argumentative essay topics for 8th graders

Argumentative Writing Prompts for 8th Grade Students

Are you an 8th grade student looking for thought-provoking argumentative writing prompts that will challenge your debating skills and help you express your ideas effectively? Look no further. In this section, we have compiled a list of engaging writing prompts specifically designed for 8th grade students like you.

These argumentative writing prompts cover a wide range of topics, including controversial issues, current social concerns, and ethical considerations. By exploring these prompts, you will not only enhance your critical thinking abilities but also develop your persuasive writing skills.

Imagine debating whether students should have access to their phones in class or discussing the impact of captivity on exotic animals. Engage in thought-provoking conversations about the issue of bullying and appropriate punishment, or delve into the effects of specialized laws in our country.

Consider the benefits and drawbacks of weekend homework, and critically evaluate the government’s role in deciding school lunches. Explore the legality of smoking and the requirements of gym class. Reflect upon the age for drinking alcohol and join the fight against human trafficking.

Contemplate the ethical considerations of animal testing and engage in the debate on the death penalty. Examine the benefits and drawbacks of granting benefits to illegal immigrants and assess the readiness of the United States for a female president.

Reflect upon the impact of uniforms on personal expression and bullying, and discuss the effects of violent video games. Consider the controversies surrounding dairy consumption and the consequences of consuming hot dogs on the 4th of July. These are just a few examples of the many prompts we have prepared for you.

By engaging with these argumentative writing prompts, you will enhance your critical thinking skills, cultivate persuasive writing abilities, and learn how to construct well-supported arguments. So, embrace this opportunity, and let your voice be heard!

Explore a Range of Engaging Writing Prompts for 8th Grade Students

Let’s dive into a variety of argumentative writing prompts specifically curated for 8th grade students, covering a diverse range of thought-provoking topics that will challenge and inspire you.

These prompts are designed to encourage critical thinking and enhance persuasive writing skills, giving students the opportunity to express their opinions on issues that are relevant and engaging. From social issues to ethical considerations, educational policies to current events, there is a prompt to suit every interest and spark lively classroom discussions.

Some of the top argumentative writing prompts for 8th grade students include:

These prompts will challenge students to think critically, research and gather evidence, and construct compelling arguments. Engaging with these topics will not only enhance their debating skills but also develop their ability to communicate effectively and consider different perspectives.

Expand Your Debate Skills with Middle School Argumentative Writing Prompts

As 8th graders, it’s important to delve into various thought-provoking topics that will broaden your understanding of the world. Use these prompts to explore controversial issues, foster critical thinking, and refine your persuasive writing abilities.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of weekend homework?
Should the government have control over school lunches?
What is the legality of smoking and the age for drinking alcohol?
How can we effectively combat human trafficking?
What are the ethical considerations of animal testing?

By engaging with these argumentative writing prompts, you will develop essential skills such as research, analysis, and effective communication, preparing you for future academic and professional challenges. Embrace the opportunity to express your opinions, defend your arguments, and engage in meaningful debates.

Key Topics in 8th Grade Argumentative Writing Prompts

Get ready to explore a range of intriguing topics in our 8th grade argumentative writing prompts , addressing current social issues, ethical dilemmas, educational policies, and more. These prompts are designed to challenge students to think critically, analyze multiple perspectives, and construct persuasive arguments supported by evidence.

Controversial Topics for 8th Grade

One of the key focuses of the argumentative writing prompts for 8th grade is to delve into controversial topics that spark debate and discussion. Students will explore issues such as the impact of captivity on exotic animals, the ethical considerations of animal testing, and the debate on the death penalty. These prompts encourage students to think deeply, research extensively, and present well-reasoned arguments.

8th Grade Debate Topics

The prompts also include a variety of 8th grade debate topics that cover a wide range of subjects. Students will contemplate the benefits and drawbacks of granting benefits to illegal immigrants, the government’s influence on fair news on social media, and the promotion of racism by the government. These topics encourage students to challenge preconceived notions and engage in informed discussions.

Engaging Writing Prompts for 8th Grade Students

Furthermore, the argumentative writing prompts for 8th grade are carefully crafted to be engaging and relevant to students’ lives. Topics such as whether students should have access to their phones in class, the effects of specialized laws on the country, and the fairness of letter grades will captivate students’ interest and encourage them to explore their own beliefs and values.

Enhancing Critical Thinking and Persuasive Skills through Argumentative Writing

By engaging with our carefully crafted argumentative writing prompts, 8th-grade students can develop essential skills in critical thinking, persuasive writing, and the ability to present well-supported arguments effectively. These prompts cover a wide range of engaging topics that stimulate students’ analytical thinking and encourage them to articulate their thoughts and opinions in a coherent and persuasive manner.

Through tackling controversial issues such as the impact of captivity on exotic animals, the ethics of animal testing, or the consequences of unregulated pet care, students are challenged to think critically about complex societal dilemmas. They are encouraged to consider different perspectives, gather evidence, and construct logical arguments to support their views. This process of analyzing and evaluating different arguments helps students develop their critical thinking skills and enhances their ability to assess complex information.

Furthermore, engagement with argumentative writing prompts fosters the development of persuasive writing skills. Students learn to structure their essays effectively, using persuasive techniques such as appealing to emotions, presenting strong evidence, and anticipating counterarguments. They also learn how to use language persuasively, crafting convincing and well-supported arguments that resonate with their readers.

Finally, argumentative writing prompts provide students with the opportunity to present their ideas and arguments confidently. Through practice, students learn how to communicate their thoughts clearly and coherently, honing their ability to express themselves effectively in both oral and written formats. These skills are not only valuable in academic settings but also in real-life situations where the ability to persuasively communicate ideas is essential.

These prompts are just a sample of the wide array of topics that challenge 8th-grade students to think critically, develop persuasive writing skills, and present arguments effectively. By engaging with argumentative writing, students can become adept at expressing their ideas, evaluating different perspectives, and engaging in meaningful debates.

Embrace the power of argumentative writing prompts for 8th grade students and witness the growth of critical thinking, persuasive writing, and effective communication skills as they delve into these thought-provoking topics.

Argumentative writing prompts for 8th grade students are an effective way to develop their skills in debating and conveying opinions. By exploring a range of engaging prompts, students can enhance their abilities to construct well-supported arguments and cultivate persuasive writing techniques. These prompts cover a wide variety of topics, including the impact of captivity on exotic animals, the ethical considerations of animal testing, and the consequences of consuming hot dogs on the 4th of July.

Encouraging students to tackle controversial issues such as the debate on the death penalty and the fight against human trafficking, these prompts provide opportunities for students to engage in important conversations and express their opinions on current social issues. By exploring these topics, students can develop their critical thinking skills and learn to articulate their thoughts and arguments effectively.

Furthermore, the use of argumentative writing prompts encourages the development of persuasive writing abilities. Students are challenged to present well-reasoned arguments supported by evidence, helping them to strengthen their ability to convince others of their viewpoints. Additionally, these prompts foster effective communication skills as students learn to express their thoughts and opinions in a clear and concise manner.

Source Links
https://www.teachingexpertise.com/classroom-ideas/argumentative-essay-topics-for-middle-school/
https://www.weareteachers.com/argumentative-writing-prompts/
https://litinfocus.com/20-argumentative-essay-writing-topics-for-upper-elementary-and-middle-school-students/

50 Argumentative Essay Topics

Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo.

M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
B.A., History, Armstrong State University

An argumentative essay requires you to decide on a topic and take a position on it. You'll need to back up your viewpoint with well-researched facts and information as well. One of the hardest parts is deciding which topic to write about, but there are plenty of ideas available to get you started.

Choosing a Great Argumentative Essay Topic

Students often find that most of their work on these essays is done before they even start writing. This means that it's best if you have a general interest in your subject, otherwise you might get bored or frustrated while trying to gather information. (You don't need to know everything, though.) Part of what makes this experience rewarding is learning something new.

It's best if you have a general interest in your subject, but the argument you choose doesn't have to be one that you agree with.

The subject you choose may not necessarily be one that you are in full agreement with, either. You may even be asked to write a paper from the opposing point of view. Researching a different viewpoint helps students broaden their perspectives.

Ideas for Argument Essays

Sometimes, the best ideas are sparked by looking at many different options. Explore this list of possible topics and see if a few pique your interest. Write those down as you come across them, then think about each for a few minutes.

Which would you enjoy researching? Do you have a firm position on a particular subject? Is there a point you would like to make sure to get across? Did the topic give you something new to think about? Can you see why someone else may feel differently?

50 Possible Topics

A number of these topics are rather controversial—that's the point. In an argumentative essay, opinions matter and controversy is based on opinions, which are, hopefully, backed up by facts. If these topics are a little too controversial or you don't find the right one for you, try browsing through persuasive essay and speech topics as well.

Is global climate change caused by humans?
Is the death penalty effective?
Is our election process fair?
Is torture ever acceptable?
Should men get paternity leave from work?
Are school uniforms beneficial?
Do we have a fair tax system?
Do curfews keep teens out of trouble?
Is cheating out of control?
Are we too dependent on computers?
Should animals be used for research?
Should cigarette smoking be banned?
Are cell phones dangerous?
Are law enforcement cameras an invasion of privacy?
Do we have a throwaway society?
Is child behavior better or worse than it was years ago?
Should companies market to children?
Should the government have a say in our diets?
Does access to condoms prevent teen pregnancy?
Should members of Congress have term limits?
Are actors and professional athletes paid too much?
Are CEOs paid too much?
Should athletes be held to high moral standards?
Do violent video games cause behavior problems?
Should creationism be taught in public schools?
Are beauty pageants exploitative ?
Should English be the official language of the United States?
Should the racing industry be forced to use biofuels?
Should the alcohol drinking age be increased or decreased?
Should everyone be required to recycle?
Is it okay for prisoners to vote (as they are in some states)?
Is it good that same-sex couples are able to marry?
Are there benefits to attending a single-sex school ?
Does boredom lead to trouble?
Should schools be in session year-round ?
Does religion cause war?
Should the government provide health care?
Should abortion be illegal?
Are girls too mean to each other?
Is homework harmful or helpful?
Is the cost of college too high?
Is college admission too competitive?
Should euthanasia be illegal?
Should the federal government legalize marijuana use nationally ?
Should rich people be required to pay more taxes?
Should schools require foreign language or physical education?
Is affirmative action fair?
Is public prayer okay in schools?
Are schools and teachers responsible for low test scores?
Is greater gun control a good idea?
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Writing Tips

50 Argumentative Essay Topics for Students

4-minute read

11th June 2022

The goal of an argumentative essay is to persuade the reader to understand and support your position on an issue by presenting your reasoning along with supporting evidence. It’s important to find the right balance between giving your opinions and presenting established research.

These essays discuss issues around a range of topics, including science, technology, politics, and healthcare. Whether you’re a teacher looking for essay topics for your students or a student tasked with developing an idea of your own, we’ve compiled a list of 50 argumentative essay topics to help you get started!

● Does texting hinder interpersonal communication skills?

● Should there be laws against using devices while driving?

● Do violent video games teach or encourage people to behave violently?

● Should social media sites be allowed to collect users’ data?

● Should parents limit how long their children spend in front of screens?

● Is AI helping or hurting society?

● Should cyber-bullying carry legal consequences?

● Should Supreme Court justices be elected?

● Is war always a political decision?

● Should people join a political party?

● Is capitalism ethical?

● Is the electoral college an effective system?

● Should prisoners be allowed to vote?

● Should the death penalty be legal?

● Are governments around the world doing enough to combat global warming?

● Is healthcare a fundamental human right?

● Should vaccinations be mandated for children?

● Are there any circumstances under which physician-assisted suicides should be legal?

● Should parents be able to choose specific genetic modifications of their future children?

● Should abortion be legal?

● Is it ethical to perform medical experiments on animals?

● Should patients who lead unhealthy lifestyles be denied organ transplants?

● Should doctors be able to provide medical care to children against their parents’ wishes?

Mental Healthcare

● What causes the stigma around mental health?

● Discuss the link between insufficient access to mental health services and the high suicide rates among veterans.

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● Should cannabis be used as a treatment for patients with mental disorders?

● Is there a link between social media use and mental disorders?

● Discuss the effect of physical activity on mental health.

● Should sports be segregated by gender?

● Should male and female athletes be given the same pay and opportunities?

● Are professional athletes overpaid?

● Should college athletes be paid?

● Should sports betting be legal?

● Should online access to art such as music be free?

● Should graffiti be considered art or vandalism?

● Are there any circumstances under which books should be banned?

● Should schools be required to offer art courses?

● Is art necessary to society?

● Should schools require uniforms?

● Should reciting the Pledge of Allegiance be required in schools?

● Do standardized tests effectively measure intelligence?

● Should high school students take a gap year before pursuing higher education?

● Should higher education be free?

● Is there too much pressure on high school students to attend college?

● Are children better off in two-parent households?

● Should LGBTQ+ partners be allowed to adopt?

● Should single people be able to adopt children as easily as couples?

● Is it okay for parents to physically discipline their children?

● Does helicopter parenting help or hurt children?

● Should parents monitor their children’s Internet use?

Proofreading & Editing

An argument could also be made for the importance of proofreading your essay ! The reader can focus more on your message when your writing is clear, concise, and error-free, and they won’t question whether you’re knowledgeable on the issues you’re presenting. Once you have a draft ready, you can submit a free trial document to start working with our expert editors!

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