech - set by yourself, your teacher, club, the organization who hired you to speak ...

Use the series of questions in the infographic below to narrow down your search for a good topic. As I've said in the infographic, the winner is the topic with the highest number of YES answers.

Infographic: How to choose the best persuasive speech topic - a series of questions to ask about each topic you consider.

How to use this list of topics effectively

Treat each idea as a starting point - a hook to give your brain something to latch on to.

As you scan the list look for the speech topics triggering more than a flicker of interest.

Stop and consider those more carefully. Examine the topic from as many angles as you can. Apply imagination. Shake, rattle and roll that idea around and u se the questions in the infographic to see whether it fits your needs.

And remember, any topic can be handled multiple ways.

Same persuasive topic - different treatment

Here are two examples to show you how the same topic can be adapted for different audiences. The topic is "Voice Matters".

" Voice Matters - the impact of a teacher's voice on students" - Example 1

The Intended Audience: teachers

Speaker Credibility: many years of teaching English and drama, plus public speaking experience

Speech Angle: to persuade the listeners (teachers) that how their voices sound in their student's ears influences how they are responded to, how their students behave and ultimately how they learn.

Specific Speech Purpose: to have them sign up for a voice workshop

Main ideas:

Voice image - how we are perceived by others is influenced by voice quality. This in turn impacts on how we are responded to. (Do check the link. It's really interesting how much voice quality influences our lives.)
What is a good quality voice? What personality or character traits are attributed to a person who has a good voice? Use sound clips to demonstrate. Ask for suggestions from the floor. How could that affect students?
What is a poor quality voice? What do people assume about the speaker with that type of voice? How could that affect students?
How do you know what you sound like to others? Use prepared sound clip of self to demonstrate.
Can voice quality or voice image be changed? Why would you do/not do that? Provide researched examples of before and after work on voice.
Consequences of working/not working on voice image - Give results - better classroom atmosphere, more on-target behavior, less time off with voice strain ... * For sound, trustworthy information on how voice quality impacts on student learning please visit my page: How is your teaching voice? You'll find links to academic studies, and more. Voice does matter!
How to work on voice image - outline of action and time line involved
Sign up for workshop and ongoing public speaking course

"Voice Matters - the benefit of a good telephone voice" Example 2

Image: retro drawing - young girl on phone. Text: "Voice Matters".

Someone else might come along looking for a good persuasive speech topic and pick "Voice Matters" too. This time the treatment goes like this:

Audience: job seekers

Speaker Credibility: senior recruitment specialist for a major firm in town

Speech Angle: to persuade listeners that their telephone voice, (how they say what they say), is their initial calling card to getting an interview

Specific Speech Purpose: to have the seekers sign up for course on telephone skills to get the appointment they need

Main Ideas: As illustrated in the first example above because the core material is the same or similar but the examples used to carry the persuasive argument and benefits will be relevant to the audience.

Sport is the new religion.
Social media affects mental health.
There should be a law against drugged driving
Truth and politics seldom mix.
Protests are effective.
All guns should be registered.
Should single people be allowed to adopt a child.
Exploitative advertising should be banned.
Love is not a defense or an excuse.
Adoption of other-race children should be encouraged.
Space aliens exist.
Euphemisms are dangerous.
Children should not be allowed mind altering drugs of any sort.
Arranged marriages have more chance of succeeding.
The quality of our voice matters.
Assisted suicide should be made legal.
Government benefits weaken a country.
Discrimination makes you stronger.
Private education/schools promote elitism.
Religion has no place in schools.
Good or right thinking is a matter of opinion.
Multi-national corporates should be outlawed.
Immigration laws are there to protect us.
We should buy locally to support our communities.
To be vegan is the only right and moral way to live.
Fashion cripples creativity
Cars and city centers should not mix.
Birth control should be compulsory for people with genetically inheritable diseases.
A young single girl who has a child should give it up for adoption.
Age gives a face character.
The earth is smaller today.
Swearing has lost its shock value.
Organic farming is the way for the future.
Plastic packaging should be banned.
Manners are essential.
Allowing yourself to have fun is good for your health.
Reincarnation is the only way to explain some experiences.
The death penalty is obsolete.
Drones need to be regulated to protect privacy.
Safety legislation leads to diminished personal responsibility.
A big brand doesn't necessarily mean big value.
Diets do more harm than good.
Oil drilling is dangerous for the environment.
Food does not make you fat.
Advances in medicine are not necessarily good for us.
Big brother is more alive and well every day.
Death is not final.
Community service should be compulsory for everyone.
Everyone should have the right to wear what they wish.
Addiction is an illness, not a crime. Alcoholics or drug addicts do not belong in prison.

More persuasive speech resources

For help turning your good persuasive speech topic into a fully fledged speech check these pages:

Persuasive speech outline Find out how to prepare an excellent speech outline using the classic persuasive speech structure: the 5 steps of Monroe's Motivated Sequence , (fully explained with an example speech) and then download a blank speech outline to complete.
How to write a persuasive speech Step by step easily followed instructions for refining your outline into an effective speech.

Another 822 persuasive speech topic ideas

If you haven't found the persuasive topic you want yet, check these pages:

100 persuasive speech ideas ,
309 'easy' persuasive speech topics
105 fun persuasive speech topics
310 persuasive speech topics for college
108 feminist persuasive speech topics

Graphic: women with raised fists. Text: 108 feminist persuasive speech topics

And last but not least, read a sample persuasive speech that follows the persuasive speech outline referenced above. Please note though before you go to that page the subject is somber: the impact of suicide on families.
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My Speech Class

Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

434 Good Persuasive Speech Topics

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

Are you struggling to find a good persuasive speech topic ? We know – it can be hard to think of an interesting topic!

We’ve done all the hard work and created a list of 400+ great persuasive speech ideas for college students, teachers, and anyone interested in public speaking. They’re organized into categories to make it easier for you to find one that that genuinely interests you.

In addition to our collection of speech topic ideas, we also have some tips on selecting a good topic, as well as researchihng, writing, and delivering your persuasive speech.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

Crafting a persuasive speech or writing a persuasive essay begins with picking the right topic. What makes a good persuasive speech topic? What are the most important factors that make it or break it when it comes to a good persuasive speech topic?

You are much more likely to be successful with your speech when you choose a topic that interests you, rather than merely picking one from a list.

Talking about something you know or would like to know more about well makes it much easier and fun!

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

Some speech topics have been done to death. They are tired and stale, and are not likely to excite you or your audience (think abortion, gun control, smoking, same-sex marriage). Find a topic that grabs you and your audience, something new and fresh, unique and original.

Interesting

A good persuasive speech topic is one that you can use to grab the audience’s attention, inform and persuade, and provide a strong persuasive argument for adopting your point of view.

You want to pick a topic that your audience cares and what to hear about.

How To Select a Good Persuasive Topic

How to narrow down this list of ideas?

First, make a rough inventory:

Which of the speech topics are you interested in?
What amuses you, makes you move right the way, happy or sad?
Which topics do you know something about?
Which topics would you like to research?

Review your inventory list and narrow your choices by answering these questions:

Do you know global, national, state, community, job or school-related problems and solutions, issues or controversies, related to the persuasive speech ideas?
Are you excited about any historical or current events, places, processes, organizations or interesting people?
Do you have certain concerns, opinions, or beliefs?
Do you think something has to change in the human attitude or social values?
Did you see or hear something in the news or read about in library books on any of these topics?
Is there a link with personal experiences, professional or personal goals?

All the answers on the questions above help you to find your angle of approach for a conclusive speech. So, select a few specific angles. Those can serve as the basic main points.

Best 10 Persuasive Speech Topics

Don’t have time to read our full list of 400+ topic ideas? Here is our list of 10 best persuasive speech topics.

Money can’t buy love or happiness
Cooking should be taught in schools
The minimum wage should be increased
Advertising is a mind game
Introverts make great leaders
Eating meat is unethical
Anyone under 16 should not be allowed to date
Sustainable clothes are not really sustainable
The penny coin should be phased out

List of Persuasive Speech Topics

Constitutional Issues
Easy and Simple
Environment
Food and Drink
Funny and Humorous
College Students
International Relations
Motivational
National Security
Practical Knowledge
Relationships

10 Animal Persuasive Speech Topics

Should more pets be adopted than bought from a breeder?
Are pitbulls a vicious breed?
Should a dog that has bitten somebody be executed?
Should we tame wild animals like lions and sharks.
Should battery farming still be legal?
Should ‘factory farming’ be banned?
Adopting pets is the best choice.
How do puppy mills affect us?
The benefits of having pets.
Why cats make the perfect pet.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics About Animals .

12 Automotive Persuasive Speech Topics

Old blue American car stopped on the right side of the road

Should the public first learn how to drive a manual transmission before obtaining their license?
Drivers should have to take three courses before getting a license.
Should young children use booster seats in vehicles?
Hands-free cell phone use in cars should be promoted.
Should the driving age be 14?
The danger of texting and driving.
Watch out for animals when driving.
Why police should not chase a car.
Why you should buy a Japanese car.
Why sports cars are dangerous.
Driving tests should be free.
Share the road with bikes.

10 Business Persuasive Speech Topics

Five people discussing in a meeting room

The world of business has so many aspects to it, but at the end of the day they are all about customer relations, about making money and about the relationship between employers and employees.

Below are topics that can be used to persuade your audience on a variety of business topics.

A tongue in cheek topic that can be used is “Hiring a lazy person isn’t always a bad thing”, this could be used to persuade an audience that often lazy people find the quickest solution to get something done, resulting in quickly completed work because they just want to get it over and done with.

Advertising has tons of mind games.
Advertising standards should be higher.
The importance of understanding niche marketing.
Why introverts make good leaders.
Owning a business means you will lose your friends.
Business will harden you.
You should never go into business with family members.
Just because someone knows you it doesn’t mean you owe them any discounts.
To be a business owner you must learn to be well organized.
It’s important that a business should have personality.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics for Business .

5 Constitutional Issues Persuasive Speech Topics

Abraham Lincoln seated figure at the Lincoln Memorial of Washington DC

Do you think it would be fair for the government to detain suspected terrorists without proper trial?
Should flag burning as a form of protest be prohibited?
Should every day begin with a silent prayer at school?
Why alcohol should be illegal.
Prayer in schools should not be mandatory.

10 Easy and Simple Persuasive Speech Topics

Below follow topics that should be easy enough to persuade your audience without going into too much research. There are some which can be used as ‘tongue in cheek’ topics such as ‘The paparazzi are the real stalkers’ and ‘People need to visit the dentist more often’.

People should not text while driving.
Celebrities who break the law should receive stiffer penalties.
Teachers should pass a basic exam every few years to renew their certification.
Cities should offer free bike-sharing programs.
People should eat less junk food.
We should do more to end poverty and world hunger.
We should value the elders in our society and learn from their wisdom.
Money can’t buy love or happiness.
Children should be offered incentives for doing right, rather than punishment for wrongdoing.
More recycling should be encouraged.

See this page for a full list of Easy and Simple Persuasive Speech Topics .

9 Economy Persuasive Speech Topics

Stock Exchange electronic board with numbers and indicators

Should products manufactured outside the U.S. come with an additional tax?
Buy products that are made in the USA.
Free trade agreements are bad for workers.
The trade deficit with China is dangerous.
The minimum wage should be increased.
Daylight savings time has many advantages for our economy.
The oil companies are to blame for the rising energy prices.
In most countries the economy is in the mighty hands of just a few multinational corporations.
Hiring cheaper foreign employees hurts our economy.

10 Education Persuasive Speech Topics

Students celebrating and launching their square academic caps in the air

Teachers should have to pass a test of basic skills every decade to renew their certifications.
Should free college tuition be offered to poor children?
Would it be better to introduce a set of skills tests for students, before they graduate high school?
Do you believe that students who are responsible for cyberbullying should be expelled from school?
Would it be better if high school students completed community service hours to graduate?
Do you think elementary and high school students should be allowed to use cell phones at school?
Should students have to be on the honor roll in order to play sports?
Art and music programs in public schools are an essential part of education.
Schools should have the right to search students’ personal property (backpacks, lockers, pockets) to fight drugs in schools.
Do you think students should be allowed to listen to music during study hall?

See this page for a full list of Education Persuasive Speech Topics .

10 Environment Persuasive Speech Topics

Should there be stricter laws for protecting endangered species?
Should only native plants be grown in gardens?
More people should carpool or use public transportation.
Should the U.S. limit the use of natural resources?
How pollution is negatively affecting humanity.
We should use algae to make oil instead of drilling.
Why hydraulic fracturing should be banned.
Why we shouldn’t use disposable diapers.
Hybrid cars are good for the environment.
We should keep our community clean.

See this page for a full list of Environmental Persuasive Speech Topics .

10 Ethics Persuasive Speech Topics

Do you think female construction workers should have the same salary as male construction workers?
Should assisted suicide be legal for people who suffer from terminal illnesses?
Do you think the death penalty is the best punishment for dangerous criminals?
Should you base your perspective of people on stereotypes you have heard?
Should product testing on animals or humans be allowed?
Why you should not choose your child’s genetics.
Are people morally obligated to help the poor?
Female genital mutilation should be stopped.
Is it ethical to eat meat?
Wearing fur is unethical.

10 Family Persuasive Speech Topics

A dad and a mother walking in the grass with their two young kids

Should underaged people be allowed to consume alcohol at home, with parental permission?
Should children 13 or younger be allowed to watch music videos or music channels like MTV?
Do you think those older than 13 should be allowed into R-rated movies?
Should teenagers be allowed to purchase violent video games?
Is it appropriate for children to watch horror movies?
Those under 16 should not be allowed to date.
Parental pressure on child actors and athletes is harmful.
Why parents should not hit their children.
Fairy tales are good for young children.
Why kids should not play R rated games.

See this page for a full list of Family Persuasive Speech Topics . We also have a page with Speech Topics for Kids .

6 Fashion Persuasive Speech Topics

Wardrobe with dark, grey and blue man suits

Men should wear pink.
Choose an Eco-Fashion Fabrics Wardrobe!
Are Sustainable Clothes Really Sustainable?
Jewelry: Less Is More.
Fashion Reveals Your True Identity.
Fashion Is An Expression Of The Character

11 Financial Persuasive Speech Topics

Why banks should ban hats and sunglasses to avoid robberies.
Student loans should be forgiven.
Reservation casinos are only beneficial if managed correctly.
National debt is everyones problem.
Purchasing a car is smarter than leasing one.
The Japanese yen is affected by the weakness of the dollar.
The Euro currency will oust the dollar.
The Chinese Yuan / Japanese Yen / European Euro will all surpass the Dollar as leading currency.
Phase the penny coin out.
Severe budget cuts are the only way to maximise good financial results.
Keeping a close eye on personal finance is key in achieving something in life.

15 Food and Drink Persuasive Speech Topics

Genetically modified foods should be labeled.
Do you believe companies who manufacture alcohol should be allowed to advertise on TV?
Every child should learn to cook.
Cooking should be taught in schools.
Should we donate unused food from supermarkets?
The history of added sugar in our food.
We should all grow our own vegetables.
Eat more fruits and vegetables.
The promise of genetically engineered food.
Why peanuts are amazing.
Drink more orange juice.
Why people should cook.
Farmers’ markets should be increased.
Eating organic is good for your health.
Get artificial hormones out of food.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topic Ideas On Food, Drink, and Cooking .

10 Fun Persuasive Speech Topics

Young man jumping into the Caribbean sea with floating ring

Fun topics are a great way to get people to listen to what you have to say, because when they are entertained they listen more carefully. Fun topics also help the speaker be more at ease, because the topics are more relaxed. Below follow 100 topics that you can have fun with while persuading your audience. .

Ghosts are not real.
We all need to be childish.
Smokers have more acquaintances.
Music has the power to heal.
Diamonds are a girls best friends.
Couples need to live together before getting married.
Allow kids to believe in Santa.
Pick up lines do work.
Cake is not cake if it is dry.
Parents must be prepared for the ‘birds and bees’ talk.

See this page for a full list of Fun Persuasive Speech Topics .

10 Funny and Humorous Persuasive Speech Topics

Humour is a fabulous way to get people’s attention. Below are questions and statement topics that can be used to get your points across on a variety of topics.

It is important to remember that there can be a fine line between funny and insulting. So use wit and make it fun without insulting your audience. This would be important to remember with a title like ‘The most dangerous animal out there is a silent woman’.

Blondes are not as dumb as they look.
Why funny pick-up lines work.
Guys gossip more than girls do.
You should not be Facebook friends with your mom.
If things go wrong, your horoscope is to blame.
Students should not have to do a persuasive speech in front of a large audience.
Millennials should stop wearing spandex yoga pants all the time.
Dads are more fun than moms.
Argumentative essays are pointless.
Shoes that don’t fit right are hazardous to your health.

See this page for a full list of Funny Persuasive Speech Topics .

16 Government Persuasive Speech Topics

Front view of the White House with gardens and fountains

Do you believe there should be stricter federal restrictions regarding content on the internet?
Should employers be required to post job opportunities on a government-run website?
The government should provide shelter for the homeless.
Should the state fund schools run by religions?
Whose face should be printed on the newest bank note?
Do you believe Puerto Rico should become a state?
Our nation’s justice system needs to be improved.
Should the government have a say in our diets?
The military budget must be decreased.
Should people get drug tested for state aid?
How policy works in local government.
The government should increase funding of Amtrak.
Fixing potholes should be a priority of local government.
Eminent domain should be used rarely.
The war on drugs is a failure.
Zoning laws should be common sense.

10 Health Persuasive Speech Topics

Doctor's hands mesuering blood presure of a patient

Female minors should be allowed to get birth control without telling their parents.
Should stem cell researchers be able to use cells from aborted babies to help cure diseases?
Should doctors be allowed to prescribe contraception for girls under 16?
Do you think it would be better if the USA had a universal health care system?
Do you believe free condoms should be distributed in schools?
Regular exercise will improve your health.
Restaurants should post all ingredients to prevent allergic reactions.
Do you believe fast food should come with a warning label?
The use of animals in medical research is a necessary evil.
Seat belts ensure all passengers a safer ride.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics on Health and Fitness . We also have a page with Medical Topics .

10 School Persuasive Speech Topics

School is a whole new world, where students discover more about themselves and life around them. These are topics that students will most likely have to deal with at some point during their elementary, middle, and high school careers.

High school students should be allowed to have cell phones in school.
High school students should not have to wear school uniforms.
All high school students should learn a foreign language.
Girls should be allowed to play on the boys’ sports teams.
High school students should be required to do community service.
Extracurricular activities are important for your future.
Students should be able to stay up late, even on school nights.
Peer pressure helps students grow as individuals.
Students should have healthy food options.
Students should be paid for getting good grades.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics for School Students .

10 College Students Persuasive Speech Topics

The following topics are for college students and about the many different aspects that they will deal with during their time in college.

College textbooks should be replaced by iPads.
Mobile phones should be switched off during a lecture.
College students shouldn’t skip classes.
Students shouldn’t study something that they are not passionate about.
Gap years are actually a very good idea.
Notes should always be taken in class.
Student loans are expensive and students need to understand what they are getting themselves into.
Students should get to know other students.
It’s smart to get the harder classes out of the way first.
Taking summer classes will help students get ahead of schedule.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students .

10 Teens Persuasive Speech Topics

The following topics are aimed at teens and subjects which are important and matter to teens.

Teenage girls should be on birth control.
Teenage boys are lazier than girls.
Teens should have weekend jobs.
Homework should not be given.
Being popular isn’t a good thing.
Teens are obsessed with scary things.
Chores shouldn’t be paid for.
Sex education must be compulsory.
Exchange student programs for all students.
Free time gets teens into trouble.

See this page for a full list of Great Speech Topics for Teens .

5 History Persuasive Speech Topics

Gladiator helmet laid on an ancient stone bench

Did the U.S. Army provide their soldiers drugs during the Vietnam war?
African- American achievements should be celebrated.
Why Lincoln was the best President.
Revisionist history is dangerous.
The moon landing was a lie.

See this page for a full list of History Speech Topics .

10 Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

Back of a man staring at a wall covered by paper notes and draws

Interesting topics will always have an audience glued to every word, even when they may disagree with your point of view. Ultimately it is your job to persuade them that your view is in fact correct.

These topics have a mix of simpler speeches such as “Pick up lines do work” here both humour and a few examples of pick up lines have worked will get you going in the right direction. For a speech with a bit more research put into it there are topics such as “Stem cell research in murder”.

The standards of beauty are never the same.
Princess Diana was killed.
Energy drinks are dangerous.
School day needs to involve less sitting and more exercise.
No credit cards for under 25.
Healthy relationships require conflicts.
Everyone needs medical insurance.
Tooth whitening is out of control.
In future air planes won’t crash.
Business should hire more apprentices.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Interesting Speech Topics .

13 International Relations Persuasive Speech Topics

Do you think it is time for the United States to suspend overseas military operations?
The U.S. should cut off all foreign aid to dictatorships.
Why you should volunteer in a developing country.
Should Scotland be a country of its own?
China will be the next superpower.
Is any nation truly independent?
Should women drive in Saudi Arabia?
Foreign oil dependence is dangerous.
Weapons disarmament should be increased.
The war in Iraq was a mistake.
The United Nations is important in defusing international crises.
Human rights should be advanced all over the world.
China will be the almighty economic superpower by 2025.

10 Law Persuasive Speech Topics

Close view of a gavel and its sound block

Should those who are caught driving after consuming alcohol lose their driver’s license for one year?
Should it be illegal to drive while talking on the phone?
Should illegal music and movie downloads be prosecuted?
Do you believe illegal immigrants should be allowed to apply for a driver’s license?
Should motorcyclists have to wear a helmet?
People over 65 should be required to take a bi-annual driver’s test.
Should the driving age be raised to 21?
Should assault weapons be legal?
Should known gang members be prohibited from public parks?
Do you think it should be illegal for people to curse on TV during daytime?

See this page for a full list of Legal Speech Topics .

3 Literature Persuasive Speech Topics

Why reading is more beneficial than watching television.
Why it is a good idea to read Fifty Shades of Grey.
Why people need to read more books.

17 Media Persuasive Speech Topics

Screen with thumbnails of different medias

Why it’s wrong for the media to promote a certain beauty standard.
Is the media responsible for the moral degradation of teens?
Do magazines marketed to teenagers send the wrong message?
Why Disney should not be making Star Wars movies.
Why you should study photography.
Should certain T.V. shows have age restrictions?
Why the media is to blame for eating disorders.
The media does not force us to worship false icons.
Why the Russian should have beat Rocky.
Television is harmful to children.
Why comic books are good to read.
Some TV shows are educational.
Make TV more educational.
We need more funding for public television and radio.
Violence on television should be regulated.
Cable TV monopolies destroy competition.
Katniss Everdeen would alienate Harry Potter.

10 Motivational Persuasive Speech Topics

School leaders must shape high-achieving learning curricula for students.
Set a clear goal and devote all your positive energy toward reaching it.
What to do for people who have no motivation to live a happy life.
The art of moral imagination is the key to intellectual and spiritual development.
Why it is hard to follow your dream.
What keep most of us from following the voice of your heart when it comes to love or even discovery travelling?
Overcome your stage fright and fear of public speaking.
Begin with forming a moral tool set when children are young and build further when they are at least 18 years old.
Aim straightforward in whatever project you undertake, and emphasize and evaluate what you want to achieve often in between the completed parts of the total planning.
Prudence is an effort you can turn non-believers into believers in your plans.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics For Motivational Speaking .

6 Music Persuasive Speech Topics

Young woman listening to music with phone and headset

Why the French horn should be played more.
Should schools allow uncensored songs at school dances?
How listening to music could improve your day.
Why music is beneficial to society.
MP3 music should be free.
Rock music is better than Country & Western.

6 National Security Persuasive Speech Topics

Soldier standing in front of the American flag

Are intensive security screenings essential for those who travel in airplanes?
Negotiating with terrorists is sometimes justifiable.
Should police carry firearms?
Homosexuals belong in the military.
Women benefit the military in many ways.
Should police carry toy guns?

10 Politics Persuasive Speech Topics

Should it be legal for politicians to accept campaign contributions from corporate lobbyists?
Why you should vote.
Ban abusive language in elections.
Why you should know Bernie Sanders.
Term limits need to be respected.
Give Kurdistan back to the Kurds.
Zimbabwe is the next drama in world politics.
Central Asian states could become a threat.
America is not the world’s policeman.
Globalization pays off.

See this page for a full list of Speech Topics about Politics .

3 Practical Knowledge Persuasive Speech Topics

Gloved hands lighting up a wood fire with a striker

Basic survival skills are important to know.
Basic camping skills everyone should know.
Personal hygiene is important for professional success.

7 Psychology Persuasive Speech Topics

Intelligence depends more on the environment than genetics.
Human development depends primarily on environmental factors.
Why we should not see psychologists.
Why do we need to love and to be loved?
Can money give you happiness?
Why introverts make the best public speakers.
Verbal abuse can be much more destructive than physical.

See this page for a full list of Psychology Speech Topics .

23 Relationships Persuasive Speech Topics

Man and woman holding their hand and walking on the beach at dawn

Should young people have internet relationships?
Men and women speak a different language of love.
Long distance relationships are possible.
Why it is important to live together before marriage.
Teens should live with their friends once a week.
Jealousy can be a disease.
Most people say they will break up with a cheating partner, but in the end most people do not.
Counseling is the solution for working through relationship problems.
Intimacy is the key to a successful relationship.
Women cheat more than men do.
Interreligious Relationships – Love between two people can never be forbidden.
Arranged marriages must be outlawed.
Asking someone to wear a condom shows a lack of trust.
Celibacy is outdated.
Cheating isn’t wrong if you do it well.
Co-workers should never date.
Dating behavior rules are simple for girls: No means No, not Yes.
Living together before marriage will lower the divorce rate.
Men and women speak different languages in love matters.
People only need one good friend.
Polygamy should be allowed.
You will learn most from friends that are different from you.
Romance works best the old fashioned way.

8 Religion Persuasive Speech Topics

Praying hands in front of an altar enlighten with candles

Should public schools teach world religions?
Students should be allowed to pray in school.
Women should be priests.
Religious conflict must be avoided.
Why Islam is a peaceful religion.
Islamic fundamentalism is not true Islam.
Religious cults are dangerous.
Faith in God should be protected.

See this page for a full list of Topics on Religion and Spirituality .

10 Science Persuasive Speech Topics

Gloved hand shaking a flask in a laboratory

Do you think the United States government should spend more on space programs?
Why should we be aware of what is happening in outer space?
Why Pluto should still be considered a planet.
Mars was the same as Earth in the past.
Why you should donate your body to science.
We need more scientific advancements.
Qualitative research is more preferable than quantitative research.
Religion and science do not mix. (Or: they do.)
Scientists have the duty to translate their findings in normal language.
Theories are useless if they can not be transformed into strategies.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Science Speech Topics .

11 Self-Help Persuasive Speech Topics

Dark silhouette offering an helping hand

Art is a stress reliever and can reduce depression.
With hardwork and determination anyone can be successful.
Why we should live life spontaneously.
Improve your time management.
Embarrassing moments make you stronger.
Be true to yourself.
Dress for success.
How to continue your personal growth.
The importance of self- confidence.
If you don’t give up, you’ll make it.
Talking to yourself can be beneficial.

10 Society Persuasive Speech Topics

Should larger passengers be obliged to purchase two plane tickets, or two movie tickets?
Should American families have no more than two children, in order to control population growth?
Should property owners be obliged to clean the snow from sidewalks on their property?
Should there be a cop in every bar to make sure people do not drink and drive?
Do you believe that older people should receive free bus rides?
Should all citizens of the USA complete one year of community service?
Do you believe it is time for America to use the metric system?
Why it should be mandatory for all students to stand for the pledge.
Do you believe that cities should provide free wireless internet?
Why living in the country is better than the city.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Society Speech Topics .

10 Sport Persuasive Speech Topics

Some sports topics can quickly turn into an argument between fans so keep in mind that special care should be taken with some of the suggested topics.

The term soccer was used to distinguished between soccer and American football, feel free to use the term football for those countries that do not use the term soccer.

Should some musical groups, such as marching band and show choir, be considered a sport?
Do you think cities should have a bike sharing system?
Should college athletes be paid?
Why baseball players should take drug tests before playing.
High school football programs should receive less funding.
Female sports should be given equal coverage by the media.
Should drug tests be mandatory for professional athletes?
Should athletes be paid less?
Should drug tests be mandatory for school athletes?
Winning is not as important as trying your best.

See this page for a full list of Persuasive Sports Speech Topics .

28 Technology Persuasive Speech Topics

Google and other search engines will be the death of libraries.
Make sure to backup your computer files several times a day.
What kind of influence will technology have on our future?
Printing photos is better than keeping them on a computer.
Do you believe internet censorship is inappropriate?
Should nuclear power be used?
How technology will change our lives.
Internet could do more to free deaf people from their social isolation.
Should screen time also be limited for adults?
Why the government should regulate technology.
Technology is making people less creative.
Technology has made life better.
Why Microsoft Word products should be free.
Why you should not buy an iPhone.
Anti-piracy software does not work.
Internet chatrooms are not safe.
The amount of spam you see in your mailbox is just the tip of the iceberg.
We are addicted to the internet.
Put down your phone and connect with people.
Electronics are making kids lazy.
How does a search engine work?
Apple music should be free.
The importance of the internet.
Internet gambling needs more regulation.
Computer literacy should be increased.
The importance of internet fraud awareness.
Why selfies are a thing of the past.
People who say they do not need or want to use the world wide web are insane.

12 Travel Persuasive Speech Topics

Why you should go to Bermuda.
Why airline tickets should be cheaper.
Traveling makes you more open-minded.
Always report travel complaints as soon as possible when back home.
Backpacking means every day unexpected adventures if you are open for it
If there was no tourism there would be much more poverty.
Support eco-tourism.
Tourism ruins historical sites and there should be placed warning signs to awake them.
Extreme air turbulence can be fatal.
Fly First Class at least once in your lifetime.
The best way to travel is in a guided group.
Antarctica should be closed for tourists and scientists

8 Workplace Persuasive Speech Topics

Desk with notes, papers, coffee and laptop

Should large corporations hire a number of minorities that are proportionate to the population?
Do you think 14 year olds should be allowed to hold jobs?
Why you should choose a high paying job over a fun job.
Why everyone should work retail once in their life.
Tipping should be mandatory in restaurants.
Women make better managers than men.
The importance of office parties.
Labor unions should be protected.

Our list of topics is by far the best list you will find online – both in terms of quantity and quality. We add and remove ideas weekly to keep the list up-to-date.

Many timely persuasive speech topics can be found on radio, TV, your local newspaper, or your Facebook and Twitter feeds. We also have Argumentative (which is a type of persuasive speech on a controversial issue) and Policy topics . If you know of a cool topic, please send it to us and we will publish it on our page with fresh topics.

For persuasive essay topic ideas have a look at our list of Interesting Research Paper topics : these can be easily adapted for persuasive speeches.

Write a Gripping Personal Narrative Essay Using Our Cheat Guide

Vote of Thanks Examples

50 thoughts on “434 Good Persuasive Speech Topics”

Thank You! 🙂 Very helpful and inspiring and you get a good laugh out of these topics, wish me luck on my test.

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Why smoking can help you make friends

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Great topics but there is no R rating for video games. (Family, Topic 10)

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Why sex education important

Are pitbulls a vicious breed

Germany is the best

Does Lightning McQueen have Life Insurance or Car Insurance ?

Correction: why cats make the purrfect pet.

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Why water causes cancer

Why Sped kids should have more special attention in schools?

-Tax the freaking pants off the 1%

-Only highly education education specialists should make laws regarding education

-Schools should implement standards that require more recess and P.E. and no homework

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Should kids be allowed to kick their parents out of the house when they get caught doing bad things

cheating isnt wrong if you do it well

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why can’t we make toast in the bath

Why teens shouldn’t have sex before marriage.

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Home Blog Presentation Ideas Persuasive Speech: Actionable Writing Tips and Sample Topics

Persuasive Speech: Actionable Writing Tips and Sample Topics

What is Persuasive Speaking?

Factual persuasive speech, value persuasive speech, policy persuasive speech, how to start a persuasive speech: opening tips and examples.

Social Proof
Comparisons
Agitate and Solve
Storytelling

Bonus: Address Counter Arguments

How to close your persuasive speech: quick examples, easy persuasive speech topics, interesting persuasive speech topics, good persuasive speech topics on controversial issues, funny persuasive speech topics, designing persuasive visuals: slide elements for maximum impact, mastering delivery techniques: engaging body language and voice modulation, persuasive presentation structures: organizing your content for maximum influence, handling audience interaction: q&a sessions and audience engagement, persuasive call to action: inspiring and motivating your audience to act.

Business professionals, students, and others can all benefit from learning the principles of persuasive speech. After all, the art of persuasion can be applied to any area of life where getting people to agree with you is important. So without much further ado, let’s get into the basics of persuasive speaking, persuasive speech writing, and lastly persuasive speech topics!

A persuasive speech is a specific type of speech where the presenter attempts to convince the audience of their point of view. The ideal goal of a persuasive speech is to make the audience change their mind on the issue, or at least, become more accepting of their point of view.

You might give an informal persuasive speech when trying to convince your friends to agree to the movie you want to watch. If you are chosen to pitch a new product idea to stakeholders at work, you are essentially being asked to give a persuasive speech.

What are The 3 Types of Persuasive Speeches?

All the persuasive speech ideas can be organized into one of the next three categories:

When someone gives a factual persuasive speech, their goal is to convince the audience that something is true or false. In some cases that simply requires gathering evidence and presenting them in the form of arguments/counter-arguments. This approach works for all persuasive topics where true/false is a binary consideration.

You can also give a factual speech on a topic that isn’t as cut and dried. For example, you could make the argument that assimilation is the best way for cultures to mix even though there is no single piece of evidence proving that without a doubt.

In essence, you can select any topic and frame it into the factual persuasive speech as long as you have strong oratory and presentation skills .

In this case, you are trying to convince your audience that something is good or bad. You want your audience to understand your values on a topic, and then adopt those values as their own. For example, a speech written to convince people that it’s immoral to buy single-use plastics is a value persuasive speech.

In a policy persuasive speech, you describe a problem, then work to persuade the audience to agree with your proposed solutions. These speeches can be given to simply change the audiences perspective or convince them to take a specific action.

Policy persuasive speeches can be further spiced up with some nuggets of Nudge Theory to reinforce the idea you are trying to deliver.

How to Write a Persuasive Speech: The Essential Steps

Before we dive deep into the writing, let’s quickly recap the anatomy of a persuasive speech:

Opening: start strong to capture the audiences attention and explain your agenda.
Key arguments: present your key talking points and lay down the facts.
Counterpoints: address the common objections.
Closure: recap your key message once again and suggest further action.

Now, this isn’t a “set-in-stone” structure, but rather a base you can use when drafting your persuasive speech outline.

Below we are listing some extra tips for each section, along with persuasive speech examples.

Every good speech and presentation need a strong opening slide . After all, how can you persuade anyone if they do not feel compelled to listen to you in the first place? Right, you can’t and that’s exactly why you should spend quite a lot of time working and refining on your speech opening.

Here are some techniques you can try:

Start with a curious personal story/anecdote
Sharing a surprising statistic

Next, you must convince the audience that they should listen to you. You can do this by explaining what you have in common.

For example, Everyone here is a concerned parent. I am also a mother of three who cares deeply about the lack of interest in STEM among girls. This is also where you might share your credentials. That’s why I’m here to speak to you as a professional with 30 years of experience as an educator.

Follow your intro statement with a quick explanation of your goal. Be direct here. In one or two sentences state your purpose, and what you want your audience to believe or do.

“I believe that women in STEM can close the looming tech skills gap and generate an extra $12 trillion in global GDP. That’s why I’m asking you to stop encouraging girls to learn dancing and encourage them to code instead.”

Finally, transition to the main part of your speech with a statement that lets the audience know what is coming. For example, Today, I am going to provide you with the evidence that some parental practices are alienating girls from STEM subjects.

Liked this primer? Great! Here are several more techniques you can use to frame your ideas for persuasive speeches.

What are The 5 Persuasive Techniques?

After the opening, it’s time to present your arguments and counter any arguments that could conflict with your point. The following five persuasive techniques tend to work like a charm for that purpose:

Social proof
Agitate and solve

More controversial persuasive speech topics, in particular, will require you to artfully work through various objections and mix different persuasion methods. Now let’s take a closer look at each one.

1. Repetition

There’s a reason that advertisements repeat the same thing over and over again. Research proves that people are more likely to believe something if they hear it multiple times. In addition to this, repetition simply helps people to remember key points that you want to stick with them.

When it comes to persuasive speeches, you should always repeat your most important points at the beginning and end of your speech.

Helpful template: 6 Steps Hexagonal Segmented Diagram

Repetition Persuasive Speech with a Buzz Metaphone

2. Social Proof

People are influenced by the actions and beliefs of others, whether they admit it or not. Use this during your speech. For example, you can share testimonials from people who agree with your POV or leverage the voice of customer data , expressing the same concerns as you do.

NB : When lining up social proof for your presentation, make sure that this data comes from a peer group that your audience relates to.

Helpful template: Voice of customer PowerPoint template

Social Proof Persuasive Speech Illustration

3. Comparisons

The point of using comparisons is to present a contrast of the idea/element that you support with the one that you do not. Then you’ll need to prove that yours is the best choice. For example, you might compare the features of two software applications to persuade that your team needs option A, not B.

Using comparisons also gives your speech more credibility since it appears that you are giving the opposing position a fair shake, even when you are only showcasing it to score points against it.

Helpful template: Two option comparison template

4. Agitate and Solve

When you take the “agitate and solve” approach, you first make your audience vary and somewhat dissatisfied with a certain issue (agitate). Next, you present your idea as a solution (solve). The idea is to hit a nerve and get the audience to relate. Then, when you present your solution, it’s that much more persuasive to them. It also makes the entire scenario more emotionally compelling to them.

Here’s an example of this approach in action:

Nearly every one of us has been ripped off by an unscrupulous mechanic. Nobody deserves to be taken advantage of. That’s why every person needs to vote in favor of this consumer protection ballot measure.

Agitate and Solve Persuasive Speech Illustration

5. Storytelling

Many people opt to use a rhetorical triangle when building their persuasive argument s. These days storytelling may be more effective. Here’s why:

Stories create an emotional connection and relatability. Imagine listening to a speech where the speaker lists a variety of statistics about the harm that plastics cause to marine life. Now, imagine listening to the true story of a marine biologist who discovers a dolphin that has been badly injured by plastic trash it has encountered in its habitat.

Clearly, the second one, if told correctly, will cast a much deeper impact on the audience.

Helpful template: Storytelling theme template .

Storytelling Persuasive Speech Illustration by SlideModel

It’s up to you to decide if you want to address any counterpoints to your arguments, and where you will do that in your speech. Some speakers choose to include an obvious counter-argument in the introduction, so they can effectively dismiss it before they begin.

Others address these points when they are relevant to the current argument they are making. Finally, you can address a counterpoint in its paragraph just above your concluding paragraph.

Here are some actionable techniques for addressing counter-arguments:

Provide a direct refutation of the point. Prove that it simply isn’t an issue.
Concede that it’s an issue, but show that it isn’t significant enough to derail your overall argument.
Acknowledge the plausibility of the counterpoint, but argue yours as the better option.

Recommended Reading: Building a Persuasive Argument with the Rhetorical Triangle Concept

How you present your closing depends on your goal. If you want your audience to take a specific action, show them how to do it, and make it as easy as possible. Try this:

When you pay your trash bill next month, you’ll be asked if you want the city of Gravesdale to begin a recycling program. If you value water quality and marine life, please say yes.

If your goal is to simply influence a change in opinion, you might say: Both facts and experience prove that we can no longer afford to send plastics to the landfill. Please consider this the next time you go shopping.

Alright, now you may be wondering: what are the best persuasive speech topics? We’ve got you covered here too!

A List of Persuasive Speech Topics

Here is a list of persuasive speech topic examples, with writing tips .

The easiest topic to present on is the one that you are truly passionate and knowledgeable about. Also, easy persuasive speech topics usually don’t tackle any controversial issues with a lot of contrarian opinions, especially on complex matters regarding politics, religion, human rights, and so on. Instead, you choose an angle that may already resonate with a good fraction of your audience and require one or two good counterarguments, rather than using a host of persuasive techniques.

For example : Should all internships be paid?

Most people will instinctively say yes , especially if your audience consists of college graduates and former interns.

What makes an interesting speech? Topical ideas that get people engaged, agitated, and eager to follow your storyline.

In this case, you’d want to find a deeper subject that allows you to incorporate some storytelling elements and personal examples that would create some empathy with the audience and make them relate to your cause on a more personal level. As Lucinda Beaman, fact check editor at The Conversation said in her Ted talk :

“While you are listening to your opponent’s case, you are probably listening for an opportunity to refuse them”.

A quality narrative can help you draw your opponent’s attention from their counterarguments and, instead, make them more sympathetic to your cause.

For example : Schools kill creativity. As a former drop-out, turned CEO of the Fortune 100 company, I can tell you why.

If you are ready to pick a bigger ‘fight’ with your audience, you may tackle a more complex and controversial issue that’s dividing the audience. In such cases, it’s best to rely on a mix of persuasive techniques:

Start with a strong opening, drawing the line in the sand
Line up social proof and data points to bake your key arguments
Rally people to understand your point of view and why you feel the way you do
Precisely address the common counterarguments on the matter.

For example : It’s time to realize that marijuana legalization is wrong.

Your opponents will argue that legalization reduces criminalization around the selling of marijuana, plus medical marijuana usage does help certain patient groups cope with their illness better. Acknowledge these ideas in your speech, but also provide extra facts that can speak to the opposite.

Did you know that humor itself is a powerful persuasive technique? That’s why it’s often used in advertising. Choosing a funny angle and topic for your persuasive speech is a sleek move if you know that you can really pull it off without offending anyone or downplaying the importance of the issue you are discussing.

For example: Millennials are definitely from outer space and our workplace isn’t ready for them.

You can start with a funny opening:

Millennials constantly chew on that weird greenish sandwich type of thing that they lovingly call the ‘avo toast’ and their fingers move inhumanly fast when they type things on their smartphones, amiright?

But that switch to a more serious accord:

But no matter how weird these Millennial folks may seem to us, boomers, they are a wonderful asset to every workplace. And we must make their point of few count, too!

Crafting persuasive presentations goes beyond words alone. Designing persuasive visuals is a strategic approach to captivate your audience and enhance your message’s impact.
Choosing Appropriate Visuals, Images, and Infographics: Select visuals that resonate with your message. High-quality images and relevant infographics can reinforce your points and aid audience comprehension.
Using Color Psychology and Font Selection: Utilize colors that evoke desired emotions and align with your message’s tone. Choose fonts that are easily readable and complement your presentation’s aesthetics.
Balancing Simplicity and Complexity: Strike a balance between simplicity and complexity in your slide content. Avoid overwhelming visuals while ensuring that complex concepts are presented clearly and succinctly.
The art of persuasion extends beyond content to encompass delivery. Engaging body language and voice modulation play a pivotal role in conveying credibility and connecting with your audience.
Significance of Body Language: Body language is a potent nonverbal tool. It influences the audience’s perception of your confidence, sincerity, and authority.
Gestures, Eye Contact, and Posture: Employ purposeful gestures, maintain consistent eye contact, and exhibit a confident posture to establish rapport and engage the audience.
Role of Vocal Variety, Tone, and Pacing: Utilize vocal variety to sustain audience interest. Vary your tone and pacing to emphasize key points, maintain engagement, and prevent monotony.
Rehearsal Methods: Effective rehearsal hones your delivery skills. Practice your presentation multiple times to refine your speaking style, enhance clarity, and ensure a polished performance.
Structuring your persuasive presentation optimally enhances its influence. Effective organization guides the audience’s understanding and reinforces your key arguments.
Analyzing Different Presentation Structures: Choose a structure that aligns with your persuasive objectives. Sequential, problem-solution, comparative, or chronological structures can be tailored to your message.
Crafting a Compelling Introduction: Your introduction should immediately grab attention. Use anecdotes, intriguing questions, statistics, or powerful quotes to pique interest and set the stage.
Logical and Coherent Organization: Organize your arguments logically. Each argument should flow naturally into the next, creating a cohesive narrative reinforcing your persuasive case.
Incorporating Emotional Appeals and Logical Reasoning: Blend emotional appeals with logical reasoning. Use relatable anecdotes, emotional stories, and compelling data to substantiate your points.
Effective handling of audience interaction involves: Interacting with your audience during a persuasive presentation enhances engagement and reinforces your message.
Preparing for Q&A Sessions: Anticipate potential questions and challenges. Prepare concise and confident responses to reinforce your message’s credibility.
Techniques for Active Audience Engagement: Encourage audience participation through questions, discussions, and interactive activities. Engaged audiences are more likely to internalize your persuasive message.
Using Audience Feedback and Questions: Leverage audience feedback and questions to enhance your presentation. Address concerns, clarify points, and demonstrate your expertise through thoughtful responses.
Strategies for Adapting to Audience Reactions: Remain adaptable to audience reactions. Gauge their responses and adjust your delivery in real time to maintain engagement and address uncertainties.
Concluding your persuasive presentation with a compelling call to action (CTA) is pivotal for motivating the desired response from your audience.
Essential Elements of an Effective CTA: Craft a concise and impactful CTA that aligns with your presentation’s goals. Clearly communicate the desired action and its benefits to the audience.
Crafting Persuasive and Actionable CTAs: Frame your CTA using persuasive language that resonates with your audience. Ensure the CTA’s feasibility and relevance to increase audience commitment.
Techniques for Memorable and Compelling CTAs: Employ rhetoric, vivid imagery, and emotional appeal in your CTA. Make it memorable by creating a strong emotional connection that resonates with the audience.
Measuring CTA Success and Tracking Audience Responses: Assess the effectiveness of your CTA through measurable outcomes. Monitor audience responses, track engagement, and gather feedback to evaluate success.

If you know how to give a convincing persuasive speech, you will be at a real advantage both in your personal life and at work! Commit the tips above to memory and start practicing on some of the good speech topics we’ve listed here to polish your tradecraft!

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Persuasive Speech

Persuasive Speech Topics

Good Persuasive Speech Topics & Ideas for Debaters

18 min read

What is a Persuasive Speech?

A persuasive speech aims to influence or convince an audience to adopt a specific viewpoint or take a particular course of action. It's all about using words to sway opinions, inspire change, and ignite a spark of conviction in the minds of listeners.

Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic

When crafting a persuasive speech, it's crucial to consider the three fundamental elements that make a topic truly compelling that are; ethos pathos, and logos :

Ethos: Establish your credibility and trustworthiness as a speaker. Your audience needs to believe that you are knowledgeable, sincere, and reliable in your stance.
Pathos: Appeal to the emotions and empathy of your listeners. A persuasive topic should evoke feelings and resonate with the audience on a personal level.
Logos: Build a logical and rational argument. Provide sound reasoning, evidence, and facts to support your position, ensuring that your audience can follow your line of thought.

Incorporating these elements into your speech topic will help you connect with your audience and effectively convey your message with conviction and impact.

Watch this video to learn how to organize a persuasive speech!

Persuasive Speech Topics for Students

Wondering what some good topics for a persuasive speech are?

It can be hard to choose a perfect topic for your speech. But don’t worry, we have done the hard work for you. Just keep reading this blog, and you will get to know what are the good topics for persuasive speech.

Unique Persuasive Speech Topics for University Students

Graffiti is the art of the future.
A helmet is necessary for bike riders.
People should not use their phones while driving.
Easy steps for staying happy and healthy.
Money can’t buy happiness.
Wild animals should be tamed.
Why we should have a balanced diet.
Benefits of exercise.
Why should Black Friday sales start on Thanksgiving?
We should learn from the wisdom of our elders.

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students

College education should be free for students belonging to low-income families.
Psychological issues can never justify mass shootings.
Following one’s comfort level is more important than the following fashion.
Bragging about expensive possessions depicts immorality.
The tax rate should be double for rich people.
College students should be regularly provided with mental health counseling.
Classrooms should have background music to help the students focus on learning in a better manner.
Should athletes be paid less?
Cell phones should not be allowed in classrooms.
People should not be allowed to change their names after high school.

Best Persuasive Speech Topics for High School Students

Exchange programs make the students more appreciative of the world and different communities.
Working part-time on weekends should be compulsory for teenagers.
Introverts are the best motivational speakers.
Modern youth have developed addictive personalities.
Religious discussions should not be allowed in schools.
Students should learn at least three foreign languages.
Writing research papers is a better way of learning than tests.
Money cannot ensure happiness.
Positive thinking makes life easier and happier.
Violent video games should be banned in the United States.

Science and Technology Persuasive Speech Topics

The ethics of artificial intelligence.
The impact of 5G technology.
Space exploration and its value.
Climate change mitigation technologies.
Privacy in the digital age.
The future of renewable energy.
Genetic engineering and ethical dilemmas.
Cybersecurity in the modern world.
The impact of social media on society.
The role of technology in education.

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Environment Persuasive Speech Topics

The importance of recycling.
Protecting endangered species.
Reducing plastic waste.
The impact of deforestation.
Promoting sustainable agriculture.
The need for clean energy.
Combating air pollution.
Conserving water resources.
The urgency of addressing climate change.
Preserving natural habitats.

Health and Medicine Persuasive Speech Topics

The importance of vaccination.
Mental health awareness.
The benefits of organic food.
Healthcare for all.
The opioid crisis.
The impact of fast food on health.
The need for more organ donors.
Alternative medicine options.
Obesity and its effects.
Access to affordable healthcare.

Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

Organic foods are good for health.
Junk food should be avoided to protect ourselves.
A morning walk is essential for good health.
A healthy diet has some great effects on the mind’s health.
College cafes should offer only healthy foods.
Alcohol and tobacco products have bad effects on health.
People who smoke cigarettes are more likely to die early.
Animal testing in medical research should be legalized.
The amazing effects of eating a sufficient amount of vegetables and fruits regularly.
Why is dieting not a good option to lose weight?

Bioethics Persuasive Speech Topics

Bioethics in medical research: Standardized testing of ethical standards.
Cloning and ethical concerns: Different points of view.
Organ transplantation ethics: Examining various perspectives.
End-of-life decisions and ethical dilemmas.
Genetic testing dilemmas.
Animal testing and ethics.
Reproductive technologies: Ethical considerations.
Privacy in healthcare and ethical principles.
Human enhancement ethics.
Ethical standards in environmental issues.

Economy and Work Persuasive Speech Topics

Universal basic income for economic stability.
The impact of automation on jobs.
Raising the minimum wage.
The gig economy and worker rights.
Reducing income inequality.
The future of remote work.
The benefits of financial literacy education.
Global outsourcing and job loss.
The importance of supporting small businesses.

Persuasive Speech Topics About Media

Advertisements should not be aimed at children.
How the media is encouraging cyberbullying.
The media is responsible for the moral degradation of teenagers.
Certain TV shows should have an age restriction.
How the media is helping to prevent corruption.
Media could become an educational resource.
The media is to be blamed for eating disorders.
The media should not promote certain beauty standards.
How advertising helps in promoting the product.
Freedom of the press has gone too far.

Persuasive Speech Topics About Government and International Relations

The impact of social media on modern diplomacy
Should countries abandon national borders and embrace global citizenship?
The role of international organizations in promoting world peace
Government surveillance vs. personal privacy: finding the balance
The pros and cons of foreign aid: are we really helping?
Challenges of cybersecurity in an interconnected world
The power of economic sanctions in international diplomacy
Climate change: a global responsibility for every nation
The role of the United Nations in resolving global conflicts
Is globalization benefiting or harming developing nations?

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Policy Speech Topics for Students

Ban car racing in mass pollution areas.
Domestic Violence Drug Policy.
Equal Employment Opportunities.
Sexist images of women should be banned.
Smokers should be treated like drug addicts.
What should be the minimum age for the voter?
Why should meals in school be free?
Why invading North Korea is a no-go plan.
Stop clothing and textile sweatshops.
Punish severely pupils taking drugs.

Law and Politics Persuasive Speech Topics

Charity is used as the source of converting black money into white money.
Detaining people on the suspicion of terrorism is justified.
Military service should not be compulsory.
Physician-assisted suicide should be a punishable crime.
Violent crime offenders should be sentenced to death.
Illegal immigrants should be instantly deported.
Foreigners should not be allowed to buy the property.
Surveillance should not compromise the privacy of the citizens.
Rapists and pedophiles should be hanged to death immediately.
Burning sketches and flags during protests should be punished.

Persuasive Speech Topics on Business

Why should businesses analyze their target groups?
How do social media advertising techniques work?
How to start a business with a little investment?
Why should you not do business with a family member?
Why do introverts make good leaders?
Why does the HR department need to be polite and understanding?
Why do sales and customer service departments need to be paid more?
What does it take to be a successful businessman?
What are small businesses successful and profitable?
How to do business analysis before starting a business?

Public Speaking Persuasive Speech Topics

Should schools still teach cursive handwriting?
Should prisoners be allowed to vote?
What is the best type of renewable energy?
The danger of texting and driving.
Why should you buy a Japanese car?
Why should alcohol be illegal?
More recycling should be encouraged.
The trade deficit with China is dangerous.
Should only native plants be grown in gardens?

Arts and Culture Persuasive Speech Topics

Modern art lacks authenticity.
Can action movies cause stress?
Importance of art and culture
The effectiveness of art and music therapy
Should graffiti be considered art?
Should art and music therapy be required for students?
Should all students be required to learn an instrument in school?
Is music therapy effective?
Should art be necessary for students?
Importance of performing arts

Religion Persuasive Speech Topics

The role of religion in modern society.
Religious freedom and its limits.
The impact of religion on mental health.
The relationship between science and religion.
Religious tolerance and coexistence.
The influence of religion on politics.
The rise of non-religious beliefs.
Religious rituals and their significance.
The effects of organized religion on individuals.
Exploring the concept of the afterlife.

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

College players should be treated as professional players.
Professional sports should be financed privately.
Drug tests should be compulsory in all professional sports.
The support crew should be considered sportspeople.
Media and society are less interested in women's sports.
Cheerleaders cannot compare with professional players.
Safety precautions for athletes should be upgraded.
Team names should not reflect ethnic and cultural affiliations.
Sports means depicting your limit and not winning or defeating.
Professional female players should get more opportunities for financial support than male players.

Persuasive Speech Topics About Automotive

The minimum driving age should be 18.
Everyone should take driving courses.
What are the best car seats for pets?
Drivers should avoid the usage of cell phones while driving.
You should drive in your lane.
Watch out for animals on the road while driving.
How to travel with your pet?
Are sports cars really dangerous?
Bike and bicycle riders should wear helmets.
Why are Japanese cars in trend nowadays?

Persuasive Speech Topics About Travel

The perks of being an air hostess.
Tourism is ruining historical places.
Traveling should be cheaper.
Pets should be allowed to travel with their owner.
You should visit a new place every six months.
Switzerland is the most beautiful place on the face of this earth.
Why you should not visit the Bermuda Triangle.
Tourism plays an important role in presenting a better image of a country.
How to travel to Mars?
Airline tickets should be cheaper.

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Persuasive Speech Topics About Music & Fashion

Should white people listen to rap?
Jazz is an extinct music genre.
Good song lyrics can inspire people.
How do fashion trends differ in society?
Jewelry defines your worth
Marketing high fashion.
Men shouldn’t wear pink
Music has its own language
Fashion and music are different from each other
Fashion and music of 1987

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics About Education

School or college bullies should be rusticated immediately.
Coeducation makes students more competitive.
Homosexuals should have separate educational institutes.
Online teaching is not as constructive as regular teaching.
Kids should be taught ethics and moral values in school.
Schoolkids should be taught about the prevention of rape.
Sex education must be compulsory in high school.
How can we make social media more educational?
Teachers should take a basic skill test every year to renew their certifications.
Poor students should get a free college education.

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Persuasive Speech Topics About Workplace

Interns should always be paid for their work.
Part-time workers should have the legal right to claim annual paid leave.
How to deal with bullying in the workplace?
A friendly environment is important for the growth of a company.
Everyone should do a retail job once in their life.
Hardworking employees should be rewarded with performance awards.
All employees should get basic first aid training.
Everyone should learn basic survival skills.
The theory has no importance if it can’t be implemented.
Personal hygiene is essential for good health.

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

Energy drinks are far away from providing energy.
Watching television is more beneficial than reading books.
Health benefits and transport facilities should be free for senior citizens.
Confidence is the key to success.
Urban life is more tiring and energy-consuming than rural life.
Neutral behavior is the best coping mechanism.
The first impression is never the last impression.
Little conflicts strengthen and make relationships healthier.
Credit cards should not be issued to people under 30.
All US citizens should do community service.

Great Persuasive Speech Topics for Teens

Nuclear disarmament is necessary to restore world peace.
The salaries of single parents should be higher than for other employees.
Cyberbullying is the major cause of suicide among youngsters.
Stalkers and paparazzi should be sentenced to life in prison.
Genetically modified food products are less nutritious than natural products.
Why can’t we quit fossil fuels?
Birth control pills worsen the health of women.
Everyone should donate blood at least once a year.
The media should not promote beauty standards.
Foster parents’ homes should be regularly inspected.

Persuasive Speech Topics for Kids

The zoo or aquarium should not be closed on public holidays.
Uniforms should not be mandatory for public schools.
Schools should have a free period for video games.
My pet is very obedient.
Why shouldn't kids play R-rated games?
Why can't kids be Santa?
Why do I love my dad more than I love my mom?
Where babies come from.
The worst fruit on the earth.
How do rainbows work?

Persuasive Speech Topics Related to Food and Beverages

Kids should not eat fast food.
People are required to learn cooking skills.
There should be a period for cooking in school and college.
Benefits of growing our own vegetables.
Benefits of eating fresh fruits and vegetables.
Why we need to stay away from processed foods.
Frozen foods are not good for health.
Energy drinks do not provide any energy.
Artificial sugary drinks should be replaced with fruit juices.
An apple a day keeps the doctor away.

Funny Persuasive Speech Topics

Funny pick-up lines help in the development of a serious relationship.
Endless memes can be made on my mother.
Life is troublesome due to your horoscope.
Girls are more interested in diamonds than makeup.
Guys are more interested in sports than their girlfriends.
You are not enjoying student life if you do not procrastinate.
It is your major duty to annoy your parents.
Life is useless without indulging in troubles without your friends.
Guys are more interested in gossip than girls.
Never add your parents on Facebook.

Want to leave your audience entertained? Click the link and enjoy a list of entertaining speech topics !

Persuasive Speech Topics About Animals

Taming wild and exotic animals is unethical.
Emotional support animals provide several health benefits.
Animals should have protection laws.
Why do bunnies make the perfect pet even for a small apartment?
Why do animals make the best companions?
The benefits of pets.
Why should emotionally disabled people have emotional support animals?
How do service animals differ from emotional support animals?
Why are dogs more loyal than humans?
How do birds and fishes provide support to emotionally disturbed people?

Controversial Persuasive Speech Topics

Animal testing of drugs is necessary for ensuring the safety of humanity.
Cosmetic surgery, being an unhealthy obsession, should be banned.
Human behavior is the product of society and not of nature.
The death penalty is the only solution for controlling the crime rate in society.
The legal age for drinking, driving, and voting should be set at eighteen years.
Corruption and bribery run in today’s economy.
Do you think immigration laws need to be revised?
Job Discrimination based on Hair Color/Style.
Our constitution should protect hate speech.
Regulations on applying safety devices.

Family Persuasive Speech Topics

Family traditions are important.
We are over-scheduling our kids
How to run a family business?
What is the most beneficial parenting style, and why?
Why do I love my family?
Should schools do more to teach family values?
Families should start every morning with yoga.
Laws for child abuse
Parents should teach their children to stay polite
It’s okay to say no to children.

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What Makes A Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

To craft an effective persuasive speech, consider the following key factors:

Relevance: Choose a topic that is current and matters to your audience. It should be relatable to their lives and interests.
Controversy: Controversial subjects often make for compelling speeches. They engage the audience and spark discussions.
Credible Sources: Ensure that you have access to reliable information and sources to support your arguments.
Audience Understanding: Consider the beliefs and values of your audience. Tailor your topic to resonate with them.
Clarity of Position: Your stance should be clear and concise. Ambiguity can weaken your persuasive impact.

How To Create And Deliver A Compelling Persuasive Speech

The following principles will help you choose persuasive topics effectively and deliver speeches that leave a lasting impact on your audience.

Research Thoroughly: Gather robust evidence and data to support your claims. The more you know, the more convincing you'll be.
Structure Your Speech: Organize your speech with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion. This structure helps your audience follow your arguments.
Craft Engaging Openings: Begin with a captivating hook, a story, or a startling fact to grab your audience's attention.
Use Persuasive Techniques: Employ ethos, pathos, and logos to appeal to reason, emotions, and credibility.
Address Counterarguments: Acknowledge opposing views and refute them logically.
Practice and Feedback: Rehearse your speech multiple times and seek feedback to improve your delivery.
Confidence: Believe in your message, and your audience will be more likely to as well.
Engage the Audience: Encourage participation, ask questions, and use rhetorical devices to keep your audience involved.
End with a Call to Action: Conclude with a clear call to action, telling your audience what you want them to do or believe.

Let’s sum it up!

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Persuasive Speech Outline, with Examples

March 17, 2021 - Gini Beqiri

A persuasive speech is a speech that is given with the intention of convincing the audience to believe or do something. This could be virtually anything – voting, organ donation, recycling, and so on.

A successful persuasive speech effectively convinces the audience to your point of view, providing you come across as trustworthy and knowledgeable about the topic you’re discussing.

So, how do you start convincing a group of strangers to share your opinion? And how do you connect with them enough to earn their trust?

Topics for your persuasive speech

We’ve made a list of persuasive speech topics you could use next time you’re asked to give one. The topics are thought-provoking and things which many people have an opinion on.

When using any of our persuasive speech ideas, make sure you have a solid knowledge about the topic you’re speaking about – and make sure you discuss counter arguments too.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

All school children should wear a uniform
Facebook is making people more socially anxious
It should be illegal to drive over the age of 80
Lying isn’t always wrong
The case for organ donation

Read our full list of 75 persuasive speech topics and ideas .

Preparation: Consider your audience

As with any speech, preparation is crucial. Before you put pen to paper, think about what you want to achieve with your speech. This will help organise your thoughts as you realistically can only cover 2-4 main points before your audience get bored .

It’s also useful to think about who your audience are at this point. If they are unlikely to know much about your topic then you’ll need to factor in context of your topic when planning the structure and length of your speech. You should also consider their:

Cultural or religious backgrounds
Shared concerns, attitudes and problems
Shared interests, beliefs and hopes
Baseline attitude – are they hostile, neutral, or open to change?

The factors above will all determine the approach you take to writing your speech. For example, if your topic is about childhood obesity, you could begin with a story about your own children or a shared concern every parent has. This would suit an audience who are more likely to be parents than young professionals who have only just left college.

Remember the 3 main approaches to persuade others

There are three main approaches used to persuade others:

The ethos approach appeals to the audience’s ethics and morals, such as what is the ‘right thing’ to do for humanity, saving the environment, etc.

Pathos persuasion is when you appeal to the audience’s emotions, such as when you tell a story that makes them the main character in a difficult situation.

The logos approach to giving a persuasive speech is when you appeal to the audience’s logic – ie. your speech is essentially more driven by facts and logic. The benefit of this technique is that your point of view becomes virtually indisputable because you make the audience feel that only your view is the logical one.

Ethos, Pathos, Logos: 3 Pillars of Public Speaking and Persuasion

Ideas for your persuasive speech outline

1. structure of your persuasive speech.

The opening and closing of speech are the most important. Consider these carefully when thinking about your persuasive speech outline. A strong opening ensures you have the audience’s attention from the start and gives them a positive first impression of you.

You’ll want to start with a strong opening such as an attention grabbing statement, statistic of fact. These are usually dramatic or shocking, such as:

Sadly, in the next 18 minutes when I do our chat, four Americans that are alive will be dead from the food that they eat – Jamie Oliver

Another good way of starting a persuasive speech is to include your audience in the picture you’re trying to paint. By making them part of the story, you’re embedding an emotional connection between them and your speech.

You could do this in a more toned-down way by talking about something you know that your audience has in common with you. It’s also helpful at this point to include your credentials in a persuasive speech to gain your audience’s trust.

Speech structure and speech argument for a persuasive speech outline.

Obama would spend hours with his team working on the opening and closing statements of his speech.

2. Stating your argument

You should pick between 2 and 4 themes to discuss during your speech so that you have enough time to explain your viewpoint and convince your audience to the same way of thinking.

It’s important that each of your points transitions seamlessly into the next one so that your speech has a logical flow. Work on your connecting sentences between each of your themes so that your speech is easy to listen to.

Your argument should be backed up by objective research and not purely your subjective opinion. Use examples, analogies, and stories so that the audience can relate more easily to your topic, and therefore are more likely to be persuaded to your point of view.

3. Addressing counter-arguments

Any balanced theory or thought addresses and disputes counter-arguments made against it. By addressing these, you’ll strengthen your persuasive speech by refuting your audience’s objections and you’ll show that you are knowledgeable to other thoughts on the topic.

When describing an opposing point of view, don’t explain it in a bias way – explain it in the same way someone who holds that view would describe it. That way, you won’t irritate members of your audience who disagree with you and you’ll show that you’ve reached your point of view through reasoned judgement. Simply identify any counter-argument and pose explanations against them.

Complete Guide to Debating

4. Closing your speech

Your closing line of your speech is your last chance to convince your audience about what you’re saying. It’s also most likely to be the sentence they remember most about your entire speech so make sure it’s a good one!

The most effective persuasive speeches end with a call to action . For example, if you’ve been speaking about organ donation, your call to action might be asking the audience to register as donors.

Practice answering AI questions on your speech and get feedback on your performance .

If audience members ask you questions, make sure you listen carefully and respectfully to the full question. Don’t interject in the middle of a question or become defensive.

You should show that you have carefully considered their viewpoint and refute it in an objective way (if you have opposing opinions). Ensure you remain patient, friendly and polite at all times.

Example 1: Persuasive speech outline

This example is from the Kentucky Community and Technical College.

Specific purpose

To persuade my audience to start walking in order to improve their health.

Central idea

Regular walking can improve both your mental and physical health.

Introduction

Let’s be honest, we lead an easy life: automatic dishwashers, riding lawnmowers, T.V. remote controls, automatic garage door openers, power screwdrivers, bread machines, electric pencil sharpeners, etc., etc. etc. We live in a time-saving, energy-saving, convenient society. It’s a wonderful life. Or is it?

Example 2: Persuasive speech

Tips for delivering your persuasive speech

Practice, practice, and practice some more . Record yourself speaking and listen for any nervous habits you have such as a nervous laugh, excessive use of filler words, or speaking too quickly.
Show confident body language . Stand with your legs hip width apart with your shoulders centrally aligned. Ground your feet to the floor and place your hands beside your body so that hand gestures come freely. Your audience won’t be convinced about your argument if you don’t sound confident in it. Find out more about confident body language here .
Don’t memorise your speech word-for-word or read off a script. If you memorise your persuasive speech, you’ll sound less authentic and panic if you lose your place. Similarly, if you read off a script you won’t sound genuine and you won’t be able to connect with the audience by making eye contact . In turn, you’ll come across as less trustworthy and knowledgeable. You could simply remember your key points instead, or learn your opening and closing sentences.
Remember to use facial expressions when storytelling – they make you more relatable. By sharing a personal story you’ll more likely be speaking your truth which will help you build a connection with the audience too. Facial expressions help bring your story to life and transport the audience into your situation.
Keep your speech as concise as possible . When practicing the delivery, see if you can edit it to have the same meaning but in a more succinct way. This will keep the audience engaged.

The best persuasive speech ideas are those that spark a level of controversy. However, a public speech is not the time to express an opinion that is considered outside the norm. If in doubt, play it safe and stick to topics that divide opinions about 50-50.

Bear in mind who your audience are and plan your persuasive speech outline accordingly, with researched evidence to support your argument. It’s important to consider counter-arguments to show that you are knowledgeable about the topic as a whole and not bias towards your own line of thought.

Mitch Carson

The best call to action speech examples.

Written by Mitch Carson
on June 28, 2021
Public Speaking

It is important to have a strong call to action in your speech. It can be difficult to know what should go into a call to action; the best call to action speech examples are those that inspire. They motivate people to take the next step and do what they need to do.

The best speeches are also those that evoke emotion and make it easy for the listeners to connect with them. But there are some examples that you can look at. The following are the best call-to-action speech examples!

Action Item

Use different words than you did with the doers since they’re not the ones that are going to be hitting the ground running to complete tasks.

Best call-to-action speech examples!

Call to Action Speeches are one of the most popular types of speeches. The goal is for the speaker to encourage and inspire listeners, motivate them into taking an action that benefits both themselves or others.

Call To Action Speech Examples are a great way for speakers to find some inspiration as they write their own addresses. Here are some of our favorites:

"We're not just a company; we're a community." Apple CEO Tim Cook 2014 Keynote Address

"You have brains in your head, you have feet in your shoes; you can steer yourself any direction you choose." Dr. Seuss' Oh! The Places You'll Go! (1990)

"Now go and get them. I don't want to see you again until they're done." The Shawshank Redemption

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams. So go ahead and dream, big boy!" Dr. Seuss' You'll Be A Hero! (1975)

"I have a vision for this country where people are judged not by what they look like but by who they are; where opportunity knows no color lines, achievement has no gender or ethnic barriers, and economic security will be as important as physical security." Senator Barack Obama 2004

"The best way to predict the future is to create it." Peter Drucker

"Money doesn't talk; it swears." Bob Dylan

"The only thing we have to fear is fear itself." Franklin D Roosevelt

"I am not afraid of an army of lions led by a sheep; I am afraid of an army of sheep led by a lion." Alexander the Great

"A person who never made a mistake never tried anything new." Albert Einstein (1879 – 1955)

Life isn't about finding yourself; life is about creating yourself! You can always find others that will tell you how to live your life and what path you should take in order for them to approve or be happy with your decisions, or you can make your own decisions and be the person you want to be.

"Don't try to live up to a standard that someone else has set for you because then you're living their life, not yours." Gareth Cliff

The only thing we have is right now, so don't wait until tomorrow or next month!

"Decide what it would mean if everything in your life was going exactly as you wanted." Jim Carrey

"Every day I get out of bed, I tell myself: Today's the day! You don't know which one will bring success, but that achievement starts with just getting into action today. So what are YOU waiting for? Get moving already!" Kevin Hawkes

"You can't be too careful about what you wish because when your wishes come true, they just might go the way of all flesh." Joss Whedon

"No matter how bad a day is going, no matter how many people are trying to bring me down or make it hard for me, I say, 'you know what? It's my decision.' The only thing that matters is this moment right now and decide if I'm happy with myself or not. And if I am, then everything else falls into place in some form or another. If not, well, there's always tomorrow! Such an easy choice, really." Gareth Cliff

"I mean, what does anyone get from making somebody else sad? What are we getting out of that other than seeing them hurt, which isn't an uplifting feeling anyway? It's not satisfying at all because there was no gain for yourself." Hugh Laurie

"The best call to actions speeches are ones that inspire, empower and motivate the audience while addressing their concerns or needs for change. They focus on the benefits of following through with what is asked rather than dwelling on any potential negative consequences." Joss Whedon

"What I want you all to know is just because something doesn't go our way at times and we don't achieve our goals on this round of things, that's not an excuse because life goes on; keep working hard. That's my message: If you work hard enough as long as you're willing to put forth the effort - anything can happen." Serena Williams

No matter how bad a day is going, no matter how many people are trying to bring me down or make it hard for me, I say, "you know what? It's my decision." The only thing that matters is this moment right now and decide if I'm happy with myself or not. And if I am, there's no one to stop me.

The best call to actions speeches inspire, empower and motivate while addressing any concerns or need for change from our audience’s perspective. They focus on the benefits of following through with what was asked rather than dwelling on any potential negative consequences.

How to improve your speech call action

Start with a clear and concise goal for your speech.

Make sure that the audience knows what you want them to do at the end of the call to action.
Offer tangible benefits like incentives, such as discounts on products or free time off work so people can participate in an event like a voting day or volunteering opportunity.
Acknowledge any reservations or concerns about taking immediate action and encourage attendees to overcome those barriers together by focusing on shared values and common goals.

Call to Action Speech Examples can be a powerful tool in directing your audience towards an intended goal.

Include these tips when crafting your next speech! The best Call To Action Speech Example is the most well-researched and persuasive speech.

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Writing Tips

50 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

5-minute read

13th January 2023

Some find writing a persuasive speech to be intimidating, but it’s an opportunity to share your position on a topic you care about and to invite listeners to support (or at least appreciate) your way of thinking. You’ll benefit from a clear position, credible evidence, and careful consideration of your audience.

Your first step is to pick a topic. Whether you’re a teacher creating an assignment or a student deciding what to speak about, our list of 50 suggested persuasive speech topics and tips are a good starting place.

Choosing a Topic

● It’s more enjoyable to research and write a speech about a topic that genuinely holds your interest. It’ll make for better delivery, too. Passion is contagious! On the other hand, boredom and a lack of enthusiasm come through easily in vocal tone.

● Avoid tired, overdone issues. If you’ve heard it all before, there’s a good chance your audience has, too. Pick something current and relevant to your listeners . If you go with a popular topic, try to approach it from a fresh angle.

● Issues that contain multiple viewpoints are preferable to simplistic good/bad debates. Most reasonable people would agree that “bullying is bad.” But they might learn something new if you share recent research on bullying and offer different approaches to tackling it.

Let’s look at some interesting speech topics, categorized by subject.

Should free speech on the internet be restricted?

At what age should children have access to smartphones?

Does texting hinder interpersonal skills?

Should parents limit their children’s screen time?

Should laws prohibit using devices while driving?

Is there a link between device usage and decreased mental health?

Should the number of US Supreme Court Justices be increased?

Should voting be compulsory?

Should Election Day in the US change from Tuesday to the weekend?

Should the electoral college system be abolished?

Should election procedures be standardized in all states?

Should the Senate filibuster be abolished?

Should the death penalty be legal?

Should states be allowed to have different abortion laws?

Should the legal age to own an assault rifle be raised?

Should the US conduct a voluntary gun buyback program?

Are governments doing enough to address climate change?

Is student loan forgiveness fair?

Should the US invest in high-speed rail similar to those in Japan and Europe?

Should plastic bags be banned in grocery stores?

What is the greatest threat to international stability?

What can be done to prevent cyber threats?

Is the two-party political system of the US failing?

Should the US adopt a single-payer universal health care system?

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Should minimum wage be a factor in the cost of health care?

Is healthcare a human right?

Should access to abortion be required by healthcare providers?

Do school shooter drills damage students’ mental health?

Should vaccinations be required for students to attend public school?

Should employers offer incentives and bonuses to employees who bike or walk to work?

Do school uniforms offer any advantages?

Are school dress codes gender biased?

Are standardized test scores given too much importance in schools?

Do college entrance exams privilege those with higher socio-economic status?

Should teachers be allowed to keep firearms in their classrooms as protection against active shooters?

Should indigenous languages be taught in schools?

Should immigrants have access to free language classes?

Should books ever be banned in schools?

Should elementary schools be required to teach a foreign language?

Should schools be cellphone free?

Should volunteering before graduation be compulsory?

Should school cafeterias serve more plant-based foods?

Should parents let their children play tackle football?

Should college sports teams receive less money?

Should there be more female priests or pastors of churches?

Should churches and other religious organizations pay taxes?

Should all priests be allowed to marry?

Should prayer be permitted in public schools?

On balance, does religion create more conflict or foster peace?

Should there be exceptions to the freedom to practice any religion?

Persuasion Isn’t All or Nothing

People often think persuasion means getting others to agree with you, but persuasion is more nuanced than that. You might persuade someone to go beyond sympathy and act. You might highlight the gray areas of a typically black and white debate.

When total agreement is out of reach, you can settle for agreement in part. Consider your audience thoughtfully when you decide on your goals and remember that you have options.

Step Up with Confidence

We hope these suggested persuasive speech topics have the wheels of your mind turning. Whether it’s for a speech or an argumentative essay , getting your ideas on paper and editing them is a necessary part of the process. Our editors are here to help you confidently put out your best work. Submit a free sample today .

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Your chance of acceptance, your chancing factors, extracurriculars, call to action persuasive speech topics.

I have to write a persuasive speech for my English class and I need to come up with a call to action. Can you guys help me brainstorm some interesting and relevant topics that I can use in my speech? Preferably something related to high school or college life!

Sure, I can help you brainstorm a few relevant topics in the high school and college life realm. Here are some ideas to get you started:

1. Encouraging students to embrace mental health resources on campus.

Call to action: Promote awareness campaigns, encourage friends to attend events, or arrange support groups.

2. Addressing the importance of time management and study skills to succeed academically.

Call to action: Create workshops and peer mentoring programs, or promote online resources for improving time management and study habits.

3. Advocating for clubs and organizations to promote inclusivity and diversity.

Call to action: Encourage students to engage in conversation, support club events, or create new student organizations that promote inclusivity and participate in diversity training.

4. Promoting volunteer and community service opportunities for high school and college students.

Call to action: Encourage students to participate in local community service opportunities, connect their interests to potential volunteer work, or organize a group volunteering event.

5. Addressing the issue of college affordability and student debt.

Call to action: Support legislation to address rising college costs and student loan forgiveness programs, or promote access to information about scholarships and grants.

Remember, it is essential to pick a topic you are passionate about, as it will help engage your audience and make your speech more compelling. Good luck!

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Persuasive Speech Topics To Engage Your Audience

Persuasive speech topics - urban populaiton

Persuasive speech topics that are compelling to the audience are thought-provoking and espouse a clear opinion. Speakers must be knowledgeable and passionate about all sides of their topic to present it with both objectivity and conviction.

When you have an informed opinion on a topic that you want to share with your audiences, a persuasive speech is the way to go, You take the facts and present them to your listeners with an appealing blend of passion and logic.

Table of Contents

What Is Persuasive Speech About?

While informative and persuasive speech topics may be the same, each speech’s objectives differ. When you write or deliver a persuasive speech, your end goal is to compel your audience to support and adopt your point of view about a certain subject matter.

Persuasive speech and essay topics can also vary widely. Even just one topic can have multiple layers and approaches depending on who you’re talking to and in what kind of environment (e.g., academic, business). However, it all boils down to getting your listeners to agree and ultimately take action themselves.

What Defines A Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

There’s a long list of persuasive speech topics out there. But a good persuasive speech topic will resonate and be relevant to your specific audience. After all, they are the ones who you’re trying to move with your words.

When choosing a topic you want to discuss and a thesis statement you want to discuss, you must ensure it’s timely, significant, and meaningful to who you’re talking to. You must be foremostly knowledgeable about it because you’ll need expertise — as well as research or proof you can confidently present before your audience.

Selecting a topic you’re passionate about will make it easier for you to establish credibility — and connection. Even if you are a high school debater or a Toastmaster, where you are assigned a topic, you present your position authoritatively.

Canceling student loan debt is a hot topic persuasive speech topic in the U.S.

When crafting your speech about your chosen topic, be sure to incorporate the key pillars of a persuasive speech:

Logos (appeal to logic and reasoning)
Ethos (appeal to ethical principles and beliefs)
Pathos (appeal to emotions)

What Is An Example Easy Topic Of Persuasive Speech?

Whether you’re invited on a public speaking stint or assembling a ‌persuasive essay, there are various easy topics you can consider. These include:

Basic healthcare should be free for all.
Work environments should have child-minding centers.
The government should ban social media for children below 18 years old.
Teachers must teach financial literacy to high school students.
The use of disposable diapers and similar products should be limited because they harm the environment.
Telling a lie isn’t always wrong.
Female creatives deserve recognition as their male counterparts.
Why seniors must be given employment opportunities.
Immigrants must learn the language of the country where they’re migrating.
Why we all need a best friend.

Many of these topics interest those in different age groups, but the depth of the presentations may vary.

What Are Some Timeless Persuasive Speech Topics?

Many wide-ranging evergreen topics are good choices for your next persuasive speech. This kind of topic is a popular choice since people from all walks of life are already familiar with them. Additionally, choosing this route allows you to introduce unconventional viewpoints or challenge the norm.

The death penalty is an effective deterrent to crime.
Knowing a foreign language can make you more appealing to a recruitment manager.
Sex education and the use of birth control are part of a parent’s responsibility.
There should be a higher age requirement for getting a driver’s license.
Raising the minimum wage can hurt the economy.
Graduates of public schools are better than private school graduates.
Too few incentives encourage ordinary people to help curb global warming levels.
Why there should be increased funding for mental health services
Parents are responsible for their children’s behaviors.
National museums should be free to citizens and tourists.

Persuasive speech topic: Raise the minimum wage, yay or nay?

What Are Trending Topics For Persuasive Speeches?

If you want to make a great persuasive speech, you might consider tackling a trending topic . It’s a good platform for you to voice your thoughts and sentiments on a hotly discussed issue — and convince others to adopt the same. Below are some ideas for trending persuasive speech topics:

There should be heavier punishment for cyberbullying.
Can technological advancements be used in genetically designing babies?
Tourism authorities must ban taking selfies at popular and crowded tourist spots at a certain time window.
Fast food prices are actually overpriced.
Governments around the world must legally recognize marriages involving LGBTQ+ members.
No, exotic animals are not pets.
Why religious organizations should be taxed.
Businesses must invest more in AI tools.
Professional athletes are better brand endorsers than TV celebrities.
What is the proper age to discuss career prospects.

What Are Some Good Persuasive Speech Topics?

Some persuasive speech ideas and topics are simply more engaging and enticing than others. Check out some topics you can use to craft a compelling, persuasive speech.

Children today are less sociable because of too much screen time on cell phones.
The food industry is at fault for the rising global obesity statistics.
Teenagers must be more involved in community service.
Introverts are better leaders.
Tipping in restaurants should be mandatory.
Should guns be illegal in the United States?
Dieting isn’t an effective way to lose weight.
A person must mandatorily vote once they reach the legal age.
What should be the limit of the freedom of the press?
Love is a more powerful emotion than hatred.

Persuasive speech topic: Should some guns be banned?

What Are Some Good Topics For Students?

Delivering a speech before students? We’ve rounded up ‌interesting persuasive speech topics you can talk about below:

High school and tertiary education institutions must strengthen their mental health support services and resources.
Doing community service is as valuable extracurricular service as joining competitive sports.
Minors who play violent video games are more violent in real life.
Good grades are not an indicator of a successful career.
College athletes must be financially compensated.
Children must wear a school uniform.
School and university canteens must cut down on serving junk food.
Co-ed schools offer a better learning environment than single-sex ones.
Parents should patronize homeschooling more.
There’s more to life than attaining formal education.

What Persuasive Topics Might Appeal To Senior Listeners? Animal Lovers? Conservationists?

If you’re talking to a niche audience like seniors, animal lovers, and conservationists , you can count on this list to give you an idea of what to discuss:

Seniors are capable of doing service-oriented jobs.
Senior citizens should travel more often.
The elderly should learn to pick up new hobbies.
It’s inhumane to keep animals at zoos.
People who do animal testing and cloning must be heavily punished.
People shouldn’t give pets as birthday presents.
A dog is indeed man’s best friend.
Green energy is indeed the future. But how can we entice more people to invest in renewable energy?
Single-use bags have a less damaging environmental impact than plastic bags.
Owners of electric cars should enjoy more incentives.

Persuasive speech topics: Shouel reusable bags replace plastic?

What Are The Examples Of Persuasive Speech?

As you can see in the various lists of diverse speech topics presented above, a persuasive speech be just about anything. Here are some examples of persuasive speeches and essays you can take inspiration from.

Context: Renowned American novelist delivered this commencement speech in 2005 at Kenyon College, a liberal arts college in Ohio.
Snippet: “The capital-T Truth is about life before death. It is about the real value of a real education, which has almost nothing to do with knowledge, and everything to do with simple awareness ; awareness of what is so real and essential, so hidden in plain sight all around us, all the time, that we have to keep reminding ourselves over and over: “This is water.” “This is water.” It is unimaginably hard to do this, to stay conscious and alive in the adult world day in and day out. This means yet another grand cliché turns out to be true: your education really is the job of a lifetime. And it commences: now. I wish you way more than luck.”
Context: In 2012, American writer Susan Cain delivered a viral TED Talk about the potential that introverted people hold.
Snippet: “Now, in fact, some of our transformative leaders in history have been introverts. I’ll give you some examples. Eleanor Roosevelt, Rosa Parks, Gandhi — all these people described themselves as quiet and soft-spoken and even shy. And they all took the spotlight, even though every bone in their bodies was telling them not to. And this turns out to have a special power all its own because people could feel that these leaders were at the helm not because they enjoyed directing others and not out of the pleasure of being looked at; they were there because they had no choice because they were driven to do what they thought was right .”

100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students

Homework Tips
Learning Styles & Skills
Study Methods
Time Management
Private School
College Admissions
College Life
Graduate School
Business School
Distance Learning
M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
B.A., History, Armstrong State University

There is a small but important difference between planning a persuasive speech and writing a persuasive essay. First, if you are planning a persuasive speech, you should think about a topic that can engage your audience. For this reason, you may want to consider a few topics before settling on the one that allows you to be more descriptive and entertaining.

Another important factor when picking a persuasive speech topic is to choose one that can provoke your audience. If you stir up a little emotion in your audience members, you'll keep their attention. The list below is provided to help you brainstorm. Choose a topic from this list or use the list to generate an idea of your own.

Studying martial arts is good for mind and health.
Competitive sports can teach us about life.
Reality shows are exploiting people.
Community service should be a graduation requirement for all high school students.
The characteristics that make a person a hero.
It's important to grow things in a garden.
Violent video games are dangerous.
Lyrics in a song can impact our lives.
Traveling and studying abroad are positive experiences.
Journal writing is therapeutic.
You should spend time with your grandparents.
A laptop is better than a tablet.
Religion and science can go hand in hand.
School uniforms are good.
All-female colleges and all-male colleges are bad.
Multiple choice tests are better than essay tests .
We should not spend money on space exploration.
Open-book tests are as effective as closed-book tests.
Security cameras keep us safer.
Parents should have access to students' grades.
Small classes are better than big classes.
You need to start saving for retirement now.
Credit cards are harmful to college students.
We should have a royal family.
We should protect endangered animals.
Texting while driving is dangerous.
You can write a novel.
Recycling should be required in the U.S.
State colleges are better than private colleges.
Private colleges are better than state colleges.
We should do away with penny coins.
Fast food containers hurt the environment.
Plastic straws are harmful to the environment.
You can eat and enjoy healthy snacks.
You can become a millionaire.
Dogs are better pets than cats.
You should own a bird.
It's unethical to keep birds in cages.
Liberal arts degrees prepare graduates to be better workers than other degrees.
Hunting animals should be banned.
Football is a dangerous sport.
School days should start later.
Night school is better than day school.
Technical training is better than a college degree.
Immigration laws should be more lenient.
Students should be able to choose their schools.
Everyone should learn to play a musical instrument.
Grass lawns should be prohibited.
Sharks should be protected.
We should do away with cars and go back to horse and carriage for transportation.
We should use more wind power.
We should pay more taxes.
We should do away with taxes.
Teachers should be tested like students.
We should not interfere in the affairs of other countries.
Every student should join a club.
Homeschooling is better than traditional schooling.
People should stay married for life.
Smoking in public should be illegal.
College students should live on campus .
Parents should let students fail.
Giving to charity is good.
Education makes us happier people.
The death penalty should be outlawed.
Bigfoot is real.
We should increase train travel to save the environment.
We should read more classic books.
Fame is bad for young children.
Athletes should stay loyal to teams.
We should reform our prisons.
Juvenile offenders should not go to boot camps.
Abraham Lincoln was the best president.
Abraham Lincoln gets too much credit.
Students should be allowed to have cell phones in elementary, middle, and high school.
College student-athletes should be paid for playing.
Elderly citizens on fixed income should receive free public transportation.
Colleges and universities should be free to attend.
All American citizens should complete one year of community service.
Students should be required to take Spanish classes.
Every student should be required to learn at least one foreign language .
Marijuana should be legal for recreational use nationwide.
Commercial testing of products on animals should no longer be allowed.
High school students should be required to participate in at least one team sport.
The drinking age in the U.S. should be 25.
Replacing fossil fuels with cheaper alternative energy options should be mandated.
Churches need to contribute their share of taxes.
The Cuba embargo should be maintained by the U.S.
America should replace income taxes with a nationwide flat tax.
Once they reach the age of 18, all U.S. citizens should be automatically registered to vote .
Doctor-assisted suicide should be legal.
Spammers—people who bombard the internet with unsolicited email—should be banned from sending junk mail.
Every automobile driver should be required to take a new driver's test every three years.
Electroshock treatment is not a humane form of therapy.
Global warming is not real.
Single-parent adoption should be encouraged and promoted.
Gun companies should be held accountable for gun crimes.
Human cloning is not moral.
Religion does not belong in public education.
Juveniles should not be tried as adults.
American workers should be guaranteed a three-day weekend by law.
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How to Write an Effective Persuasive Speech Outline: 5 Key Elements

The Speaker Lab
April 14, 2024

If you’re a speaker, you are probably well familiar with the path from initial speech drafts to the day you actually present. By its nature, speech delivery is a journey filled with obstacles, yet it’s simultaneously an adventure in persuasion. With a well-crafted persuasive speech outline , you can do more than just present facts and figures to your audience. You can weave them into a narrative that captivates, convinces, and converts.

A meticulously planned persuasive speech outline isn’t just helpful; it’s essential. Crafting this blueprint carefully lets you deliver your message more effectively, making sure each point lands with the impact you’re aiming for. To help you achieve this impact, we have some tips and tricks for you to try.

Writing an Effective Persuasive Speech Outline

When we talk about persuasive speeches , we’re diving into the art of convincing others to see things from a certain point of view. Your speech is your one shot to grab attention, build your case, and inspire action. Your secret weapon for achieving this is your speech outline. In your speech outline, you want to touch on several key elements.

Pick your fight: Start by zeroing in on what you really want to change or influence with this speech.
Support your claim with evidence: Identify those key points that back up your stance to appeal to your audience’s rational side .
The emotional hook: Weave in stories or facts that hit home emotionally .
Avoid the kitchen sink approach: Don’t throw everything at them hoping something sticks. Be selective and strategic with the info you share.
Nail that closer: Your conclusion isn’t just goodbye; it’s where you charge your audience with a call to action.

These elements form the backbone of your persuasive speech. By including these in your talk’s outline, you can’t go wrong.

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Establishing Your Main Objective and Structuring Your Points

Now that you have a general idea of what goes into a persuasive speech outline, let’s break a couple of these pieces down and look at them a little more closely.

Identifying the Purpose of Your Persuasive Speech

When writing your speech, you first need to nail down why you’re doing this in the first place. In other words, identify your main objective. After all, choosing to speak up isn’t merely about the desire to express oneself; it’s deeply rooted in understanding the effect you hope your discourse will unleash. Do you hope to sway opinions towards the belief that animal experimentation is a relic of the past? Or perhaps persuade them that social media does more good than harm? Whatever your cause, identifying your main objective will help keep you on track and avoid rambling.

Organizing Key Points for Maximum Impact

Once you’ve determined what you want to persuade your audience of, you can start building your argument. Specifically, you can determine your key points. Key points support your position on a topic, proving to your audience that you have actual reasons for taking your position.

To pack the most punch, arrange these key points in a logical order. Consider how you might connect your key points. Are there some that can be grouped together? The flow of your argument matters just as much as the argument itself, and a disjointed argument won’t do anyone any favors. As you organize your key points, consider these tips:

Lead with strength, but don’t throw all your cards out at once.
Build upon each point; important transitions between them can make or break audience engagement.
Finish strong by tying back everything to the emotional chord you struck at the beginning.

Nailing these steps will ensure that when you speak, your message doesn’t just echo—it resonates.

Selecting Compelling Topics for Your Persuasive Speeches

Let’s face it, picking the right topic for your persuasive speech outline is half the battle. But what makes a topic not just good, but great? First off, it needs to spark interest, both yours and your audience’s. If you’re not fired up about it, chances are they won’t be either. Second, make sure the topic is something relevant. It should resonate with your listeners’ experiences or touch on their concerns and aspirations. Lastly, your topic has to be something you can research and back up with solid facts and expert opinions.

For ideas to get you started, check out a variety of speech topics here .

Enhancing Persuasion Through Rhetorical Appeals

The art of persuasion is something that’s been studied since ancient Greece. Back then, Greek philosopher Aristotle came up with the three rhetorical appeals . Each one described a different way of convincing your audience of your position. Together, these appeals help you form a rock-strong argument, making them worth learning.

Building Credibility with Ethos

To get people on your side, you first need to win their trust. That’s where ethos comes into play. Demonstrating to your listeners that you’re both trustworthy and deserving of their attention hinges on transparency about your qualifications, genuine self, and the wisdom gained from occasional setbacks. Letting folks know why they should listen can make all the difference.

Connecting with the Audience Through Pathos

At some point, we’ve all been moved by a story or an ad because it hit right in the feels. That sort of emotional appeal is called pathos , and it’s powerful stuff. If you want people really invested in what you’re saying, then be sure to use this appeal in your presentation. To harness the power of pathos, try telling a story , especially one your audience can relate to. The key is authenticity—sharing true experiences resonates more than anything fabricated ever could.

Strengthening Arguments with Logos

Last but not least, we have logos, our logical appeal. Oftentimes, this logical appeal entails facts and data points, which are used to back up what you’re selling, turning skeptics into believers. But just because you’re listing facts and figures doesn’t mean this part has to be boring. To keep your audience engaged, craft persuasive narratives and then ground them in robust proof. Giving your story to go with your numbers doesn’t just help keep them engaged, it also helps the information stick.

The Importance of Supporting Evidence and Counterarguments

In your persuasive speech outline, you need to note compelling evidence for each key point. In addition, you’ll want to address opposing views.

Gathering and Presenting Convincing Evidence

No matter how trustworthy you seem, or how compelling your stories are, most people need tangible proof. That’s where concrete evidence steps into the spotlight. To fortify your argument and boost its believability, sprinkle in a mix of hard data, customer stories, numerical evidence, and endorsements from authorities. To illustrate this data for your audience, you may find it helpful to create a slideshow . Supporting every assertion with research is an essential part of any persuasive speech. Without it, arguments inevitably sound flimsy and unconvincing.

Addressing Opposing Views Effectively

Although it may seem counterintuitive, address counter-arguments head-on in your persuasive speech outline. It might feel like walking into enemy territory but it actually strengthens your own argument. By acknowledging opposing views, you’re showing that not only do you know what they are, but also that they don’t scare you.

When you address these counter-arguments, demonstrate your understanding. Again, this is where your good research skills are going to come in handy. Present the facts, and ditch biased explanations. In other words, don’t mock or belittle the other side’s viewpoint or you’ll undermine your own trustworthiness. Instead, explain opposing viewpoints with neutrality.

Adopting this strategy not only neutralizes possible objections but also enhances your stance. Plus, this makes for an engaging dialogue between both sides of any debate, which keeps audience members hooked from start to finish.

In essence, tackling counter-arguments is less about winning over naysayers and more about enriching discussions around hot-button issues. At its core, persuasion isn’t just convincing folks; it’s sparking conversations worth having.

Crafting a Captivating Introduction and Conclusion

Now that you have the body of your persuasive speech outline, it’s time to talk beginning and end. To really hit your message home, you want to grab your audience’s attention at the beginning and call them to action at the end.

Creating an Engaging Hook to Capture Attention

The opening of your speech is where you need a good first impression. To hook your audience, consider starting with an intriguing question, a surprising fact, or even a short story related to your topic. Whatever route you choose, keep it interesting and concise, so that you can transition into the rest of your persuasive speech outline.

Concluding with a Strong Call to Action

Crafting strong conclusions is about leaving your readers feeling pumped and ready to jump into action. After all, if you’ve argued convincingly enough, your audience should be ready to act. To channel this energy, urge listeners towards specific actions. Here are some strategies:

Suggest clear next steps: Don’t leave your audience hanging wondering what’s next. Give them concrete steps they can take immediately after reading.
Create urgency: Why wait? Let folks know why now is the perfect time to act.
Show benefits: Paint vivid pictures of how taking action will positively impact their lives or solve their problems.

With that captivating hook and a decisive call-to-action, you are one step closer to presenting an unforgettable speech.

Utilizing Monroe’s Motivated Sequence for Persuasive Structure

As you finish off your persuasive speech outline, you may be wondering how best to structure your speech. If that’s you, then Purdue University professor Alan H. Monroe has some answers. In his book “Monroe’s Principles of Speech,” the professor outlines Monroe’s Motivated Sequence, the best structure for persuasive speeches. Each step is broken down below.

Attention: Grabbing the Audience’s Focus

You’ve got something important to say. But first, you need them to listen. Start with a bang. Throwing out a shocking truth, posing a thought-provoking query, or sharing an enthralling tale could work magic in grabbing their attention. It’s all about making heads turn and ears perk up.

Need: Highlighting the Issue at Hand

Now that they’re listening, show them there’s a gaping hole in their lives that only your message can fill. Paint a vivid picture of the problem your speech addresses.

Satisfaction: Proposing a Solution

This is where you come in as the hero with a plan. Introduce your solution clearly and convincingly. How does it patch things up? Why does it outshine merely applying quick fixes to deep-rooted issues? Give your audience hope.

Visualization: Helping the Audience Visualize Benefits

Show them life on the other side of adopting your idea or product—brighter, easier, better. Use vivid imagery and relatable scenarios so they can see themselves reaping those benefits firsthand.

Action: Encouraging Audience Action

Last step: nudge them from “maybe” to “yes.” Make this part irresistible by being clear about what action they should take next—and why now’s the time to act. Whether signing up, voting, or changing behavior, make sure they know how easy taking that first step can be.

Learn more about Monroe’s Motivated Sequence here .

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Overcoming Public Speaking Fears for Effective Delivery

Let’s face it, the thought of public speaking can turn even the most confident folks into a bundle of nerves. But hey, you’ve got this. Dive into these expert strategies and you’ll find yourself delivering speeches like a seasoned orator in no time.

Techniques to Build Confidence in Public Speaking

If you’re feeling nervous on the big day, these three techniques are perfect for you. Take a look!

Breathe: Deep breathing is your secret weapon against those pesky nerves. It tells your brain that everything is going to be okay.
Pose like a superhero: Stand tall and strike a power pose before you go on stage. This isn’t just fun; science backs it up as a confidence booster .
Kick perfectionism to the curb: Aim for connection with your audience, not perfection. Mistakes make you human and more relatable.

The goal here is to calm yourself enough to be able to deliver your persuasive speech outline with confidence. Even if you still feel a little nervous, you can still present an awesome speech. You just don’t want those nerves running the show.

Practicing Your Speech for Perfect Execution

If you know that you tend to get nervous when public speaking, then you don’t want to be running through you speech for the first time on the big day. Instead, practice beforehand using these techniques.

The mirror is your friend: Practice in front of a mirror to catch any odd gestures or facial expressions.
Vary your voice: As you deliver your speech, let your voice rise and fall to match what you’re sharing. Avoid speaking in a monotone.
Say no to memorization: Rather than memorizing every word, learn key points by heart. You want to sound natural out there.

Remembering these steps won’t just help you tackle public speaking fear, but will also polish those all-important public speaking skills .

Once you’ve honed the skills you need to write a persuasive speech outline, the only thing left to do is to get out there and practice them. So take the rhetorical appeals—ethos, logos, and pathos—and practice weaving each element into your speech. Or take Monroe’s Motivated Sequence and work on structuring your outline accordingly.

Prepare well and when you hit the stage, you have not just a well-prepared persuasive speech outline, but also the power to alter perspectives, challenge the status quo, or even change lives.

Last Updated: April 11, 2024

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110 Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics to Impress Your Audience
Add emotional connections with your audience. Make your argument more powerful by appealing to your audience's sense of nostalgia and common beliefs. Another tactic (which marketers use all the time) is to appeal to your listeners' fears and rely on their instincts for self-preservation. Address counterarguments.
239+ Call To Action Speech Topics
Structure Your Speech: Organizing your speech clearly and logically is crucial. Start with an attention-grabbing introduction, present your arguments coherently, and conclude with a powerful call to action that reinforces your main points. Use Persuasive Language: Using persuasive language and rhetorical devices can make your speech more ...
100 Easy Persuasive Speech Topics: A Guide
This article includes 100 amazing persuasive speech topics with short description of each of them. ... an environmentalist wants people to re-cycle because they think or know that it is good for the environment. Now, it is the people who need to know and think recycling is good for the environment. ... Call to action. Strike when the iron is ...
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112 Engaging Persuasive Speech Topics. Tips for Preparing Your Persuasive Speech. Writing a stellar persuasive speech requires a carefully crafted argument that will resonate with your audience to sway them to your side. This feat can be challenging to accomplish, but an engaging, thought-provoking speech topic is an excellent place to start.
150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics for Students in 2024
Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic. The ideal persuasive speech topic will inspire the audience to action via both logical arguments and emotional appeals. As such, we can summarize the question "what makes a good persuasive speech topic?" by saying that the topic must possess the following qualities: Timeliness and Relevance ...
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105 Topics for a Persuasive Speech. Here's our list of 105 great persuasive speech ideas. We made sure to choose topics that aren't overdone, yet that many people will have an interest in, and we also made a point of choosing topics with multiple viewpoints rather than simplistic topics that have a more obvious right answer (i.e.
60+ Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics
Analysis shows effective persuasive subjects have the following traits (Smith, 2022): Relevant - 94% featured topics relevant to audience interests. Controversial - 89% made arguments around divisive issues. Passionate - 97% chose subjects speakers were enthusiastic about. Supported - 100% used facts, statistics, examples to back up claims.
215 Persuasive Speech Topics to Elevate Your Talk
Effective Call to Action. Your end goal is to persuade your audience to act or think differently. A clear, relatable topic sets the stage for a powerful call to action, motivating your listeners to respond with enthusiasm. ... A good persuasive speech topic has multiple facets and isn't black and white. It should spark discussion, encouraging ...
120 PERSUASIVE SPEECH TOPICS
3. Have The Audience's Interest In Mind. This is a strong point to consider before giving a persuasive speech. Every speech you will ever make will undoubtedly be targeted to a class of people. The audience must be interested in the topic in question. The attention of your audience is critical, so come up with a topic you know they will be ...
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The call to action which comes right before the end of a persuasive speech is where you clearly tell the audience a role they can play after they leave your talk. The CTA gives audience members concrete tasks to tackle, and these tasks are ones that must be completed in order to bring your ideas to fruition. And, it's a key part of what makes ...
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What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic? There are multiple factors that make some persuasive speech topic ideas better than others. Three major things to think about when choosing a persuasive ...
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100+ persuasive speech ideas grouped by theme: animals/birds, arts/culture, automotive, business/economy, social/community, environment, education, ethics, global/world, sports... Notes covering: what makes a speech topic 'good'. why some topics are potentially boring for an audience to listen to and best left alone.
75 Persuasive Speech Topics and Ideas
The aim of a persuasive speech is to inform, educate and convince or motivate an audience to do something. You are essentially trying to sway the audience to adopt your own viewpoint. The best persuasive speech topics are thought-provoking, daring and have a clear opinion. You should speak about something you are knowledgeable about and can ...
Good persuasive speech topics
50 good persuasive speech topics. Sport is the new religion. Social media affects mental health. There should be a law against drugged driving. Truth and politics seldom mix. Protests are effective. All guns should be registered. Should single people be allowed to adopt a child. Exploitative advertising should be banned.
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10 Easy and Simple Persuasive Speech Topics. Below follow topics that should be easy enough to persuade your audience without going into too much research. There are some which can be used as 'tongue in cheek' topics such as 'The paparazzi are the real stalkers' and 'People need to visit the dentist more often'.
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Storytelling. More controversial persuasive speech topics, in particular, will require you to artfully work through various objections and mix different persuasion methods. Now let's take a closer look at each one. 1. Repetition. There's a reason that advertisements repeat the same thing over and over again.
Good Persuasive Speech Topics & Ideas for Debaters
What Makes A Good Persuasive Speech Topic? 28. How To Create And Deliver A Compelling Persuasive Speech ... End with a Call to Action: Conclude with a clear call to action, telling your audience what you want them to do or believe. Let's sum it up! Hopefully, you have decided on a topic for your speech by now. But if not, don't let the stress ...
Persuasive Speech Outline, with Examples
Ideas for your persuasive speech outline 1. Structure of your persuasive speech. The opening and closing of speech are the most important. Consider these carefully when thinking about your persuasive speech outline. A strong opening ensures you have the audience's attention from the start and gives them a positive first impression of you.
The Best Call to Action Speech Examples
Call To Action Speech Examples are a great way for speakers to find some inspiration as they write their own addresses. Here are some of our favorites: "We're not just a company; we're a community." Apple CEO Tim Cook 2014 Keynote Address. "You have brains in your head, you have feet in your shoes; you can steer yourself any direction you choose."
50 Topics for a Persuasive Speech
Choosing a Topic. It's more enjoyable to research and write a speech about a topic that genuinely holds your interest. It'll make for better delivery, too. Passion is contagious! On the other hand, boredom and a lack of enthusiasm come through easily in vocal tone. Avoid tired, overdone issues. If you've heard it all before, there's a ...
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Sure, I can help you brainstorm a few relevant topics in the high school and college life realm. Here are some ideas to get you started: 1. Encouraging students to embrace mental health resources on campus. Call to action: Promote awareness campaigns, encourage friends to attend events, or arrange support groups. 2. Addressing the importance of time management and study skills to succeed ...
Persuasive Speech Topics To Engage Your Audience
Here are some examples of persuasive speeches and essays you can take inspiration from. " This is Water ," David Foster Wallac2. Context: Renowned American novelist delivered this commencement speech in 2005 at Kenyon College, a liberal arts college in Ohio. Snippet: "The capital-T Truth is about life before death.
100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students
100 Persuasive Speech Topics for Students. ThoughtCo. There is a small but important difference between planning a persuasive speech and writing a persuasive essay. First, if you are planning a persuasive speech, you should think about a topic that can engage your audience. For this reason, you may want to consider a few topics before settling ...
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In your speech outline, you want to touch on several key elements. Pick your fight: Start by zeroing in on what you really want to change or influence with this speech. Support your claim with evidence: Identify those key points that back up your stance to appeal to your audience's rational side. The emotional hook: Weave in stories or facts ...

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What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

It's Something You Know About or Are Interested in Learning About

It's a Topic People Care About

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