Creating Fresh Persuasive Essay Topics for 5th Graders

A persuasive essay is also referred to as an argumentative paper. It is one that uses logic and reason in order to show the reader that one idea is more legitimate than another. It persuades the reader to adopt a particular point of view or to take a particular action.

In an argumentative paper the argument needs to use sound reasoning and evidence. This can be done by presenting logical reasons as well as facts and examples. It can also be done by quoting experts in the field.

When you are planning an argumentative paper you should follow the steps below:

  • Select your position. Determine which side of the problem you want to focus on in your essay and what solution you are going to offer to the readers. It is important to know the purpose of your essay.
  • Analyze the audience of your paper. Figure out if they agree with you or if they disagree with you. Perhaps they are neutral.
  • Research the topic. Your job is to provide convincing and specific evidence. This evidence will more than likely go beyond your experience or knowledge in which case you will need to get help from some sources at the library.
  • Structure the paper. Determine what evidence you want to include and in what order that evidence should be presented.

The following tips will help you to produce a great argumentative paper:

  • Make sure you are well informed. You need to become an expert on your topic. This means you will need to read a lot from legitimate academic sources and take notes.
  • Test the thesis statement you come up with. Remember that an argument has two sides (minimum). Your argument needs two sides. Write down the thesis and see if there is an opposing thesis. If you can think of an opposing thesis then your thesis is sound.
  • You need to understand the opposing argument too and counter it by finding mistakes in the opposing argument or presenting contrasting evidence.

You can use the following to support your argument:

  • Facts
  • Statistics
  • Examples
  • Quotes

Below are some essay example topics:

  • Abortions are good/bad
  • School uniforms are good/bad
  • Anorexia
  • Free public transportation
  • Smoking
  • The legal drinking age

Remember that all of these topics are debatable. And what is important is that you pick one side versus the other and you make it interesting for the reader.


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