65 Argumentative Research Topics For High School Students [PDF Included]

In today’s world, where information is readily available at our fingertips, it’s becoming increasingly important to teach students how to think critically, evaluate sources, and develop persuasive arguments. And one of the best ways to do this is through argumentative research topics.

In high school, students are often encouraged to learn and analyze factual information. However, much like other English and biology research topics, argumentative research topics offer a different kind of challenge. Instead of simply presenting facts, these topics require students to delve into complex issues, think critically, and present their opinions in a clear and convincing manner.

In this article, we will provide a list of compelling argumentative research topics for high school students. From education and politics to social issues and environmental concerns, these topics will challenge students to think deeply, evaluate sources critically, and develop and challenge their skills!

Argumentative research topics: Persuading the student to think and reason harder

Argumentative research topics are a fascinating and exciting way for students to engage in critical thinking and persuasive writing. This type of research topic encourages students to take a stance on a controversial issue and defend it using well-reasoned arguments and evidence. By doing so, students are not only honing their analytical skills and persuasive writing skills, but they are also developing a deeper understanding of their own beliefs and assumptions.

Unlike other research topics that may simply require students to regurgitate facts or summarize existing research, argumentative topics require students to develop and defend their own ideas.

Through argumentative research, students are encouraged to question their own biases and consider alternative perspectives. This type of critical thinking is a vital skill that is essential for success in any academic or professional context. Being able to analyze and evaluate information from different perspectives is an invaluable tool that will serve students well in their future careers.

Furthermore, argumentative research topics, are like writing prompts, which are meant to encourage students to engage in civil discourse and debate. These topics often involve controversial issues that can elicit strong emotions and passionate opinions from individuals with differing viewpoints.

By engaging in respectful, fact-based discussions and debates, students can learn how to engage with people who have different beliefs and opinions

Argumentative Research Topics

1. The boundaries of free speech: where should the line be drawn?
2. Internet privacy: Should websites and apps be restricted in collecting and utilizing user data?
3. Has the internet been a force for progress or a hindrance?
4. The role of public surveillance in modern society: is it necessary or invasive?
5. Climate change and global warming: Are human activities solely responsible?
6. Mandating physical education in schools to combat childhood obesity: Is it effective?
7. The ethics of mandatory vaccination for high school students for public health reasons
8. The ethics of wearing fur and leather: Is it always unethical?
9. Keeping exotic pets: is it acceptable or inhumane?
10. The impact of social media on mental health: Is it more positive or negative?
11. Wildlife preserves: Are they suitable habitats for all species that reside there?
12. Animal fashion: Should it be prohibited?
13. Mental health services in schools: Should they be free or reduced-cost for students?
14. Quality of high school education: Should teachers undergo regular assessments to ensure it?
15. Healthy eating habits in schools: Should schools offer healthier food options in their cafeteria or allow students to bring food from home?
16. Social media addiction: Is it a significant health concern for kids?
17. Technology use and mental health problems: Is there a connection among high school students?
18. Junk food in schools: Should schools ban it from vending machines and school stores to promote healthy eating habits?
19. Dress codes in schools: Are they necessary or outdated
20. Regulating social media: Should the government regulate it to prevent cyberbullying?
21. Politicians and standardized testing: Should politicians be subject to standardized testing?
22. Art vs Science: Are they equally challenging fields?
23. School uniform and discrimination: Does it really reduce discrimination in schools?
24. Teachers and poor academic performance: Are teachers the cause of poor academic performance?
25. Physical discipline: Should teachers and parents be allowed to physically discipline their children?
26. Telling white lies: Is it acceptable to tell a white lie to spare someone’s feelings?
27. Sports in college: Should colleges promote sports as a career path?
28. Gender and education: How does gender affect education?
29. Refusing medical treatment: Is it acceptable to refuse medical treatment based on personal beliefs?
30. Children’s rights and medical treatment: Do doctors violate children’s rights if they do not provide treatment when the parents refuse to treat the child?
31. Parental influence on gender stereotypes: Do parents encourage gender stereotypes?
32. Dating in schools: Should dating be permitted in schools with supervision?
33. Human nature: Are people inherently good or evil by nature?
34. Immigration and national economy: Can immigration benefit the national economy?
35. Keeping animals in zoos: Is it appropriate?
36. Cell phone use in schools: Should cell phone use be permitted in schools?
37. Veganism: Should humans only consume vegan food?
38. Animal testing: Should it be outlawed?
39. Waste segregation: Should the government mandate waste segregation at home?
40. Technology integration in schools: Is it beneficial for traditional learning?
41. Homeschooling vs traditional schooling: Is homeschooling as effective as traditional schooling?
42. Prohibition of smoking and drinking: Should it be permanently prohibited?
43. Banning violent and aggressive video games: Should they be banned?
44. Harmful effects of beauty standards on society: Are beauty standards harmful to society?
45. The impact of advertising on consumer behavior
46. The ethical considerations of artificial intelligence and its potential impact on society
47. The impact of globalization on cultural diversity
48. The effectiveness of alternative medicine in treating various illnesses
49. The benefits and drawbacks of online learning compared to traditional classroom education
50. The role of mass media in shaping public opinion and political discourse
51. The impact of artificial intelligence on job automation and employment rates
52. The impact of fast fashion on the environment and human rights
53. The ethical considerations of using animals for entertainment purposes
54. Parents are solely responsible for their child’s behavior.
55. Is space exploration worth it or not?
56.   stricter regulations on the use of plastic and single-use products to reduce waste
57. Is capitalism the best economic system
58. Should there be limits on the amount of wealth individuals can accumulate?
59. Is it ethical to use animals for food production?
60. Is the concept of national borders outdated in the modern era?
61. Should the use of nuclear power be expanded or phased out?
62. Self-driving cars: Convenience or threat?
63. The implications of allowing influencers to advertise dietary supplements and weight loss products.
64.  Faults in the education system: need change or modification?
65. Are the intentions of “big pharma” genuinely aligned with the well-being of the public?

Conclusion

Argumentative research topics are an important tool for promoting critical thinking, and persuasive communication skills and preparing high school students for active engagement in society. These topics challenge students to think deeply and develop persuasive arguments by engaging with complex issues and evaluating sources. Through this process, students can become informed, engaged, and empathetic citizens who are equipped to participate actively in a democratic society.

Furthermore, argumentative research topics teach students how to engage in respectful, fact-based discussions and debates, and how to communicate effectively with people who have different beliefs and opinions. By fostering civil discourse, argumentative research topics can help bridge social, cultural, and political divides, and promote a more united and equitable society.

Overall, argumentative research topics are a crucial component of high school education, as they provide students with the skills and confidence they need to succeed in college, career, and life.