If you never gave a persuasive speech before a large audience, you probably want to know how this task can be approached.
First and foremost, you need to construct a good persuasive speech outline that will be the cornerstone of your success. There are several ways in which you can do it and this article on https://Custom-writing.org will offer you time-proven tips that have already helped many students.
Persuasive Speech Outline: Its Main Components
Students who have to make persuasive speeches should single out major ideas, arguments, and examples that they intend to discuss. On the whole, an outline of persuasive speech has to contain the following elements:
- At attention-getter or a passage which convinces listeners that the topic is worth their attention. A good rhetoric question or quotation can be a good way of making the audience interested in the subject. At this stage, your task is to intrigue the listeners and make them want to hear more about the topic.
- A thesis statement in which you state your views about a certain topic. The thesis statement has to be concise and clear.
- Explanation of a specific issue or question. At this point, you need to explain the underlying causes of a certain problem and the ways of resolving it.
- Overview of examples that can substantiate your point of view. In your persuasive speech outline, you should show how these examples are related with one another.
- A description of the action that is needed to address a certain issue;
- Restatement of your arguments and recommendations.
These are the main elements that have to be present in such an outline. If you strictly adhere to this plan, you will see that writing a speech is not a very difficult task. Very often, students forget about persuasive speech outlines when they actually make a speech. However, a well-developed outline can greatly help a speaker. So, this is what you should do:
- First, you need to highlight or asterisk the most important parts of your outline. In this way, you will be able to move from one argument to another.
- Secondly, you should include the most eloquent examples in your outline. You can type them in bold type and even use arrows to show logical relations between them.
- Thirdly, a persuasive speech outline can serve as a good reminder for you. For example, you can include a brief quote or an important statistical example to prove your point of view.
Overall, a persuasive speech outline is much more useful than the text of the speech, because it allows the speaker to find examples and quotes much quicker. If you use this outline properly, you will make your speech more fluent.
Whether you need to deliver a speech for a class, you have a presentation to give at work, or you’re writing an essay, a solid outline is the starting point for success.
From drawing an audience in with an attention-grabbing opening to keeping their interest with relevant main points and smooth transitions, an outline helps to organize your thoughts and to make sure all the bases are covered.
On this page, you will find information on writing an outline, and many outline examples and tools.
In this article:
- Informative Speech Outline
- Persuasive Speech Outline
- Research Paper Outline
- Argumentative Essay Outline
- Generic Speech or Essay Outline
Informative Speech Outline
The basics of writing an informative outline
There are many different purposes for writing an informative outline, therefore there are several different types of informative outlines. A few of the types include the informative essay outline, the informative presentation outline, and the informative speech outline.
Regardless what type of informative outline you are writing, the basic parts remain same. Each will include an introduction, a body, and a conclusion.
The introduction generally needs to:
- Grab the reader’s or audience’s attention
- Present your thesis statement
- Establish your credibility
- Preview what is to come
- Transition to the body
The body:
- Outlines your main points, with subpoints and supporting facts
- Includes transitions between main points
The conclusion:
- Signals the end is coming
- Restates your thesis
- Ends strongly, but quickly, wrapping it up and driving your point home
You are likely already familiar with the basic outline format, which uses Roman numerals for the introduction, body (main points), and conclusion, and letters and numbers for subpoints and supporting facts.
If you have the basic format down, you’ll then want to then master the differences specific to the type of informative outline you’re writing. For example, a speech outline may include a notation about visual aids you are using or when to emphasize using gestures or pauses, which would not be necessary in an informative essay outline.
Writing an informative speech outline
According to this writing guide from Colorado State University, the main point of an informative speech is “to provide interesting, useful, and unique information to your audience.” Within that framework, there are still different types of informative speeches. When selecting your informative speech topic and beginning your outline, you’ll want to keep in mind the type of speech you are writing and its overall objective.
Again, the key parts of your outline will remain the same, but the pattern of organization you use in your outline may vary based on which type of informative speech you are writing.
Types of informative speeches include:
- Object (people, places, animals, products)
- Process (patterns of action, including both demonstrative “how to” speeches and more broad processes)
- Event (things that have happened, are happening, or will happen)
- Concept (more abstract ideas such as theories, beliefs, and ideas)
Based on your speech type, you’ll want to consider the following patterns of organization for your speech outline:
- Topical
- Chronological
- Spatial
- Causal
Another difference when preparing an outline for a speech is that you’ll benefit from two outlines: the preparation outline and the speaking outline. A preparation outline is typically full sentences and is used to help write your speech. A speaking outline uses keywords and phrases, generally on note cards, and is designed to jog your memory during your speech, keeping you on track, without distracting you from delivering your message.
Once your preparation outline is complete, you’ll also want to consider if you need a speaking outline. If it’s permitted, a speaking outline can be a useful tool to use when delivering your speech.
Informative speech outline examples and tools
1. Demonstration speech with chronological organization
This informative outline example from Santa Monica College is a full sentence outline of a demonstrative, or how to, informative speech about CPR. It uses a chronological pattern of organization, describing steps in the order you would perform them. The body consists of three main points, each with three to four subpoints. The introduction shows a clearly defined thesis statement.
2. Process informative speech outline examples using phrases
An example of a process informative speech outline, this outline informs how to eat healthy with a busy lifestyle. The pattern of organization is topical rather than chronological and this outline uses phrases, rather than full sentences, showing an alternative to the complete sentence speech outline. If you have a brief speech to give or are confident in your abilities to prepare and deliver your speech, this outline may suit your needs.
A full-sentence process speech outline in pdf format, this outline describes the process of spray paint art. It shows how to incorporate a visual aid in the introduction. It also shows how to use transitions between main points in your outline.
3. Complete sentence outline example
This informative process speech outline demonstrates how to create a personal recipe collection cookbook. From the labeled anecdote in the introduction to the transitions between sections, it is a great example of a complete sentence outline and is a Word document so the content could easily be replaced, while keeping the basic format to be used for any topic.
4. Topical pattern of organization outline example
From the Monmouth College, this outline is an example of the most commonly used pattern of organization, topical. It also shows the effective use of internal summaries and internal transitions between sections for a smooth speech.
5. Event informative speech outline examples
This full sentence event informative speech outline about the sinking of the Titanic is from Central Michigan University. It shows an effective attention getter and credibility statement in the introduction, as well as transitions between sections.
This outline is downloadable as a Word document and provides an example of an event informative speech outline describing the 1919 Black Sox Scandal. It uses full sentences and then shows how to use a central idea as a thesis statement. In addition, it shows how to develop your points in the body paragraph, starting with a broad idea, then a supporting statement, then specific details.
6. Object informative speech preparation outline and speaking outline
This is an assignment used at Bakersfield College. It is downloadable as a Word document, and it includes both an example of a complete sentence object informative speech outline about a person (you) and also an abbreviated version suitable for a speaking outline.
This outline sample is a comprehensive guide from the University of Hawaii used for developing a preparation outline for your informative speech. It provides detailed instructions for each part of the outline, including how to cite your sources in MLA or APA format.
7. Concept informative speech outline examples
A concept informative speech can be a bit more subjective. This particular example outlines the factors that influence a restaurant’s success.
This sample outlines an informative speech about the history of Halloween; however, it also discusses the concept of conformity, making it a good example of this type of informative speech.
8. Informative brief outline format
This is a short outline example from the University of Delaware that covers the main parts of an informative outline without being overly complex. If you’re needing a version to get you started towards developing a more complex outline, this is a good starting point.
9. Informative speech outline guide
Here is an outline guide from the University of Hawaii that you can print and fill out. If you’re feeling a bit stuck on getting started, it is a useful to break a pattern of procrastination and get some thoughts down on paper.
10. Informative speech outline checklist
Once you’ve completed your outline, you can use this handy checklist from the University of Hawaii to make sure you haven’t left anything out.
Persuasive Speech Outline
Persuasive speeches and essays are presentations with a specific purpose to convince the audience to adopt a certain point of view and/or compel them to take concrete action. In order to properly organize the ideas and research for your presentation, you need to create an outline. A strong persuasive outline allows you to stay on point and use the most compelling arguments to effectively present your case.
The basics of writing persuasive outline
When writing a persuasive outline, the first thing to think about is your topic. Fallout new vegas best power armor mods. Is your essay or speech topic compelling enough to keep both you and your audience interested? If not, you may want to revisit your topic selection before you proceed with the outline.
Persuasive presentations are not all the same, and there may be varying requirements regarding the outline format. For example, you may be asked to write a persuasive essay outline with a specific width, height, and other formatting guidelines. In addition, some outlines are for your own personal use, while others are formal and need to be turned in along with the rest of an assignment. As always, check with your instructor to determine exactly what is expected before you begin your project.
Writing persuasive speech outline
There are four main sections that are typically included in a general persuasive outline:
- Introduction: Start out with a hook to grab your audience’s attention. This could be a question, quote, interesting fact, or any other strong attention getter. Next, include a sentence or two to help your target audience relate to the topic. The last sentence or two of your introduction should be your thesis statement, which is the central idea behind your presentation.
- Body: The length of this section will depend on the parameters of your assignment. Include several body paragraphs with the main points you will make to support your thesis. Your main points should be structured in a logical sequence. For example, each point could have a claim, supporting facts and examples to back up your claim, and refutations of opposing arguments.
- Conclusion: Restate your thesis and summarize the arguments you made. Make your final case to persuade your readers/listeners on the benefits of acting on this issue, and close with a strong call to action.
- Source Citation: If this is a formal persuasive outline that needs to be turned in, you may be asked to cite the specific sources for the facts and research you presented.
Persuasive speech outline examples and tools
On this page, we provide links to 27 good persuasive outline examples covering a wide range of topics and formats. You can reference these outlines to see what others have done and help ensure you are on the right track.
1. Sample Persuasive Speech Outline
This is a sample persuasive speech outline template in MS Word format from Klein Independent School District. The first page of the document provides three example topics; the first for a fact-based speech, the second for a value-based speech, and the third for a policy-based speech, along with additional tips on choosing a good topic for yourself. Below the sample outline, you will find more topics and detailed instructions.
2. Persuasive Argument Outline on Cosmetic Surgery
Keyword essay outline from Penn State University on the detrimental effects of plastic surgery. The introduction includes a hook/attention grabber, background information, and a thesis statement. The body section includes three main points and two or three supporting details for each. The conclusion summarizes the main points, emphasizes the message as a whole, and closes with a call to action.
3. Persuasion Speech Problem-Solution Outline Format
Persuasion speech outline from Southwest Minnesota State University using the problem-solution format. This outline sample includes a body and transition section with a main point checklist. In the body section, you state the problem, show the problem exists, and show that it is significant and harmful. In the transition section, you state the solution, how the solution will work, and why it is practical and desirable.
4. Persuasive Essay Outline Sample
Good persuasive essay outline with explanation and blank Outline Persuasive Essay section. In the introduction, there are blanks to enter your hook (attention grabber), thesis statement, and three arguments. In each of the three body paragraphs, there are blanks to enter your argument, three examples, and a transition. In the conclusion, there are blanks to restate the thesis, restate arguments, and tie everything together.
5. High School Persuasive Speech Outline
Schurz High School provides this MS Word-based persuasive speech outline for a 3-5 minute speech. On the top, there is room for the title and statement of the specific purpose. In the introduction, there is room for an attention grabber, thesis, and qualifications. In the body section, there is room to state three reasons with three examples followed by a transition statement. In the conclusion, you can fill in a summary and memorable ending/challenge to the audience. Instructions on what to enter in each section are provided throughout.
6. Persuasion Speech Outline Format with Examples
Outline for a persuasion speech from Seton Hall University. In the introduction section, there is room for your attention grabber, thematic/thesis statement, establishment of credibility, and preview statement. In the body section, there is room to enter your information, deductive and inductive statements, carrot-stick, primacy/recency, and much more. In the conclusion, you can reiterate your thesis statement and enter concluding remarks. Below the outline, there are instructions for preparing a post-speech question and answer period.
7. High School Persuasive Essay Outline
Outline of a persuasive essay from Waterford Union High School. This PDF document contains instructions on writing a persuasive/argument essay and detailed descriptions on what should be included in the introduction, body, and conclusion. Below the outline template, you will find a good list of transition words and phrases and a section with some questions you can use for a peer review.
8. Persuasive and Informative Speech Outline Examples
Central Michigan University provides two sample outlines; one for a persuasive speech, and the other for an informative speech. Persuasive speech topic is hearing loss, and informative speech topic is The Titanic. Both outline examples include detailed introduction, body, conclusion, and reference sections.
9. AP Persuasive Essay Rubric
Wallingford Public School District provides a detailed persuasive essay rubric in AP format for instructors. In this rubric, there are five main criteria for instructors to use when they grade the students’ persuasive papers. They are thesis & main points, quote selection/integration, organization & style, development, and format/mechanics.
10. Persuasive Presentation Outline Motivated Sequence Format
Houston Community College provides this persuasive speech outline template using Monroe’s Motivated Sequence. Sections include Introduction, Need, Satisfaction, Visualization, Action, and References. Within each section, there is room to include essential elements such as attention grabbers, main ideas, subpoints, and summary.
11. Causal Argument Format Examples
The University of Kentucky provides short samples of various approaches to a persuasive presentation using a causal argument. On this page, you will find two example introductions using the topics of genetically-altered foods and child abuse. Below that, there is a sample organization section on the topic of no-till farming.
12. Argumentative Outline Templates
This persuasive/argument outline page from Mesa Community College contains three different outline patterns with descriptions of each, two blank outline templates with ample space to fill in your information, and additional persuasive paper outline instructions at the bottom. The page also includes links to three more outlines you can use to help with your paper.
13. Persuasive Speech Example on Banning Guns
This sample persuasive speech outline from Santa Monica College is on the topic of banning guns to help prevent school shootings and make the world safer. The introduction contains two questions to grab the audience’s attention, and the body section contains three main points and several subpoints. After the conclusion, there is a short list of references/sources cited.
14. Sample Persuasive Speech Outline on Organ Donation
Model High School provides this persuasive speech outline example about the growing need for organ donors. In the introduction, there is attention-getting material, a tie-in to the audience, thesis statement, preview, and transition statement. The body contains three main points and several subpoints. The conclusion contains a transition, summary statement, tie-back to the audience, and call to action. Below the example organ donation outline is another sample outline with instructions in each section, followed by several more pages detailing various approaches and persuasive techniques you can use.
15. Sample Argumentative Outline on Assault Weapons
Valencia College provides this classic model for an argumentative/persuasive essay. The outline includes the basic elements (introduction, body, conclusion) used in most persuasive papers. Throughout each section, there are good instructions on what should be included along with example statements using the topic of assault weapons.
16. Persuasive Speech Outline on Milk
The University of Delaware provides this persuasive speech outline example on the topic of the benefits of drinking milk. This outline format includes the topic, specific purposes, proposition, attention step, need step, satisfaction step, visualization step, action step, and references.
17. Persuasive Outlines on the Civil War and States’ Rights
McMurray University provides two persuasive speech outline examples. The first is a detailed outline for a speech on the question of fact. The second is a condensed outline for a speech on the question of value. The persuasive speech topic for the fact-based speech is the main cause of the Civil War. For the value-based speech, the topic is states’ rights.
18. Persuasive Speech Outline on Chronic Homelessness
This persuasive speech outline example from Youngstown University is for an action-based speech on how the U.S. has one of the highest rates of homelessness. The introduction starts with an attention step with questions for the audience, followed by several statements to summarize the problem. In the body section, there is a need step with four main points, and a solution step with five main points. In the conclusion, there is a visualization step and an action step.
19. Persuasive Speech Outline on Renewable Energy
Missouri Valley College provides this example persuasive speech outline on the need to support alternative energy. Before the introduction, it lists the topic, specific speech purpose, and thesis statement. The introduction includes an attention getter, restatement of thesis, preview of main points, and a transition statement. The body and conclusion follow a basic format with main points, subpoints, summary of argument, call to action, etc. Please Note. You must sign up for a free account to Course Hero to view the entire outline.
20. Persuasive Speech Template on Impaired Driving
This MS Word document from Santa Monica College is a persuasive speech outline example on the dangers drunk drivers pose to society. The outline uses the Motivated Sequence format with sections to fill in the title, general purpose, specific purpose, thesis/central idea, introduction, main body, conclusion, and works cited. The introduction contains an attention getter, common ground, credibility, and preview statement. The body lists the need, satisfaction, and visualization. The conclusion includes a call to action and a zinger.
21. Sample Persuasive Speech Outline on Exercise
Monmouth College provides this example problem-solution persuasive speech outline on the benefits of exercise. In the introduction, there is attention material, a thesis, motivation statement, and transition statement. Part I of the body states the problem and four main supporting points. Part II of the body states the solution and five main supporting points. In the conclusion, there is more attention material, a restatement of the thesis, and a final thought.
22. Sample Persuasive Outline on Random Acts of Kindness
The University of Hawaii provides this persuasive outline example using the Motivated Sequence pattern. The topic for this persuasive speech is random acts of kindness. The specific purpose and central idea/thesis are listed above the introduction. Within the introduction section, there is the attention step, which includes an attention getter, credibility statement, and preview. Within the body, there is the need step, satisfaction step, and visualization step. The conclusion is an action step that contains a summary, call to immediate action, and a memorable close.
23. Persuasive Outline on Cyberbullying
This basic persuasive speech outline from Penn State University is on the topic of cyberbullying. The introduction lists the stakeholders (children & teens, parents, schools), the problem, and the thesis statement. In the body, there are two main ideas with three supporting facts for each, and a reflection with three supporting ideas. In the conclusion, there are closing thoughts and a concluding remark.
24. Persuasive Speech Outline on Global Warming
Valencia College provides this action-oriented persuasive speech outline example on the topic of global warming. The general purpose and specific purpose are listed above the introduction. Within the introduction, there is an attention grabber, thesis, audience tie-in, and preview. The body contains three main points and several sub-points, and the conclusion contains a summary statement and call to action.
25. Sample Student Persuasive Speech Outline on Second-Hand Smoke
Here is a sample student outline from the University of North Carolina about the problems caused by secondhand smoke. Within the introduction, there is an attention getter, thesis, credibility and relevance statements, and a preview of the main points. The body contains the need/problem step, satisfaction/solution step, and visualization. The conclusion summarizes the main points with a call to action and impactful closing.
26. Persuasive Outline on the Death Penalty
This persuasive presentation from the City University of New York is on the topic of capital punishment. This document was used for a departmental exam. On the left side of the box is the text of the presentation. On the right side are outlining indications. This document provides a useful exercise to help identify various essential elements as they are used in a persuasive outline.
Research Paper Outline
When writing a research paper, an outline is essential for helping you stay on track. With countless ideas in your head and a myriad of ways you could approach your project, it is easy to become paralyzed by writer’s block when you are creating your rough draft. A good research paper outline provides the direction you need to keep you focused on the main points when you write the paper.
The basics of writing research paper outline
After you have chosen a topic, carefully review your instructions to determine the research paper outline format that the assignment calls for. For example, were you instructed to write an APA-style research paper, or does your professor want you to use MLA style? Are you supposed to create a complete-sentence outline, or are bullet points with short topic statements acceptable? Are you required to turn in a completed copy of your outline to your professor, or is the outline for your own personal reference? Take the time to fully understand the guidelines before you begin your outline.
Writing research paper outline
Your research paper outline should contain three main parts:
- Introduction: Craft a thesis statement that clearly conveys the main idea and purpose of your essay. Write a brief summary of the major points you plan to make, and why readers should be interested.
- Body: Present your arguments for your thesis statement and your main points. A good rule of thumb is to use at least three supporting arguments for each point you are making. Begin with a strong argument, followed by a stronger one, and end with your strongest argument to support your major points.
- Conclusion: Re-word your thesis, summarize the arguments you made, and explain why you came to your conclusion.
Research paper outline examples and tools
On this page, you will find links to 21 research paper outline templates covering a variety of topics and paper outline formats. These can be used as sample outlines to help you get started and give you a good idea of what your finished product should look like.
1. Sample Outline Format on Barack Obama
This tutorial from John B. Cade Library contains detailed instructions on how to write an outline, as well as a sample outline for an informative essay on the topic of former U.S. President Barack Obama. This format uses Roman numerals for the main heading, and subheadings alternate between letters and numbers. Below the example outline is a blank sample paper outline format with room to fill in your main topic, important subtopic, detail, and sub detail.
2. Argumentative Outline on Health Care Costs
This is an argumentative research paper sample outline from Walden University that seeks to draw a correlation between lower educational attainment rates and rising health care costs. This outline works well for more in-depth argumentative essays and term papers. If you click on the link, there are outlining strategies and instructions on putting together your background, introduction/context, thesis statement, major and minor points, and conclusion.
3. Argumentative Outline on the Cost of Obesity
This is a tutorial from Ashford University on outline structure, followed by a sample argumentative essay outline on obesity and the need for government intervention to address the problem. The sample outline includes an introduction, two body paragraph sections, and a reference section with examples to help you cite sources.
4. Alphanumeric, Full Sentence and Decimal Outline Examples
This template from the Purdue Owl in Google document format provides three good APA research paper outline examples. It begins with one full alphanumeric APA format outline on the topic of the college application process with the main headings in capital letters. Next, there is a partial full-sentence outline about global warming. At the bottom is a partial decimal outline about choosing colleges.
5. Protecting Federal Wetlands
The Georgia Tech Library provides this MLA format outline example about wetland protection. Roman numerals are used in the main headings, with alternating letters and numbers for subheadings. The outline contains the thesis statement, four main points, and plenty of space to fill in minor points. By clicking on the link, you will find a short tutorial on how to create an outline, a video on how to structure an outline, and tabs at the top with links to help on developing a topic, locating information, and other essential steps.
6. Women’s Rights Paper Outline
The Lindberg School District in Missouri provides this sample paper outline for a high school project on the topic of women’s rights. This is a simple topic outline containing a title and seven main headings using Roman numerals, with subheadings alternating between letters and numbers.
7. Career Research Paper Outline
Ontario High School in California provides a good sample outline for a mini-research paper on career choice in M.S. Word format. The outline includes an in-depth introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Instructions and questions for the student to answer are provided throughout, making it easy to put together your own career research paper outline.
8. Powerpoint Outline Tutorial
Leetonia Exempted Village School District provides a detailed PowerPoint tutorial on creating your outline. The tutorial covers topics such as parallelism, heading and subheadings, coordination, subordination, division, alphanumeric outlines (e.g., Roman numerals, Arabic numerals, etc.), topic vs. sentence outlines, and a basic outline format.
9. Argumentative and Compare and Contrast Essay Outline Template
University of California-Berkeley provides two sample outlines. The first is a full-sentence argumentative research paper outline on employees’ rights in the workplace. The second is a compare and contrast topic outline about the three major political theories. Read a detailed explanation of the difference between topic and sentence outlines, as well as an explanation of outline patterns, by clicking on the link.
10. Argumentative Abortion Research Paper Outline
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) provides this full-sentence argumentative outline on the the merits of legalized abortion. The outline is very detailed and contains a thesis statement, nine main headings marked by Roman numerals, several subheadings, and a conclusion.
11. Alzheimer’s Disease Research Paper Outline
Buffalo State University provides this APA outline for a research paper on Alzheimer’s disease. This informative research paper outline contains five main headings, numerous subheadings, a conclusion, and references. This is a good example of a standard topic outline using the APA format. Please note. The instructions above the sample outline apply to a specific assignment given by a BSU professor.
12. Gun Control Research Paper Outline
This is a full-sentence formal outline example provided by Kent State University on the topic of gun control. On this page, there is a detailed explanation of the difference between formal (to be turned in) and informal (for your own use) outlining. Below that, there is a blank outline format followed by the gun control outline sample.
13. Three Sample College Research Paper Outlines
Austin Community College provides a brief explanation of how to write your outline, followed by three example outlines showing varying levels of detail. The first is a topic outline on Frederick Douglass, the second is a detailed, (mostly) full-sentence outline on the Federalist Papers, and the third is a full-sentence outline on Thomas Paine’s book Common Sense.
14. Basic Paper Outline Format Example
This outline from Crestmont College provides the basic format that is followed for most academic research papers. This PDF document details the basic outline for an essay or research paper (intro, body, conclusion), additional tips to make your outline better, and a sample fill-in-the-blank outline.
15. Sample MLA Paper Outline
Mountain View College provides this MLA-format outline example for an argumentative paper on the risks of cell phones and the need to take action. Some instructions appear in red and blue lettering on the sides to specify certain formatting requirements. The original source of this outline is Diana Hacker Boston: Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2006.
16. Psychology Research Paper Outline
This is a research paper outline for a psychology paper provided by Wolfe County Schools. This sample paper outline is presented in PDF format on the topic of prejudice and social influence. It contains mostly complete sentences and includes an introduction (with the topic, issue and thesis statement), four body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
17. Sample Thesis Paper Outline
Woodbridge Township School District of New Jersey provides an Microsoft Word document with an example thesis paper outline on the topic of ice cream. This MLA-formatted argumentative outline has an introduction, body/arguments section, and a conclusion. The document also includes an instructional outline to make it easier for students to write their own paper.
18. Science Fair Research Paper Organizer
Here is a cool research paper organizer provided by the Mount Pleasant, California School District for an elementary school science fair project. This organizer contains easy, fill-in-the-blank boxes to enter your introduction, body paragraphs with key points and supports, and conclusion. There are also good instructions provided to point you in the right direction.
19. Research Paper Tool Kit
St. Thomas More Parish School provides a research paper tool kit in the instructional technology section of their website. This page contains dozens of helpful links to instruct students on how to write their research papers. Examples include creating an outline, developing an outline, outline examples, and much more.
20. Reverse Outline Example
Reverse outlining is a technique often used to determine whether your research paper meets its goals. University of Wisconsin-Madison provides a tutorial on how to create a reverse outline, along with an example outline for an engineering class on the topic of Apple’s 1984 Super Bowl commercial.
Argumentative Essay Outline
When writing an argumentative essay, it can be difficult to cover every aspect of your topic while also keeping it succinct. Start with a good outline to help you structure your claims and evidence, and make sure you defend your case in a concise fashion.
This quick guide will show you the main sections to include in your argumentative essay outline. We also provide 11 free outline samples to guide you in writing a compelling argument.
Writing an argumentative essay outline
In a good argumentative essay, each section plays a part in your argument’s defence. From developing your argument’s topic to refuting the opposing argument, an outline is your roadmap. To help you accomplish these goals and more, your essay outline should include:
Introduction:
While the opening of your essay should be short, this first paragraph (or two) also has a structure to follow. Make sure your introduction has these three elements to grab readers’ attention and compel them to read your essay:
While the opening of your essay should be short, this first paragraph (or two) also has a structure to follow. Make sure your introduction has these three elements to grab readers’ attention and compel them to read your essay:
- Hook – Open your essay with an attention getter, like a quote, fact, or statistic. Pose a question to readers to get them thinking about your argument.
- Background Information – Give a brief background about your argumentative topic. State who the issue concerns and why it is relevant and important.
- Thesis Statement – In the last sentence or two of your introduction, form a thesis statement that establishes your position on the topic. A thesis sentence or statement lets the reader know what to expect in the essay.
Develop the Argument:
In the body of your essay, develop your position by making claims that are supported with evidence.
In the body of your essay, develop your position by making claims that are supported with evidence.
- Claims – The claims you make add to the validity and effectiveness of your argument. Each claim should support the central argument.
- Evidence – Back up each claim you make with supportive evidence. In conducting research to support your claims, find evidence based on facts, studies, and quotes.
Refute the Opposing Argument:
Every argument has an opposing side. You have to present both sides of an argument to be able to convince others that your position is the right stance. State the counter arguments and offer valid evidence that debunks them, helping others to see your point of view.
Every argument has an opposing side. You have to present both sides of an argument to be able to convince others that your position is the right stance. State the counter arguments and offer valid evidence that debunks them, helping others to see your point of view.
Conclusion:
Much like your introduction, the conclusion should be brief but powerful. It may also follow a structure:
Much like your introduction, the conclusion should be brief but powerful. It may also follow a structure:
- Restate your thesis.
- Give one or two sentences that summarize your argument.
- Give a warning of the consequences that could happen to society if the argument isn’t followed.
Argumentative essay outline samples and tools
The sections above offer a great starting point to craft your argumentative essay outline. Below are examples of strong outlines. Use them to help you structure your own essay.
1. Argumentative Essay Outline on Abortion
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) provides a full-sentence argumentative outline on the merits of legalized abortion. Containing a thesis statement, nine main headings marked by Roman numerals, several subheadings, and a conclusion, this outline is a great sample to follow for your own argument, either for or against abortion.
2. Death Penalty Argumentative Essay Outline
This Classic Argument Structure from Houston Community College is a great sample argumentative essay outline that uses the example of the death penalty. This outline gives ideas to get you thinking about how to make claims and refutations in your argumentative essay.
3. Argumentative Essay Outline
This in-depth outline from The Fresno City College Writing & Reading Center gives plenty of guidance for each section of your argumentative essay. Whether your paper is on organ donation, standardized testing or school uniforms, this outline will help you develop your thesis statement into a structured and compelling argument.
4. Argumentative Essay Planning and Outline
George Brown College provides a more visual outline to help you plan the structure of your argumentative essay. With four sample structures laid out, this outline will help you test different possibilities for your argument. The outline uses the example of an essay on abortion to help you plan for the pros and cons of your argument.
5. Illegal Immigrant Essay Outline
In this example of argumentative writing, a Penn State student has an in-depth outline that showcases two major views on illegal immigration. She fully introduces her claims and evidence that support the different reasons for those two views on illegal immigration.
6. Basic Argumentative Essay Outline
This outline from Amelia Earhart Elementary School is a basic rubric for young students to follow for an argumentative essay. The outline follows up with great elementary essay topics, such as school uniforms, too much homework, and computers in the classroom.
7. Classic Model for an Argument
This sample argument outline from Valencia College is a great template to use for your essay on cosmetic surgery, corporal punishment, child labor, or any argumentative topic. The outline neatly lays out the necessary sections of an argument essay with examples to fit claims and evidence.
8. Argument Outline Template
This fill-in-the-blank style template from Mesa Community College is an excellent way to develop your topic idea. With spaces for an attention getter, your solution to the problem, and reasons to back your claim, this outline template will help you brainstorm ideas for your essay while keeping them neatly structured. Use this template to flesh out your thesis claim on gun control, capital punishment, solitary confinement, or any other argumentative essay topic.
9. Sample Argument Outline on Lifting Economic Sanctions in Iraq
The University of Central Florida provides a detailed outline sample of an argument to lift sanctions in Iraq. See how specific claims help the writer enforce his main argument that the policy is doing more harm than good.
10. Argumentative Paper Structure
The University of Washington provides a template for an argument paper as well as a fill-in-the-blank worksheet to help you brainstorm ideas. This outline goes into more depth, helping you structure the sentences of each body paragraph within your argumentative essay. Use this outline to help you shape your argumentative thesis on animal testing, the effects of a violent video game, drug-testing a college athlete, or any other controversial topic.
11. Classic Argumentative Essay Outline
This classic argumentative or persuasive essay outline template from the University of Washington is neatly laid out for you. Using a three-part thesis to support its main idea, this is a good argumentative or persuasive essay rubric. The template also offers a checklist for citations and writing a thesis statement.
Generic Speech or Essay Outline
Here is basic format example that can help you create a well organized outline. The first part of the outline helps you focus your thinking and planning efforts. Write down your topic, the purpose and specific purpose of your speech. These three are essential for your planning and helps you stay focused on the topic in order to be informative for your audience.
Writing generic speech or essay outline
The Introduction
The introduction should be comprised of four components:
- attention-getter,
- revealing/relating the topic to the audience,
- credibility,
- preview of the topic
The introduction is where you will reach or lose your audience so make sure the audience can relate to the informational topic and connect with you.
Body
The body is comprised of key points and supporting details. Depending on the specifics of the topic, there may be several points that are necessary. Each point should have at least two or three points that help support the main idea and give credence to the statements being made. There is no hard rule on how many supporting details are needed for each point. Supporting details may include examples, specific data, or facts which sustain the truth of the point.
Concluding Statements
The conclusion is a where you summarize all of your primary points. This will recap the main ideas that you shared with the audience and bring it all together for a closing.
Generic outline example
Your Name:
Class Time:
General Purpose:
Specific Purpose:
Thesis Statement:
Class Time:
General Purpose:
Specific Purpose:
Thesis Statement:
Speech or Essay Title
Attention-Getter:
The most important part of a speech or an essay is getting the audience’s attention from the very beginning, otherwise the rest of your points might not get any attention. The opening statement must be strong and concise.
The most important part of a speech or an essay is getting the audience’s attention from the very beginning, otherwise the rest of your points might not get any attention. The opening statement must be strong and concise.
Credibility Statement:
List your credibility on the topic
List your credibility on the topic
Preview:
I. First Main Point (full sentences for main points)
A. First Sub-Point (can be a short phrase, at least one sub-point for each main point)
1. First Supporting Point (can be a short phrase, at least on supporting point for each sub-point)
B. Second Sub-Point
1. First Supporting Point
II. Second Main Point
A. Second Sub-Point
1. First Supporting Point
And so forth….
Summary:
Closing with Impact (for informative speech / essay / paper):
or
Call to Action (for persuasive speech / essay / paper):
or
Call to Action (for persuasive speech / essay / paper):
Cite this article as: Jim Peterson, 'Speech and Essay Outlines [Free Examples],' in My Speech Class, October 15, 2014, http://www.myspeechclass.com/outline.html.
This page is a collection of over 1000 persuasive speech topic ideas for college students. Use this list as a last resort: you are much more likely to be successful when you choose a topic that genuinely interests you, rather than merely picking one from a list. Talking about something you know well makes it much easier and fun!
Our list is huge! It 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. Some persuasive speech ideas 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). If you can’t find one on our persuasive speech topic list or persuasive essay list that grabs you, consider a newer and fresher topic, something unique and original.
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 persuasive topic as well, just 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 a 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.
How to Choose the Right Persuasive Speech Topic?
Crafting a persuasive speech or writing a persuasive essay begins with picking the right topic. 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.
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.
List of Persuasive Speech Topics
Ten 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.
Twelve Automotive Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Ten Business Persuasive Speech Topics
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.
Five Constitutional Issues Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Ten 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.
Nine Economy Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Ten Education Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Ten 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.
Ten 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.
Ten Family Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Six Fashion Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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
Eleven 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.
Fifteen 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.
Ten Fun Persuasive Speech Topics
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.
Ten 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.
Sixteen Government Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Ten Health Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Ten School Persuasive Speech Topics
?????? ?? gta vice city. 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.
Ten 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.
Ten 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.
Five History Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Ten Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics
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.
Thirteen 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.
Ten Law Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Three 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.
Seventeen Media Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Ten 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.
Six Music Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Six National Security Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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?
Ten 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.
Three Practical Knowledge Persuasive Speech Topics
- Basic survival skills are important to know.
- Basic camping skills everyone should know.
- Personal hygiene is important for professional success.
Seven 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.
Twenty Three Relationships Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Eight Religion Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Ten Science Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Eleven Self-Help Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Ten 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.
A Good Persuasive Speech Outline Using Monroe's Motivated Sequence
See this page for a full list of Persuasive Society Speech Topics.
Ten 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.
Twenty-Eight 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.
Twelve 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
Eight Workplace Persuasive Speech Topics
- 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.
Cite this article as: Jim Peterson, '434 Good Persuasive Speech Topics,' in My Speech Class, May 11, 2009, http://www.myspeechclass.com/persuasivetopics2.html.
D. Global warming. Global warming is caused by several things. One of these is the release of carbon dioxide into the greenhouse gases in the atmosphere by using energy generated from burning fossil fuels.Transition: Now that I have discussed problem occur when we not recycling and, let’s go on to the solution we can do. It is recycling iii. Satisfaction (Solution)You should know what types of materials can be recycled and how can do recycling for practice to save the Earth.A. Help our environment with 3R concept Reduce, reuse and recycleB .How we can recycling. Use recycling bin. Malaysia has provided three types of recycling bin. First is blue color used for paper. Second is brown color used for glass. Third is orange color used for aluminum and plastic. Send waste item to collection centers. http://www.computercycle.com.my/ (website to recycle computer item)Transition: Now that I have talked about the recycling, let’s move to the visualization part. iv. (Visualization) You could visualize benefits of recycling and example of recyclable item.A. There is lots of benefits we can get from recycle: Recycling Saves Energy Recycling Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions Recycling Reduces Air and Water Pollution Recycling Creates Jobs Recycling preserves our resources and protects wildlife B. Example of recyclable item are: From tries to seat From aluminum tin to pencil rack From
If you are looking for a persuasive and controversial topic for your speech, the death penalty is the exact one you need. However, do not consider it to be an easy task, as you need to do a great research as to what would persuade an audience to agree with you and to take action. Let’s look at the persuasive speech outline, specially developed on the death penalty subject, which will definitely steer you in the right direction for delivering the greatest speech.
1. First, create an exciting title to make your speech compelling to your listeners.
2. Your introduction should include strong and purposeful thesis statement that would gain audience attention and orient them to the topic. For example, you can say that capital punishment is used for protecting the safety of the citizens, deterring crime and bringing criminals to justice. Though the purposes are convincing, none of them can justify the killing of a human being.
3. In the body part present the most evident points about the death penalty, which prove your statement. Supporting arguments for you can be:
- Death penalty does not deter the crime rates more than Life without Parole and it’s more expensive.
- Capital punishment can’t undo the damage done.
- There’s always a risk of executing innocent people.
- Police admit that death penalty does not reduce the incidence of violent crimes, etc.
4. Briefly summarize the strongest points in your conclusion. Emphasize that the justice system will be more just and equal, if the death penalty is removed.
5. Choose the bright quote that would finish you speech more persuasively. Mine is Dr. Rush’s, a friend of Benjamin Franklin: “The punishment of murder by death is contrary to reason, and to the order and happiness of society, and contrary to divine revelation.”
Follow this working outlet and you will surely prove all your ideas with a feeling of complete self-confidence, and deliver a speech, which will have certainly the greatest success.