current speech topics 2023

120+ Examples of Interesting Topic For Speaking in 2024

Jane Ng • 16 Apr 2024 • 10 min read

Are you looking for good topics for a speech, specifically public speaking topics?

Are you a college student who is struggling to come up with an interesting topic for public speaking in a university contest, or simply to finish your speaking assignment with a high mark?

If you are looking for a motivational or persuasive speech topic that will both interest you and captivate your audience, we are here to help you. So, how to choose an attractive public speaking topic that not only excites your audience but also helps you beat Glossophobia !?

AhaSlides will introduce you to 120+ Examples of Interesting Topic For Speaking and how to choose the right one for your needs.

Table of Contents

• How To Find An Interesting Topic For Speaking
• 30 Persuasive Speech Examples
• 29 Motivational speaking topics
• 10 Random Interesting Topic For Speaking
• 20 Unique Speech Topics

15 Topics for Public Speaking at University

16 topics for public speaking for college students.

• 17 Speaking Topics for Students
• How to Make your Speech Better

Frequently Asked Questions

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How To Find An Interesting Topic For Speaking?

#1: identify the theme and purpose of the speaking event.

Determining the event’s purpose saves a lot of time and effort to figure out ideas for the speech. Although this is the main step and seems obvious, there are still speakers who prepare sketchy speech that doesn’t have strong point and doesn’t fit the event.

#2: Know your audience 

Before having unique speech topics, you must know your audience! Knowing what your audience has in common can help you choose a relevant topic. 

A reason why they are all sitting in the same room listening to you. General characteristics may include age, gender, seniority, education, interests, experience, ethnicity, and employment.

#3: Share your personal knowledge and experience

Keeping in mind the nature of your speaking event and audience, what related interesting topic for speaking are you interested in? Finding relevant topics will make researching, writing, and speak it more enjoyable.

#4: Catch any latest related news

Is there media coverage of a particular topic you and your audience want to know? Interesting and trending topics will make your talk much more engaging.

#5: Make a list of possible ideas

Time to brainstorm and jot down all potential ideas. You can ask your friends to add more ideas, or comments to make sure no opportunity is missed.

#6: Make a short topics list 

Reviewing the list and narrowing it down to three finalists. Consider all the factors like

• Which of your interesting topic for speaking is the best fit for the speaking event? 
• Which idea is most likely to appeal to your audience? 
• What topics do you know the most about and find interesting?

#7: Make a decision and Stick With 

Picking a topic that surprises you, you find yourself naturally attached to, and stick it in your mind. Outline the selected topic, if you find it easiest and fastest to complete the outline. That’s the theme you should choose!

Still need more interesting speech topics? Here are some interesting topics for speaking ideas you can try.

30 Persuasive Speech Examples

• Being a mom is a career. 
• Introverts make excellent leaders
• Embarrassing moments make us stronger
• Winning is not what matters
• Animal testing should be eliminated
• The media should give equal coverage to Female sports 
• Should there be restrooms exclusively for transgender people?
•  The dangers of young people becoming famous online as children or teens.
• Intelligence depends more on the environment than genetics
• Arranged marriages must be outlawed
• How marketing affects people and their perceptions
• What are current global issues between countries?
• Should we use products made with animal fur?
• Is the electric car our new solution for the fossil fuel crisis?
• How do our differences make us unique?
• Are introverts better leaders?
• Social media make people’s self-image and self-esteem
• Does technology harm the youngster?
• Learning from your mistake
• Spending time with your grandparents
• A simple way to overcome stress
• How to learn more than two languages at the same time
• Should we use Genetically modified foods
• Tips to overcome covid-19 pandemic
• E-sports is important as other sport
• How to be self-employed?
• Does TikTok designed for an addition?
• How to enjoy your campus life meaningfully
• How can writing a journal help you become a better person?
• How to speak confidently in public?

29 Motivational Speaking Topics

• Why losing is necessary to succeed
• The dress code is unnecessary for office employees
• Parents should become their kids’ best friends
• Effective listening is more important than talking
• Why it is important to support local businesses
• How to turn Challenges into Opportunities
• Underrated art of patience & silent observation
• Why have personal boundaries important?
• Life is a chain of ups and downs
• Being honest about your own mistakes
• Being a winner
• Being a better role model to our children
• Don’t let others define who you are
• Donations make you happy
• Protech environment for the future generation
• Being confident
• Starting a healthy life by breaking a bad habit
• Positive thinking changes your life
• Effective leadership
• Listening to your inner voice
• Restarting a new career
• Starting a healthy life
• Women’s place at work
• To be successful, you have to be disciplined
• Time management
• Strategies for focusing on study and work
• Tips for quick weight loss
• Most inspiring moment
• Balancing social life with studies

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10 Random Interesting Topic For Speaking

You can use a spinner wheel to choose a random, weird speech topics, as it’s humorous, or interesting topic to speaking

• Thirteen is a lucky number
• 10 best ways to make your kids leave you alone
• 10 ways to annoy your parents
• Hot girl problems
• Boys gossip more than girls do
• Blame your cats for your problems
• Do not take life too seriously.
• If men had a menstrual cycle
• Control your laugh at serious moments
• The game of Monopoly is a mental sport

20 Unique Speech Topic s

• Technology is a double-edged sword
• There is life after death
• Life is never fair for everyone
• A decision is more important than hard-working
• We live once
• The healing power of music
• What is the most ideal age to get married
• Is it possible to live without the internet
• Clothes do influence how people react to you
• Untidy people are more creative
• You are what you say
• Boarding game for family and friend bonding
• Gay couples can raise a good family
• Never give money to the beggar
• Crypto-currency
• Leadership cannot be taught
• Overcome the fear of Maths
• Should exotic animals should be kept as pets
• Why are so many beauty contests?
• Giving birth to a twins

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• The virtual classroom will take over in the future
• Peer pressure is necessary for self-development
• Go to career fairs is a smart move
• Technical training is better than a bachelor’s degree
• Pregnancy is not the end of a student’s university dream
• Fake personas and social media
• Ideas for spring break trips
• Credit cards are harmful to college students
• Changing a major is not the end of the world
• The harmful effects of alcohol
• Dealing with adolescent depression
• Universities should have career counseling programs now and then
• Colleges and universities should be free to attend
• Multiple choice tests are better than essay tests
• Gap years are a very great idea

• State colleges are better than private colleges
• College dropouts are more successful than college pass outs
• Beauty > Leadership skills while participating in college elections?
• Plagiarism checks have made life more miserable
• Decorating your college apartment with a low budget
• How to be Happy Being Single
• College students should live on campus
• Saving money while in college
• Education should be available to everyone as a human right
• How we undermine depression by normalizing it
• Pros and cons of community college vs. a four-year college or university
• Media psychology and communication relationship
• Why are so many students afraid of public speaking?
• How is Emotional Intelligence measured?
• How to pick up a topic for your graduation project
• Can a hobby turn into a profitable business?

17 Speaking Topics for Students

• Teachers should be tested like students.
• Is higher education overrated?
• Cooking should be taught in schools
• Boys and girls are potentially equal in every aspect
• Are birds comfortable in the zoo?
• Online friends show more compassion
• Consequences of cheating in exams
• Homeschooling is better than normal schooling
• What are the best ways to stop bullying?
• Teens should have weekend jobs
• School days should start later
• Why reading is more beneficial than watching television?
• TV shows or movies about teenage suicide encourage it or prevent it?
• Students should be allowed to have cell phones in elementary, middle, and high school
• Internet chatrooms are not safe
• Parents should let students fail

You can take one of the ideas above and turn them into an interesting topic for speaking.

How to Make your Speech Better!

#1: outline public speaking.

An Interesting topic for speaking makes an excellent speech if it has a clear structure. Here is a typical example:

Introduction

• A. Capture the audience’s attention
• B. Introduce the main idea you are talking about
• C. Talk about why the audience should listen
• D. Brief overview of the main points of your speech

A. First main point (spoken as a statement)

• Subpoint (spoken as a statement, supporting the main point)
• Evidence to support the main point
• Any other potential sub-points, interpreted in the same way as 1

B. Second main point (expressed as a statement)

• Subpoint (expressed as a statement; supporting the main point)
• (Continue to follow the organization of the First Main Point)

C. Third main point (expressed as a statement)

• 1. Subpoint (expressed as a statement; supporting the main point)
• (Continued to follow the organization of First Main Point)
• A. Summary – A brief review of the main points
• B. Closing – Complete speech
• C. QnA – Time to answer questions from the audience

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#2: Craft and Deliver an Interesting Inspirational Speech

Once you have chosen your ideal topic, now it is time for you to begin preparing content. Preparation is the key to delivering an impressive speech. You need to work hard to make sure each paragraph of your speech is informative, clear, relevant, and valuable to listeners. There are some guidelines and tips that you can follow to make your speech expressive and effective.

• Research your speech topic

It can be time-consuming and frustrating at the beginning but believe it or not once you adopt the right mindset and passion, you will enjoy the process of looking for different information. Make sure you follow the audience-centric and fill your knowledge gaps. Because above all, your goal is to educate, persuade or inspire your audience. Therefore, read everything that is related to the topic you are exploring as much as you can.

• Create an outline

The best way to make sure your speech is spoken perfectly is to work on your draft which lists important outlines. It is the plan to help you stay on track, at the same time, ensure your paper is organized, focused, and supported. You can write down all the points and possible transitions between paragraphs.

• Choosing the right words

Make sure you avoid the fluff and superfluous words that make your speech sounds cliche or boring. Put it shortly and concisely as Winston Churchill once said, “Short words are best, and old words, when short, are best of all.” However, don’t forget to stay true to your own voice. Moreover, you can ultimately use a sense of humor to engage your listeners but don’t overuse it if you don’t want to be blamed for the offense.

• Support your main idea with persuasive examples and facts

There are a variety of useful sources that you can facilitate such as library sources, peer-reviewed academic journals, newspapers, Wikipedia… and even your personal library sources. One of the best inspiring examples can come from your own experience. Using anecdotes from your own life or someone that you know can stimulate the audience’s heart and mind at the same time. Additionally, you can quote reputable sources to prove your point of view more solid and persuasive.

• Ending your speech with a strong conclusion

In your closing, restate your opinion, and exert the audience’s heartstrings at the last time by summarizing your points in a short and memorable sentence. Besides, you can call for action by giving the audience challenges which leave them motivated and remember your speech.

• Practice makes perfect

Keeping on practicing is the only way to make your speech perfect. Don’t worry if you are not a good speaker. Again, practice makes perfect. Practicing before the mirror repeatedly or getting feedback from professionals will help you to build confidence and coherence while speaking.

• Using AhaSlides to brighten up  your speech

Make use of this powerful tool as much as possible. Engaging visual presentation slides will absolutely help you capture the audience’s attention at the beginning as well as at the end of the speech. AhAslide is easy to use and portable for edit on almost devices. It is highly recommended by professionals around the world. Pick a template and have a go, your public speaking will never be the same again.

What are good speech topics? It can be difficult to choose an interesting topic for speaking from among such a wide variety of ideas. Think about which of the above topics you are most knowledgeable about, most comfortable with, and which opinions can be highlighted.

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6 steps to find Interesting Topic For Speaking?

The 6 steps include: (1) Identify the theme and purpose of the speaking event (2) Know your audience  (3) Share your personal knowledge and experience (4) Catch any latest related news (5) Make a list of possible ideas (6) Make a short topics list 

Why interesting topics to speak are important?

Interesting topics are important for a speech because they help to capture the audience’s attention and keep them engaged throughout the presentation. When the audience is interested in the topic, they are more likely to be receptive to the message and to remember the key points of the speech.

Why interesting topics should be in short format?

Shorter speeches can be just as effective if they are well-crafted and delivered with impact. A short, powerful speech can leave a lasting impression on the audience and can be more memorable than a longer speech that rambles on. But please be aware that the length of a speech should be determined by the needs of the situation and the goals of the speaker.

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More from AhaSlides

220+ Persuasive Speech Topics For All Students (Updated 2023)

Whether you’re a student preparing for a class presentation or an aspiring public speaker looking to captivate audiences, choosing the right persuasive speech topic is crucial. However, the process can be overwhelming, with countless possibilities to consider. Fear not! In this blog, we’ll delve into the world of persuasive speech topics, unravelling a treasure trove of ideas that are both impactful and easy to understand. 

From pressing social issues to intriguing debates, we’ll explore a wide array of subjects that will not only engage your audience but also leave a lasting impression. So, let’s embark on this journey together, and unlock the power of persuasive speech!

Table of Contents

What To Keep In Mind While Selecting Persuasive Speech Topics

When selecting persuasive speech topics, it’s important to keep several key factors in mind:

Audience Relevance

Consider the interests, beliefs, and concerns of your audience. Choose a topic that resonates with them and is relevant to their lives or the larger community.

Personal Interest

Select a topic that you are genuinely passionate about. Your enthusiasm will shine through in your speech and engage your audience more effectively.

Knowledge and Expertise

Choose a topic that you have a good understanding of or are willing to research extensively. It’s important to present accurate information and back your arguments with evidence.

Controversy and Debate

Opt for topics that have varying viewpoints or invite discussion. Controversial subjects often spark interest and encourage audience engagement.

Impactful and Timely

Consider selecting a topic that addresses a pressing issue or has societal relevance. Topics related to current events or ongoing debates can generate greater interest.

Strike a balance between being challenging and respectful. Avoid excessively sensitive or offensive topics that might alienate or upset your audience.

Feasibility

Ensure that the chosen topic can be effectively covered within the given time constraints of your speech. Select a topic that can be adequately explored and supported within the allocated time frame.

Remember, the ultimate goal of a persuasive speech is to inspire, educate, and motivate your audience. By keeping these considerations in mind, you can select a persuasive speech topic that captures attention, encourages thoughtful discourse, and leaves a lasting impact.

10+ Religion Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Role of Religion in Shaping Moral Values.
• Examining the Impact of Religious Freedom on Society.
• Exploring the Controversy Surrounding Religion in Schools.
• Addressing the Need for Interfaith Dialogue and Understanding.
• Analysing the Relationship Between Religion and Science.
• Discussing the Importance of Religious Tolerance and Acceptance.
• The Ethics of Proselytising: Balancing Freedom of Religion and Respect for Others.
• Investigating the Influence of Religion on Gender Equality.
• Debating the Role of Religion in Politics and Governance.
• Exploring the Challenges and Benefits of Religious Pluralism in a Globalised World.

10+ Persuasive Speech Topics About Music & Fashion

• The Impact of Music on Mood and Emotions: Exploring the Power of Melody.
• Fashion Industry’s Influence on Body Image and Self-Esteem: Redefining Beauty Standards.
• Music Streaming Services: Revolutionising the Way We Discover and Enjoy Music.
• The Cultural Significance of Fashion: Celebrating Diversity and Expression.
• The Role of Music Education in Developing Creativity and Critical Thinking Skills.
• Sustainable Fashion: Promoting Ethical and Eco-Friendly Clothing Choices.
• Music as Therapy: Harnessing the Healing Power of Sound.
• Fashion Trends: Unveiling the Social and Psychological Factors Behind Their Popularity.
• The Evolution of Music Genres: Tracing the Influence of Historical and Cultural Movements.
• Fast Fashion: Examining the Environmental and Social Consequences of Disposable Clothing.
• Music and Memory: Exploring the Connection between Melodies and Recall.
• Body Positivity Movement: Challenging Stereotypes and Promoting Acceptance in Fashion.

10+ Arts and Culture Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Importance of Arts Education in Schools.
• Preserving Cultural Heritage: The Need for Funding and Support.
• The Power of Music Therapy: Promoting Mental Health and Well-being.
• Addressing Gender Representation in the Film and Entertainment Industry.
• The Role of Art in Promoting Social Change and Activism.
• Art Censorship: Protecting Freedom of Expression and Creativity.
• Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Arts and Cultural Sector.
• Art as a Catalyst for Economic Growth and Tourism.
• Exploring the Influence of Social Media on Art and Culture.
• The Impact of Art on Individual and Community Identity.
• Supporting Local Artists: Building Thriving Arts Communities.
• The Relationship Between Art and Science: Fostering Innovation.
• Art and Healing: The Therapeutic Benefits of Creative Expression.

10+ Government Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Importance of Voting: Exercising Your Civic Duty.
• Implementing Stricter Gun Control Laws for Public Safety.
• Addressing Climate Change: The Urgency for Government Action.
• The Need for Comprehensive Immigration Reform.
• Promoting Equality: Ensuring LGBTQ+ Rights and Protections.
• Combating Fake News: The Role of Government in Media Literacy.
• Raising the Minimum Wage: Fighting Income Inequality.
• Reforming the Criminal Justice System: Reducing Mass Incarceration.
• Protecting Net Neutrality: Preserving an Open Internet.
• Enhancing Access to Affordable Healthcare: A Government Responsibility.
• Regulating Big Tech: Balancing Innovation and Consumer Protection.
• Investing in Renewable Energy: Transitioning to a Sustainable Future.

10+ Family Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Benefits of Family Dinners: Why Eating Together Matters.
• Should Parents Allow Children to Use Social Media?
• The Importance of Teaching Financial Responsibility to Kids.
• Balancing Work and Family: Tips for Achieving Work-Life Balance.
• The Effects of Divorce on Children and Strategies for Coping.
• Addressing Domestic Violence: How Families Can Break the Cycle.
• Homeschooling vs. Public Schooling: Which is the Better Option?
• The Dangers of Helicopter Parenting and Letting Kids Fail.
• The Impact of Technology on Family Relationships.
• Supporting LGBTQ+ Youth in Family Environments.
• The Pros and Cons of Having Only One Child.
• Navigating Family Conflict: Strategies for Effective Communication.

10+ Environment Persuasive Speech Topics

• The urgency of reducing plastic waste and embracing sustainable alternatives.
• The impact of deforestation on climate change and biodiversity loss.
• The need for stricter regulations on air pollution to combat respiratory diseases.
• Promoting renewable energy sources to mitigate the effects of fossil fuel consumption.
• The importance of water conservation in the face of increasing scarcity.
• Addressing the detrimental effects of pesticide use on ecosystems and human health.
• Raising awareness about the consequences of overfishing and the need for sustainable fishing practices.
• The role of individuals and communities in combating climate change through small lifestyle changes.
• The significance of preserving and protecting endangered species from extinction.
• The importance of recycling and waste management in reducing environmental pollution.
• Promoting sustainable agriculture practices to ensure food security and protect the environment.
• The impact of urbanization on natural habitats and the importance of green spaces in cities.
• Advocating for stricter regulations on industrial pollution to safeguard environmental and human health.
• The benefits of promoting eco-tourism as a sustainable alternative to mass tourism.

10+ Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Importance of Physical Education Programs in Schools.
• The Benefits of Youth Sports in Character Development.
• The Need for Stricter Regulations in Professional Sports.
• The Impact of Sports on Mental Health and Well-being.
• Promoting Gender Equality in Sports: Breaking the Glass Ceiling.
• The Dangers of Performance-Enhancing Drugs in Athletics.
• Addressing the Issue of Concussions in Contact Sports.
• The Role of Sports in Promoting Social Inclusion and Diversity.
• The Influence of Sports Sponsorships on Athletes and Teams.
• The Ethics of Animal Sports: Should They Be Banned?
• The Debate on Paying College Athletes: Fair Compensation or Exploitation?
• The Role of Sports in Fostering Teamwork and Leadership Skills.
• Promoting Sports as a Tool for Conflict Resolution and Diplomacy.
• The Impact of Technology on Sports: Enhancing Performance or Diminishing Fairness?
• The Significance of Title IX in Advancing Women’s Sports.

10+ Education Persuasive Speech Topics

• The importance of incorporating financial literacy in school curricula.
• Addressing the need for comprehensive sex education in schools.
• Promoting the benefits of arts education for well-rounded development.
• The significance of teaching critical thinking skills in the digital age.
• Implementing mindfulness and mental health education in schools.
• Bridging the gender gap in STEM education and careers.
• The value of inclusive education for students with disabilities.
• Promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity in educational institutions.
• Addressing the impact of standardized testing on students’ well-being.
• The role of technology in transforming traditional classroom learning.
• Promoting environmental education for a sustainable future.
• Advocating for comprehensive anti-bullying policies and education in schools.
• The benefits of bilingual education in a globalized world.
• Encouraging physical education and healthy lifestyles in schools.

10+ Scientific Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Importance of Vaccinations: Protecting Public Health Through Immunization.
• Climate Change: Urgency for Global Action to Combat Rising Temperatures.
• The Benefits of Renewable Energy Sources: Transitioning Towards a Sustainable Future.
• Exploring the Potential of Stem Cell Research in Advancing Medical Treatments.
• Artificial Intelligence: Balancing its Potential Benefits and Ethical Concerns.
• The Role of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs) in Addressing Food Security.
• Space Exploration: Unraveling the Mysteries of the Universe and Expanding Human Knowledge.
• The Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Ecosystems: Seeking Sustainable Solutions.
• The Power of Meditation: Enhancing Mental Well-being and Cognitive Abilities.
• Human Cloning: Ethical Implications and Scientific Advancements.
• Nanotechnology: Unleashing the Potential of Tiny Innovations in Various Industries.
• The Influence of Social Media on Mental Health: Promoting Digital Well-being.

10+ Video Games Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Impact of Violent Video Games on Youth Behavior.
• How Video Games Promote Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills.
• The Benefits of Video Games in Enhancing Cognitive Abilities.
• The Role of Video Games in Fostering Social Connections and Collaboration.
• Exploring the Educational Potential of Video Games in the Classroom.
• Addressing Video Game Addiction: Recognizing the Signs and Seeking Help.
• The Positive Effects of Video Games on Mental Health and Well-being.
• Video Games as a Tool for Rehabilitation and Therapy.
• Debunking Stereotypes: Gender Representation in Video Games.
• The Influence of Video Games on Body Image and Self-Esteem.
• Examining the Link Between Video Games and Increased Physical Activity.
• The Ethical Implications of Loot Boxes and In-Game Purchases in Video Games.

10+ Public Speaking Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Importance of Mental Health Awareness in Schools.
• The Impact of Social Media on Society.
• Promoting Renewable Energy for a Sustainable Future.
• The Need for Stricter Gun Control Laws.
• Raising Awareness about Climate Change and Its Consequences.
• Addressing the Gender Pay Gap in the Workplace.
• Combating Cyberbullying: Creating a Safer Online Environment.
• The Benefits of Implementing Comprehensive Sex Education in Schools.
• Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in the Workplace.
• The Importance of Voting: Exercising Your Democratic Rights.
• Ending Animal Testing: Advancing Ethical Research Alternatives.
• Tackling Food Waste: Promoting Sustainable Consumption Habits.
• The Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Life and Ecosystems.
• Encouraging Organ Donation: Saving Lives through Generosity.
• Breaking the Stigma: Raising Awareness about Mental Illness.

10+ Medical Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Importance of Vaccinations: Debunking Myths and Promoting Public Health.
• The Ethics of Organ Transplantation: Balancing Supply and Demand.
• Addressing the Opioid Crisis: Strategies for Prevention and Treatment.
• Promoting Mental Health: Breaking the Silence and Ending Stigma.
• Advancements in Precision Medicine: Personalizing Healthcare for Better Outcomes.
• The Role of Telemedicine in Improving Access to Healthcare.
• Enhancing Patient Safety: Preventing Medical Errors in Healthcare Settings.
• Promoting Healthy Lifestyles: Combating Obesity and Chronic Diseases.
• The Benefits of Integrative Medicine: Bridging Conventional and Alternative Approaches.
• Exploring the Impact of Technology on Healthcare Delivery.
• Promoting Sexual Health Education: Empowering Individuals to Make Informed Choices.
• The Importance of Early Detection: Screenings for Cancer and Other Diseases.
• The Role of Medical Research in Advancing Treatment and Finding Cures.

10+ Business Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Benefits of Implementing Flexible Work Arrangements in Companies.
• Promoting Ethical Practices in Business: Combating Corruption and Fraud.
• The Role of Corporate Social Responsibility in Building a Positive Brand Image.
• Fostering Innovation and Creativity in the Workplace.
• The Advantages of Embracing Diversity in Business Teams.
• Harnessing the Power of Technology for Enhanced Customer Experience.
• Promoting Work-Life Balance: Improving Employee Well-being and Productivity.
• The Importance of Effective Leadership in Driving Organizational Success.
• Addressing Workplace Gender Inequality: Achieving Gender Balance in Leadership Roles.
• The Benefits of Investing in Employee Training and Development Programs.
• Promoting Sustainable Business Practices: Environmental Responsibility and Profitability.
• Exploring the Advantages of Implementing Remote Work Policies.
• The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Business Operations and Job Market.
• Nurturing a Positive Company Culture: The Key to Employee Engagement and Retention.
• The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Effective Business Communication.

10+ Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

• Prioritizing Mental Health Education in Schools: Nurturing Emotional Well-being from an Early Age.
• Overcoming the Stigma: Promoting Open Discussions on Mental Health in Communities.
• The Need for Increased Accessibility to Mental Health Services: Breaking Barriers to Care.
• Mental Health in the Workplace: Creating Supportive and Productive Environments.
• Raising Awareness about Suicide Prevention: Saving Lives through Compassion and Understanding.
• Addressing the Impact of Social Media on Mental Health: Finding Balance in the Digital Age.
• Breaking Down Gender Stereotypes in Mental Health: Encouraging Emotional Expression for All.
• Promoting Self-Care Practices for Mental Well-being: Nurturing a Healthy Mindset.
• Combating Mental Health Stigma among College Students: Fostering Supportive Campus Communities.
• The Role of Exercise and Physical Activity in Enhancing Mental Health: A Holistic Approach to Well-being.

10+ Persuasive Essay Topics About Animals

• The Ethics of Animal Testing: Finding Alternatives for Scientific Research.
• Protecting Endangered Species: Preserving Biodiversity for Future Generations.
• The Cruelty of Animal Circuses: Advocating for a Ban on Animal Entertainment.
• Animal Agriculture and Environmental Impact: Promoting Sustainable Food Choices.
• The Importance of Animal Adoption: Encouraging Responsible Pet Ownership.
• Ban on Trophy Hunting: Preserving Wildlife and Ecosystems.
• Animal Rights in Entertainment: Ending the Use of Animals in Films and Shows.
• The Ethics of Zoos: Rethinking Captivity and Animal Welfare.
• Animal Experimentation: Promoting Ethical Guidelines and Oversight.
• Fur Industry: Advocating for Cruelty-Free Fashion and Alternatives.
• Marine Captivity: Ending the Keeping of Whales and Dolphins in Theme Parks.
• The Link Between Animal Cruelty and Violence Against Humans: Strengthening Laws and Awareness.
• Factory Farming: Promoting Humane Treatment of Farm Animals.
• The Role of Animal-Assisted Therapy in Improving Human Well-being.
• Wildlife Conservation: Combating Illegal Wildlife Trade and Poaching.

10+ Persuasive Speech Topics for College

• The Benefits of Financial Literacy Education for College Students.
• Promoting Mental Health Support Services on College Campuses.
• Addressing the Issue of Campus Sexual Assault: Ensuring Safety and Justice.
• The Importance of Ethical Consumption: Making Sustainable Choices in College.
• Encouraging Diversity in Higher Education: Embracing Inclusion on Campus.
• Combatting the Rising Costs of College Education: Exploring Solutions for Affordability.
• Promoting Healthy Lifestyles: Encouraging Exercise and Nutrition in College.
• The Need for Comprehensive Sexual Consent Education in College.
• Fostering Entrepreneurship and Innovation in College Education.
• Empowering Students to Combat Fake News: Promoting Media Literacy on Campus.

10+ Unique Persuasive Topics

• The Power of Empathy: Cultivating Compassion in Everyday Life.
• Promoting Mindfulness: Finding Balance in a Fast-Paced World.
• The Benefits of Outdoor Education: Nurturing a Connection with Nature.
• Exploring the Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in the Modern Age.
• Building Stronger Communities through Volunteerism and Civic Engagement.
• The Importance of Financial Literacy: Empowering Individuals for a Secure Future.
• Unveiling the Truth: The Role of Media Literacy in an Era of Misinformation.
• Redefining Beauty Standards: Embracing Body Positivity and Self-Acceptance.
• Harnessing the Power of Positive Thinking: Cultivating a Growth Mindset.
• The Impact of Arts Education: Fostering Creativity and Well-Being in Schools.

10+ Economic Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Benefits of Implementing Universal Basic Income.
• Exploring the Impact of Globalization on Job Markets.
• Addressing Income Inequality: Closing the Wage Gap.
• The Role of Government Regulation in Promoting Fair Competition.
• Promoting Sustainable Economic Growth through Green Initiatives.
• The Importance of Financial Literacy Education in Schools.
• Exploring the Pros and Cons of Minimum Wage Increases.
• The Impact of Automation on the Future of the Workforce.
• The Economic Benefits of Investing in Renewable Energy.
• Examining the Effects of Trade Wars on Global Economies.
• The Role of Entrepreneurship in Stimulating Economic Development.
• Analyzing the Economic Implications of Immigration Policies.
• The Significance of Economic Diplomacy in International Relations.
• The Influence of Consumer Behavior on the Economy.
• Exploring the Economics of Healthcare: Challenges and Solutions.

10+ Ethics Persuasive Speech Topics

• The Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence in Today’s Society.
• Animal Rights: Promoting Ethical Treatment and Protection.
• Ethical Considerations in Genetic Engineering and Human Enhancement.
• The Ethics of Capital Punishment: Examining the Death Penalty.
• The Moral Dilemma of Euthanasia and Assisted Suicide.
• Ethical Issues Surrounding Privacy and Data Protection in the Digital Age.
• Corporate Social Responsibility: Ethical Business Practices for a Sustainable Future.
• Ethical Implications of Cloning and Genetic Manipulation.
• The Ethics of Animal Testing: Balancing Scientific Progress and Animal Welfare.
• Ethical Considerations in Medical Research: Informed Consent and Participant Rights.
• The Ethics of Privacy Invasion: Surveillance in the Name of Security.
• Ethical Challenges in the Age of Big Data and Data Mining.
• The Moral Debate of Physician-Assisted Death and End-of-Life Care.
• Ethical Implications of Human Trafficking: Combating Modern-Day Slavery.
• Ethical Issues in Globalization: Balancing Economic Growth and Social Justice.

How To Craft Persuasive Speech?

Remember, this is just a template, and you can modify and adapt it according to your specific speech topic and requirements.

An Example Of Persuasive Speech Topic

Title: the importance of volunteering in our community.

Introduction:

Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen,

Today, I stand before you to shed light on a topic that is close to my heart: the importance of volunteering in our community. We often get caught up in the busyness of our lives, but it is crucial to take a step back and recognize the profound impact we can have when we extend a helping hand. Through volunteering, we not only improve the lives of others but also enrich our own. Let’s explore how giving our time, skills, and compassion can make a lasting difference in our community.

Building Stronger Communities:

Volunteering fosters a sense of belonging and strengthens the fabric of our community. By working together towards a common goal, we forge meaningful connections and create a support system that benefits everyone involved. Whether it’s cleaning up local parks, organizing food drives, or mentoring youth, our collective efforts can transform neighborhoods and create a positive ripple effect.

Making a Difference in Individual Lives:

Each act of volunteering has the power to touch someone’s life in ways we may never fully comprehend. From offering a listening ear at a homeless shelter to tutoring underprivileged children, we have the ability to empower and uplift individuals facing adversity. Our actions can instill hope, provide opportunities, and inspire others to believe in their own potential.

Personal Growth and Development:

Volunteering is not just about giving; it is also an incredible avenue for personal growth. As we step outside our comfort zones and engage with diverse communities, we develop empathy, compassion, and a broader perspective on life. Volunteering allows us to hone our skills, learn new ones, and build a strong sense of self-esteem. It is an investment in ourselves that pays dividends in personal and professional spheres.

Addressing Social Issues:

Our community faces numerous social challenges, from poverty to environmental degradation. Through volunteering, we become agents of change, actively working to address these pressing issues. By dedicating our time and resources to organizations and causes that align with our values, we contribute to the collective efforts of creating a more equitable and sustainable world.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, ladies and gentlemen, volunteering is not a mere act of kindness; it is a transformative force that can shape our community and ourselves. By embracing the spirit of giving, we build stronger communities, make a profound impact on individual lives, experience personal growth, and contribute to solving societal issues. I urge each one of you to find a cause that resonates with you, explore volunteering opportunities, and embark on this incredible journey of service. Together, let’s make a lasting difference in our community, one selfless act at a time.

In conclusion, persuasive speech topics hold immense power to shape opinions, provoke critical thinking, and inspire action. Throughout this blog, we have explored a wide range of persuasive speech topics, covering social issues, ethics, and public speaking. 

Remember that when selecting a persuasive speech topic, it is crucial to consider the audience’s relevance, your personal interest, and the potential impact of the topic. Crafting a persuasive speech involves engaging the audience through a compelling introduction, presenting well-supported arguments, addressing counter arguments, and concluding with a strong call to action. 

By utilizing these techniques, you can effectively deliver a persuasive speech that leaves a lasting impression and drives positive change. So, embrace the art of persuasive communication, be the voice of change, and make your words resonate in the hearts and minds of your audience. 

Together, let’s harness the power of persuasive speech to create a better, more informed, and compassionate world.

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20 Engaging and Inspirational Speech Topics for 2023

Public speaking is a powerful tool for communication and influence. In this article, we will explore 20 engaging and inspirational speech topics for 2023, covering the art of storytelling , the power of persuasion , the impact of authenticity , and the importance of body language in public speaking. These topics are designed to captivate audiences and leave a lasting impression, making them perfect for a variety of speaking engagements.

Key Takeaways

• Craft compelling narratives to captivate your audience.
• Use personal anecdotes to create a connection with your listeners.
• Understand and apply persuasive techniques to inspire action.
• Embrace vulnerability to build trust and authenticity in your speeches.
• Project confidence through effective use of body language.

The Power of Storytelling in Public Speaking

Crafting a Compelling Narrative

Creating a compelling narrative is essential for engaging your audience and making your message memorable. Start with a strong introduction that grabs attention; this could be a surprising fact, a question, or a powerful statement. The body of your narrative should then unfold in a clear, logical manner, leading to a meaningful conclusion that reinforces your main message.

• Begin with a compelling introduction
• Develop a clear, logical structure
• Conclude with a powerful message

Remember, the best narratives are those that are relatable and evoke emotion. They allow the audience to see themselves in the story, making the message more impactful.

By incorporating personal anecdotes and vivid descriptions, you can transform a simple message into a powerful story that resonates with your audience. The key is to keep your narrative focused and purposeful, ensuring that every element contributes to the overall message.

Using Personal Anecdotes

Incorporating personal anecdotes into your speech can transform it from a monologue into a relatable story that resonates with your audience. Personal stories foster a deeper connection , making your message more memorable and impactful.

• Select an anecdote : Choose a story that is relevant to your topic and resonates with your personal experiences.
• Relate to the audience : Ensure your story can be universally understood, even if the specifics are unique to you.
• Highlight the lesson : Every story should have a clear takeaway or lesson that aligns with your overall message.

Personal anecdotes are not just stories; they are a bridge that connects the speaker to the audience, fostering understanding and empathy.

Remember, the effectiveness of a personal anecdote lies in its ability to evoke emotions and provoke thought. Whether it’s a humorous tale or a poignant memory, the key is to make it authentic and engaging for your listeners.

Connecting with the Audience

After crafting a compelling narrative and incorporating personal anecdotes, the final step in engaging your audience is to truly connect with them. This involves seeing your speech not as a monologue but as a dialogue. Engage your audience by asking questions, conducting polls, or encouraging group discussions. This approach transforms passive listeners into active participants, making your message more memorable.

Remember, the key to a successful speech is not just to inform, but to inspire and connect.

Here are a few strategies to enhance audience connection:

• Empathize with your audience by understanding their needs and expectations.
• Tailor your message to resonate with their experiences.
• Use humor wisely to break the ice and build rapport.
• Maintain eye contact to foster a sense of personal connection.

The Art of Persuasion in Speeches

Understanding Persuasive Techniques

Mastering persuasive techniques is crucial for any speaker aiming to influence their audience. The key to persuasion lies in understanding your audience and tailoring your message to their values and beliefs. This involves a deep dive into the demographics, interests, and concerns of your audience members.

Ethos , Pathos , and Logos are foundational elements of persuasion. Here’s a quick overview:

• Ethos : Establishing the speaker’s credibility and trustworthiness.
• Pathos : Appealing to the audience’s emotions.
• Logos : Using logical arguments and evidence.

Being intentional about your approach and adapting your strategy based on audience feedback can significantly enhance your persuasive power.

Remember, the most effective persuasive speeches are those that create a connection with the audience, making them feel understood and valued. By integrating these techniques thoughtfully, you can inspire your audience to embrace your viewpoint or take action.

Building Credibility

Building credibility is a cornerstone of persuasive speaking. It’s about making your audience believe in you and your message. One effective way to establish credibility is by sharing your relevant experiences, background, and expertise. This approach not only demonstrates your qualifications but also makes your speech more relatable.

Citing sources accurately and transparently is crucial. Provide enough information about each source so that your audience could, with a little effort, find them. This includes the author’s name, a brief description of the content, and where it can be found.

Here are some additional strategies to build credibility:

• Highlight positive feedback from satisfied customers or audience members.
• Speak with confidence , as this also plays a significant role in how your credibility is perceived.
• Ensure your content is well-researched and fact-checked.

Remember, credibility isn’t just about what you say; it’s also about how you say it. Using effective body language and maintaining eye contact can significantly enhance your credibility.

Inspiring Action

After understanding persuasive techniques and building credibility, the next step is to inspire action. This is where your speech turns from being informative to transformative. The goal is to move your audience from passive listeners to active participants in whatever cause or idea you are advocating for.

To effectively inspire action, consider the following steps:

• Identify a clear, actionable goal for your audience.
• Explain why this goal is important and how achieving it can make a difference.
• Provide a simple, step-by-step plan on how they can participate.

Remember, the most effective calls to action are those that are specific, achievable, and resonate with the values of your audience.

By incorporating these elements into your speech, you can harness the power of persuasion to not only share a message but to ignite a movement. The key is to make your audience feel empowered and capable of making a change. This often involves tapping into their emotions and values, making empathy a crucial tool in your arsenal.

The Impact of Authenticity in Public Speaking

Embracing Vulnerability

Embracing vulnerability in your public speaking endeavors is not just about sharing your failures or moments of doubt; it’s about connecting on a human level with your audience. Your personal stories are powerful tools that can inspire, motivate, and bring people together. By showing your true self, you invite your audience to see the world through your eyes, creating a bond that transcends the spoken word.

Vulnerability is the bridge to deeper connection and understanding.

To effectively embrace vulnerability, consider these steps:

• Reflect on your personal experiences that shaped you.
• Identify moments of challenge or failure that taught you valuable lessons.
• Share these stories with honesty and openness, without fearing judgment.

By incorporating these steps into your speeches, you not only enhance your authenticity but also empower your audience to embrace their own vulnerabilities. This mutual understanding fosters a unique and impactful connection that can leave a lasting impression.

Building Trust

Building trust with your audience is a cornerstone of effective public speaking. It’s not just about what you say, but how you say it that resonates with people. Trust is fostered through authenticity and consistency in your message. When the audience feels that you are genuine, they are more likely to engage and believe in what you’re sharing.

Authenticity plays a crucial role in building trust. It involves being true to yourself and your values, and conveying your message in a way that is relatable and honest. Here are a few strategies to enhance trust through authenticity:

• Be transparent about your intentions and motivations.
• Share personal stories that illustrate your points.
• Admit when you don’t have all the answers.

Building trust is not an overnight process. It requires time, patience, and genuine effort to connect with your audience on a deeper level.

Being Genuine

In the realm of public speaking, being genuine is not just about honesty; it’s about connecting with your audience on a deeper level. Authenticity resonates with people , making your message more memorable and impactful. To achieve this, consider the following points:

• Share experiences that have shaped your views or changed your life.
• Speak from the heart, and let your true emotions show.
• Avoid trying to be someone you’re not. Embrace your unique style and voice.

Being genuine means being transparent about your intentions and beliefs. It’s about showing your audience who you really are, without pretense.

Remember, authenticity is a journey, not a destination. It requires continuous self-reflection and a commitment to personal growth. By being genuine, you not only enhance your speech but also foster a deeper connection with your audience.

Harnessing the Power of Body Language

Understanding Nonverbal Communication

Nonverbal communication plays a pivotal role in enhancing the effectiveness of public speaking. It’s not just about what you say, but how you say it that can make a significant difference. Mastering the art of nonverbal cues can help speakers connect with their audience on a deeper level, conveying emotions and intentions without the need for words.

Eye contact , gestures, and posture are key elements of nonverbal communication that can significantly impact your presentation. Here’s a simple list to remember:

• Maintain eye contact to establish a connection.
• Use gestures to emphasize points.
• Stand confidently to project authority.

Remember, your body language should complement your words, creating a harmonious message that resonates with your audience.

Using Gestures Effectively

Effective use of gestures can significantly enhance your speech, making your message more engaging and memorable. Mastering the art of gestures involves more than just moving your hands; it’s about using your entire body to communicate your message. Here are a few tips to get started:

• Find a Neutral Place for Your Hands : Begin with your hands in a neutral position. This can help you avoid fidgeting and ensure your gestures are purposeful.
• Practice Broad, Purposeful Gestures : Gestures should originate from your core and be broad enough to be seen by the entire audience. Avoid small, jittery motions that can distract.
• Coordinate with Your Speech : Your gestures should complement and emphasize your spoken words, not distract from them.

Remember, your body speaks as loudly as your voice. Ensuring your gestures align with your message is key to effective communication.

Incorporating gestures effectively into your speeches can transform your delivery, making it more powerful and persuasive. Practice these techniques to ensure your body language aligns with your message, enhancing your overall presentation.

Projecting Confidence

Projecting confidence in public speaking is not just about what you say, but how you say it. Your body language plays a crucial role in conveying your confidence to the audience. Standing tall, maintaining eye contact , and using purposeful gestures can significantly enhance your presence on stage.

Eye contact , in particular, is a powerful tool for building trust and showing assertiveness. By moving your gaze around the room , you engage with your audience on a personal level, making them feel included and important. This not only makes your speech more impactful but also boosts your own confidence.

Remember, confidence is not about portraying perfection but about showing your audience that you are fully present and committed to your message.

Here are a few practical tips to help you project confidence effectively:

• Practice your speech in front of a mirror or record yourself to observe and improve your body language.
• Focus on breathing deeply and evenly to calm your nerves and steady your voice.
• Use the stage to your advantage by moving confidently and occupying the space.

In this article, we’ve explored 20 engaging and inspirational speech topics for 2023. Whether you’re preparing for a speech or looking for inspiration, these topics cover a wide range of interests and are sure to captivate your audience. From technology and innovation to personal growth and social issues, there’s something for everyone. We hope these topics spark creativity and meaningful discussions as you prepare to deliver your next impactful speech.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is storytelling important in public speaking.

Storytelling captivates the audience, makes the content memorable, and creates an emotional connection.

How can I craft a compelling narrative for my speech?

Craft a compelling narrative by engaging the audience’s emotions, using vivid imagery, and incorporating a relatable plot.

What are some persuasive techniques I can use in my speech?

Persuasive techniques include appealing to emotions, using evidence and logic, and establishing credibility.

Why is authenticity important in public speaking?

Authenticity builds trust with the audience, creates a genuine connection, and enhances the speaker’s credibility.

How can I use body language effectively in my speech?

Use open and confident body language, make purposeful gestures, and maintain eye contact with the audience.

What impact does vulnerability have in public speaking?

Vulnerability fosters empathy, creates a relatable experience, and allows for genuine human connection.

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• Future Speakers

12 Top Trending Speaking Topics for 2023

Booking a keynote speaker knowledgeable in trending topics provides valuable insights and perspectives on the most important issues facing your industry. Professional guest and keynote speakers deliver engaging presentations on a range of topics, from emerging technologies and environmental sustainability to workplace diversity and mental health.

By booking a speaker with knowledge of current trends, companies inspire and motivate their employees while driving innovation to stay ahead of the competition. Here are our top 12 speaking topics for 2023.

Sustainability and corporate responsibility

Companies face mounting pressures in 2023 from consumers , investors and other stakeholders to embrace environmental sustainability. But transitioning to a business model of environmental, social and governance (ESG) can prove challenging without adequate buy-in . Not all staff may be aware that ESG opens investor opportunities and elevates brand affinity . A professional speaker with expertise in the issue can educate your teams while motivating them to assist in your efforts.

Creativity and innovation

Corporations must continually adapt to a rapidly changing world. Innovation allows businesses to gain an edge in existing markets and to create new ones with a Blue Ocean Strategy . Creativity thought leaders such as Christopher Chapman and Michael Gelb bring expertise and science to the realm of creative thought. Such public speakers and executive consultants help you unlock your company’s single greatest asset: the creativity of your leadership and teams .

Enhanced customer experience

We usually think of customer service as the person we visit or call to change an order or register a problem. Increasingly, companies seek to enhance the broader customer experience . That is, what the client or potential client experiences at every point of contact with the company. A positive customer experience builds loyalty, and speakers such as Jeffrey Gitomer provide the insights you need to stay ahead of the curve .

Employee engagement and retention

Even with a potential recession looming , finding and keeping employees has proven challenging. Retention usually provides the best cost-benefit , making engagement and retention a trending keynote topic in 2023. Employee engagement experts such as Daren Martin have thrived along with fellow thought-leader Cy Wakeman , a specialist in corporate culture who helps you remove drama from the workplace.

Employee health and well-being

Part of employee retention includes keeping your workplace healthy and happy. Building greater well-being doesn’t mean they’ll live stress-free lives. Rather, it means assisting them in understanding the tools needed to build resilience and remain productive. This year, corporations continue to follow the trend in promoting greater well-being for their employees. Resilience expert Anne Grady and health experts like Shawn Stevenson assist companies in building better mindsets to stay on top.

Personal finance

Financial literacy is a considerable asset for employee well-being . Lack of financial responsibility and understanding among associates directly impacts the company bottom line . Employees and leadership facing financial problems may become distracted, seek new or secondary employment and have poor work attendance. Often, basic financial wellness programs can pull your executive staff or team members back from the edge so that they regain focus, clarity and creative productivity at work. Top financial speakers such as Sharon Lechter and Anthony O’Neal continue to trend in 2023 for their ability to engage audiences with sound financial practices.

Entrepreneurship and startups

Data collected by the U.S. Small Business Administration shows that there were 33.2 million small businesses in the United States in 2022. Top business coaches and speakers like Billy Goldberg specialize in helping entrepreneurs and creative talent use heart-centered leadership for a long-lasting impact. For established companies, they also assist in guiding your teams to take a more entrepreneurial approach of personal responsibility and better relationship-building.

Diversity, equity and inclusion

Many top brands are taking the lead in raising awareness of and combating systemic bias externally while promoting a more inclusive work culture internally. A trending topic for 2023 , companies have many reasons to book a diversity, equity and inclusion speaker. These influencers provide education, promote a more positive work culture and even promote innovation through inclusivity. Celebrity keynote speakers such as Mally Roncal provide lasting benefits in a fun, engaging way to help your company thrive today and in the future.

The future of work: AI integration

Artificial intelligence technologies such as ChatGPT, Palantir’s Foundry and other platforms assist with everything from improving supply chains to writing and graphic design. But these technologies also raise concerns. A 2022 Pew Research Center study found that, of respondents who are “more concerned than excited” about an increase in the use of AI, 19% worry about the “loss of human jobs.” Keynote tech speakers help your teams better understand the role of AI as a partner while providing insights to best leverage this digital transformation.

Emotional intelligence and self-awareness

While emotional intelligence (EQ) has been recognized as important for decades, AI technologies may have, in part, moved the ball further down the field in its favor. After all, machines can crunch numbers and provide optimal decisions. But only self-aware humans can motivate, inspire, build teams and understand the broader impact and ethics of decisions made. The shift toward EQ is fully embraced by speakers such as top self-awareness coach, organizational psychologist and author Tasha Eurich .

Leadership in the new normal

For many, we’ve moved to the post-pandemic age . But COVID-19 didn’t disappear. We’ve simply adapted to its existence. Many of the changes we made in the crisis such as remote or hybrid work schedule adoption have become the new normal . Still, challenges remain for many employees and their leadership. Business and training speakers such as Jairek Robbins deliver virtual keynote addresses to keep your teams working cohesively regardless of their respective locations. 

Change management

One commonality among trending speaking topics for 2023 has been “change.” And while change has occurred throughout history, it seems that it’s coming faster than ever. Top keynote and business speakers specializing in change management can help guide you through turbulent waters with clarity and assurance. Dan Thurmon and others provide valuable insights into how to manage change effectively to maximize outcomes while minimizing disruption.

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112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

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

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

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

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

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

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

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

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

Steer Clear of Cliches

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

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

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

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

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

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

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

Environment

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

Science & Technology

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

Social Media

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

Parenting & Family

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

Entertainment

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

Arts & Humanities

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

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

Do Your Research

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

Understand Your Audience

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

Have Someone Read Your Speech

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

Practice Makes Perfect

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

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

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Persuasive Speech Topics: The Best 150 Ideas

Plus, a step-by-step guide for writing and delivering your speech.

Persuasive speech topics can inspire an audience and influence change in your community, town, or city. Whether you are giving a presentation at a large conference or converting a college essay into a speech to be given at your high school's auditorium, delivering a persuasive speech is not an easy task. We are here to guide you through this difficult process and provide you with 150 persuasive speech topics that can help you prepare your own inspirational presentation.

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Article Contents 13 min read

The art of persuasion.

The art of oratory is one of the oldest and most compelling persuasion tactics in human history. The power of speech has been used for centuries by men and women to negotiate peace, start revolutions, and inspire generations. At the source of change, we often witness a great speaker or speech that affected people’s worldviews. King Solomon, Socrates, Cicero, Elizabeth I, Napoleon, Abraham Lincoln, Martin Luther King, were all powerful speakers who changed the course of human history.  

Luckily, not every persuasive speech happens on such a grand scale. You do not have to become Napoleon to change the lives of people who hear what you have to say. You might have experienced this yourself – perhaps you have had a teacher who instilled in you a great passion for the study of physics during his lectures? Or you happened to attend a political, grassroots gathering where you heard a speech that changed your attitude towards homelessness or poverty. Or maybe your classmate's presentation revealed something about a novel you were reading in class that made you reflect on your own life and the people in it.

The power of a speech lies in your conviction and delivery of the topic you choose to discuss. A persuasive speech topic can be anything you are passionate about. Yes, it is true; whether you want to discuss the repercussions of the Cuban Revolution or analyze the power of K-pop in popular culture, it is up to you to enthrall the audience with your topic. The key to any successful speech is your confidence and enthusiasm. So, let’s start by examining what makes a speech persuasive.

To deliver a speech takes a lot of guts – not everybody is comfortable with public speaking. But to deliver a good speech takes conviction. Think of it like this: you must believe in the importance of your speech topic to discuss it. This must be something you care about and believe in; otherwise, your topic must be something that drives your curiosity, and you believe that it must be examined further.

Conviction stirs your desire to share this topic with others – you are convinced that other people will similarly find this topic fascinating! Whether it is the importance of recycling or bike lanes, the conviction is what will become the backbone of a successful and persuasive topic choice, as well as drive your desire to give a speech in the first place.

With conviction comes passion. These two elements of a successful speech are intimately intertwined. If you believe in the importance of something, you will be passionate about sharing it with the public.

If we look at some of the most famous speeches in human history, you will notice that conviction and passion are the driving force that makes these speeches legendary. Whether it's Cicero's defense of the Republic in the Roman Senate or Martin Luther King's speech in the defense of civil rights almost two millennia later, both these speakers believed in the importance of their convictions and were passionate about sharing their beliefs. In these cases, even despite the threats of death.

Unbiased Expertise

Conviction and passion should also drive your need to know everything there is to know about your topic. To give a persuasive speech, you must not only show confidence and excitement but demonstrate that you are an expert in the topic of your choice. Granted, if you are a high school student or an undergraduate who's been assigned to deliver a speech in less than 2 weeks, you are not going to become a world-renowned expert in your subject matter. However, as I pointed out, your speech topic should be something you are already passionate about, so you must have done some research and have some knowledge of your topic.

A persuasive speech should be based on facts. It should deliver arguments and counterarguments to show many sides of the issue you choose to discuss. For example, if you choose to discuss the importance of bike lanes, you can present several arguments in support of creating more bike lanes in your town or city, such as safety, decrease in traffic, environmental benefits, etc. However, make sure to include arguments that also show the other side of the issue, such as having to close down several major streets in your city to reconstruct the roads to fit in the new bike lanes and the side-effects of construction for businesses. Presenting both sides of the issue will show your comprehensive knowledge of the topic and demonstrate your professionalism.

Using the bike lanes topic as an example, I want to emphasize that showing unbiased research and knowledge of your topic can win the audience’s favor. You can, and should, still have your own opinion on the matter and defend your conviction in the speech but presenting the audience with both sides of the story is a tactic that will make them trust you.

Additionally, knowing both sides of the coin shows that you have come to your conviction after long and thorough research. You are not just presenting an uneducated opinion.

Taking care of the substance of your speech is the first step. While learning how to properly deliver your speech may seem less important, even the most well-researched and factually based speech will seem weak if the orator does not engage the public.

Though they certainly help your confidence, conviction and passion do not always result in strong delivery. This is understandable since public speaking is not everyone’s forte. While you may be animated and absorbing when you speak of your topic with friends, gripping an audience full of strangers is different.

There are three potential goals of any persuasive speech:

To familiarize your audience with a topic they have never considered before and inspire them to research it on their own. "}]" code="timeline1">

When you think about it, these objectives are pretty ambitious. Delivery plays a huge part in achieving these goals. It will be hard to move your audience to pursue any of these goals without clear articulation, professionalism, and charisma.

Strong delivery can be developed. Yes, there are those to whom oratory skills come more naturally, but this is rather an exception than the rule. Many successful orators were terrified of public speaking but worked hard to overcome their fears. A good example of this is King George VI of England. Before taking the throne in 1936, he was already an infamously bad speaker. The King trained to keep his speech impediment and nerves at bay once he was crowned and delivered one of the most inspiring speeches against Adolf Hitler and the Third Reich at the beginning of World War II.

Now that you know what makes a speech topic persuasive, let's go over a step-by-step formula that will help you choose the right topic for you. 

• Brainstorm where your convictions lie and what you are passionate about. You must reflect on what interests, hobbies, news, events, individuals, and activities of yours could be developed into a persuasive, strong narrative. 
• Narrow these down to 2 or 3 topics that are particularly important or riveting to you. 
• Now comes the practical side of the brainstorming process: take a moment to think whether preparing a comprehensive and compelling speech on this topic is feasible in the amount of time you have available. Consider the following questions: Are the topics of your choice well researched by you? Do you know these topics well? If you are not well-versed in the topic of your choice, do you have enough time to do research to present a comprehensive and complete narrative? Do you have enough time to form a well-developed stance about this topic? A thesis? Will you be able to cover several sides of this topic in the amount of time you have available?
• If you have answered “No” to these questions regarding each of the topics you had in mind, you must go back to the drawing board. 
• If you have come up with a topic that results in a positive response to all the questions mentioned in step 3, you might have found the winner.
• Start by developing a thesis, i.e., the main message of your speech. Without a thesis, you will not have a strong speech. 
• Develop arguments that endorse your thesis and support them with facts. Remember, a strong speech must be based on facts, rather than opinions and unsubstantiated statements.
• Research counterarguments to your thesis. While you may not personally support these, you must present a well-rounded picture of the issue you are discussing. 
• You can finish off your speech by responding to the counterarguments in a way that reinforces your thesis. Don't forget to re-emphasize your main message in the closing paragraphs of your speech.

Know your audience

It is always a good idea to know who your audience is. Whether you are giving a speech in your high school, or traveling to attend an undergraduate conference, reflect on who will be listening to your speech. Before you sit down to write it, consider whether you can give yourself the freedom to use technical language, jargon, or make inside jokes on the matter. In general, I would advise you to avoid overly technical or niche language. It is never a good tactic for making a persuasive speech – this might alienate a large part of your audience.

However, if you are delivering a speech to a like-minded audience, you may use "industry lingo". For example, if you are delivering a speech at a video game convention, it is likely that many, if not most, attendees will be familiar with the terms and vocabulary you use. You will be able to strengthen your speech by using language that unites you with your audience. In this case, you are encouraged to engage the public by making inside jokes, using niche terminology, and creating a relatable experience with your speech.

Knowing your audience will allow you to develop a language for your speech. It will also allow you to gauge how deep you can delve into the topic of your choice. For example, if you are a young physics aficionado who is giving a lecture on black holes to your sophomore classmates, you might want to consider the fact that many of them have never studied physics in depth. This may help you shape your speech into something accessible and interesting for others.

If you are unsure about who your audience might be, try researching it. It is always good practice to know whom you will be addressing. Not only will it help you prepare the speech, but it will also ease your anxiety about the day of your speech delivery.

Hook the audience

Your opening sentences can hook the audience and guarantee their attention. While it will be the substance of your speech that keeps them listening to you, the opening must be captivating for your speech to have a chance for success.

So, what do I mean by hooking the audience with your opening? For example, you can state a shocking statistic about your topic. It will be especially impactful if it is related to your audience’s experiences, geographical area, community, or hot-topic issue. Here’s an example for an opening sentence for a speech about the importance of bike lanes:

“Last year, the city of Toronto recorded 715 serious accidents involving cyclists, with over 5% of these accidents resulting in a fatality."

Now, if I was living in Toronto, I would be surprised to hear such information; especially, if I have never thought about this before. I am saddened by this statistic and would like to learn how we can help prevent these accidents.

Let’s examine another opening. This time, we will consider a speech topic involving a historical event. For example, if you are captivated by the mystery of Princess Anastasia of the Russian royal family, the House of Romanov, you might start your speech thusly:

“The question of whether the Grand Duchess Anastasia Nikolaevna Romanova survived the brutal execution of her entire family by the Bolsheviks is one of the greatest mysteries of the 20th century.”

This sentence performs several tasks:

The opening sentence is your chance to establish yourself as the expert! You will seem like the authority on this topic, especially if you can pronounce the Princess's name without mistakes. "}]" code="timeline2">

Coming up with a strong opening sentence is not easy, but very worthwhile for delivering a persuasive speech. If you are having trouble finding the right opening sentence, you do not need to wait to start writing your speech. If you are stuck, move on to the main body of your speech and return to creating a captivating opening later.

To be persuasive, your speech must have a thesis. A thesis is the main argument you are trying to convince your audience of, or simply put, the purpose of you giving the speech. Without a thesis, your speech will be aimless, chaotic, and most likely, unengaging.

And while you can write your introduction after the main body of your speech is ready, you cannot write your speech without a thesis. It will be the landmark, the leading light, of your speech. Everything you say and every fact and argument you include in your essay must support your thesis. Certainly, you will be able to bring up alternative points of view later in the speech, but as we already discussed, your objective is to persuade the audience that your thesis is the correct one.

Let’s return to our bike lanes example. If you are a proponent of bike lanes, your thesis should be more than “Bike lanes are good”. While this can be considered a thesis, it is pretty thin. Instead, find a way to make your thesis compelling, include a supporting statistic, or a benefit of having bike lanes. For example: 

“Having more bike lanes in our city will not only reduce traffic by X% but also allow our city to be at the forefront of the environmentally friendly initiatives happening all over our country.” 

This thesis is clear and introduces the audience to some of the main points of the speech. The listeners get a concise prelude to what the speech is about and what it stands for.

Research and Arguments

Research is always conducted before you sit down to write. While you may have some general knowledge about your topic, remember that you are trying to be as persuasive as you possibly can be. This means that you need the latest statistics, the most up-to-date information, and the strongest support from experts in the field. 

Tip: keep in mind your thesis as you are writing. All your arguments and facts must be in support of the main purpose of your essay. While you should present alternative points of view in your speech to make it well-rounded and unbiased, a strong speech must contain arguments that make it clear that your thesis is the correct one.

Concluding your speech has a twofold purpose. In addition to persuading the audience of your thesis, you must complete your narrative. Give the audience some closure about the topic. On the other hand, you must leave them even more interested in learning about your research. In other words, they must be compelled to explore on their own.

Tip: your conclusion cannot be a dry summary of your thesis and arguments. While you must restate your thesis in the conclusion, you are strongly encouraged to incite an emotional response from your audience. For example:

“More bike lanes will alleviate the heavy traffic and relieve our city from car fumes and soot. It is our responsibility to start making our city more eco-friendly. These small steps will inspire even more initiatives across our hometown and lead to a brighter, greener, future."

In this example, the audience is not only reminded of the main purpose of the speech but is also encouraged to think of other green initiatives that can help their town. The author does a good job of invoking responsibility for the future to encourage their audience to act. 

Want to learn how to choose persuasive speech topics? Check out our infographic:

Now, let’s go over 150 persuasive speech topics that can inspire your own essay and presentation! Note that these are questions that should help you form ideas, arguments, and most importantly, theses. Rather than giving you the thesis upfront, we are encouraging you to come up with your own opinion and answers to these questions.

Your speech should be between 15 to 20 minutes long. Anything longer may lose your audience's attention. If applicable, don't forget to factor in some time after your presentation for questions from the audience.

The best way to approach the choice of topic is to reflect on your convictions and passions. If you are truly interested in a topic, your excitement will be felt by the audience.

Of course, you must be interested in your topic, first and foremost. Secondly, your speech must demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge that will allow the audience to believe that you know what you are talking about. Thirdly, your delivery will have a great effect on whether you succeed in persuading the audience. Even a well-researched speech will suffer from poor delivery.

Firstly, only practice can really help you improve. Once you have written your speech, read it over several times. Do not memorize it, but rather, remember the structure, the flow of your arguments, your main points. Then start practicing pronouncing your entire speech in front of the mirror. Do this until you are quite confident with the content of the essay. Then, you can start practicing with family members, your friends, and classmates. Ask for their feedback: can they hear you well? Are you being articulate? Does your speech have a logical flow? Did they understand your thesis? Their feedback can help you modify not only your content, but also your presentation.

Your speech should take the form of an academic essay: introduction, main body, and conclusion.

Your speech must have a thesis, otherwise it will be meandering and pointless. A thesis will guide you and keep your essay/presentation well-structured. A thesis is what you will be arguing for (or against, if it's a negatively stated thesis) throughout your speech. And while you can include some alternative points of view in your speech, your thesis will inform every argument you make in the speech.

Typically, you should avoid using overly technical language. Even if you are presenting at a professional conference in front of peers, there is a chance that some of your audience will be unfamiliar with the professional terminology. To be inclusive, you should avoid niche language.

To be frank, there is no such thing. You can make a great speech on any topic of your choosing! Your research, your delivery, and your passion will determine whether your speech is successful.

Acknowledging opposing views and presence of debate will demonstrate your thorough knowledge of the topic. Additionally, you will demonstrate that you came to your conclusion/thesis after researching the topic, rather than simply forming an uneducated opinion.

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

General Education

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

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

What Makes a Good Persuasive Speech Topic?

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

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

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

It's a Topic People Care About

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

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

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

It Isn't Overdone

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

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

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

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

105 Topics for a Persuasive Speech

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

Arts/Culture

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

Government/Politics

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

Science/Environment

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

3 Bonus Tips for Crafting Your Persuasive Speech

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

Do Your Research

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

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

Consider All the Angles

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

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

Know Your Audience

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

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

More Resources for Writing Persuasive Speeches

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

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

Conclusion: Persuasive Speech Ideas

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

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

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

• Do your research
• Consider all the angles
• Know your audience

What's Next?

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

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

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

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

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

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

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

Ask a Question Below

Have any questions about this article or other topics? Ask below and we'll reply!

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Effective communication skills are more crucial than ever, especially for this decade where persuasive communication has considered as one of your strongest traits. It empowers individuals to express their thoughts clearly and confidently, making a lasting impact on their audience.

Due to its powerful communication, academic experts have included persuasive speeches in the coursework. Whether you are a student preparing for academic challenges or seeking to ignite change, mastering the art of persuasive speeches is essential.

Persuasive speech is a form of public speaking that not only nurtures self-expression but also engages diverse audiences to express thoughts on specific subjects. It strengthens the ability to stand up for one’s beliefs. Considering the importance of persuasive speech in academics, we wrote this blog on top persuasive speech topics for 2024 to help you improve your persuasive speech skills. 

In academic settings, persuasive speeches are used to present research papers, participate in debates, or deliver compelling arguments. The ability to communicate persuasively is key to achieving success in these endeavors. By developing effective persuasive speech skills, you can captivate your audience, convey your ideas with clarity and conviction, and leave a lasting impact. 

This blog aims to provide you with a thoughtfully curated list of good persuasive speech topics for 2023. We understand that selecting the right persuasive topic can be overwhelming, but fear not because we have done the hard work for you. We strive to be your primary source for generating persuasive speech ideas.  

Our meticulously chosen lists of topics for persuasive speech are designed to inspire you with thought-provoking ideas. Each persuasive topic reflects the pressing issues and trends of the year, ensuring that you have relevant and engaging subjects to explore. However, we don’t stop there! We also offer valuable tips and strategies to assist you in crafting a compelling speech that resonates with your audience. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced speaker, this blog will be your companion in choosing the best persuasive speech topics. 

Moreover, understanding your challenges to write down persuasive speeches, our experts suggest you can take the help of an Instasolving USA assignment help . The experts will help you to nail your speech.

What is a Persuasive Speech?

A persuasive speech is a special kind of speech that aims to convince the audience to accept a specific viewpoint, take a particular action, or change their beliefs or behavior on a certain topic. The main goal of a persuasive speech is to persuade, influence, or motivate the listeners by presenting a strong argument supported by logic, evidence, and emotions to pursued them to get convinced about your topic.  

A persuasive speech follows a structured format, including an introduction, body, and conclusion. In the introduction, the speaker grabs the audience’s attention, establishes credibility, and clearly states the main argument or idea. The body of the speech provides supporting evidence, examples, and logical reasoning to strengthen the central message.

This section may also address counterarguments and refute opposing viewpoints to strengthen the speaker’s position. Finally, the conclusion summarizes the key points and restates the main argument, leaving the audience with a memorable and persuasive closing statement. 

It’s important to remember that it’s unrealistic to expect everyone in the audience to adopt the speaker’s viewpoint after a single speech instantly. In a democracy, everyone has the right to their own opinion. However, a persuasive speech aims for complete understanding and agreement from the speaker’s perspective within certain limits. 

Components of a Persuasive Speech

A persuasive speech comprises essential components that aim to persuade the audience. These key components are Ethos, Logos, and Pathos; each plays a crucial role in crafting a compelling argument. Let’s explore the significance of each component in detail

• Ethos: Ethos refers to the speaker’s credibility and trustworthiness. It involves showing expertise, knowledge, and authority on the persuasive topic. This can be achieved by presenting qualifications, personal experiences or citing credible sources. Establishing ethos helps build confidence and enhances the persuasive impact of the speech.  
• Logos: Logos employs logical reasoning and evidence to support the main argument. It involves presenting facts, statistics, expert opinions, and logical arguments. The use of logos appeals to rationality and intellect. Providing well-researched evidence and logical explanations strengthens the argument and convinces the audience of the viewpoint’s validity.  
• Pathos: Pathos aims to evoke emotions and establish a connection with the audience. It involves the use of storytelling, vivid descriptions, and emotional language. Pathos appeals to feelings, values, and empathy. By tapping into the audience’s emotions, Pathos helps create an emotional bond, making the argument more relatable and persuasive. This emotional connection can influence attitudes, beliefs, and actions.  

Ethos, Logos, and Pathos form a powerful trio in a persuasive speech topic when effectively combined. Ethos establishes credibility, Logos provides logical reasoning and evidence, whereas Pathos appeals to emotions. By incorporating these components, speakers can create a persuasive argument that resonates with the audience and increases the likelihood of achieving the desired outcome. 

Importance of Persuasive Speeches for Students   

Persuasive speeches are highly important for students as they offer valuable skills and benefits. Firstly, they help students develop strong communication skills, enabling them to express their thoughts and ideas effectively. By crafting persuasive speeches, students learn to organize their arguments, choose compelling language, and engage their audience. These skills are not only valuable in your academic carrier but also help you in your personal and professional life.  

Furthermore, persuasive speeches promote critical thinking among students. Researching the topic, gathering evidence, and analyzing different perspectives enable students to think critically and evaluate information. They learn to anticipate counterarguments and present well-reasoned viewpoints, enhancing their ability to think logically and make informed decisions.

3 Types of Persuasive Speech Topics

1. factual persuasive speech:  .

Factual persuasive speeches involve presenting information and evidence to convince the audience about specific persuasive topics or points of view. These speeches rely on facts, statistics, research findings, and expert opinions to support the speaker’s argument. The goal is to present a compelling case based on objective evidence and logical reasoning. Factual persuasive speeches are effective when the speaker needs to educate the audience, debunk myths, or raise awareness about important issues. 

2. Policy Persuasive Speech:  

Policy persuasive speeches focus on advocating for specific actions or changes in policies, laws, or regulations. These speeches aim to persuade the audience to support a particular course of action or influence decision-makers to implement a specific policy. Persuasive policy speech topics require a thorough understanding of the issue, including its implications, potential benefits, and possible drawbacks. Presenting a well-reasoned argument and proposing practical solutions are essential in this type of persuasive speech ideas.  

3. Value Persuasive Speech:  

Value persuasive speeches aim to persuade the audience to adopt or embrace a particular set of values, beliefs, or moral principles. These speeches tap into persuasion’s emotional and ethical aspects, appealing to the audience’s sense of right and wrong, justice, or personal convictions. Value persuasive speeches often touch upon sensitive and controversial topics, such as social justice, environmental ethics, or personal integrity. They require the speaker to deeply connect with the audience, employing storytelling, personal anecdotes, and compelling arguments to sway their values and beliefs on persuasive topics. 

What Makes Good Persuasive Speech Topics?   

Good topics for persuasive speeches possess several key qualities that make them engaging, impactful, and compelling to the audience. Here are three cost effective essential aspects to consider when choosing topics for a persuasive speech:

1. Simple and Easy Topic:  

Good persuasive speech topics should be simple and easy to understand for both the speaker and the audience. It should be accessible to many people, regardless of background or expertise. By choosing a straightforward and uncomplicated persuasive topic, the speaker can effectively convey their message and ensure the audience can easily grasp the main points. This simplicity facilitates clarity and encourages active engagement from the listeners. 

2. New Topic:  

The interesting persuasive speech topics should be new and current, addressing the pressing issues and trends of the time. By selecting a relevant and up-to-date topic, the speaker can capture the audience’s attention and demonstrate the significance of the subject matter. New persuasive topics are more likely to resonate with the audience and generate a sense of relevance and urgency. They allow the speaker to tap into the listeners’ collective consciousness, fostering a connection and a sense of shared importance. 

3. Interesting Topic:  

The best persuasive speech topics should be interesting and captivating to both the speaker and the audience. It should pique curiosity, spark discussions, and evoke emotions. Choosing inherently interesting persuasive speech topics for the speaker will enhance their enthusiasm and passion, which will be conveyed to the audience. Interesting persuasive topics for speech often challenge conventional thinking, present unique perspectives, or shed light on lesser-known aspects of a subject. They encourage active participation and inspire the audience to think critically and engage with the speech more deeply. 

How to Choose a Persuasive Speech Topic?

Choosing good topics for a persuasive speech is crucial for persuasive speech ideas that captivate your audience. Follow these steps to choose a persuasive speech topic that is engaging and impactful: 

• Identify your interests: Start by considering persuasive topics that genuinely interest you. It’s easier to speak passionately and persuasively about subjects you are personally devoted to. 
• Research current issues: Stay updated on current events and trending persuasive topics. Look for pressing issues that spark debates or controversies. These topics will likely engage your audience and make your speech more relevant. 
• Consider your audience: Understand your audience’s demographics, interests, and concerns. Tailor your persuasive topic to resonate with their needs and perspectives. It will also help you connect with them on a deeper level. 
• Brainstorm ideas: Generate a list of potential persuasive speech topics based on your interests and the needs of your audience. Don’t limit yourself at this stage; let your creativity flow freely. 
• Evaluate the feasibility: Assess the feasibility of each good persuasive topic by considering the availability of credible sources, relevant data, and supporting evidence. Ensure that you can gather enough information to support your arguments effectively. 
• Narrow down your options: Review your list and prioritize the topics for persuasive speech that align with your interests, audience, and feasibility criteria. Choose the most compelling and well-rounded options. 
• Test for significance and impact: Ask yourself if the chosen persuasive topics for speech have the potential to make a meaningful impact or persuade others. Consider the importance and relevance of each topic in the context of the current social, political, or environmental landscape. 
• Choose the final topic: Based on the previous steps, select the persuasive speech topic that ticks all the boxes: it aligns with your interests, resonates with your audience, is well-researched, and carries significance and impact. 

Top Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024  

The foundation of good persuasive speech ideas lies in the topic you select. Therefore, make sure that the persuasive speech topics for 2023 that you choose are close to your heart. Undoubtedly, you need to believe in the topic to appeal emotionally to the audience and sway their support. 

You can’t convince the audience unless you are confident about what you are saying. Therefore, begin your search for good persuasive speech topics for 2023 with a solid understanding of the topic. Without a deeper understanding and a sound knowledge of the topic, you cannot make a compelling argument. So, complement your understanding with impressive storytelling technique to ensure that you have a good narrative through which you can persuade your audiences easily.  

Thus, let’s delve into the list of good persuasive speech topics for 2023 that you must check out: 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 in Arts

• Importance of performing arts for holistic development 
• Should art be a compulsory discipline? 
• Graffiti: Art or Nuisance 
• Importance of art and culture 
• Should performing arts be made credit based 
• Museums are the dying reservoir of arts and culture 
• Entry to museums should be free 
• Schools should host annual arts festivals 
• The slow death of ancient art forms 
• Modern art lacks authenticity 

Best Persuasive Speech Topics for High School Students:  

• The importance of volunteering in your community 
• The benefits of implementing mindfulness exercises in schools 
• Why high school students should learn financial literacy 
• The need for comprehensive sex education in schools 
• The importance of promoting mental health awareness among teenagers 

Best Persuasive Speech Topics for College Students:  

• The advantages of studying abroad during college 
• The impact of technology on higher education 
• The benefits of participating in internships during college 
• Why college students should engage in extracurricular activities 
• The importance of developing critical thinking skills in college 
• Emerging Technologies: Blockchain, AI, and Their Societal Impact
• Global Health Issues: Strategies for Pandemic Preparedness
• Cultural Diversity and Inclusion in the Modern World
• Ethical Implications of Artificial Intelligence and Robotics
• Space Exploration: Benefits and Risks for Humanity
• The Future of Work: Gig Economy and Remote Working Trends
• Sustainable Practices in Food Production and Consumption
• The Role of Youth in Shaping Political Landscapes
• The Impact of Globalization on Local Cultures and Economies
• Mental Health Awareness in a Digital Age

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Academics  

• Books are the only source of learning 
• Computer-based learning is the most effective 
• Gamification and virtual reality are the future of education 
• MCQs are better than essay tests 
• Extracurriculars are a waste of time 
• Only main papers should be considered for grading 
• Academics are the only criteria for individual success 
• Rote learning is the best way to get good grades 
• Conceptual clarity beats rote learning 
• Sports can boost learning effectiveness 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on the Economy  

• Brexit will fuel the UK economy 
• There should be no minimum wage 
• Political unrest decelerates economic growth 
• Economics as a discipline must be mandatory 
• The economic growth of China is a model to follow 
• Free trade agreements are bad for labor 
• The economy is defined by a few rich industrialists 
• Foreign labor slows down the economy 
• Import duty should be removed 
• Exports boost economic growth 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Entertainment  

• Reality shows are a source of exploitation 
• Reality shows are anything but real 
• Media has a negative influence on teenagers 
• Media influences political decisions 
• TV shows influence human behavior 
• TV shows reflect the society around 
• Reality shows reduce human IQ 
• TV shows are a great source of motivation 
• Reality shows are scripted 
• Reality shows dilute important topics of discussion

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Ethics  

• Juvenile delinquency is acceptable 
• Prostitution should be legal 
• Underage driving should be punishable by law 
• Beauty pageants for children should be banned 
• Prisoner’s right to vote 
• Voting rights should not be universal 
• Guns should be banned from college campuses 
• The death penalty should be abolished 
• Substance abuse is a cause of social evils 
• Underage alcohol consumption should lead to prison time 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Environment  

• There should be strict penalties to protect endangered species 
• Environmental pollution is a global concern 
• Developed nations are to blame for global warming 
• The greenhouse effect threatens human existence 
• Limiting the use of natural resources and fossil fuels 
• A complete switch to renewable energy is the way to go 
• Using plastic is self-defeating 
• Humans are to blame for environmental degradation 
• Carpooling can save the environment 
• Noise pollution is detrimental to human development 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Fashion  

• Men shouldn’t wear pink 
• Eco-fashion is the future 
• Fashion reveals the true identity 
• Sustainable clothing is the way to go 
• Clothes define a person 
• Jewelry defines your worth 
• Fashion is an important part of society 
• Certain fashion brands have a negative influence on society 
• The fashion industry has the greatest influence on teenagers 
• Celebrity-endorsed fashion brands are the best 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Motivation  

• Following dreams is hard 
• Goal setting is important for success 
• Overcoming stage fright is crucial for success 
• Importance of creating a positive vibe 
• Sustainable living is a source of motivation 
• Happiness can be measured 
• Personal experience is more important than rote learning 
• Exposure to violence leads to demotivation 
• Video games increase motivation 
• Motivating teamwork and cooperation  

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Travel  

• Airline tickets should be cheaper 
• Travel brings new experiences 
• Travel makes you more inclusive 
• Eco-tourism is important for sustainable development 
• Flying first class is a once-in-a-lifetime experience 
• Traveling in a guided group is monotonous 
• Solo travel allows the best way to self-exploration 
• Antarctica should not be open to tourists 
• Environmentally endangered sites should not allow tourism 
• Tourism boosts the local economy 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics for 2024 on Technology  

• Google is the death of libraries 
•  Social media is an end of face-to-face conversations  
• AI is the future of technology 
• Technology is changing our lives 
• Limiting screen time for adults 
• Government should regulate internet usage 
• Technology has made life better 
• Internet chat rooms are not safe 
• Humans are addicted to technology 
• Internet fraud awareness: Must for cybersecurity 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics on Family:  

• The benefits of family meals and regular family time 
• The importance of open communication within families 
• The impact of divorce on children and ways to support them 
• The benefits of spending quality time with grandparents 
• The role of parental involvement in a child’s education 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics on Social Media:  

• The need to practice responsible social media usage 
• The impact of social media on mental health and self-esteem 
• The benefits of using social media for networking and professional development 
• The importance of digital literacy and online safety education 
• The role of social media in promoting social and political activism

Good Persuasive Speech Topics on Education:  

• The importance of arts education in schools 
• The benefits of personalized learning approaches 
• The need for inclusive education and accommodating diverse learning styles 
• The impact of standardized testing on students and alternative assessment methods 
• The benefits of early childhood education and its long-term effects 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics on Sports:  

• The benefits of participating in team sports for physical and mental health 
• The importance of gender equality in sports 
• The impact of sports on character development and leadership skills 
• The benefits of including adaptive sports programs for individuals with disabilities 
• The role of sports in fostering community and promoting social integration 

Good Persuasive Speech Topics on Politics and Government:  

• The importance of voting and civic participation in a democratic society 
• The impact of climate change policies on future generations 
• The need for stricter gun control laws to ensure public safety 
• The benefits of implementing universal healthcare 
• The importance of promoting diversity and inclusivity in political representation 

Best Tips for Writing a Persuasive Speech  

• Understand your audience: Research and analyze your audience’s demographics, beliefs, values, and knowledge of good persuasive topics. It will also help you tailor your arguments and appeals to resonate with them. 
• Choose a compelling topic: Select persuasive topics that are interesting, relevant, and align with your audience’s interests and concerns. Also, make sure you are passionate about it and can effectively argue for or against it. 
• Conduct thorough research on your chosen topic: Gather credible and up-to-date information from reliable sources to support your arguments. You can also use sources such as books, articles, studies, and expert opinions to strengthen your speech. 
• Develop a clear thesis statement: Craft a concise and powerful thesis statement that clearly states your position on the topic. This will serve as the main focus of your speech and guide your arguments. 
• Structure your speech: Organize your persuasive speech ideas into an introduction, body, and conclusion. Start with a captivating opening to grab your audience’s attention, present your arguments logically and coherently in the body, and end with a solid and memorable conclusion. 
• Use persuasive techniques: Incorporate rhetorical devices, such as ethos (credibility), pathos (emotions), and logos (logic), to appeal to your audience’s emotions, intellect, and sense of credibility. You can also use storytelling, examples, statistics, and quotes to make your arguments more compelling. 
• Anticipate counterarguments: Address potential counterarguments and provide counterpoints to strengthen your position. Consider opposing viewpoints and refute them with solid evidence and reasoning. 
• Engage your audience: Use engaging language, vocal variety, and body language to keep your audience interested and attentive. Encourage interaction through questions, rhetorical prompts, or audience participation. 
• Rehearse and revise: Practice your speech several times to improve your delivery and ensure smooth transitions. Revise and refine your content, eliminating unnecessary information or weak arguments. 
• Conclude with a call to action: End your speech with a clear call to action, urging your audience to take a specific step or adopt your viewpoint. Motivate them to act upon your persuasive message by leaving a lasting impression. 

For further enhancement of your persuasive speech, consider enlisting the assistance of a reputable speech writing service . Speech writers will help you refine your arguments, structure your speech effectively, and ensure your message resonates with the audience. Investing in professional speech writing greatly elevates the impact and effectiveness of your persuasive speeches as a student. 

Final Verdicts on Good Persuasive Speech Topics  

Choosing the best persuasive speech topics is essential for delivering impactful speeches in 2023. By exploring this blog’s discussed components, types, and tips, you can effectively engage your audience and make a meaningful impact. Remember to strike a balance between logical appeals and emotional connections to captivate your listeners. 

If you find yourself in need of assistance in crafting a persuasive speech that hits the mark, consider seeking help from TutorBin. With a network of subject matter experts, we offer support in refining your arguments, structuring your speech, and engaging your audience effectively. Their expertise can provide valuable guidance, helping you deliver a compelling and persuasive presentation. 

Embrace the power of persuasion, choose your persuasive topic wisely, and captivate your audience with amazing speeches in 2023. Make a difference with your persuasive voice and leave a lasting impact. 

Most Popular FAQs on Persuasive Speech Topics!  

How do i choose a persuasive speech topic  .

Choosing persuasive speech topics involves considering your personal interests, researching current issues, and understanding your audience. It’s essential to select persuasive topics that you are passionate about and that resonate with your audience. Additionally, staying updated on current events and trends can help you identify relevant and impactful topics. 

How do I make my persuasive speech engaging?  

To make your persuasive speech engaging, you can incorporate storytelling techniques, use visual aids, and involve the audience through interactive elements. Balancing logical appeals with emotional connections can help capture the audience’s attention and keep them invested in your speech. 

Can I get help with writing a persuasive speech?  

Yes, you can seek help with writing a persuasive speech. Online homework help websites like TutorBin offer assistance from expert writers who can guide you in developing persuasive arguments, structuring your speech, and engaging your audience effectively. They can also help you refine your ideas, improve your delivery, and make your speech more impactful. 

What are some good persuasive speech topics?  

• Climate change: Addressing the urgency of reducing carbon emissions and adopting sustainable practices. 
• Cyberbullying: Raising awareness about the impact of online harassment and promoting digital empathy. 
• Voting rights: Advocating for equal access to voting and the importance of civic engagement. 
• Mental health stigma: Breaking down stereotypes and promoting understanding and support for mental health issues. 
• Gender equality: Highlighting the importance of equal opportunities and challenging gender stereotypes. 

What are the best examples of a persuasive speech topic?  

• The benefits of adopting a plant-based diet for personal health and the environment. 
• The need for stricter gun control laws to reduce gun violence in society. 
• The importance of early childhood education in setting a solid foundation for future success. 
• The impact of social media on mental health and the need for responsible usage. 
• The benefits of renewable energy sources in mitigating climate change and creating a sustainable future. 

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125 Good Debate Topics for High and Middle Schoolers in 2024

April 2, 2024

What’s the most common phobia in the US? Snakes? Planes? Insects? Public speaking? Ding, ding, ding! If you chose the latter, you’re right on the money. According to an article from The Washington Post , 28% of responders fear public speaking above all else . While public speaking may be scary, it is a necessary and useful skill that benefits students in high school and beyond. Accordingly, one way for high school students to develop their public speaking skills is through the age-old activity of public forum debate, tackling hot-button debate topics from the use of ChatGPT on schoolwork to whether TikTok should be banned. (Fun fact: the art of debating dates back to the lessons of Socrates ! How’s that for time-tested?)

Debate provides the perfect opportunity for all students to practice essential life skills such as conducting research, structuring logical and persuasive arguments, and learning how to grapple with complex current issues. Additionally, debate can help build confidence, foster collaboration with peers, and enable students to become well-informed members of society. And who knows? A successful high school career on the debate team might just inspire a future career in public policy , international relations , or law .

What is the best topic for a debate?

Great question! The ideal debate topic should have relevance to students’ lives , be complex enough to sustain a lively discussion , and have a wealth of supporting “pro” and “con” evidence and data for students to draw upon to support their claims.

Before you choose a topic, you might want to do some preliminary research to see what is available. Remember, you can get creative! For example, if your topic is “Students should be allowed to wear pajamas to class,” you may have a hard time finding studies on that exact subject. Howevever, by researching similar topics, such as “ effect of clothing on productivity ” or “ effect of clothing on mental state,” you’d find a wealth of information to start building your argument.

Now that we’ve covered the essentials, let’s get into some great debate topics for high schoolers (and some debate topics for middle schoolers, as well!).

Education Debate Topics for High School

• Colleges should eliminate the use of standardized tests like the ACT and SAT for determining admissions.
• Schools should allow students to use ChatGPT when writing essays and completing assignments.
• All public schools should adopt a universal pass/fail grading system.
• School districts should allow their libraries to ban certain books.
• All students should have free access to higher education.
• Students should be allowed to wear pajamas to class.
• Students would benefit from a shorter school day.
• Schools should eliminate physical education requirements.
• All students should take a financial literacy course prior to graduating.
• Schools should permit teachers to carry firearms for self-defense.
• Teachers should prohibit the use of cell phones during school hours.
• High school classes should start later in the morning.
• Health classes should be eliminated and left up to parents.
• Schools should teach basic survival skills.
• Schools should downsize humanities and arts departments in favor of STEM departments.
• The Pledge of Allegiance is a form of propaganda.
• Period products should be available for free in school bathrooms.

Government Debate Topics for High School

• The government should lower the voting age to 16.
• The US should adopt a universal healthcare system.
• Censorship is sometimes justified in a democratic society.
• Hate speech should be protected under freedom of speech laws.
• The government should provide reparations for slavery and systemic racism.
• The US should implement a carbon tax to help combat climate change.
• The United States should take steps to disarm its nuclear arsenal.
• The US should abolish the electoral college and move to a popular vote system.
• The government should allow prisoners to vote.
• We should revise our penal system to focus on rehabilitation rather than punishment.
• Everyone should be required to serve in the military.
• Every state should have a sanctuary city.
• Prisoners should only be allowed to stay on death row for one year.
• We should abolish public access to the sex offender registry.
• Parenting education should be mandatory.
• The government should abolish religion-based federal holidays.
• State and federal investigators should not be allowed to use DNA from genealogy databases.
• Stay-at-home parents should receive compensation from the government.
• Undocumented immigrants should have a clear path to amnesty.

Science and Technology Debate Topics for High School

• It is the responsibility of social media companies to regulate hate speech on their platforms.
• The government should ban the use of facial recognition technology in public spaces.
• The government should hold social media companies responsible for overseeing the spread of misinformation on their platforms.
• The government should regulate the use of social media to protect user privacy.
• All social media companies should disclose what user data they’re collecting, and how it’s being used.
• Social media is hindering our ability to form meaningful connections with others.
• There should be an age restriction on using social media sites.
• The government should create guidelines for AI regulation to prevent widespread job loss in the workplace.
• The government should have the power to regulate the content of online platforms such as TikTok and YouTube.
• Sites like Twitter and Reddit should do away with anonymous posting.
• We should require social media influencers to disclose sponsored content.
• Artists who use AI to create their pieces should be banned from art contests and competitions.
• Car companies are responsible for self-driving car accidents.
• Electric cars are not sustainable.
• Parents shouldn’t be allowed to post photographs of their children online without their consent.
• You should be allowed to record anyone at any time, with or without their knowledge.

Health and Bioethics Debate Topics for High School

• The use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports is never ethical.
• The use of GMOs should be banned from all agriculture.
• The cloning of humans is ethical.
• The government should legalize all drugs, and tax them as it does cigarettes and alcohol.
• Pharmacies should sell birth control over the counter.
• We should ban animal testing for medical research.
• Authorities should prohibit doctors from prescribing placebos to patients.
• The US should legalize physician-assisted suicide.
• We should require genetic testing for all newborns.
• Patients should have the right to refuse medical treatments.
• The government should regulate the use of pesticides and other chemicals in agriculture.
• The government should mandate vaccines.
• The US should invest more in renewable energy resources to combat climate change.          
• Mail-order abortion pills should be available in every state.
• All restaurants should be required to print calorie counts on their menus.
• IVF embryos should be considered children.
• Embalming bodies should be banned.
• We should resurrect extinct species.                                                                                

Business Debate Topics for High School

• The government should increase the minimum wage.
• Universal basic income is necessary for a fair society.
• The government should ban unpaid internships.
• The government should regulate cryptocurrencies as they do other monies.
• The government should provide incentives for companies to hire more women and minorities.
• Companies should be required to disclose their gender pay gap.
• The U.S. should adopt a flat tax system.
• Companies’ boards should meet a set diversity quota.
• All companies that are able should transition to a work-from-home model.
• The government should provide financial incentives for companies to go green.
• We should require companies to provide at least three months of paid parental leave to their employees, regardless of gender.
• The government should force companies to disclose their carbon footprint.
• Everyone should tip 20% at food service establishments.
• Those who choose not to have children should be awarded an equivalent amount of paid leave.
• Millionaires should be required to donate a certain amount of money per year to charitable organizations.
• Commercial fishing should be banned.
• Fashion companies should not be allowed to manufacture clothing overseas.

Pop Culture Debate Topics for High School

• Reality TV portrays a distorted version of reality.
• Binge-watching TV shows is harmful to our mental health.
• Video games should have restrictions on the content they portray.
• Cosplay is a form of cultural appropriation.
• It is unethical for actors to play characters of different races and ethnicities.
• Award shows like the Oscars should have a diversity quota they must meet.
• Cancel culture is doing more harm than good.
• Celebrities should be held to a higher standard of behavior than the general population.
• Rap music is a positive influence on society.
• The paparazzi is harmful to celebrities’ well-being.
• Graphic novels are not literature.
• Genre fiction is less valuable than literary fiction.

Fun Debate Topics

• It is better to be well-versed in multiple topics than a specialist in one.
• Emojis should be allowed in formal correspondence.
• It is better to have the power of teleportation than that of invisibility.
• Exclamation points have become overused in text and email.
• Fast food restaurants should have a mandatory vegan option.
• Natural talent is more important for success than hard work.
• Cereal is technically a kind of soup.
• Pineapples belong on pizza.
• Marvel is a better superhero franchise than DC.
• Toilet paper should be rolled over, rather than under.
• Retired fashion trends should not return.
• Hot dogs are sandwiches.

Debate Topics for Middle School

• USDA regulators should ban junk food from school cafeterias.
• School should take place year-round.
• Schools should permit students to select classes based on their individual interests, rather than require all students to take the same classes.
• Schools should require students to complete a set number of volunteer hours in order to graduate.
• Single-gender schools are better than co-ed ones.
• The US should raise the driving age to 18.
• Children should earn a fixed amount for doing chores.
• Students should grade their teachers, too.
• Video games are a useful learning tool.
• Schools should not have a dress code.
• Teachers should not be allowed to give homework.
• Pageants and beauty contests are harmful.
• Pets should not be allowed at restaurants.
• Recess should be required at all middle schools.

I’ve got my topic, now what?

Once you’ve selected your debate topic, it’s time to prepare. Preparation for a debate involves some key steps, all of which are necessary to ensuring your argument is as sound and convincing as possible.

Putting Together a Successful Debate Argument, Step by Step

1) conduct your research ..

Read widely and smartly. As you go, take organized notes, marking down the sources of each—these will be pivotal later, when you’re building your argument and require points of reference. Research the counterarguments you find as well.

2) Organize your thoughts in a coherent manner .

Look over the data you’ve collected and decide your stance. Firstly, you should be able to articulate your position in a single, simple sentence. Then, create an argument that progresses logically. What do you feel are the strongest arguments for your position? You might consider placing your strongest or most thought-provoking argument last so that it is freshest in your listener’s mind.

Additionally, to help your listeners follow along, use signposts to indicate the direction of your claim. (Think of this as building your thesis. “In this argument, I will cover points A, B, and C.”)

3) Write out what you want to say .

Outline the main points of your stance. Under each section, bullet point key pieces of evidence that support your claim. Once you have that, see if you can summarize the bullet point using a single word or phrase. This way, when you’re in the heat of the moment, you can glance down and use that phrase to spark your memory.

4) Anticipate what your opponents might say .

This is essential to crafting a foolproof argument. Firstly, try to look at the debate from the opposing team’s side. Then, ask yourself: If you were arguing from their side, what points would you make? What is the rational counterargument to your claim, and how can you refute it? Where possible, you want to preclude any chance your opponent might have of catching you off-guard.

5) Practice !

Run through what you want to say, and run through it again. Get out the recorder and listen to a recording of yourself. Does your argument make sense? Practice for speed, clarity, and flow. In addition, memorization will help you get rid of any jitters you might have in the moment.

Good Debate Topics—Final Thoughts

In conclusion, debate is an excellent way for high schoolers to hone their communication skills. Moreover, by implementing the strategies outlined here, students will be better prepared to tackle debates with confidence, assured that they’ve put in the work to convey their ideas effectively and with success.

• High School Success

Lauren Green

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

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5 Hot Speaking Topics to Watch in 2023

As holiday lights and music begin to appear, it marks the time for planning ahead into 2023 for what the coming year will bring for the speaking industry. Like many in our industry, we hope that the coming year continues to bring many successful in-person and virtual events that are engaging, memorable, and well-attended. If you’re considering which speaking topics to focus on in 2023, here are a few of the trends that we’re already seeing this year heading into the next. Let’s go!

1. Emotional Balance and Inclusion

Let’s face it — it’s been a tough few years that many of us are still recovering emotionally. A trend that is already starting to take hold is one that is all about helping people feel a part of something bigger — whether at the workplace , in their communities, or in the world. Organizations seeking to smoothly integrate diverse perspectives and encourage productive dialogue in the workplace will find exceptional speakers on this topic. Workplaces will benefit from enhancing company culture , increasing the feeling of belonging within an organization, and empowering productivity from their teams. In communities, fostering feelings of inclusion and connection can benefit others less fortunate while providing purpose and connection for those in service to the cause.

2. Digital Transformation

This trend is one that the event industry has been closely watching as tech companies and brands alike begin to focus on the future including the Metaverse. Including speaking topics like cybersecurity , artificial intelligence , and blockchain , the technology sector continues to evolve at a highly rapid pace. In 2023, we expect to see more organizations consider how to use AI in their daily operations, ensure that they are up to date on cybersecurity best practices, and learn how to evolve their brands into the virtual world of the Metaverse . Speakers on these speaking topics and other forward – thinking futurists will be in high demand, so book early.

3. Environmental Responsibility

An IBM survey in 2021 said that two-thirds (67%) of Gen Z job seekers prefer to work for companies who have ESG policies and who actively manage their environmental impact. This is partially why many organizations developed environmental, societal, and governance policies in 2022. Next year, they’ll be looking to educate teams about environmental causes and ensure compliance with these ESG policies in their organizations . Not only is environmental responsibility an important topic for events, but creating events with minimal environmental impact is also an important factor behind this emerging topic. Whether leveraging sustainable materials or reducing greenhouse gas emissions by hosting virtual events, event organizers are leading by example in considering their impact on the environment.

4. Human Rights

Whether at home or around the world, speakers on human rights causes saw increased demand in 2022. As humans, we hope to make our world better, and these speaking topics point to where we need to focus our improvement efforts. Whether discussing the impact of the war on Ukraine, or understanding the plight of human trafficking victims , education is often the catalyst for change. As 2023 is also bringing economic uncertainty at home and abroad, ensuring basic human rights will be a topic many will be talking about.

5. US and Global Economics

As mentioned, most experts predict some type of economic recession in late 2022 or early 2023. Understanding the impact of this on organizations across various industries will become a topic of discussion, presenting an opportunity to bring in thought leaders and futurists that can provide clarity to uncertainty. Whether presented as a topic for discussion or influencing the planning of in-person events in 2023, the economy at home and abroad will be front of mind for many .

As with most years, we won’t know exactly what 2023 will bring us, but we are prepared to support the needs and requests of our clients by providing the best speakers and talent available to book for events. What speaking topics will event organizers be planning in 2023? We’ll be asking this and related questions in our 2023 Speaking Industry Survey starting in January 2023! Follow AAE Speakers on Facebook , LinkedIn , Twitter , and Instagram and be notified as soon as this survey opens. For a copy of the 2022 findings, please visit the 2022 Speaking Industry Benchmark Report .

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Political speaker pairs for bipartisan conversations in 2024, tuned in: the aae team’s podcast favorites revealed, how to build unicorns: three keys to embracing entrepreneurship for organizational success, six key takeaways from aae’s 2024 speaking industry benchmark report, don’t book your next speaker until you hear this.

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2023-2024 extemp central national points race: new standings after the uk toc are posted.

The new standings reflect the result of last weekend’s University of Kentucky Tournament of Champions (TOC).  Charlotte Reitman of NSU University School (FL) was the winner of that competition and earned 100 points.

This weekend features the other prominent Tournament of Champions (TOC) event on the calendar when Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois hosts its annual TOC of Extemporaneous Speaking.  The season’s second major is another third tier event and the winner will receive 100 points.  All competitors who reach the quarter-final round will also receive points.

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Hottopics: international extemp questions for the week of april 29-may 5, 2024, 2024 university of kentucky tournament of champions: reitman wins second national points event of the year; haider takes second.

#17 Charlotte Reitman of NSU University School (FL) won her second National Points Race tournament of the season, winning the final round over #4 Waleed Haider of Hendrickson High School (TX) by two ranks. Nick Pienkos of Marquette University School (WI) finished third, one rank behind Haider and three back of Reitman.

Reitman is the first Florida extemper to win the UK TOC since Justin Graham of Trinity Preparatory School, who won in 2016.

The final round was close as five extempers each received a first place rank. What clinched the title for Reitman was receiving two second place ranks while other competitors received a worse mixture of ranks from the panel.

#15 Tyler Crivella of Seven Lakes High School (TX) finished fourth and #19 Ellie Sohn of Flintidge Preparatory School (CA) took fifth. Crivella was appearing in his third National Points Race final round of the year while Sohn was appearing in her fourth.

Arya Goyal of Scarsdale High School (NY) finished sixth.

Several other extempers in the top 25 made the trip to Lexington for last weekend’s event. #9 Abhijay Rana of Bellarmine College Preparatory (CA) dropped in semi-finals while #2 Brandon Cheng of Flintridge Preparatory, #12 Taylor Burris of the Potomac School (VA), and #16 Austin Bauman of Bellarmine College Preparatory made it to the quarter-final round.

Since the UK TOC was a third tier event, Reitman will receive 100 points for winning and all competitors who reached elimination rounds will earn National Points Race points. The next National Points Race competition will take place next weekend in Evanston, Illinois when Northwestern University hosts the Tournament of Champions of Extemporaneous Speaking, the season’s second major championship.

Here are the results of the 2024 University of Kentucky Tournament of Champions ( Click here for tab sheet ):

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Top 49+ Informative Speech Topics For College Students 2023

If you are looking for informative speech topics then you are at the right place. Here in this post we will tell you more than 49 informative speech topics that will further help you in your study. Welcome to the world of knowledge and learning! As humans, we have an innate desire to expand our minds and learn new things. Whether it’s discovering new facts about the world around us or delving into the complexities of a particular topic, the pursuit of knowledge is a rewarding and fulfilling experience.

One effective way to gain new knowledge and insights is through informative speeches. These speeches are designed to educate and enlighten an audience on a particular topic, providing them with valuable information and insights that they may not have had otherwise. Informative speeches can be given on a wide range of topics, from science and technology to history and culture.

In this blog, we will explore the power of informative speeches and how they can help us to unlock new levels of knowledge and understanding. We will also provide you with 50 informative speech topics that you can use to expand your mind and impress your audience. So, let’s get started and delve into the fascinating world of informative speeches!

What is Informative Speech?

Table of Contents

An informative speech is a type of presentation that aims to educate, inform, and enlighten the audience on a specific topic. The main purpose of an informative speech is to impart knowledge and understanding to the audience, rather than persuade or entertain them. Informative speeches can cover a wide range of subjects, from scientific and technical topics to historical, cultural, and social issues.

In an informative speech, the speaker should use clear and concise language to explain the topic in a way that is easy for the audience to understand. They should also use appropriate visual aids, such as diagrams, images, or videos, to enhance the audience’s comprehension and retention of the information.

Informative speeches can be given in a variety of settings, such as classrooms, conferences, and public events. They can also be delivered through different mediums, including live presentations, video recordings, or podcasts. Regardless of the format, the goal of an informative speech is to provide valuable information and insights to the audience.

Elements of Informative Speech That You Must Know

The key elements of an informative speech are as follow:

1. Introduction

The introduction is the opening section of the speech and should grab the audience’s attention and give them a clear understanding of the topic. The introduction should also establish the speaker’s credibility and outline the key points of the speech.

The body of the speech is the main section and contains the bulk of the information that the speaker wants to convey. The body should be organized into several main points that are clear, concise, and easy to understand. Each point should be supported with evidence and examples.

3. Visual aids

Visual aids, such as slides, diagrams, or videos, can help to enhance the audience’s comprehension and retention of the information. Visual aids should be used sparingly and should be clear, concise, and relevant to the topic.

4. Conclusion

The conclusion is the closing section of the speech and should summarize the key points of the speech and reinforce the main message. The speaker should also leave the audience with a memorable takeaway or call-to-action.

5. Delivery

The delivery of the speech is an important element and includes the speaker’s tone, pace, and body language. The speaker should speak clearly and at an appropriate pace, making eye contact with the audience and using appropriate gestures to enhance the delivery.

How to Deliver Effective Informative Speech?

To deliver an effective informative speech, here are some tips:

1. Know your audience

Before preparing the speech, it is important to understand the audience and their level of knowledge about the topic. This will help to tailor the speech to the audience and use language and examples that are relatable and understandable.

2. Choose a topic

Choose a topic that is interesting, relevant, and informative. Research the topic thoroughly and ensure that the information is accurate and up-to-date.

3. Organize the speech

Organize the speech into clear and concise main points, with a logical flow that is easy to follow. Use transitions to move smoothly between points.

4. Use visual aids

Visual aids can help to enhance the audience’s understanding and retention of the information. Use simple, clear, and relevant visual aids that support the main points of the speech.

5. Practice the delivery

Practice the delivery of the speech to ensure that it flows smoothly and effectively. Record the speech and review it to identify areas for improvement.

6. Engage the audience

Engage the audience by asking questions, using humor, or providing relevant examples. Encourage participation and interaction to make the speech more memorable and effective.

7. Use effective body language

Use appropriate body language, such as eye contact, gestures, and facial expressions, to enhance the delivery of the speech and connect with the audience.

Here are more than 49 informative speech topics for college students in 2023:

1. Climate change

The causes and impacts of climate change, and ways to address and mitigate its effects.

2. Cybersecurity

The importance of cybersecurity, common threats, and how to protect yourself online.

3. Mental health

Understanding mental health, common mental health disorders, and strategies for maintaining good mental health.

4. Social media

The impact of social media on society, how it works, and the pros and cons of using social media. Social media agencies play a crucial role in harnessing the power of social media for businesses, helping them navigate its complexities and maximize its benefits.

5. Healthy eating

The importance of healthy eating, how to create a balanced diet, and the benefits of eating well.

6. Artificial intelligence

Understanding AI, its potential applications, and the ethical considerations of AI development.

7. Diversity and inclusion

Understanding diversity and inclusion, and why they are important in society and the workplace.

8. Renewable energy

The different types of renewable energy, their benefits, and how they are used around the world.

9. Vaccines

Understanding vaccines, their importance, and addressing common misconceptions about vaccines.

10. Mindfulness

Understanding mindfulness, how to practice mindfulness, and its benefits for mental health.

11. Space exploration

The history of space exploration, current space missions, and the future of space exploration.

12. Exercise

The benefits of exercise, how to create an exercise plan, and the different types of exercise.

13. Animal rights

Understanding animal rights, the ethical considerations of animal testing, and the treatment of animals in society.

14. Renewable resources

The different types of renewable resources, how they are used, and their benefits for the environment.

15. Mental illness stigma

Addressing mental illness stigma, why it exists, and how to reduce stigma.

16. Globalization

Understanding globalization, its impact on culture, and the economic effects of globalization.

17. Addiction

Understanding addiction, common types of addiction, and strategies for recovery.

18. Nuclear power

The history of nuclear power, current nuclear power usage, and the safety considerations of nuclear power.

19. Cultural appropriation

Understanding cultural appropriation, its impact on marginalized communities, and how to avoid cultural appropriation.

20. Homelessness

Understanding homelessness, the causes of homelessness, and strategies for addressing homelessness.

21. Gun control

Understanding gun control, the debate around gun control, and the impact of gun violence.

22. Human trafficking

Understanding human trafficking, the global scale of the problem, and strategies for addressing human trafficking.

23. Renewable transportation

The different types of renewable transportation, how they work, and their benefits for the environment.

24. Death penalty

Understanding the death penalty, the debate around the death penalty, and the legal considerations of the death penalty.

25. Cultural diversity

Understanding cultural diversity, its importance in society, and the benefits of promoting cultural diversity.

26. Water scarcity

Understanding water scarcity, its causes, and strategies for addressing water scarcity.

27. Human rights

Understanding human rights, the importance of human rights, and the global efforts to protect human rights.

28. Genetic engineering

Understanding genetic engineering, its applications, and the ethical considerations of genetic engineering.

29. Social justice

Understanding social justice, its importance in society, and the global efforts to promote social justice.

30. Ocean pollution

Understanding ocean pollution, its impact on the environment, and strategies for addressing ocean pollution.

31. Environmental racism

Understanding environmental racism, its impact on marginalized communities, and strategies for addressing environmental racism.

32. Plastic pollution

Understanding plastic pollution, its impact on the environment, and strategies for addressing plastic pollution.

33. Animal testing

Understanding animal testing, the ethical considerations of animal testing, and alternative methods for testing.

34. Climate justice

Understanding climate justice, its importance in addressing climate change, and the global efforts to promote climate justice.

35. Alternative energy sources

The different types of alternative energy sources, how they work, and their potential to replace fossil fuels.

36. Gender inequality

Understanding gender inequality, its impact on society, and strategies for addressing gender inequality.

37. Immigration

Understanding immigration, the impact of immigration on society, and the current debates around immigration policy.

38. Child development

Understanding child development, the stages of child development, and strategies for promoting healthy child development.

39. Food waste

Understanding food waste, its impact on the environment, and strategies for reducing food waste.

40. Elderly care

Understanding elderly care, the challenges of caring for the elderly, and strategies for providing quality elderly care.

41. Renewable building materials

The different types of renewable building materials, how they are used, and their benefits for the environment.

42. Body language

Understanding body language, how to read body language, and the impact of body language on communication.

43. Poverty

Understanding poverty, the causes of poverty, and strategies for addressing poverty.

44. Robotics

Understanding robotics, its potential applications, and the ethical considerations of robotics development.

45. Public speaking

Strategies for effective public speaking, overcoming stage fright, and delivering a compelling speech.

46. Universal healthcare

Understanding universal healthcare, the benefits of universal healthcare, and the challenges of implementing universal healthcare.

47. Renewable clothing materials

The different types of renewable clothing materials, how they are used, and their benefits for the environment.

48. Alzheimer’s disease

Understanding Alzheimer’s disease, the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, and strategies for providing care to individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.

49. Fair trade

Understanding fair trade, the importance of fair trade, and the impact of fair trade on society.

50. Artificial organs

Understanding artificial organs, their potential applications, and the ethical considerations of artificial organ development.

• Business Speech Topics
• Business Essay Introduction

Role of Informative Speech Topics

Informative speech topics play an important role in the success of an informative speech. Choosing a relevant and interesting topic can help to capture the audience’s attention, keep them engaged, and enhance their understanding and retention of the information.

Here are some key roles that informative speech topics play:

1. Grabbing the audience’s attention

The topic should be interesting and relevant to the audience’s interests and needs, and should grab their attention from the start of the speech.

2. Setting the tone and focus of the speech

The topic should set the tone and focus of the speech, and provide a clear understanding of the main points that will be covered.

3. Engaging the audience

The topic should engage the audience and encourage them to participate and interact with the speaker, through questions, discussion, or other forms of participation.

4. Enhancing understanding and retention

The topic should be informative and educational, providing valuable information and insights that the audience may not have had before. This can help to enhance their understanding and retention of the information.

5. Demonstrating the speaker’s expertise

The topic should demonstrate the speaker’s expertise and knowledge in the subject matter, helping to establish their credibility with the audience.

Ways To Find Trending Informative Speech Topics

Finding trending informative speech topics can be a great way to capture your audience’s attention and make your speech more relevant to current events. Here are some ways to find trending informative speech topics:

1. News outlets

Stay up to date with current events by following news outlets such as CNN, BBC, and NPR. These outlets cover a wide range of topics and can provide inspiration for informative speech topics.

2. Social media

Social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook can be great sources of trending topics. Follow influencers in your area of interest, and pay attention to the hashtags and discussions that are currently trending.

3. Online forums

Online forums such as Reddit and Quora can be great sources of information on trending topics. Look for discussions and threads related to your area of interest, and pay attention to the questions that people are asking.

4. Industry publications

If you are interested in a particular industry or field, industry publications such as Forbes, Harvard Business Review, and ScienceDaily can provide valuable insights and ideas for informative speech topics.

5. Google Trends

Google Trends is a free tool that allows you to see what people are searching for online. Use this tool to identify trending topics and search terms related to your area of interest.

6. Government websites

Government websites such as the National Institutes of Health , the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Environmental Protection Agency can provide valuable information on current issues and trends in public health and the environment.

By staying informed about current events and trends, you can find informative speech topics that are relevant and interesting to your audience.

Benefits of finding appropriate informative speech topics

Finding appropriate informative speech topics is essential for delivering a successful speech. Here are some benefits of finding appropriate informative speech topics:

1. Engage your audience

An appropriate informative speech topic can help you engage your audience by capturing their attention and keeping them interested throughout your speech. When you choose a topic that is relevant and interesting to your audience, they are more likely to listen and learn from your speech.

2. Establish credibility

Choosing an appropriate informative speech topic that you are knowledgeable about can help you establish credibility with your audience. When you deliver a speech on a topic that you are passionate about and have researched thoroughly, your audience is more likely to trust and respect your expertise.

3. Demonstrate your communication skills

Delivering a well-prepared and informative speech on an appropriate topic can demonstrate your communication skills to your audience. By organizing your speech effectively, using appropriate language and examples, and engaging your audience, you can show that you are an effective communicator.

4. Expand your knowledge

Researching and preparing for an informative speech on an appropriate topic can help you expand your knowledge and understanding of the subject matter. By learning more about a particular topic, you can deepen your understanding and share your insights with your audience.

5. Create a lasting impression

Choosing an appropriate informative speech topic can help you create a lasting impression on your audience. When you deliver a speech that is informative, engaging, and memorable, your audience is more likely to remember and share your message with others.

In conclusion, informative speech topics are a powerful tool for expanding your knowledge, engaging your audience, and making a lasting impression. 

By choosing topics that are relevant, interesting, and well-researched, you can deliver a compelling speech that captures your audience’s attention and leaves them with valuable insights and information. Whether you are a student, a professional, or a public speaker, informative speech topics can help you share your ideas and expertise with others in a meaningful way. So take the time to explore different topics, research them thoroughly, and deliver a speech that showcases your knowledge and communication skills. 

With the right informative speech topic, you can unlock the power of knowledge and expand your mind.

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7 Trending Keynote Speaking Topics for 2023

While getting the right  Motivational Speaker is absolutely crucial to the success of any event, nailing the speaking topic is equally as important. No point getting a gold-medallist in front of your crowd if you’re looking for complex, business-critical insight along with your dose of inspiration. But with so many emerging issues and trends in the wake of the pandemic, how do you settle on a topic that’s relevant, exciting, thought-provoking and appealing to your specific audience – and then find the perfect speaker to match? That’s where we come in.

At Keynote, we’re outrageously passionate about what we do, and with decades of industry experience behind us, we know what works. Here is our official round-up of the 7 hottest topics for 2023, and the motivational speakers guaranteed to bring them to life…

1. Future of Work  

With specialised insight into current and emerging trends influencing the workplace, these expert speakers help prepare audiences for what’s to come. From leadership and business models to culture and innovation, these speakers provide unique insight and inspiration to help businesses adapt and flourish in the dynamic landscape ahead.

2.  STEM 

These science and technology trailblazers are world-renowned experts in their own right, having made significant contributions in the fields of STEM. They’re also passionate about building the next generation of critical thinkers, innovators and leaders, inspiring young women to take on some of the fastest-growing industries of the future.

3. Mindfulness and Wellbeing  

With the full effects of pandemic lockdowns and remote work mandates still being evaluated, mindfulness and wellbeing has become one of the top priorities for businesses around the world. These leading industry experts provide audiences with life-changing practical tools to help them become more energised, resilient and productive, better at managing stress and achieving a healthy work-life balance.

4. The Circular Economy   

A thriving circular economy, where resources are circulated, waste is eliminated and nature is regenerated, is great for business, people and the environment. It’s the responsibility of every business to tackle global challenges like climate change, renewable energy, biodiversity loss, pollution and waste to help make it happen – and these inspiring speakers will show you how.

5. Performance Intelligence  

Do you know how your physical, psychological and emotional states impact your performance, and the performance of those around you? Performance Intelligence is a skill that can be developed with the right training and the right mindset. These industry experts will teach your audience valuable lessons on maximising human performance, applicable to both their personal and professional lives.

6. Diversity, Equality and Inclusion  

Having a diverse set of experiences, perspectives and backgrounds is crucial to attracting and retaining top talent, creating a strong work culture and fostering innovation, and can be a serious competitive advantage. These incredible speakers will show you why embracing diversity, equality and inclusion isn’t simply the right thing to do, it’s the smart thing to do.

7. Metaverse 

The Metaverse, a digital platform built on virtual and augmented reality, isn’t just for gamers. A future where experiences are available in virtual worlds accessible via smartphones and virtual reality headsets, isn’t far away. From virtual storefronts to virtual events, virtual training and digital sales, the Metaverse could be a huge opportunity for businesses willing to adapt – and these industry leaders can show you how your business can benefit.

We have some of the best minds in the business ready to share their incredible knowledge and unique insights to help your team navigate the road ahead in 2023. If you’d like us to curate a list of motivational speaker s and relevant, thought-provoking speaker topics for your next event, simply get in touch with us for a chat – we’re here to help!

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VCE English Oral Presentation Topics 2023

February 9, 2023

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Go ahead and tilt your mobile the right way (portrait). the kool kids don't use landscape..., introduction.

Choosing an Oral Presentation topic can be tough. Finding an idea that’s unique, relevant and interesting all at once can sometimes feel impossible; but don’t worry, this is where we come in! Below is a list of 12 potential Oral Presentation topics for you to draw inspiration from, selected in reference to the VCE assessment criteria .

Remember, this blog is not a resource to give you a finished speech idea , these are just jumping-off points. Plagiarism is very harshly punished in VCE and many other students will currently be reading this very same post, meaning it's up to YOU to figure out how you’ll form a unique angle if you pick one of these topics. To help you do this, each section provides an overview of the cultural events that make this topic relevant. Additionally, possible contentions are included, ensuring you can see how arguments about these topics can be effectively made. 

1. Kanye’s blow-up - The necessity of the media to stop platforming celebrities spreading harmful ideas

American rapper Kanye West has always been a controversial figure, but since his endorsement of Trump in 2016 he’s seemingly been on a particularly bad downward spiral. His descent into increasingly more extremist right-wing politics has led to the question of whether the news media, detached and neutral as they might claim to be, should even be reporting on him. 

As of writing (late 2022), Kanye’s recent appearances on far-right talk shows to voice support for Hitler and question the existence of the Holocaust (which has no doubt been topped by something equally controversial by the time this gets published) pushes this question right to its limit. 

Events like this are undoubtedly big stories that many people would like to know about, but does reporting on them do more harm than good? Do we realistically all have the self-control to ignore these figures when so much of modern news already revolves around controversy and gossip? Possible Contentions:

• Major media companies should reach an agreement to actively avoid covering celebrity behaviour that spreads dangerous ideas. 
• News media should make an extra effort to disprove the dangerous ideologies of those they cover, rather than presenting them in a ‘neutral way’.

2. Amber Heard - How online discourse can villainise marginalised groups and encourage ‘dogpiling’

A similar celebrity controversy that dominated 2022 headlines was the two-way public defamation lawsuit between actors Johnny Depp and Amber Heard, which involved accusations of abuse on both sides. One of the most notable parts of this case was the online depiction of Heard, on social media platforms such as Facebook and Youtube. 

Heard emerged as the internet’s new favourite punching bag, with an endless stream of videos and memes where her ‘ allegations of domestic violence and sexual assault were mocked for entertainment ’. Crucially, these were made to criticise her in a way that most clearly mirrored historical sexist stereotypes about emotionally manipulative women. You probably came across examples of these yourself, as platforms like Youtube have a history of directing users to this kind of content. 

As such, key issues were identified in terms of how social media warps online discussions of allegations of abuse. Additionally, like the last topic, the very fact that this legal dispute was publicly broadcast raises questions as to whether the media’s focus on this event may have worsened the issue. 

Possible Contentions:

• Personal legal proceedings between celebrities are not something that should be broadcast to the public.
• The online discussion regarding this trial demonstrates the need for increased regulation of hateful and abusive content on social media platforms.

3. Should Australia be made a republic in the wake of the Queen’s death?

The death of Queen Elizabeth II in September of 2022, among many other things, drew Australia back into a debate it's been having for decades; should we become a republic? This would be a shift from our current state of (effectively) being overseen by the United Kingdom as a ‘constitutional parliamentary monarchy’, with the ‘head of state’ now being an Australian citizen rather than the UK monarch. 

Although the replacement of the Queen with the new head of state (King Charles III) shouldn’t really shift people’s perspective on this issue, it most likely will. Queen Elizabeth has been the welcoming and approachable symbol of the monarchy for many Australians. Her death could be the catalyst for a shift in public opinion, severing the connection that many citizens still had to the UK monarchy. 

This issue can be approached from many different angles, inducing discussion on HOW the process of Australia becoming a republic should occur (especially how the new head of state should be chosen), as well as stepping back and assessing the positives and negatives of making this shift.

• Australia’s transition to a republic is a necessary step in helping honour the country’s Indigenous population and rejecting its colonial past
• Australia’s transition to a republic, although often framed as an act of national unity, will actually worsen the cultural divides within our country. 
• Although Australia should transition to a republic, the current rise of nationalist politics makes a public election of the new head of state extremely risky.

4. Are NFTs a positive advancement in contemporary technology? 

Whether or not you understand what it actually means, the phrase ‘NFTs’ has probably been inescapable on your social media feeds over the last year. Without getting too detailed, these ‘Non-Fungible Tokens’ are essentially investments into non-replicable representations of artwork , which will (supposedly) increase in value over time. 

Despite seemingly being an exciting new technology that could have given control back to artists through copyright ownership, NFTs have instead been heavily criticised for commercialising artwork by reducing it to a literal piece of digital currency. Further issues have arisen in terms of how this technology can easily be used to scam people through misrepresenting the value of individual NFTs, or NFT owners simply taking the money and running.

What do you think? All new technology seems shaky and uncertain at the start, and maybe we should recognise that the current negative impacts of NFTs must simply be overcome with time. How do we weigh the benefit this technology has for individual artists against its potential drawbacks?

• For their many flaws, NFTs give the power back to creators and, therefore, need to be improved rather than roundly rejected. 
• Despite preaching democratisation, NFTs and Bitcoin are both a part of a technological trend that will further increase wealth inequality.

5. How much can Western citizens really do to fight injustice via social media activism?

The effect of the COVID pandemic on developing countries, the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and human rights abuses by the nation of Qatar - this year has seen an innumerable number of news stories that would make any reasonable person jump to their phones to see what they could do to help, like signing an online petition or sharing a public post to spread awareness.

However, as you probably know, these forms of social media 'slacktivism’ have historically drawn criticism for their ineffectiveness and self-serving nature. Increasingly though, this debate has become more complicated, moving away from the simplified dismissal of any social media activism that emerged around the turn of the century . Others have rightly pointed out that many influential contemporary social movements, that have had real-world impacts, did emerge from social media, such as the BLM and #MeToo movements. 

As such, there’s a lot of room for different arguments here regarding whether a critical perspective of ‘social media slacktivism’ has become outdated in a world that is increasingly unavoidably based on the internet.

Possible Contentions: 

• Social media activism is unavoidably the way that young people are going to engage with political issues, and a rejection of it is naive and impractical. 
• Political activism should distance itself from the online world if it wants to make real-world change that doesn’t fit neatly under existing power structures.

6. Is the overload of various media streaming service subscriptions sustainable?

‘Streaming fatigue’ has emerged as a 2023 talking point that may have seemed unthinkable just a few years ago. Remember when we just had Netflix offering us a new way of consuming film and TV that was both more convenient and cost-effective than ‘pay TV’ packages (which were often heavily inflated in price and packed with unwanted channels )?

However, as we move into 2023, many have argued that the current subscription landscape now mirrors the previous pay-TV model. Consumers once again find themselves having to pay for an increasingly large amount of services if they want to conveniently access their film and TV shows. Predictably, this has seen a re-emergence of video piracy . 

Does this mean that it's fundamentally impossible for us to access our media as conveniently as we’d like to, and the years of Netflix being the only streaming service that had all we wanted were never sustainable? Or maybe corporations are unfairly squeezing every dollar they can out of us, and piracy is a fair and just consumer response?  

• Through offering convenience that is unparalleled by any other previous technology, streaming services are still worth the cost. 
• Consumers should actively engage in digital piracy until media corporations create a more affordable streaming environment.

7. Is a post-COVID work-at-home model healthy for the next generation of workers?

Although 2020 and 2021 may be remembered as the ‘years of COVID’, 2022 onwards is perhaps when we will see which long-term impacts of the pandemic continue to stick around. Aside from the permanent placement of public hand sanitiser stations, working from home has emerged as one of the most prominent main-stays from our lockdown years. 

Is this something that we should embrace? A lot was said during the lockdown about the mental health effects of being deprived of human connection; is this something we should just forget about when it comes to work? As with many of these issues, the question arises as to whether this shift is an inevitable effect of technological advancement, which we can either accept or fruitlessly battle until it becomes the new normal. 

However, the fact that this ‘work from home’ dynamic only emerged due to a pandemic complicates this idea, making it possible that we may have accidentally all become accustomed to a new economic model of work that we would be better off without. 

Possible Contentions:  

• We must actively push back against the ‘work from home’ model; if we don’t, we will suffer both mentally and financially into the future.  
• Working from home is a win-win; it's more convenient and cost-effective for both employer and employee.

8. How can gentrified and aestheticised versions of social movements be avoided?

I wonder whether you saw the Indigenous name for Victoria’s capital city (Naarm) appear more frequently on your social media feeds this year, with people adding it to their Instagram bios or referring to it on TikTok? What started as a conscious choice to respectfully refer to the city by its original Indigenous name quickly became criticised as a trendy aesthetic for outwardly progressive white Victorians, with terms like ‘naarm-core’ becoming short-hand for a specific kind of trendy fashion that was ‘ devoid of any ties to First Nations people ’. 

‘Naarm-core’, therefore, stands as another example of a movement that may have started with admirable aims, but was drowned out by those who just wanted the social benefits of participating in progressive politics. Think of the recent similar debates about ‘rainbow capitalism’, with similar criticisms being made of brands that co-opt progressive concepts like LGBQTI+ identity purely for social (and financial) capital. The question naturally emerges as to how we can avoid this for future political movements. 

Or maybe you disagree with all these critiques? Political discussion moves so fast these days that it can feel like people are in such a rush to criticise things that they miss actual progress being made. After all, the use of the term ‘Naarm’ to refer to Melbourne was undeniably popularised on the back of this trend. 

‍ Possible Contentions: 

• The criticism of political movements that deal with race being tokenised by white people can only be solved by allowing people of colour at the centre of these movements.
• People are too cynical about social movements and trends; virality and popularity, despite ‘inauthentic intentions’, often do more good than harm. 

9. How can the highly polarised discussion concerning COVID vaccines become more productive?

Another thing you may have witnessed from living in a post-COVID world is an increase in how divided simple issues seem to make us. Ever tried to convince a relative or friend that, no, in fact, vaccines are not designed to implant us with microchips - seems impossible right? 

For many people, the pandemic was a tipping point into full-blown conspiracy communities, meaning people are increasingly able to exist within their own social-media realities that don’t need to be bound to scientific truth or objective fact. This all creates a division between those with different beliefs that is somehow wider than before, where we can’t even agree on simple statements of truth. 

The debate around what to do about this deals with questions of human psychology, social media (again), but also freedom of speech. Should spreading (potentially dangerous) false information that conflicts with scientific consensus be allowed on social media? Most importantly, how do we encourage actual communication between different sides?

Possible contentions:

• Talking in person is the only way for people with vastly different beliefs to find common ground.
• Those spreading dishonest and dangerous conspiracy theories about public health cannot be reasoned with, and need to be actively shut down wherever they appear.

10. With the infamous Oscar slap, what ‘consequences’ should comedians and satirists face for what they say?

Here’s a news story that you’re probably tired of hearing about! Actor Will Smith’s act of violence against Oscar host and comedian Chris Rock for a joke about his wife’s alopecia (hair loss) caused many different conversations to happen at once; about toxic masculinity, celebrity culture, violence as a spectacle. These are all totally valid angles for your Oral Presentation, but let’s focus on maybe the most common debate; did Chris Rock deserve this?  

Functioning as a comedian hosting an awards night, Rock’s job was to poke fun at everyone participating, and these sorts of roles have often involved controversial comments and jokes . Does this mean they have immunity from any consequences for their words though? What should these consequences look like? And, if we excuse smaller acts of violence, what does that normalise? 

The 2015 terrorist shooting of the staff of satirical French magazine ‘Charlie Hebdo’ for their depiction of the Islamic prophet may seem a world away from Will Smith’s slap, but some may argue that this is the logical end-point for a world that believes physical violence is the way to deal with jokes people don’t like. 

• The idea of comedians actually being threatened by violence is overblown; the slap was an isolated incident.
• Protecting the safety of those who make controversial jokes is paramount to maintaining freedom of speech.

11. With Optus and Telstra’s recent data breaches, is placing all our valuable personal information in virtual spaces sustainably safe? 

This year saw a record-level data breach from one of Australia’s leading telecommunications companies, Optus. The personal details of almost 10 million customers were given to the hackers. 

Then, two weeks later, a similar data breach happened at Telstra. Yes, this time, no customer information was leaked, but information on the company’s employees was again released. 

All of this may disturb the image we all have in our heads of online databases as relatively unbreachable, locked away behind thousands of firewalls somewhere in the cloud. In fact, much of modern society operates on this assumption. Maybe you’ve added your credit card details to your Chrome tab because it makes online purchases easier? This convenience comes with the implicit assumption that online personal info is pretty much always safe when protected by a big tech company, but these events arguably prove otherwise.  

Cyberattacks are ‘ increasing as a threat ’, yet danger for the sake of convenience is something that all of us deal with. Maybe you think there are degrees to this; should we draw a line at information that can cause us legitimate harm if given to a malicious party?  

• Our society is already too technologically dependent to try and ‘go offline’ for the sake of data safety.
• Valuables of any kind are always going to run the risk of being stolen, and digital piracy is no different.

12. What is the role of Western countries in resisting the unlawful Russian invasion of Ukraine?

As already mentioned, the Russian invasion of Ukraine was one of the biggest news stories of 2022. Putin’s unlawful decision to attack the country’s capital in February of 2022 has left more than 10,000 people dead and millions displaced from their homes. Virtually all world leaders condemned this act immediately. Yet, almost a year later, the war continues, and documented war crimes occur on Ukrainian soil.

Thinking larger than just social media, the question of what can actually be done to help by the countries who condemn this war has naturally emerged. Many nations have supported Ukraine financially, including the US giving nearly $20 billion . Some may argue that this is not nearly far enough, and that all world powers have a responsibility to wage direct war against Russia in support of Ukraine. Naturally though, many are strongly against Western intervention in this form, believing that countries like the US should not see themselves as all-knowing powers that can intervene in other nations based on their ideological beliefs. 

‍ Possible Contentions:

• Any attempt to guilt individual citizens about their need to ‘do something about Ukraine’ is completely unfair; the responsibility for any meaningful action is entirely on the government.
• The West, particularly the US, has a long history of militarily invading smaller nations for their own purposes; their condemnation of the Russians is hypocritical.

If you haven’t already done so, check out our Ultimate Guide to Oral Presentations for some general tips and tricks to get you started!

Written by Milo Burgner

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Access a FREE sample of our How To Write A Killer Oral Presentation study guide

Written by Lisa Tran, who achieved FULL marks in her Oral Presentation:

• How to choose, plan and write your oral presentation and written explanation
• A simple, persuasive speech structure that will blow your audience away
• All essays FULLY annotated so you know exactly what you need to do and what not to do

1. What is an Oral Presentation? 2. What are you expected to cover? (Oral Presentation Criteria) 3. Choosing your Topic 4. Choosing your Contention 5. Writing your Speech 6. Presenting your Speech 7. Writing the Written Explanation 8. Resources to help you prepare for your Oral Presentation

What is an Oral Presentation?

For many VCE English students, the oral presentation is the scariest part of the course; it’s often also the first.

Doing a speech can indeed be daunting— you’re marked in real time, you can’t go back and edit mistakes, and the writing part itself is only half the battle. Nonetheless, the Oral SAC can also be one of the more dynamic and engaging tasks you complete in VCE English, and there’s plenty of ways to make it more interesting and also more manageable for yourself.

Keep reading for a comprehensive overview of what you need to know to succeed in your Oral Presentation. We’ve got you covered- from choosing your topic and contention, to writing and presenting your Speech.

We’ll also be suggesting useful resources, Study Guides and YouTube videos that will provide more detailed information and give you more confidence. Let’s get into it!

What are you expected to cover in an Oral Presentation? (Oral Presentation Rubric)

1. Your Oral Presentation SAC has two components. The first is the Oral Presentation itself (“a point of view presented in oral form”), and the second is a Written Explanation, also known as a Statement of Intention.

2. Your selected topic needs to be an issue that has appeared in the media since 1 September of the previous year

3. Your aim for this entire Oral Presentation SAC is to persuade your audience to agree with your contention (whatever that may be) based off the issue you’ve selected.

Here’s the raw version of VCAA’s expectations from you, taken from the VCAA website :

How to choose your Oral Presentation topic

1. select a topic that has appeared in the media since 1 september of the previous year.

This can be time consuming and tricky, especially if you want to choose something a bit more original or fresh.

Firstly, you need an event.  An event in the VCE English context is anything that happens which also generates opinionated media coverage—so, it’s not just an event but it has to be an event that people have published opinions about, and they have to have been published since September 1.

You might wonder why we don’t go to the issue straight away. Here’s a hypothetical to illustrate: if you asked me to name an issue, the best I could probably come up with off the top of my head is climate change. However, if you asked me to name an event, I’d pretty easily recall the Australian bushfires—something much more concrete which a) has generated specific and passionate opinions in the media; and b) can easily be linked to a wider issue such as climate change.

The ABC news archive is also really helpful for finding events since you can pick dates or periods of time and see a good mix of news events from then. Otherwise, Wikipedia has helpful pages of  events that happened in specific years in specific countries, so “2023 in Australia” might well be a starting point. 

When you have your event, you can then look for an issue. This will be a specific debate that comes out of the event, and can usually be framed as a “whether-or-not” question. The bushfires, for example, might generate debate around whether or not the Australian government is doing enough to combat climate change, whether or not Scott Morrison has fulfilled his duties as Prime Minister.

Most importantly, choose an issue from an event that’s interesting and important to you. After all, you’re going to be spending the time researching, writing and presenting!

2. Filter out the boring events/issues

Understand who your audience is.

Once you know who your audience is, ask yourself: Does this event and issue relate to my audience?

This question matters because “your aim of this entire Oral Presentation SAC is to persuade your audience to agree with your contention (whatever that may be) based off the issue you’ve selected.” This means that what you say to your audience and how they respond to your speech matters.

Even if your assessor isn’t counting exactly how many people are still listening to your speech at the end, everyone knows a powerful speech when they’re in the presence of one - it hooks the audience from start to end - and an assessor, consciously or subconsciously, cannot deny that the collective attentiveness of the room has an influence on their marking of your Oral Presentation.

That’s why you should choose a topic that your audience can relate to. Also, avoid topics that have too many unfamiliar words, because as soon as there’s something they don’t understand, it becomes much harder for them to follow your speech.

Now you may be asking yourself; what is the best topic for oral presentation?

Here are some example topics from previous years to give you inspiration:

VCE English Oral Presentation Topics 2014

VCE English Oral Presentation Topics 2015

VCE English Oral Presentation Topics 2016

VCE English Oral Presentation Topics 2017

VCE English Oral Presentation Topics 2018

VCE English Oral Presentation Topics 2019

VCE English Oral Presentation Topics 2020

VCE English Oral Presentation Topics 2021

VCE English Oral Presentation Topics 2022

For more detailed information on choosing a topic, read my blog Choosing a WOW topic for your VCE Oral Presentation ‍

How to choose your oral presentation contention

Once you've chosen an interesting topic and have researched all of its different viewpoints, it's time to formulate your contention.

Often, creating a killer contention is about avoiding some common traps that will make your overall presentation boring, bland and just like the rest of your cohorts'.

So, there are three things I like to AVOID:

1. Broad, Overarching statements

2. A Contention That Is Just Plain Obvious

3. Avoid A Contention That Is Generally Accepted As True In Today’s Age

For more information on writing a contention, read my blog Creating a Killer Contention for your Oral Presentation ‍

How to write your speech 

1. Have a CAPTIVATING introduction sentence; use a short, clear and powerful sentence.

2. RELATE to your audience so that it keeps them interested so they actually WANT to listen.

3. If you are taking on a persona, firstly study and UNDERSTAND your character.

4. Don’t forget your persuasive techniques. I usually use repetition in conjunction with the ‘rule of three’.

5. Remember that you are writing a SPEECH, not an essay. Instil your oral with emotion, varied tone and sentence lengths.

In fact, I've talked about a few of these in a 'Must Dos and Don'ts' video. If you haven't seen it yet, watch below before you read on.

4 tips on presenting your Speech

1. Body Language

Confidence is key. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and, more importantly don’t move your legs. Especially if you’re nervous, swaying or shuffling will be noticeable and make you appear more nervous—when you practise, pay attention to the lower half of your body and train it to stay still if possible.

That being said, do use your arms for gestures. Those are more natural and will help engage the audience, though don’t overdo it either—usually, holding cue cards in one hand frees up the other but also stops you from going overboard.

2. Eye contact

Cue cards brings up another important consideration- eye contact. Hold cue cards in one hand as high as you can without it feeling uncomfortable. This means you don’t have to take your eyes away from the audience for too long or too noticeably to check your notes.

Eye contact increases your engagement with the audience. It also gives the impression of confidence and that you’ve been practicing and know your speech inside and out!

3. Rehearse, rehearse, rehearse

In a best case scenario, you won’t need to rely on your cue cards as you will have your speech basically memorised! Read your speech aloud and pretend that you’re actually delivering your speech. This means:

- Looking up ahead

- Holding the cue cards in the right spot; and

- Not just reading the words, but speaking as if to an audience

 It’s extremely helpful to also practice your speech to an actual audience! Practice in front of your family and friends. An alternative is to put a sticker next to your camera and record yourself. The sticker will help indicate where you should create eye contact. Look back at the video and give yourself some feedback, you might be surprised at your presentation!

4. Tone variation

Tone variation involves emphasising certain words, using pauses or slowing down for effect, or modifying volume. Incorporating some of these elements- even writing them into your notes by bolding/italicising/underlining will help you break out of monotony and make the speech more engaging.

Be sure to emphasise emotive language and any evidence you might use to illustrate your arguments. Most importantly, don’t speak too quickly!

5 things to keep in mind while writing the written explanation

For oral presentation based written explanations, the VCAA study design requests students write...

"A written statement of intention to accompany the student’s own oral presentation, articulating the intention of decisions made in the planning process, and how these demonstrate understanding of argument and persuasive language."

Using the topic, 'Why we need to stop crying 'cultural appropriation' when cultural exchange is far more important, ‘let’s see how this can be done with FLAPC with some examples below:

2. Language

3. Audience

For more information on writing a Written Explanation and a sample FLAPC compiled and rearranged for flow and fluency, read my blog How to Write a Stellar Written Explanation (Statement of Intention) .

Resources to help you prepare for your Oral Presentation

Doing this study all by yourself can be rather daunting, so we've got your back. We specialise in supporting VCE English by creating helpful videos, study guides and eBooks. Here are some just to get your started:

‍ A Three Part Guide to Nailing Your Oral Presentation

Advice for A+ Oral Presentations

How I Got A+ in My Oral Presentation | Live QnA With Lisa Tran

How To 'Overcome' Your Fear of Public Speaking

Oral Presentations | How To Do Speeches

5 Common Oral Presentation Mistakes

Our How to Write a Killer Oral Presentation Study Guide has all the information you need to succeed in your Oral Presentations. Sample A+ essays and written explanations are also included!

Don't forget to also check out Our Ultimate Guide to Oral Presentations for everything you need to know for Oral Presentations.

Here are over 20 Oral Presentation Ideas for you if you're presenting a speech on Australian issues in the media.

• Should gay couples have the same adoption rights as straight couples?
• Should businesses be required to have a sex quota?
• Should political parties be required to run a certain percentage of women candidates?
• Gender workplace diversity
• Treatment of refugees on Manus Island
• Should there be a temporary ban on all immigration into Australia?
• MP citizenship
• Should the government classify Bitcoin as a legal currency?
• Homelessness in Australia
• Obesity in Australia
• Sexual harassment in the TV/movie/hollywood industry
• Should gender identity be added to anti-discrimination laws?
• Should universities provide ‘trigger warnings’ and ‘safe spaces’ for students?
• Should workplaces provide ‘trigger warnings’ and ‘safe spaces’ for staff?
• Informed consent with online data
• Religious freedom
• Same sex marriage freedom
• Adani coalmine
• Political donations
• Penalty rates in Australia
• Wage theft in Australia
• Indigenous recognition in the constitution
• Should we invest in public interest journalism?

See last year's Oral Presentation Ideas here . You might also be interested in Advice for A+ oral presentations here too! Best of luck!

We've all been there. You're moments away from having to deliver your 5-6 minute long oral to all of your classmates and your teacher, and you're still trying to memorise that one bit that you just can't seem to get down pat. It sucks.

Doing a speech can indeed be daunting— you’re marked in real time, you can’t go back and edit mistakes, and the writing part itself is only half the battle. Nonetheless, the oral SAC can also be one of the more dynamic and engaging tasks you complete in VCE English, and there’s plenty of ways to make it more interesting and also more manageable for yourself.

We’ll break the whole process down into three parts (don’t worry, one of these will be the delivery itself) and have a look at ways to tackle each; hopefully, you’ll feel more empowered to give it a go on your own terms. Don't forget to also check out Our Ultimate Guide to Oral Presentations for everything you need to know for Oral Presentations.

Part One: Choosing a good topic

(in this section—researching events & issues, topic ideas).

For a bit of a head start on this step, be sure to check out our blog post filled with Oral Presentation Topics for 2020 . It's one of our best kept secrets!

In the study design, the description that’s given for the Oral Presentation is:

“A point of view presented in oral form using sound argument and persuasive language . The point of view should relate to an issue that has appeared in the media since 1 September of the previous year.”

Besides this restriction on how current/recent your issue is, the expectations themselves for this task are pretty standard (and therefore pretty broad): you

• select a topic or point of view
• research arguments and supporting evidence; and
• position the audience accordingly in your speech

Getting started on this first part can be tricky though, especially if you want to choose something a bit more original or fresh.

In any case, the first thing you need is an event . As a reminder, an event in the VCE English context is anything that happens which also generates opinionated media coverage —so, it’s not just an event but it has to be an event that people have published opinions about, and they have to have been published since September 1.

You might wonder why we don’t go to the issue straight away. Here’s a hypothetical to illustrate: if you asked me to name an issue, the best I could probably come up with off the top of my head is climate change. However, if you asked me to name an event, I’d pretty easily recall the bushfires—something much more concrete which a) has generated specific and passionate opinions in the media; and b) can easily be linked to a wider issue such as climate change.

So where do you find an event? If you can’t think of a particularly interesting one right away, you could always try Wikipedia. Seriously, Wikipedia very helpfully has pages of things that happened in specific years in specific countries, so “2019 in Australia” might well be a starting point. The ABC news archive is also really helpful since you can pick dates or periods of time and see a good mix of news events from then.

I wouldn’t underestimate your own memory here either. Maybe you attended the School Strike for Climate and/or you feel vaguely disappointed in the government. Maybe there was something else happening in the news you remember (even though it is often about the environment these days). It doesn’t have to be from the news though—maybe there was a movie or TV show you watched recently that you have thoughts about. You could really do a speech on any of these, as long as you suspect there might be recent, opinionated media coverage .

Only once you have an event should you look for an issue . This will be a specific debate that comes out of the event, and can usually be framed as a “whether-or-not” question. The bushfires, for example, might generate debate around whether or not the Australian government is doing enough to combat climate change, whether or not Scott Morrison has fulfilled his duties as Prime Minister, whether or not it’s appropriate to discuss policy already when people are still grieving. All of these issues are going to be more current and more focused than just ‘climate change’, so pick one that resonates for your speech. For a list of 2019-20 issue-debate breakdowns (i.e. topic ideas!), give this a read!

From there, you might delve a little deeper into viewpoints around your chosen issue, and you’d do this mostly by reading opinion or analysis articles (rather than hard news reports). Opinion is great to see what other people are thinking, and could help you bolster or reinforce your own arguments, whereas analysis is good to get a little deeper into the implications of and evidence behind the issue. The actual contention itself comes last—even though you might already have an idea what you think about the issue, you’ll be best prepared to articulate it after doing the research first.

Part Two: Writing a good speech

(in this section—register/tone selection, personas, openings, how formal you need to be, drafting & rehearsing).

For this part of the task, I’d keep in mind a specific snippet of its description: the need to use sound argument and persuasive language .

To be fair, persuasive language mightn’t necessarily be something you actively think about when you write persuasively—you wouldn’t ever really be like “hey, this is a great spot to include an appeal to compassion.” However, while you don’t need to start now, it’s good to have in mind a general register for your speech before you start. It’s one of the first things you might analyse in a written essay for good reason—it’s broad and it sets the tone for your argument/s.

With the bushfires for instance, you might contend that even though grief is a strong emotion, it should also be a trigger for resolute, permanent policy reform. But will you come from a frustrated, this-is-what-we’ve-been-saying-for-years register, or a compassionate look-at-the-damage-caused register, or an assertive, we-need-to-bring-the-community-together-first register?

Maybe you can incorporate a bit of each, or maybe (probably) there are more options, but in any case, making this decision first will help with stringing together arguments and incorporating more persuasive language techniques (PLTs). Note that most PLTs can be used across a number of registers, but there are some that might work more effectively with some of these.

For example:

These are things you’ll have to think about for your written explanations, and might also help you shape future research if you need to shore up the speech a little more. Something you may consider as well is adopting a persona , that is a character and a context for your speech. You don’t have to, but it may help you get started. It can be hard to just write a speech from scratch, but if you’re the mayor of a township affected by the fires and you’re outlining a course of action, it’ll help with your register and outlook.

Openings in general can be tricky though. Try to avoid stating your event, issue and contention outright—the audience doesn’t need to know that “recently, Australia experienced a horrific bushfire season and I’m going to talk about why now is the time to act on climate change.” They’ll figure it out. Instead, try to start with something that clearly communicates your register and/or persona (if you have one). If you’re a frustrated climate activist, start by illustrating the historical patterns of bushfires getting worse and worse. If you’re a compassionate community-builder, start with anecdotes of the damage. If you’re an assertive leader, explain who you are, what your experience is and how you want to create change. Don’t worry if you feel like the issue won’t be clear enough—again, they’ll figure it out! The opening also sets the bar for formality in your speech, and it’s honestly up to you how formal you’ll want to be. As a rule of thumb, don’t be so formal that you can’t use contractions (such as “you’ll” and “can’t”)—avoid those in essays for sure, but they’re a natural part of speaking and it’ll feel strange if you don’t use them.

I’d also recommend you draft and rehearse in front of others, highlighting areas where you think are the weakest and asking them for specific advice on those sections at the end. Having specific questions to ask, such as “should I include more data/quantitative evidence in x section?” or “is this specific appeal to x obvious enough?”, also means you get better feedback (since these are much easier to answer than “Was that fine?”).

Part Three: Delivering an engaging presentation

(in this section—body language, eye contact, rehearse rehearse rehearse, tone variation).

Most of you probably find this the most daunting part of the SAC—honestly, me too—but this is the part with the most tried-and-tested tips for success.

With regard to body language , stand with your feet shoulder width apart and, more importantly don’t move your legs . Especially if you’re nervous, swaying or shuffling will be noticeable and make you appear more nervous—when you practise, pay attention to the lower half of your body and train it to stay still if possible. That being said, do use your arms for gestures. Those are more natural and will help engage the audience, though don’t overdo it either—usually, holding cue cards in one hand frees up the other but also stops you from going overboard.

And cue cards brig us up to another important consideration— eye contact . Hold cue cards in one hand as high as you can without it feeling uncomfortable. This means you don’t have to take your eyes away from the audience for too long or too noticeably to check your notes.

Of course, knowing your speech better means having to check your notes less frequently. When I did my speech, I’d read it out aloud to myself 3-5 times a day for a week or two in advance, which made me feel like I was going insane but also meant that my speech was basically memorised . The cue cards were there in case of emergency, but I really didn’t need them at all. Absolutely make sure to rehearse your speech. Further, when you rehearse, try to pretend that you’re actually delivering the speech. This means:

• looking up ahead
• holding the cue cards in the right spot; and
• not just reading the words but speaking as if to an audience.

This last point is really important— tone variation might come naturally to some but not to others. I always found that building it into rehearsal helped with getting it consistent and natural. Tone variation involves things like emphasising certain words, using pauses or slowing down for effect, or modifying volume . Incorporating some of these elements—even writing them into your notes by bolding/italicising/underlining—will help you break out of monotony and make the speech more engaging as well. Be sure to emphasise things like emotive language and any evidence you might use to illustrate your arguments. And one last thing— don’t speak too quickly ! Easier said than done, but often the icing on the cake for a speech that is memorable for the right reasons.

Wondering where to go from here? Well, luckily, my eBook, How To Write A Killer Oral Presentation, details my exact step-by-step process so you can get that A+ in your SAC this year.

• Access a step-by-step guide on how to write your Oral Presentation with simple, easy-to-follow advice
• Read and analyse sample A+ Oral Presentations with EVERY speech annotated and broken down on HOW and WHY students achieved A+ so you reach your goal
• Learn how to stand out from other students with advice on your speech delivery

Sounds like something that'd help you? I think so too! Access the full eBook by clicking here !

The following is a snippet from my study guide, How To Write A Killer Oral Presentation . It's filled with unique advice that takes you from start to finish in mimicking the techniques used by a perfect-scorer VCE Year 12 student. You may want to start off reading Our Ultimate Guide to Oral Presentations and come back to this blog if you haven't already!

This blog covers the first step within Pillar 2: Writing The ‘This Is-Going-To-Blow-You-Away’ Speech. Once you've chosen an interesting topic and have researched all of its different viewpoints, it's time to formulate your contention. Often, creating a killer contention is about avoiding some common traps that will make your overall presentation boring, bland and just like the rest of your cohorts'.

So, I like to avoid: ‍

Broad, overarching statements

If you think your contention is, ‘abortion in Australia’ then you’re wrong. This is simply not a contention! A contention is an opinion. The example, ‘abortion in Australia’ offers no insight into your opinion on the issue at all. Instead, ‘We need to consider women’s mental health when judging their decision on abortion’ is an opinion. ‍

A contention that is just plain obvious

Let’s say we use the issue of ‘homelessness in Australia’. Arguing ‘homelessness in Australia is a problem’ or ‘we need to fix the homelessness issue in Australia’ just isn’t going to cut it because you’d never argue the opposite, ‘homelessness is great’. There are no differing viewpoints against your contention which means that you have nothing to argue against.

You need to be more specific with your issue - that’s why you looked up all those viewpoints in your research. For example, you could contend, ‘We need to fix the problems in homes in order to fix Australia’s homeless issue.’ This does has varied viewpoints because someone else’s solution could be to give homeless people greater access to help.

TEST: Before you move on to writing structure, ask yourself, can people argue against my contention? If yes, proceed ahead! If no, you’ll need to revise your contention again. Do this over and over until you can confidently answer ‘yes’ to the above question.

Avoid a contention that is generally accepted as true in today’s age ‍

When climate change first came onto the radar, the main debate was whether it was a real or a conspiracy theory. These discussions were in full force over 5+ years ago. These days (with the exception of climate change skeptics of course), discussion on climate change revolves more heavily around the slow pace of policy implementation, intergenerational effects of climate change, and mental health surrounding climate change.

Rather than arguing, ‘Climate change is real?’ (which your teacher has probably listened to a dozen times), you’re better suited to argue ‘Young people, not governments, should lead the fight against climate change’. Not only does this tie into the LSG belief that you should be more specific with your issue, it’ll also mean that your contention is relevant to today.

Now it's your turn. Give it a go! You might need to take a few tries to get your contention right, and that's absolutely OK.

If even after that you’re still unsure about your contention, make it a priority to speak to your teacher about it. Ask them if they could review your proposed contention and offer you any constructive feedback. Heck, even if you are confident with your contention, I’d ask your teacher anyway for any insight you mightn’t have thought of.

If you are anything like me, the thought of standing up in front of a classroom, or even a small panel of teachers, having to hold the floor for five minutes, and being assessed on your performance is just about as terrifying as it gets. Where other students thrived on the oral presentation SAC, embracing its change of pace in comparison to the other written tasks, I dreaded it. I knew the feeling all too well: legs jelly-like and quivering, breath short and rapid, palms sweating, tongue uncomfortably heavy as the words tumble out too fast to keep up with…essentially (as I, a true master of the English language, would put it) the absolute worst. 

Fast forward to the present day and, I hate to break it to you, I am still not a fan of public speaking. But guess what? I did my oral presentation and I’m still alive to tell the tale. Plus, as a bonus, it did not involve me passing out, and as a double bonus, I still ended up with a great result. So I am here, my fellow members of the ‘Might Go Ahead and Drop Out of VCE so I Don’t Have To Do My Oral’ club, as proof that it can be done and to help you get through it. 

What Do We Mean by ‘Overcoming’?

As I have already mentioned, emerging triumphant from your oral does not require you to magically become a public speaking fanatic. Let me manage your expectations right now: that probably isn’t going to happen overnight, and likely never will. But you can still be good at public speaking, perhaps great at it, even if it scares you. Trying to figure out a magical formula of preparation that will have you breezing through the oral in total zen-mode is not only going to waste your time, but will likely also make you more frightened when you realise that you can’t completely shake the nerves. So, by accepting the reality that the fear probably isn’t going to go away any time soon we can start to learn how to manage it, at least succeed in spite of it, and hopefully even use it to our advantage. 

Selecting a ‘WOW’ Topic

Arguably the best way to improve the delivery, and overall quality, of your oral presentation is to choose a topic and contention that you actually care about. In our eBook How to Write a Killer Oral Presentation we cite the first pillar of the process as being to choose a ‘WOW’ topic and contention . As Lisa says,

“an inherently interesting topic means that you’ll showcase your opinions in an authentic way, which is incredibly important when it comes to presentation time.”

This becomes particularly significant for someone dealing with a fear of public speaking because of this basic principle: when you care about something it is easier to talk about, even in front of other people. This means that you don’t just need to choose a topic that will engage your audience, but also one that you yourself find engaging. 

Fear is an intense emotional response to a situation, and as we know it can easily consume us in the moment. If your oral topic is boring and does not interest you on a personal level then what is going to be the strongest emotion you feel when delivering it? Fear. However, passion is another intense emotional response, and so if you are passionate about the arguments you are making then, although your fear will still be there, you will feel another strong emotion that can balance it out. 

So how do you find a contention that you care about? Often the best place to start is to think about the things that affect your life. We know that your topic has to have been in the media since September of last year, but lots of things are on the news and they don’t only matter to the older generations. Think about issues that relate to schools, jobs, climate change, animals, drug-taking, fashion – these are all aspects of our lives that you might be able to form a personal connection to, and that personal connection will help you find the passion you need to get through the speech, and also get through to your audience. Check out our 2021 Oral Presentation Topics for some topic inspiration, and then learn how to create a killer contention here . 

More About the Voice, Less About the Words

It is quite likely that if you know you struggle with the delivery of oral presentations, you might try to compensate by overreaching with your script. For someone who feels more comfortable with written assessments, it can be easy to try to make the oral as close to one as possible by writing it almost as you would an essay – using lots of impressive vocabulary, complex sentences and a formal structure. This approach is all well and good until you try to say it all out loud. This isn’t to say that your command of language isn’t important to the oral, but by trying to craft a safety net of eloquent, written words you are simply distracting yourself from what makes this SAC unique; you can’t avoid the fear by avoiding the task altogether. So, you need to write a speech that you can say, not just one that sounds good on paper. Writing with the wrong sense of tone is one of the points we touch on in 5 Common Oral Presentation Mistakes.

During the writing process, you need to make your speech work for you rather than make yourself work for it. This means constantly thinking about what the words will sound like in front of an audience, and not making the performance unnecessarily hard for yourself before you even start practicing. When you’re already nervous about speaking in front of other people, the last thing you want to have to worry about is tripping over difficult language to make convoluted arguments. So, simplicity and punch is always better than verbosity and pretence. Here are some ideas of how to use this strategy:

• Make your arguments short, sharp, and to the point. Avoid going off on any tangents, and just stick to the main points you need to get across. You are trying to persuade your audience, not confuse them. 
• Use a mixture of long and short sentences, because a script that uses varied sentence structures is easier to say out loud without stumbling due to nerves. Short, bold statements are both less prone to being mangled by nerves and more memorable for your listeners – just make sure you don’t only use short sentences and prevent your oral from flowing. 
• Think about where you can schedule in pauses for emphasis, because these will give you space to stop and catch your breath without revealing your nervousness. 
• Write like you speak! Of course you want your tone to be assertive and intelligent, but it is possible to maintain this whilst also incorporating some relaxed language. You are allowed to use the first person in this task, so take the opportunity to personalise what you say, which will help you appear more comfortable and also form a personal connection with your audience. Remember that an oral is essentially a conversation with your audience, even if they don’t get to speak back, and this means that as long as you don’t use slang you can have some fun with your delivery. 
• Don’t rely on an essay-like structure. Your audience won’t know when a paragraph ends, so the way the script looks on the page is largely irrelevant. Make it easy for yourself to follow. 

Remember, when you struggle with a fear of public speaking it is difficult to make what you say in the spotlight sound natural. To overcome this, you want to prepare yourself to almost sound unscripted (as ironic as that sounds). Without slipping into an overly casual or informal voice, it is best if you sound comfortable and relaxed when addressing your audience. This is of course the exact opposite of how you might feel going into the assessment, so you write a speech that will make you seem like you aren’t worried about passing out. The ancient adage ‘fake it ‘til you make it baby’ definitely rings true here. However, that said, really believing what you are saying and caring that the audience believes it too, as we advised earlier, will also help you avoid sounding forced and uncomfortable. 

Preparation and Memorisation

Another mistake often made when attempting to compensate for a fear of public speaking is to rely too heavily on cue cards in the oral. Having your entire speech on hand when you complete the assessment just in case you get lost might seem like a good idea, but it is most likely actually going to hold you back from giving your best performance. Ideally, you want to have done enough preparation so that you do not need to look at your notes at all. As we discussed earlier, having a script that is as simple as possible, and that mimics your speech patterns, will help you sound less fearful – and will also be easier to memorise.

Memorise your speech by practicing it as much as possible. Make sure to get your script written as far in advance as you can, so you have plenty of time to practice without stressing yourself out further. When you do practice, do so standing up, envision an audience in front of you (or practice in front of friends or family), and rehearse how you might move around the space as you talk. You can start by having your whole script with you, but eventually you should work up to only needing a few dot points for each section that can jog your memory if you forget. This strategy might seem to make the speech even scarier, but in reality not reading off a script will help you relax into the performance, and allow you to focus on your movements and voice. Practicing enough to have the speech memorised will also help build your confidence. 

Making the Most of Your Nerves

As much as I would love to tell you that you can be ‘cured’ of your fear of public speaking, it is best to accept that the nerves are going to be there and learn how to succeed in tandem with them, rather than just hoping that they go away. Instead of being convinced that fear is going to be your downfall, try to think about how, as impossible as it sounds, you can use the nerves to your advantage. Apart from making you jittery and uncomfortable, nerves also boost your energy and adrenaline, and with the right attitude you can turn this energy into confidence. Instead of letting your nerves cause you to close up, you can use them to help you open up. Often those of us who fear feeling exposed in front of a crowd have quiet, reserved personalities that we might think of as preventing us from being able to perform. However, when our bodies are flooded with nerves this ‘wired’ feeling can be used to help us project our voices and to take up space, therefore driving us to appear more outgoing. Instead of just making you feel ‘on edge’, a manageable amount of nervous energy can give you an edge that will amp up your performance. 

Even if all of this sounds completely different to your experience of fear, what I am trying to communicate is that the way you frame the oral, and the nerves that come with it, in your mind makes all the difference. If you convince yourself that you are too scared of public speaking to ever succeed with this task, you are severely limiting your chances of achieving a positive outcome. So, focussing on retraining your mindset in the lead up to delivering your speech is very important. Try not to think of this one assessment task as being a make or break five minutes, and instead view it as a learning experience that you can use to your advantage. After all, public speaking is something most of us will have to deal with multiple times over the course of our lives, so you may as well work on getting better at it. That said, my number one piece of advice about the oral presentation is to…*drumroll please*...not take it too seriously! This might sound unrealistic, and I am definitely not telling you to put in less effort, but the more pressure you put on yourself the more nervous you are going to be. Choose a topic that interests you, believe in your contention, make use of humour and personal anecdotes, and just have fun with what you say! Your fear is probably going to be your biggest obstacle, so make it as easy as you can on yourself and the rest should fall into place…as long as you put in the work. 

Finally, our Ultimate Guide to Oral Presentations is a must-read for anybody who is doing an Oral Presentation!

We all love hacks. Life hacks, game hacks, Netflix hacks  (wait, what) ? They're all fabulous. Even better is when we can use English study hacks - because who doesn't want to make English just that much simpler?

Watched the video above already? Awesome! Keep reading for extra life hacks:

Extra hack #11 - don’t just write essays..

There is a massive difference between writing an essay for the sake of writing an essay, as opposed to actively learning when applying your skills. If you feel yourself slipping into the dreaded ‘reusing the same evidence for every essay’, or you’ve somehow ended up doing 5 essay prompts based on the same character – STOP RIGHT THERE. Be proactive. You have to keep switching things up. This means constantly trying new prompts that are more challenging than the last and always trying to find new evidence you can use. Yes, there will always be our go-to pieces of evidence we like to use, like our favourite quote or symbol, but change it up often so that you don’t become complacent.

‍Extra hack #12 – Unique interpretations

The purpose of develop a unique interpretation of a text or film is so that you can demonstrate originality in your thinking and bring something new to the table that teachers have never come across before. After all, if you’re marking 30 essays in a row, you’d get pretty bored reading the same arguments again and again, wouldn’t you? Try to view the text from different lenses – feminist, Marxist, post-colonial perspective – and these will offer you new ways of interpreting the story.

Extra hack #13 – FOCUS

Some books can be very long (and no, we’re not talking about don’t need to go into detail with every single passage. Instead, have a selection of passages throughout the book that you know really well. It’s much better having an in-depth understanding of fewer passages, but produce a sound essay than to have a superficial overview of the book and struggle to write much at all!

English is not easy, but it doesn’t need to be hard either. Adopt only a few of these hacks and see your improvement in English – they really do work! Keep it up!

Before you read this A+ essay by one of LSG's tutors, Risini, make sure you've read our Extinction blog post covering themes, characters, and more!

In a play that tackles issues ranging from conservation to human indulgence and morality it can be difficult to write a well-structured and detailed response to what usually seems like an existential topic (just like the one below). And not to mention the challenge of including all four characters in your essay without the stale character-based approach. So, below is an example of a high scoring essay with tips on how you can elevate the quality of your response to get those extra points!

In this essay, you'll see Risini has offered annotations throughout her essay to show you her thinking. If you find this helpful, then you might want to check out our Extinction: A Killer Text Guide where we cover 5 A+ sample essays (written by a 50 study scorer!) with EVERY essay annotated and broken down on HOW and WHY these essays achieved A+ so you reach your English goals! Let's get started.

Rayson’s play is about our propensity as humans to make questionable decisions despite our moral convictions. 

Mankind’s ambition to improve and develop as human beings distinguishes themselves from their bestial, primal instincts (1) . However, Hannie Rayson’s play Extinction , explores the complexities threaded throughout the human condition that propel individuals towards the ethically ambiguous (2) . Rayson examines the the insecurities peppering the contemporary lifestyle, that threaten the integrity of our outward ideologies (3) . Similarly, Rayson explores our indelible connection with nature that leads individuals to pursue baser impulses. Ultimately however, Rayson captures the strength of the human capacity to align our moral convictions with our judgements (4) . 

*Annotations

(1) This play tackles humanity and its flaws, so beginning with a broad, conceptual sentence is a good way to ease into discussion.

(2) Addressing topic.

(3) Agreeing with the topic.

(4) Challenging the topic. Indicating Rayson’s play isn’t only about questionable decision making, it is also about people’s ability to make the morally right decisions.

Paragraph 1

In spite of people’s outward conformity to their moral values, Rayson captures the power of human insecurities to compromise their values (5) . It is the birth of moral dilemmas from such insecurities, that prompts questionable decision-making (6) . Dixon-Brown, who exercises a pragmatic ideology as fortified by her Dixon-Brown Index and classifies the tiger quolls as “functionally extinct”, leaves her insecure and longing for meaningful connection and companionship (7) . Indisputably, Harry Jewell’s charming exterior and sensitivity offers to fill Dixon-Brown’s emotional chasm, but also offers a moral dilemma for Dixon-Brown: to fill this chasm, or uphold her professional integrity. Dixon-Brown’s pursuit of “illicit professional compromise” with Harry, as a result of her moral dilemma, distorts her moral stance, now considering tiger quolls as simply “hard to find” and “shy”. Rayson (8) challenges the integrity of people’s moral values, demonstrating how one’s emotional hunger can outweigh even their own moral expectations. Like Dixon-Brown, Piper (9) values her relationships, yet is neither immune to hypocrisy. Championing the untiring philosophy that “all species are worth saving”, Piper recognises humanity’s moral responsibility to offer compassion to life beyond our own species. However, she is devastated by Beast’s (10) prognosis, lamenting “I am not ready”, despite having previously baulked at “Twinkie’s pacer” (11) . Rayson undermines Piper’s outward altruism, challenging whether it merely cloaks a selfish desire to appease her own insecurities of losing her loved ones. Regardless of our moral convictions, Rayson explores the insecurities formed from our fears of loneliness that compel individuals to compromise their moral ideals. 

(5) Notice how I discuss many themes in Extinction, beyond morality and decision-making. From understanding and reasoning with characters, I also explore companionship, belonging, isolation and hypocrisy. I avoid introducing character names in the topic sentence, as this can scream ‘character-based paragraph’ to the examiner.

(6) Immediately addressing views and values of writer. This is more interesting than the conventional approach of presenting evidence, exploring it then diving into values of the writer.

(7) Here, I try to bring Dixon-Brown to life by empathising with her. Compare this with: Dixon-Brown’s pragmatic exterior is undermined when she pursues a romantic affair with Harry Jewell. This sounds more like summary and comes off robotic and unemotional, neither does it add any dimension to her character.

(8) Using the author’s name when exploring views and values.

(9) It’s always nice to have a transition sentence between a new piece of evidence, especially in Extinction when a lot of the evidence is character-based.

(10) Use of minor characters.

(11) Minor characters again.

Paragraph 2 ‍

Rayson explores people’s inextricable connection with nature that undermines the purity of our ideology (12) . In spite of Harry’s sentimental connection with nature that motivates him to pursue the Quoll Project, reminiscing of his childhood pet “Errol Flynn” and being a part of a family that made a “living off the land”, Rayson explores our darker ties to nature that leads individuals to make questionable decisions (13) . Through the symbol of the birds of prey (14) in Harry and Piper’s camp, including the beautiful “barking owl”, Rayson alludes to how humans can too manipulate and prey to indulge their baser impulses, leaving aside morals (15) . Beyond this, Rayson investigates the universal concept of mortality (16) that is shared by all life forms in nature. Confronting the shadow of mortality, Andy’s stoic façade and impenetrable ideology is undermined. He shares his stamp of impermanence with the injured tiger quoll with a “snapped spinal column”, and is likely able to empathise with it (17) . Thus, his decision to euthanise the quoll may have been the inadvertent projection of his desire to end his own suffering. Through Piper, who challenges Andy for choosing the “most convenient option”, Rayson illuminates how our ties to nature can compromise our ethics and decisions, reaffirming our propensity towards moral contradictions. 

(12) In a play concerned with the environment, I try to include people’s connection to nature and the environment when I can.

(13) Good to mention topic.

(14) Include the symbols of nature that Rayson weaves into the play and its meaning.

(15) Good to mention topic.

(16) Again, I try to discuss more themes apart from morality and decision-making by including mortality. In a play concerning endangered species and measuring the worth of life, try to discuss mortality whenever possible.

(17) Again, I think finding similarities between the lives of animals and humans is crucial in this play, rather than considering them as two separate entities.

Paragraph 3

Ultimately, Rayson captures how humanity’s moral convictions can in fact align with their decisions when decisions are founded through virtuous ideals. Despite oscillating moral values that threaten the balance of Andy and Piper’s relationship (18) , their shared morality of compassion and sacrifice reunite them at the play’s denouement. Andy’s willingness to sacrifice their relationship in order to not “waste her life” and Piper’s refusal to leave Andy side despite a future that “just leads to sadness” illustrates the human capacity to reconcile their differences when their moral values align with their future ambition. Rayson echoes this capacity for reconciliation through the setting (19) of the animal shelter in the play; a setting representing preservation and hope. Although the play begins with a “wet and windy night” in the animal shelter, intensifying the arguing and frustration (20) , Rayson closes with the “gleam” and “twitch” of the tiger quoll in the same setting. This realises humanity’s capability making moral decisions through their virtuous ideals; striving to preserve and protect one’s relationships and natural habitat. As well as the possibility of a live tiger quoll who offers hope for their natural environment, Andy and Piper, who believe in loyalty and resilience, offer hope in a world permeated by moral contradiction. 

(18) I challenge the topic but still acknowledge my previous agreement with the topic.

(19) Use of metalanguage. Here I’ve explored a more natural setting, however Rayson often transitions between the city scape at Dixon-Brown’s apartment where the “noise of the city and peak-hour traffic rumbles below” and the natural landscape, “a wildlife rescue centre tucked away in the Cape Otway rainforest”. It can be effective to notice the contrast between the two and the events that occur in each setting.

(20) If analysing setting: Explore the effect of the setting on the mood of scene or characters. Then explore its significance to the views and values of the author.

Rayson’s (21) Extinction explores humankind’s moral frailty and gravitation towards the ethical when we focus too closely on ourselves. Rayson examines the insecurities woven throughout the human condition and our inextricable ties to nature that threaten our moral foundations, both prompting individuals to consider themselves over their relationships and duties to the environment. However, Rayson ultimately captures the resilience of mankind to unite despite their flaws, offering hope for the future of our environment and species. 

(21) Finish with a reflection of the bigger picture and overarching values the author promotes or condemns.

At first glance, Extinction may just seem like a short story of a chaotic quartet, but there are so many hearty themes to unpack and discuss. After a few re-reads, you will discover some unique finds, and after a few essays, you will find overlaps and patterns in seemingly philosophical topics.

For more sample essay topics, head over here so you can start practising some of the tips you've learnt in this blog! You'll also find another essay topic breakdown where we show you a 50 study scorer's essay plan. Happy writing!

Extra Resources

The Ultimate Guide to VCE Text Response ‍

Extinction by Hannie Rayson ‍

Extinction Text Guide Study Guide

Wondering what VCAA examiners might be looking for in a high-scoring essay? Each year, the VCE EAL Examination Reports shed light on some of the features that examiners are looking for in  high-scoring responses for the Listening and Language Analysis sections of the EAL exams. Let's go through 5 key points from the reports so that you know how to achieve a 10/10 yourself.

For advice on how you can apply the VCE EAL Examination Reports to strengthen your skills in the listening section, see Tips on EAL Listening .

Tip #1 Analyse How the Overall Argument Was Structured 

Let’s take the 2017 VCAA EAL Examination Report as an example: 

‘The highest-scoring responses analysed argument use and language in an integrated way. Some responses used a comparative approach that analysed arguments and counter arguments from both texts in the same paragraph. However, only comparatively few responses focused on how the overall argument was structured .’

So how do we write about/analyse ‘how the overall argument was structured’? 

To save time during the exam, we can adopt templates that can help us transfer our thoughts into words in a fast and efficient way.  You can construct your own templates, and you may want to have various templates for various scenarios or essays. Below, I have provided a sample template and I’ll show you how you can use this template in your own essays.

Sample Template

(AUTHOR)’s manner of argument is proposed in real earnest in an attempt to convince the readers of the validity of his/her proposal of...by first…and then supplying solutions to...(DIFFICULTIES), thus structuring it in a logical and systematic way.

The above template ONLY applies to opinion pieces that satisfy these 2 rules:

• The opinion piece commences by presenting the ‘bad effect/consequence/situation’ of the topic 
• The opinion piece supplies the solution to resolve the ‘bad effect/consequence/situation’ of the topic 

For example, say the author, John White, contends that plastic bags should be banned and does so by:

• commencing the piece with the fact that plastic bags can travel long distances by wind and water. They litter our landscapes, float around in waterways, and can eventually end up in the oceans, ultimately polluting the ocean and posing a threat to marine animals
• then supplies solution to ban plastic bags 

When we use our template here, the intro may look like this - note that I’ve bolded the ‘template’ parts so you can clearly see how the template has been used:

John White’s manner of argument, proposed in real earnest in an effect to convince the readers of the validity of his proposal of banning plastic bags by first exposing the deleterious nature of these bags to our environment and natural habitat and then supplying solutions to ban plastic bags, putting it in effect in a logical and systematic way.

Head to Introductions for EAL Language Analysis for more templates and guidance on how to nail your Language Analysis Introduction. 

Tip #2 Keep the Listening Answer Succinct 

The 2019 VCAA EAL Examination Report states: 

‘Students are encouraged to use the key words in the questions as a focus for their listening...Short-answer questions require concise and precise answers. Responses that demonstrated understanding provided what was asked for without including extraneous information .’

Some students tend to add unnecessary information in their answers. Although the answers are correct, they will NOT earn you any extra marks. Listening answers should NOT be a mini essay. Writing irrelevant information will not only waste time but may also compromise the accuracy and overall expression of your response. 

Tip #3 Practice Makes Perfect

The examination reports frequently point out that students struggle with identifying and describing the tone and delivery. For example, the 2017 VCAA EAL Examination Report states:

‘Identifying tone and delivery is challenging for students and emphasis on this is needed...Students are encouraged to use the key words in the questions as a focus for their listening’. 

The good news is, just like most skills, listening and identifying the tone can both be improved with practice. In fact, VCAA acknowledges the importance of daily practice as well. 

‘Students need to develop their critical listening skills both in and outside of the classroom. They are encouraged to listen, in English, to anything that interests them – current affairs, news, documentaries and podcasts can all be useful.’ (2017 VCAA EAL Examination Report)

Practicing listening does not necessarily mean sitting down and doing Section A questions; it can be as simple as talking with classmates, teachers, neighbours, friends from work, church, etc. 

Take a look at our EAL Listening Practice and Resources for a comprehensive list of external resources for practicing listening and a step-by-step guide on how to use them!

Tip #4 How To Formulate a Cohesive Response?

VCAA encourages us to write answers that make sense to the reader and are grammatically correct. Make sure you do address, and ONLY address, what the question is asking, because marks will not be rewarded for redundant information. 

‘Short answer questions require concise and precise answers. Responses that demonstrated understanding provided what was asked for without including extraneous information . Expression skills need to be sufficiently controlled to convey meaning accurately. ’ ( 2017-2019 VCAA EAL Examination Report )

HINT: This may sound super simple, but a lot of EAL students struggle with it. If you do, you are definitely not alone. Some students seek to use complicated words and/or sentence structures, but we should not compromise clarity over complexity.  

Tip #5 Use a Range of Precise Vocabulary 

VCAA acknowledges the importance of sophisticated vocabulary. This phrase ‘a nalysis expressed with a range of precise vocabulary’ has been repeatedly used to describe high-scoring essays in the examination reports from 2017 onwards

Below is a list of commonly misspelled, misused and mispronounced words. If you don’t know the meaning of a word, check out Collins Online Dictionary for definitions OR you can use a physical copy of the Collins Dictionary (which you are allowed to bring into the exam and SACs).

Words That Look the Same/Have Super Similar Spelling:

• Abroad vs. Aboard
• Adapt vs. Adopt vs. Adept
• Affect vs. Effect
• Altar vs. Alter
• Angel vs. Angle
• Assent vs. Ascent vs. Accent
• Aural vs. Oral
• Baron vs. Barren
• Beam vs. Bean
• Champion vs. Champagne vs. Campaign
• Chef vs. Chief
• Chore vs. Chord
• Cite vs. Site
• Compliment vs. Complement
• Confirm vs. Conform
• Contact vs. Contrast vs. Contract
• Contend vs. Content
• Context vs. Content
• Costume vs. Custom
• Counsel vs. Council vs. Consul
• Crow vs. Cow vs. Crown vs. Clown
• Dairy vs. Diary
• Decent vs. Descent vs. Descend
• Dessert vs. Desert
• Dose vs. Doze
• Drawn vs. Draw vs. Drown
• Extensive vs. Intensive
• Implicit vs. Explicit
• In accord with vs. In accordance with
• Later vs. Latter
• Pray vs. Prey
• Precede vs. Proceed
• Principal vs. Principle
• Sweet vs. Sweat
• Quite vs. Quiet

For an overview of the EAL study design plus tips and tricks for reading comprehension, time management and more, check out The Ultimate Guide to EAL .

False Claims of Colonial Thieves is usually studied in the Australian curriculum under Area of Study 1 - Text Response. For a detailed guide on Text Response, check out our Ultimate Guide to VCE Text Response .

Why Is Context Important?

When studying a text, it is very important to comprehend its context. Context will help you to understand what the text is about and what the author’s point of view is - key components of doing well in VCE English! Context is especially important for False Claims of Colonial Thieves because the authors frequently reference Australia’s history. Even the title is a nod to its context - it is all about the ‘false claims’ made by Australia’s ‘colonial thieves’, or in other words, Australia’s colonial settlers. Understanding what these false claims are will help you better understand the context and therefore, do significantly better in your English essays and assessments.

Treat this blog as a starting point only . There is so much to learn about these topics, and I recommend you do your own research in addition to reading this blog. To help you do so, I have provided a reliable external source for each topic, so you can start exploring these claims in more depth.

Terra Nullius

One of the biggest ‘false claims’ that Papertalk Green and Kinsella refer to throughout their collaboration is the colonisers’ claim of Australia being terra nullius . When the British came to Australia, they claimed that the country was ‘no man’s land’, denying that the Indigenous Australians had actually lived here for thousands of years. By pretending that no one lived in Australia, this supposedly gave the British ‘legitimacy’ to assume control over the land and those already living on it - i.e. Australia’s First Nations Peoples.

Terra Nullius was used against the Indigenous peoples for many years to justify their horrific treatment. The principle was only overturned in 1992 when an Indigenous man, Eddie Mabo, challenged this claim in the High Court of Australia. Nowadays, we recognise that the Indigenous people were here significantly earlier than the colonisers and that their sovereignty (i.e. their power over the land) was never ceded.

External source for further reading: https://australian.museum/learn/first-nations/unsettled/recognising-invasions/terra-nullius/  

The Stolen Generation

Another false claim was that the Indigenous people were inferior to white people. This claim led to the forcible removal of Indigenous children from their families, so they could be raised by ‘superior’ white people and taught white cultures/languages - these children are referred to as the ‘Stolen Generation’ because they were taken away from their families without their consent.

It was thought that placing Aboriginal children (especially mixed-race Aboriginal children) with white families would make it easier to teach Aboriginal children the ‘proper’ (British) way of living. They were either placed in institutions or adopted by white families, and often faced terrible treatment, including violence, neglect and assault. Neither the children who were removed nor their families have fully recovered from this appalling policy that continued until the 1970s.

Indeed, the effects of the Stolen Generation can still be felt today. One of the major consequences discussed by Papertalk Green and Kinsella is that a lot of Indigenous culture was lost. Many of the children who were taken away were forbidden from practising their cultural traditions or from speaking their Indigenous languages. This ban led to many traditions going extinct and is a tragic effect of this heinous false claim.

External source for further reading: https://aiatsis.gov.au/explore/stolen-generations  

Missions and Reserves 

Another claim explored in the text is the idea that Indigenous peoples could not look after themselves and would be better off with white people ‘protecting’ them. This led to the government forcing Aboriginal people to leave their ancestral lands and relocate to newer, smaller areas - a process known as land alienation. There were two types of this land - missions and reserves - and Aboriginal people faced poor treatment on both.

Missions were usually run by Christian groups so they could convert the Indigenous people to their religion. There was a strong degree of control exercised over these Indigenous people, who were expected to learn the skills required for menial jobs (such as cooking and cleaning). Contrastingly, those living on reserves were not typically subject to as much control. These people were sometimes provided with rations from the government, but there were not usually officials to oversee them.

Both missions and reserves are referred to in False Claims of Colonial Thieves , so it is important to understand the difference between the two.

External source for further reading: https://aiatsis.gov.au/explore/missions-stations-and-reserves  

Now that we’ve examined some of the more historical context , let’s take a closer look at the contemporary and modern background that Kinsella and Papertalk Green write about.

Close the Gap Campaign and Black Deaths in Custody

A key section of the text (particularly the latter third) explores current issues which Indigenous peoples face today. Two of these major concerns lie within the health and justice systems, so it is important to understand why Kinsella and Papertalk Green focus so heavily on these matters.

The Close the Gap Campaign (launched in 2007) aims to reduce the inequality in health and education that many Indigenous peoples face. It was created because the life expectancy is much lower for Indigenous than non-Indigenous peoples, and there is a significant difference between their expected levels of education. Unfortunately, many of these concerns have not been addressed today, and Papertalk Green discusses how her family is constantly dealing with death - a key theme in False Claims of Colonial Thieves that can be explained by this contextual understanding.

External source for further reading: https://www.pmc.gov.au/sites/default/files/reports/closing-the-gap-2018/executive-summary.html  

Similarly, there are a lot of concerns with the number of Aboriginal people in prison, and how many of them die while in police custody. There was even a Royal Commission into Aboriginal Deaths in Custody (i.e. a governmental inquiry) handed down in 1987, however, many of its recommendations have not been implemented to this day. This idea of unfair policing and laws that target Indigenous peoples is a key idea in the text, and Kinsella dedicates a poem to Ms Dhu, an Indigenous woman killed while in custody.

External source for further reading: https://www.theguardian.com/australia-news/2021/apr/09/the-facts-about-australias-rising-toll-of-indigenous-deaths-in-custody  

A key theme of False Claims of Colonial Thieves is mining, which refers to the practice of removing valuable materials from the Earth. Many of these resources are found on traditional Aboriginal lands, which are destroyed by the mining process. This is especially offensive to many Indigenous groups because many Indigenous cultures have a strong spiritual connection to their land (often known as Country). There is consequently a lot of tension between the Indigenous populations and governments, especially in Western Australia, where both of the authors live.

External source for further reading: https://www.aph.gov.au/Parliamentary_Business/Committees/Senate/Former_Committees/uranium/report/d07  

How Can You Use This in Your Essays?

Understanding a text’s context is very important in being able to analyse the text in appropriate depth.

For example, knowing that mining is often considered harmful to the lands to which Indigenous peoples have a strong connection, will allow you to discuss this concept in your essays. Indeed, Papertalk Green argues that mining is just as harmful to Indigenous peoples as earlier ‘false claims’ were, which is a sophisticated idea for you to use in your assessments.

As you begin to better understand and incorporate context into your essays, you can then take things one step further by examining how the author has used context as a means of demonstrating their authorial intent . For example, the effects of the Stolen Generation have been explored in several poems, and a possible viewpoint is that the Stolen Generation was used to demonstrate the devastating loss of Indigenous cultures and traditions.

The Great Gatsby is usually studied in the Australian curriculum under Area of Study 1 - Text Response. For a detailed guide on Text Response, check out our Ultimate Guide to VCE Text Response .

Call it the greatest American novel or ultimate story of unrequited romance— The Great Gatsby is undoubtedly a stunning snapshot of one of the most American decades that America has ever seen. The 1920s saw significant economic growth after WWI, and what’s more American than material excess, wealth, and prosperity? The stock market was going off, businesses were booming, and people were having a great time.

Well, not everybody—and on the flipside, what’s more American than socio-economic inequality or the ever-quixotic American Dream?

In this blog, we’ll go through the novel in this context, examine some of its key themes, and also have a think about the critiques it raises about American society. We’ll also go through an essay prompt that ties some of these things together.

Life in the Roaring Twenties

This snapshot from the 2013 film adaptation actually tells us a lot about the 1920s. On the one hand, social and cultural norms were shifting—men no longer sported beards, and women were dressing more androgynously and provocatively. On the other hand, the modern, American economy was emerging—people began buying costly consumer goods (like cars, appliances, telephones etc.) using credit rather than cash. This meant that average American families were able to get these things for the first time, while more prosperous families were able to live in extreme excess.

In Fitzgerald’s novel, the Buchanans are one such family. Tom and his wife Daisy have belonged to the 1% for generations, and the 1920s saw them cement their wealth and status. At the same time, the booming economy meant that others (like the narrator Nick) were relocating to cities in pursuit of wealth, and (like Gatsby) making significant financial inroads themselves. 

The Great Gatsby traces how the differences between these characters can be destructive even if they’re all wealthy. Add a drop of Gatsby’s unrequited love for Daisy, and you have a story that ultimately examines how far people go for romance, and what money simply can’t buy. 

The answer to that isn’t so obvious though. Yes, money can’t buy love, but it also can’t buy a lot of other things associated with the lifestyle and the values of established wealth. We’ll get into some of this now.

Wealth and class

Fitzgerald explores tensions between three socio-economic classes—the establishment, the ‘nouveau riche’ and the working class.

Tom and Daisy belong to the ‘old money’ establishment, where wealth is generational and inherited . This means they were born into already wealthy families, which affects their upbringing and ultimately defines them, from the way they speak (Tom’s “paternal contempt” and Daisy’s voice, “full of money”) to their major life decisions (including marriage, symbolised through the “string of pearls” he buys for her—which, fun fact, is estimated to be worth millions of dollars today). It also affects their values, as we’ll see in the following section.  For now, consider this image of their home (and those ponies on the left, which they also own), described as follows:

“The lawn started at the beach and ran toward the front door for [400 metres], jumping over sun-dials and brick walls and burning gardens—finally when it reached the house drifting up the side in bright vines as though from the momentum of its run.”

Nick Carraway also comes from a similar (though not as extravagant) background—his family had been rich by Midwestern standards for “three generations” before he came to New York.

Conversely, Gatsby belongs to the ‘ nouveau riche ’, or new money. Unlike the Buchanans, Gatsby was born into a poor family, only coming to wealth in the 1920s boom. Specifically, he inherited money from Dan Cody after running away from home at 17.

Although they are all rich, there are significant cultural differences between old and new money. Old money have their own culture of feigned politeness which Gatsby doesn’t quite get. When Tom and the Sloanes invite Nick and Gatsby to supper in chapter six, Gatsby naively accepts, to which Tom would respond behind his back, “Doesn’t he know [Mrs. Sloane] doesn’t want him?” Even though Gatsby is financially their equal, his newfound wealth can’t buy his way into their (nasty, horrible) lifestyle.

Finally, this is contrasted with the working class, particularly George and Myrtle Wilson who we meet in chapter two. They live in a grey “valley of ashes”, the detritus of a prosperous society whose wealth is limited to the 1%. Fitzgerald even calls it a “solemn dumping ground”, suggesting that life is precarious and difficult here. Consider what separates George—“blond, spiritless… and faintly handsome”—from Tom (hint: $$).

Myrtle is described differently, however—she is a “faintly stout” woman with “perceptible vitality”. This may be less of a description of her and more of a commentary on Tom’s sexuality, and what attracts him to her such that he cheats on Daisy with her. Still, Myrtle’s relative poverty is evident in her expressions of desire throughout their meeting—“I want to get one of those dogs,” she says, and Tom just hands her the money.

Ultimately, looking at the novel through the lens of class, we see a society where upward social mobility and making a living for yourself is possible, just not for everybody. Even when you get rich, it doesn’t guarantee that you’ll suddenly, seamlessly integrate into the lives of old money. 

Morality and values

Added to this story of social stratification is a moral dimension, where Fitzgerald can be a little more critical. 

Firstly, old money is portrayed as shallow . Daisy’s marriage to Tom and the Sloanes’ insincerity are elements of this, but another good example is Gatsby’s party guests. Many aren’t actually invited—they invite themselves, and “they came and went without having met Gatsby at all.” Their vacuous relationship to Gatsby is exposed when he dies, and they completely abandon him. Klipspringer, “the boarder”, basically lived in Gatsby’s house, and even then he still wouldn’t come to the funeral, only calling up to get a “pair of shoes” back. 

The rich are also depicted as cruel and inconsiderate, insulated from repercussions by their wealth. Nick’s description of Tom’s “cruel body” is repeatedly realised, as he breaks Myrtle’s nose in chapter two and condescends Gatsby with “magnanimous scorn” in chapter seven. After Myrtle dies, Nick spots the Buchanans “conspiring” and describes them as “smash[ing] up things and creatures and then retreat[ing] back into their money or their vast carelessness”—he sees them as fundamentally selfish.

Gatsby is portrayed more sympathetically though, which may come from his humble upbringing and his desire to be liked. This is probably the key question of the novel—is he a hero, or a villain? The moral of the story, or a warning? Consumed by love, or corrupted by wealth?

I’m going to leave most of those for the next section, but I’ll finish here with one last snippet: Lucille, a guest at his parties, tears her dress and Gatsby immediately sends her a “new evening gown”. Weird flex, but at least he’s being selfless…

That said, a major part of Gatsby’s character is his dishonesty, which complicates his moral identity. 

For starters, he fabricates a new identity and deals in shady business just to reignite his five-year-old romance with Daisy. We see this through the emergence of Meyer Wolfsheim, with whom he has unclear business “gonnegtions”, and the resultant wealth he now enjoys. 

In chapter three, Owl Eyes describes Gatsby as a “regular Belasco”, comparing him to a film director who was well-known for the realism of his sets. This is a really lucid analysis of Gatsby, who is in many ways just like a film director constructing a whole fantasy world.

It’s also unclear if he loves Daisy for who she is, or just the idea of Daisy and the wealth she represents. Indeed, he doesn’t seem to treat her as a person, but more like something that he can pursue (like wealth). This is a good read, so I won’t really get into it here—just consider how much things have changed since Gatsby first met Daisy (like her marriage and her children), and how Gatsby ignores the way her life has changed in favour of his still, stationary memory of who she used to be.

Love, desire and hope

All of this makes it tricky to distil what the novel’s message actually is. 

Is it that Gatsby is a good person, especially cast against the corrupt old money?  

This analysis isn’t wrong, and it actually works well with a lot of textual evidence. Where Nick resents the Buchanans, he feels sympathy for Gatsby. He explicitly says, “they’re a rotten crowd…you’re worth the whole damn bunch put together.” Maybe love was an honourable goal compared to money, which ostensibly makes you “cruel” and “careless”. 

I wouldn’t say he was cruel, but this reading is complicated by how he can be careless, choosing not to care about Daisy’s agency, and letting his desires overtake these considerations. 

Is it that Gatsby and his desire for Daisy were corrupted by wealth despite his good intentions? 

There’s also evidence to suggest wealth corrupts—Nick describes it as “foul dust” that “preyed” on Gatsby, eroding his good character and leaving behind someone who resembles the vacuous elite. Although love might’ve been an honourable goal, it got diluted by money. 

Gatsby’s paradigm for understanding the world becomes driven by materialism, and he objectifies Daisy. He starts trying to buy something that he originally didn’t need to buy—Daisy’s love. She certainly didn’t fall in love with this man who owned a mansion and a closet full of “beautiful shirts.” Thus, Gatsby is a sympathetic product of a system that was always stacked against him (a poor boy from North Dakota). Capitalism, right?

Is it that capitalist America provides nothing for people to pursue except for wealth, and therefore little reason for people to feel hope?

Past the basics: structural economic tension and the doomed American Dream

Now we want to start thinking beyond the characters (e.g. if Gatsby is a good person or not) and also factor in their social, historical, political and economic context (e.g. if he was doomed to begin with by a society driven by money). This subheading does sound a bit much, but we’ll break it down here. 

A key part of this novel is the American Dream, the idea that America is a land of freedom and equal opportunity, that anyone can ‘make it’ if they truly try. Value is placed on upward social mobility (moving up from a working-class background) and economic prosperity (making $$), which defined much of the Roaring 20s…

…for some. 

For many others, there was significant tension between these lofty values and their lived reality of life on the ground. As much as society around them was prospering, they just couldn’t get a piece of the pie, and this is what makes it structural—as hard as George Wilson might work, he just can’t get himself out of the Valley of Ashes and into wealth. Indeed, you can’t achieve the Dream without cheating (as Gatsby did). 

So, there’s this tension, this irreconcilable gap between economic goals and actual means. Through this lens, the tragedy of The Great Gatsby multiplies. It’s no longer just about someone who can’t buy love with money—it’s about how nobody’s dreams are really attainable. Not everyone can get money, and money can only get you so far. Everyone is stuck, and the American Dream is basically just a myth. 

Thus, the novel could be interpreted as a takedown of capitalist America, which convinced people like Gatsby that the answer to everything was money, and he bolted after the “green light” allure of cold, hard cash only to find out that it wasn’t enough, that it wasn’t the answer in the end.  (.

Consider what kind of message that sends to people like the Wilsons—if money can’t actually buy happiness, what good is it really to chase it? And remember that Gatsby had to cheat to get rich in the first place. 

Is [the novel’s message] that capitalist America provides nothing for people to pursue except for wealth, and therefore little reason for people to feel hope?

You tell me.

Prompt: what does Fitzgerald suggest about social stratification in the 1920s?

Whenever you get a new essay topic, you can use LSG’s THINK and EXECUTE strategy , a technique to help you write better VCE essays. If you’re unfamiliar with this strategy, then check it out in How To Write A Killer Text Response .

Let’s try applying this to a prompt. I’ll italicise the key points that have been brought up throughout this post. 

Firstly, social stratification clearly divided society along economic lines . This could be paragraph one, exploring how class separated the Buchanans and Wilsons of the world, and how their lifestyles were so completely different even though they all lived in the prosperity of the Roaring 20s . George Wilson was “worn-out” from work, but he still couldn’t generate upward social mobility for his family, stuck in the Valley of Ashes. Conversely, Tom Buchanan is born into a rich family with his beach-facing mansion and polo ponies . Colour is an important symbol here—the Valley is grey, while East Egg is filled with colour (a green light here, a “blue coupe” there…).

The next paragraph might look at the cultural dimension , exploring how you just can’t buy a way of life. This might involve analysing Gatsby’s wealth as deluding him into thinking he can “repeat the past” by buying into the life(style) of old money . This is where Fitzgerald disillusions us about the American Dream —he presents a reality where it isn’t possible for anyone to ‘make it’, where the Buchanans still treat you with scorn even if you’re just as wealthy. Gatsby’s dishonesty is ultimately a shallow one—try as he might, he just cannot fit in and win Daisy back.

Finally, we should consider the moral dimension —even though the wealthier socioeconomic classes enjoyed more lavish, luxurious lifestyles, Fitzgerald also argued that they were the most morally bankrupt. Money corrupted the wealthy to the point where they simply did not care about the lives of the poor, as seen in the Buchanans’ response to Myrtle’s death. Even Gatsby had to compromise his integrity and deal in shady business in order to get rich—he isn’t perfect either. Social stratification may look ostentatious and shiny on the outside, but the rich are actually portrayed as shallow and corrupt. 

A good essay on this novel will typically combine some of these dimensions and build a multilayered analysis. Stratification, love, wealth, morality—all of these big ideas can be broken down in terms of social, economic, cultural circumstances, so make sure to consider all angles when you write. 

Have a go at these prompts!

1. Nick is biased in his assessment of Gatsby—both of them are no better than the corrupt, wealthy Buchanans. Do you agree?

2. In The Great Gatsby , money is a stronger motivating factor than love. Do you agree?

3. Daisy Buchanan is more innocent than guilty—explore this statement with reference to at least 2 other characters. 

4. What does Fitzgerald say about happiness in The Great Gatsby ?

5. Is money the true antagonist of The Great Gatsby ?

6. The women of The Great Gatsby are all victims of a patriarchal society. To what extent do you agree? (Hint: are they all equally victimised?)

Challenge: According to Fitzgerald, what really lays underneath the façade of the Roaring 20s? Make reference to at least 2 symbols in The Great Gatsby . (Hint: façade = “an outward appearance that conceals a less pleasant reality” – think about things like colours, clothes, buildings etc.)

The Ultimate Guide to VCE Text Response

How To Write A Killer Text Response Study Guide

How to embed quotes in your essay like a boss

How to turn your Text Response essays from average to A+

5 Tips for a mic drop worthy essay conclusion

The Importance of the Introduction

The Lieutenant is usually studied in the Australian curriculum under Area of Study 1 - Text Response. For a detailed guide on Text Response, check out our Ultimate Guide to VCE Text Response .

Grenville’s novel follows the life of protagonist, Lieutenant Daniel Rooke in his journey with the first fleet. Rooke’s primary conflict is his choice between his moral conscience and duty as a soldier. Because he is aware from an early age that he is out of step with the world, he tends to be more reasonable in his way of dealing with conflict. His final response to his inner conflict is to stand strongly by what he believes.

The Lieutenant at its core is a journey of self-discovery as Daniel Rooke navigates the immoral waters of British imperialism and its impact on the indigenous Australians. Becoming closer to Tagaran, Rooke attempts to bridge cultural barriers through the transformative power of language. Rooke observes the scissions created by violence and the perhaps misplaced Western superiority and is perpetually torn between his moral intuitions and his obligations and duty as a Lieutenant.

TIP: Have an understanding of the historical context behind The Lieutenant as well as the real life people that Grenville loosely based her novel off of. This means having a grasp on the first fleet, the British colonisation of Australia and important figures such as Bennelong.

Tip: i have included some examples from the text but this list is by no means exhaustive, occasionally there is a repetition of examples. it’s important to remember that examples are versatile and can be applied to many different themes and ideas. feel free to add and explore how other examples might enhance these themes..

Language dictates commonality and communication, yet to Rooke he discovers that central to the power of language is the willingness to cooperate, patience and respect. Throughout Grenville’s novel, however, it is clear that language can not only dispel the lasting vestiges of misunderstanding but it can also form the basis for racism and violence. It is through our language itself that reveals our biases.

The language of racism

• Weymark refers to the Indigenous men during their first encounter as “mister darkie” etc. each a patronising euphemism concealing his arrogant notions of superiority

The limitation of language to accurately portray and convey a moment

• “what had passed between Tagaran and himself had gone far beyond vocabulary or grammatical forms” (pg186)

The language of violence

• “what it said was I can kill you. He did not want her to learn that language. Certainly not from him” (pg224)
• “Violence had an enlivening effect. As long as someone else was the victim it made the blood pump, gave the world an edge of glamour” (pg239)
• “ Gamekeeper. He wondered whether that word had killed Brugden” (pg240)
• “The gun is the only language the buggers will understand” (pg241)
• “war was a species of conversation” (pg108)

Assumed cultural superiority of British empire

The hierarchical nature of British Society stands in diametric opposition to the community-oriented system employed by the Indigenous Australians. This hierarchy defines their people by their contributions to “Her Majesty” and shames and “punish[es]” all those who fail to comply with the loose morals and violence condoned by the British colonists. This notion is elucidated through the exploitation of the natives and the nations reliance on oppression and servitude to maintain its imperial status, put simply: their strength is an accident arising from the weakness of others. It is on this foundation that Grenville explores the violent treatment of the natives by the British and even their treatment of their own people.

• “In the world of Church Street, Benjamin Rooke was a man of education and standing and a father to be proud of. At the Portsmouth Naval Academy a mile away, he was an embarrassment” (pg6)
• “So we punish…. Every man is the same. If he steals, he is punished… It was interesting to hear that magnificent idea – the product of hundreds of years of British civilisation – spelled out so plain”(pg195)
• This was justice: impartial, blind, noble. The horror of the punishment was the proof of its impartiality. If it did not hurt, it was not justice.” (pg197)
• “By god they are savage… Dirty too, look at the filth on them”
• “they may be savages, we call them savages. But their feelings are no different from ours”
• Weymark resorts to derogatory name calling, urging on “my black friend” and “Mister Darkie” in his base supplications

Power of conscience

The morality that is ingrained in Rooke from the onset aligns quite naturally with our own moral standards. Yet Grenville encourages readers to explore the difficult choice between morals and disobedience. Rooke faces such a choice. To obey an order to accompany an expedition to capture or kill six indigenous men, this forms the central conflict of Grenville’s novel. As elucidated through both Rooke and Gardiner, moral acts that defy the expectations and “orders of Her Majesty” are deeply frowned upon.

• “But Rooke, think: this is not a request, it is an order” (pg246)
• “…spell out the consequences of refusal.” (pg248)
• “… the service of humanity and the service of His Majesty were not congruent” (pg249)
• “I am sorry to have been persuaded to comply with the order. I would not for any reason ever obey a similar order” (pg285)
• “your orders were a most gravely wrong thing, I regret beyond my words my part in the business” (pg285)

Violence is central to the operation of imperialists as the British tightens its grip on the Indigenous Australians. Grenville emphasises that the power sought out by the British empire will always come at the expense of the natives. Violence and force are used to assert power, confirm boundaries around usurped land, promulgate fear and discourage resistance. The gun becomes a symbol of the violence and force of the settle and they show little intention of relinquishing the dominant position that the gun affords them.

• The punishment for the mutineers of the Renegade reinforces Rooke’s understanding of institutional power and violence as one lieutenant is hanged in a gruesome spectacle and the others dispatched into a nameless void.
• Weymark is determined to affirm his dominance and establish the white man as a powerful force
• Brugden’s increased freedom with a weapon results in violence towards the natives which culminates in the kidnapping of the two native men who are “grabbed” against their will
• Brugden’s unchecked brutality, and Gilbert’s excessive use of force, highlights the colonialists’ use of violence as a means of achieving their goal

Duty, service, obedience and the military life

Conforming to the pressures of the British Empire, Rooke joins the marines and complicitly serves without attempting to question the morality behind his actions. Importantly, he joins the marines not out of patriotic pride, but because he believes it will aid him to pursue his academic curiosities and steer away from violence. Yet it only brings him closer to the reality that lurks behind the ostensibly moral quest of British imperialism.

Character Analysis

Tip: whilst the lieutenant focusses on rooke’s experiences, you can’t neglect the minor characters in the novel, they are there for a reason think about how these characters are similar or different, how their stories contribute to grenville’s overall message and their relationship with the central protagonist rooke. ‍, daniel rooke.

• Lieutenant on the first fleet
• Struggles to articulate his thoughts and emotions as he is afraid of being “out of step with the world”
• From a young age, Rooke’s interactions with others has made it clear to him that he is different. As such this dictates his response to conflict: blaming himself or withdrawing. His connection to Tagaran through mutual empathy demonstrates his ability to overcome conflict through mutual respect
• Rooke is bound by duty to Her Majesty yet finds his missions in conflict with his innate instinct for moral righteousness

Supporting quotes

• “quiet, moody, a man of few words”
• “he had no memories other than of being an outsider”
• Captain on the first fleet
• Stands in contrast to Rooke in every respect
• Storyteller that is obsessed with his narrative
• Ignores the cruelty and violence of the Imperialist expedition in favour of an interesting story
• Blinding opportunism that undermines his integrity
• His tendency to gloss over the violence committed in the name of Her Majesty reflects his loyalty to the expedition
• “man whose narrative was so important to him”
• “a storyteller who could turn the most commonplace event into something entertaining”
• Connects with Rooke through their mutual love for learning and language
• Tagaran voluntarily engages with Rooke in his quest to understand their language, this surpasses the clumsy and mandatory lessons imposed on Boinbar and Warungin.

Supporting quotes ‍

• “Forthright, ferless, sure of herself, she looked to him like a girl who had already mastered whatever social skills her world might demand”
• “a clever child like Tagaran was the perfect choice: quick to learn, but innocent. Curious, full of questions but only a child”
• Gardiner acts as a foil character to both Silk and Rooke, sharing the same trials and tribulations as Rooke however responding differently than Silk
• Rooke’s friendship with Gardiner establishes the grounds for their later discussions on language, the treatment of the natives and the imperialist machine as Gardiner sets an example of the consequences of going against the duties required of him
• Brugden is portrayed as an essential element of colonising and the survival of the British fleet. As an embodiment of violence, Grenville suggests that integral to the operation of imperialism is crude and unwavering violence
• “Brugden, out there in the woods, that powerful chest… He would be an efficient killer”
• “Something had happened out there in the woods about which Brudgen was remaining silent”
• “The prisoner, taller than anyone else, his powerful frame half bursting out of its thread bare check shirt…”  

Lancelot Percival James

• Family of slave owners, product of the empire
• Rooke’s inability to understand James is symbolic of his values not aligning with that of the British empire. It foreshadows his later conflict with the value of the empire
• James symbolises the derision of the British hierarchy
• “Gamekeeper! The word suggested the society that Lancelot Percival James had boasted of at the Academy… But New South Wales was no gentleman’s estate… and the gamekeeper was a criminal who had been given a gun” (pg91)

By the way, to download a PDF version of this blog for printing or offline use, click here !

Interesting Points of Analysis

Silk’s Narrative

• Why is Silk obsessed with documenting the first fleet? What does he seek when he writes?

Rooke’s job as an astronomer

• Initially signing up for the first fleet as an astronomer, Rooke’s job is supposed to be observing comets and stars yet when he arrives he is tasked with a multitude of laborious tasks that hinder his astronomical work. In what ways does this act as a microcosm for the imperialist mission in Australia?

VOCAB: microcosm - a situation or event that encapsulates in miniature the characteristics of something much larger.

Rooke’s life in Antigua

• Why did Grenville include this section? What does it add to Rooke’s journey? Why does Rooke choose to do this?

Third Person Omniscient Narration

• Written from Rooke’s perspective, whose opinion do we hear the least of? And what unique perspective does Grenville’s choice of narrative perspective offer us?
• Grenville’s language reflects Rooke’s love for language. Her choice of imagery reveals Rooke’s way of seeing the world. For example, “crescent of yellow sand like a punctuation mark” accentuates Rooke’s tendency to observe his world as a linguist might and  highlights Rooke’s deep connection with language. Likewise, Rooke’s perception of a gun that speaks a language that “does not require listeners” emphasises his natural tendency to think as a linguist. Grenville does not write in an overly complex, dense or poetic way in order to mirror Rooke’s tendency to view things logically

How does the setting that Rooke finds himself in mirror or parallel the emotions that he experiences?

• Naval Academy (Portsmouth)
• “just another world that wrenched him out of shape”
• “sucked out of his spirit and left a shell being”
• “closed in on itself”, “narrow”, “squeezed tightly”
• Sydney Cove
• “There is nowhere in the world that I would rather be”(pg97)
• "On the northern shore, high dark prows of headlands hung over the water, the sombre woods pressing down into their own reflections. To the south the land was lower, each bay and promontory shining with the glossy leaves of mangroves. Now and then between them a crescent of yellow sand was like a punctuation mark” (pg89)

TIP: Just like the minor characters I mentioned before, meaning and themes come from all aspects of a novel not just plot points and major characters. By including niche examples such as the setting or the narrative perspective, you can demonstrate that you have a really thorough understanding of the text!

Video Transcription

This video’s takeaway message focuses on tackling essay prompts that include quotations. The extra quote with the prompt can seem superfluous, but often, they can provide hints about how to tackle or challenge the essay topic. It is there for a reason, and if you are familiar with the quote, I would recommend that you try to incorporate it into your essay!

Before we unpack today’s essay topic, let’s have a look at background information.

Kate Grenville’s The Lieutenant explores the commonality of the human spirit amidst tumultuous conflict during the First Fleet’s arrival in Australia in 1788. Drawing upon the true experiences of William Dawes, a British astronomer and one of the lieutenants to travel with the First Fleet, Grenville crafts a work of fiction inspired by Dawes’ “two little blue notebooks” detailing his growing understanding of the Aboriginal language Gadigal and his conversations and connection with Patyegarang, a young Aboriginal girl.

The ability for two individuals from completely different worlds to transcend their differences in order to share cherished moments and understandings together is exemplified in The Lieutenant , alongside the rife external and internal conflicts which threaten such relationship.

Today’s prompt is:

“But a man could not travel along two different paths.”

How does Grenville explore Rooke’s conflict of conscience in The Lieutenant?

Start off with focusing on the keywords in this prompt, especially the phrases that resonate with you for Steps 1 and 2 of brainstorming (which I have previously covered in other essay topic breakdowns.)

In particular, let’s have a look at the phrase “conflict of conscience” as this captures the essence of the prompt and what you will need to discuss in your essay.  

Conflict of conscience suggests internal conflict, which implies that we will need to consider morality and the concepts of right and wrong, especially when a difficult decision must be made and ‘sides’ need to be taken.  

Conflict itself is a central theme of The Lieutenant , however, it is important to recognise that this topic considers conflict through the narrower lens of ‘conflict of conscience’. This means that in your discussion, the relevance to the prompt is crucial to keep in mind to ensure you are actually answering the question!  

But first, let’s analyse the quote:

“But a man could not travel along two different paths”

This quote alludes to Rooke’s realisation regarding the reality of his identity, not only as Tagaran’s friend or “kamara” but also as a soldier or “Berewalgal". The resignation and recognition of the impossible – that is, for Rooke to continue attempting to appease both ‘sides’ without making critical decisions about who and what he ultimately valued more - is evident in this quote. Hence, this quote refers to the conflict of conscience he experiences and provides us with an insight into not only his character but also conflict itself.

Why is it not possible for a man to travel along two different paths?

What would happen if he tried?  

Why was this realisation important for Rooke, especially for his character and development?

These are the kinds of questions coming to mind upon seeing that quote alone, which all provide hints as to how I might tackle this prompt.  

Now that we have looked at a few ideas related to the question, we’ll now move into potential paragraphs for this essay.

Paragraph 1: Grenville’s utilisation of Rooke’s perspective in detailing his thought processes, observations and realisations reveals the facets of Rooke’s character contributing to his internal conflicts.

Remembering this is a ‘how’ prompt, we want to be analysing ways in which Grenville explores Rooke’s conflict of conscience. In this paragraph, I have chosen to focus on the raw and intimate expression of his inner thoughts and consciousness as the ‘how’ aspect.  

The detailed perspective reveals Rooke’s naivety in assuming the possibility of maintaining a peaceful connection with Tagaran and the Aboriginal community amidst turbulent and violent times. Consequently, it highlights his realisations regarding the morality of the conflicts he is involved in, and how despite one’s admirable intentions, “a man could not travel along two different paths” without facing dire consequences for their actions.  

Questions I might ask myself here include: why does Rooke initially try to deny the reality of his situation? What does his preference for a peaceful and accepting approach towards the Indigenous Australians suggest about his approach to conflict?

This cognitive dissonance ultimately contributes to his internal conflict between the value he places in his connections with Tagaran and her community and in his duties and obligations as a lieutenant. As readers, we come to realise the duality of this conflict in Rooke’s mind through the limited omniscient third person perspective, which provides us with an insight into Rooke’s shifting understandings of Indigenous people, conflict and even himself.  

I would then continue unpacking these changing understandings, especially ones relevant to his character which reveal his internal conflicts further. ‍

Paragraph 2: In addition, the stark contrast between Rooke’s approach to his conflict of conscience and other soldiers’ approaches underscores the rationale behind his actions and the stakes ineluctably linked with his choices and morality.  

This paragraph’s analysis revolves around Grenville’s inclusion of a host of different characters and outlooks - from Indigenous Australians to intransigent Colonial perspectives. I would emphasise the importance of juxtaposition between these different perspectives as it elucidates the values and beliefs underpinning each individual’s choices, especially during conflict.  

Although the core of the essay discusses internal conflicts, highlighting the connection between internal and external conflict would add another layer of complexity to your essay. Rooke’s conflict of conscience results in his permanent departure from Australia, and fleshing out the ramifications of dissent and opposition towards other Colonials is key in demonstrating your understanding of the complex and intertwined nature of conflict.

Paragraph 3: Through the detrimental implications of Rooke’s initial conflict avoidance, Grenville’s focus on his subsequent self-awareness to unite his morals and his actions highlights the strength of his character to resolve his internal conflicts to prevent further perpetration of injustice towards the Aboriginal population.  

Here, I am having a closer look at how Rooke's encounters with his conflicts of conscience and the repercussions of his actions in attempting to take a ‘middle-ground’ stance catalyse his development as an individual - in particular, how it solidifies his moral stance and his decision to act in a manner that reflects his beliefs.  

By showing Tagaran how to load the gun but not how to fire it, or by accepting the navigator role but distancing oneself from the group, he endeavours to avoid conflict with either ‘side’. However, passivity is a stance within itself, and in the case of the treatment towards Indigenous Australians, Rooke’s silence in not rejecting the actions of other “Berewalgal” inevitably enables injustice to continue.  

It is only through his understanding that non-committal actions also incriminate him as a perpetrator that his choice to sacrifice his Colonial obligations for taking an active stance to fulfil his moral obligations comes to light. This reveals the role that internal conflicts may have in inciting powerful change and realisations in an individual.  

The complexity of internal conflict can be difficult to discuss, but by using the quote provided in the prompt and asking yourself questions about the implications of the quote, we are able to delve into and construct a sophisticated understanding of The Lieutenant and of conflict itself.

LSG-curated sample essay topics for The Lieutenant

Now it's your turn! Here's a list of essay topics for your studies:

• The Lieutenant demonstrates how an individual's true self emerges in the face of conflict.' Discuss. ‍
• ' The Lieutenant shows the catalysts for miscommunication and misunderstanding between the First Fleet and the local Aboriginal population.' Discuss. ‍
• ' The Lieutenant presents a society where sustained, amicable relations between the "Berewalgal" and the Aboriginal population were impossible.' Do you agree? ‍
• “But a man could not travel along two different paths.” How is Rooke's conflict of conscience explored in The Lieutenant ? ‍
• 'Rooke's own differences furthered his understanding of and connection with Tagaran.' Discuss. ‍
• "You did not learn a language without entering into a relationship with the people who spoke it with you." How is this concept explored in The Lieutenant ? ‍
• "The intention of evil was there which is all that God see when he looks into our hearts." 'Grenville explores the importance of intention over action in The Lieutenant .' Discuss. ‍
• Why are Rooke's realisations about and outlook on the world an anomaly? ‍
• ' The Lieutenant explores how social change can only happen with dissent and non-conformity.' To what extent do you agree? ‍
• How does Grenville construct morality in The Lieutenant ? ‍
• 'Rooke discovers that exploration of the self is crucial in shaping one's sense of identity.' Discuss. ‍
• 'It is easier to resist change than to enable it.' How does The Lieutenant demonstrate this idea? ‍
• 'In The Lieutenant , it is the individual who determines what is possible and what is impossible.' Discuss. ‍
• "If he were to go back to that night on the sand of Botany Bay, would he make the same choice again, knowing that this was where it would lead him...?" How does Grenville explore how and why difficult choices are made? ‍
• 'Intransigence and a sense of superiority ultimately prevent unity in New South Wales.' Do you agree?

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224+ GD topics on current affairs of 2024 (with answers)

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With an election six months away, Mr. Biden assembled a list of 19 people to honor that was heavy with major Democratic Party figures and others he has worked with over the years, including former Vice President Al Gore and former Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg of New York. The one well-known Republican to be honored is former Senator Elizabeth Dole of North Carolina.

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The ceremony on Friday was a chance for Mr. Biden to thank certain allies who helped him at key moments. Ms. Pelosi, who still represents California in the House after stepping down as speaker, was critical to passing some of the most important legislation of the Biden presidency, including programs to rebuild infrastructure, combat climate change, lower prescription drug costs and raise corporate taxes.

Mr. Kerry, the Democratic presidential nominee in 2004, served with Mr. Biden in the Senate for years and as secretary of state during President Barack Obama’s administration when Mr. Biden was vice president. Until recently, Mr. Kerry served as Mr. Biden’s special envoy for climate .

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Mr. Gore won the national popular vote in 2000 but lost a razor-thin contest in Florida by just 537 votes to give the Electoral College edge to George W. Bush, a Republican. After a Supreme Court ruling ended the recount in Florida, Mr. Gore made a gracious concession to Mr. Bush — and did not try to use his role as vice president to overturn the results as Mr. Trump tried to pressure his own vice president, Mike Pence, to do in 2020.

Mr. Biden’s one nod across the aisle on the medal list was Ms. Dole, who served as secretary of transportation for President Ronald Reagan, secretary of labor for President George H.W. Bush and president of the American Red Cross before winning election to the Senate from North Carolina in 2002.

Her own campaign for the presidency started with much promise but flamed out before the Republican primaries began in 2000. Her husband, former Senator Robert J. Dole of Kansas, was the party’s 1996 presidential nominee, losing the general election to Bill Clinton, a Democrat. Mr. Dole was the only living Republican presidential nominee to support Mr. Trump for president and died at 98 in 2021.

The Elizabeth Dole Foundation released a statement on Friday thanking Mr. Biden for the honor: “The foundation deeply appreciates President Biden’s decision to bestow this award upon Senator Dole, celebrating her lifetime of leadership and service and rightly placing her among those extraordinary Americans who have changed the course of history.”

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A Proclamation on Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islanders Heritage Month,   2024

     This month, we celebrate the Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AA and NHPI) communities, whose ingenuity, grit, and perseverance have pushed our great American experiment forward.

     From Native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders whose ancestors have called their lands home for hundreds of years to Asian immigrants who have newly arrived and those whose families have been here for generations — AA and NHPI heritage has long been a part of the history of our great country and a defining force in the soul of our Nation.  As artists and journalists, doctors and engineers, business and community leaders, and so much more, AA and NHPI peoples have shaped the very fabric of our Nation and opened up new possibilities for all of us.  I am proud that they serve at the highest levels of my Administration, including Vice President Kamala Harris, Ambassador Katherine Tai, Acting Secretary of Labor Julie Su, and Director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy Arati Prabhakar, who make this country a better place each and every day.  This year, we are also celebrating the 25th anniversary of the White House Initiative and President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders, who work across government to advance equity, opportunity, and justice for AA and NHPI communities.

     I have always believed that diversity is our Nation’s greatest strength.  That is why I launched the first-ever National Strategy to Advance Equity, Justice, and Opportunity for AA and NHPI Communities.  This strategy works to harness the full potential of these communities — from combating anti-Asian hate to making government services accessible in more languages.  To ensure the legacies of AA and NHPI peoples are properly honored in the story of America, I signed historic legislation that will bring us closer to a National Museum of Asian Pacific American History and Culture.  I also issued a Presidential Memorandum to consider expanding protections for the Pacific Remote Islands to conserve this unique area’s significant natural and cultural resources and honor the traditional practices and ancestral pathways of Pacific Island voyagers, and I signed the Amache National Historic Site Act to establish a memorial honoring the 10,000 Japanese Americans who were unjustly incarcerated there during World War II.  Throughout my time in office, the First Lady and I have hosted celebrations at the White House that highlight the incredible diversity of AA and NHPI communities, like Diwali and the first-ever White House Lunar New Year celebration.  This year, to ensure that the full diversity of AA and NHPI communities is seen and valued as new policy is being made, we updated the Federal Government’s standards for collecting data on race and ethnicity for the first time in over 25 years. 

     Meanwhile, we are creating new opportunities for AA and NHPI communities by building an economy that works for everyone, including investing in AA and NHPI small businesses and entrepreneurs.  Since I took office, the Small Business Administration provided over $22 billion in loans to AA and NHPI entrepreneurs.  We have seen the results:  During my Administration, we achieved the highest Asian American employment and entrepreneurship rates in over a decade.

      Last year, the First Lady and I witnessed the absolute courage of the Native Hawaiian people and Hawaii’s Asian American and Pacific Islander communities when we visited Maui in the wake of the devastating fires.  The destruction upended so many lives, and yet the community showed up ready to help rebuild stronger than before.  My Administration has their backs — we are committed to making sure Maui has everything the Federal Government can offer to heal and build back better and as fast as possible.  Throughout these efforts, we remain focused on rebuilding the way the people of Maui want to build by respecting sacred lands, cultures, and traditions.

     Racism, harassment, and hate crimes against people of AA and NHPI heritage also persist — a tragic reminder that hate never goes away; it only hides.  Hate must have no safe harbor in America — that is why I signed the bipartisan COVID-19 Hate Crimes Act, which makes it easier for Americans to report hate crimes, and I also hosted the first-ever White House summit against hate-fueled violence.  We are also working to address the scourge of gun violence, which takes the lives of too many AA and NHPI loved ones.  I signed the most significant gun safety law in nearly 30 years.  My Administration has taken actions to expand background checks and fund efforts to strengthen red flag laws to keep Americans out of harm’s way.  There is still so much to do, and I continue to urge the Congress to ban assault weapons and high-capacity magazines.

     Our Nation was founded on the idea that we are all created equal and deserve to be treated equally throughout our lives.  We have never fully realized this promise, but we have never fully walked away from it either.  As we celebrate the historic accomplishments of AA and NHPIs across our Nation, we promise we will never stop working to form a more perfect Union. 

     NOW, THEREFORE, I, JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR., President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2024 as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.  I call upon all Americans to learn more about the histories of the AA and NHPI community and to observe this month with appropriate programs and activities.

    IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this thirtieth day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand twenty-four, and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and forty-eighth.

                        JOSEPH R. BIDEN JR.

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Earlier Wednesday, Biden announced new Microsoft data hub in Wisconsin

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Protesters blocked downtown Chicago streets Wednesday as President Joe Biden came to the city for another campaign fundraiser.

Protesters gathered near Monroe and State streets in the Loop about 5 p.m., protesting the president's visit.

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The president was in the city for about four hours as he attended the fundraiser at the Palmer House Hilton, his second in the past month.

A line of police blocked protesters from accessing the entrance to the hotel.

The pro-Palestinian demonstrators are critical of the president's support of Israel, in particular, at this moment, with an Israeli invasion of Rafah possibly imminent.

They stopped after marching through downtown, blocking traffic and spreading their message with loudspeakers. They first gathered for a rally near Michigan Avenue and Ida B. Wells Drive.

"Him and all of those ultra-rich millionaires and billionaires who are supporting him at this fundraiser who are also complicit in the genocide absolutely can hear us," said Hatem Abudayyeh with Chicago Coalition for Justice in Palestine.

Earlier in Wisconsin Biden spoke to CNN and acknowledged the dozens of college encampments that have formed.

"There's a legitimate right to free speech and protest. There's a legitimate to right to do that, and they have a right to do that. There's not a legitimate right to use hate speech," Biden said.

Biden said for the first time he would halt some shipments of American weapons to Israel if there's a major invasion of the city of Rafah.

"I think it's clearly too little, too late, but we also take credit for the fact that there has been a little bit of a shift in policy," Abudayyeh said.

President Biden arrived in Chicago a little after 3:30 p.m., stepping off Air Force One at O'Hare.

From there, he took a helicopter to an area near Soldier Field, and then took a motorcade from there to the Loop, where he arrived for that fundraiser around 4:30 p.m.

The demonstrators are vowing to continue protesting the president's visits. That includes, of course, the Democratic National Convention this summer, where they're expecting tens of thousands to take to the streets.

Biden announces new Microsoft AI facility at site of failed Trump factory in Wisconsin

Earlier in the day Wednesday, Biden announced a $3.3 billion investment in Wisconsin.

Biden said the money will help create jobs as Microsoft builds a new artificial intelligence facility.

In 2018, then-President Donald Trump broke ground at the same site in Racine on what was supposed to be an electronics factory for Taiwan's Foxconn.

READ ALSO | Microsoft to build AI hub, train people how to best use artificial intelligence

Trump had promised 13,000 jobs, calling the project the "Eighth Wonder of the World," as he used a golden shovel to break ground.

Construction equipment is now leveling land to build the data center.

"They dug a hole with those golden shovels, and then they fell into it," Biden said Wednesday.

FoxConn never panned out, which was something President Biden drove home, as he trolled Trump during his stop in Wisconsin.

"FoxConn turned about to be just that, a con -- go figure," Biden said.

Biden joined Microsoft President Brad Smith to announce the data center that will be one of Microsoft's largest in the world. Unlike FoxConn, Smith said his company under-promises and over-delivers.

"We are going to be building one of the world's most advanced AI centers that you will see anywhere," Smith said.

Microsoft said just building the center will create over 2,000 union jobs. There will also be thousands of jobs once the project is complete. Some local union residents said Wednesday's announcement should be enough to get undecided voters to vote for Biden.

"Absolutely, there are going to be a lot of workers at Microsoft. Everybody is successful over there," Racine resident Meekma said.

Besides union voters, President Biden is making a big push to get more Black voters.

After the Microsoft event, he stopped at a small Racine community center, where he received a standing ovation.

Wisconsin is such an important state for the Biden/Harris ticket. Wednesday's visit by the president is one of many there.

Vice President Kamala Harris will be making yet another stop in Milwaukee on May 16 to tout the administration's economic agenda.

"Whatever your politics may be, you got to look at the people who are the helping hand," Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin resident Lyle Tryba said.

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Are the campus protests antisemitic? For many Jewish activists, a difficult debate

The long-running debate on zionism, israel and jewish identity has now become an explosive political issue, by nicholas liu.

A surge of student-led rallies and encampments in protest of Israel's war in Gaza has been met with increasingly  violent crackdowns . Nearly 300 people were arrested on Tuesday evening at Columbia University and the City College of New York, and police in riot gear were summoned to the UCLA campus after pro-Israel counter-protesters attempted to storm a pro-Palestine encampment.

Police have broken up protest encampments and made arrests at numerous other schools across the country within the last several days, including Tulane University, the University of North Carolina, Virginia Commonwealth University, the University of Wisconsin, the University of Utah and elsewhere. These law enforcement actions have come with  bellicose calls from leading political voices and punishment meted out by university administrators, who often claim that student protests have been poisoned by rampant antisemitism. 

"Antisemitism will not be tolerated in Texas, period," tweeted Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican. At the request of University of Texas officials, Abbott recently  sent state troopers  onto the school's flagship campus in Austin to drive protesters from the main quad. "Students joining in hate-filled, antisemitic protests at any public college or university in Texas should be expelled ," the governor added.

Allegations of antisemitic speech and conduct range from individual reports of hateful behavior — such as overt or implicit support for the Hamas surprise attack last October, in which roughly 1,200 Israelis were killed — to the more ambiguous assumption that some or all criticism of Israel and Zionism, or the Israeli military offensive that has killed 35,000 Palestinians so far, is inherently antisemitic.

"Anti-Zionism is antisemitism," said Jonathan Greenblatt , leader of the Anti-Defamation League. "The anti-Zionist is committed to denying rights to Jews that they afford to everyone else … the argument that Jews don't deserve the rights that everyone else should have.”

That is a controversial assertion, one clearly not shared by all Jewish people in America or around the world. Among the "anti-Zionists" that Greenblatt and others have described are Jewish students who celebrated Passover among the tents on Columbia University's South Lawn and Jewish activists who were arrested while participating in a sit-in at New York's Grand Central Terminal. Many in the pro-Palestine protest movement say they reject antisemitism, and that exaggerated claims of antisemitic speech or behavior have been weaponized to crush peaceful protests and suppress legitimate criticism of Israel, its war in Gaza, and policies that some human rights watchdogs have characterized as apartheid .

Such claims of antisemitism amount to an "easy and convenient way to not confront the reality that there's a war where tens of thousands of civilians have been killed," said Rabbi Shaul Magid, a professor in Jewish studies at Dartmouth College. "The war has really brought to the surface a terminological morass which makes it almost impossible to distinguish between legitimate criticism of a war and illegitimate expression of hatred towards Jews."

Many in the pro-Palestine protest movement say they reject antisemitism, and that exaggerated claims of antisemitic speech or behavior have been weaponized to crush peaceful protests and suppress legitimate criticism of Israel.

The term "anti-Zionism," Magid said, has historically been used by Jewish people as part of a long-running internal debate within the Jewish community regarding Zionism, a nationalist movement with 19th-century roots that ultimately led to the creation of Israel as a Jewish nation-state following the Holocaust and World War II. Many  Jewish critics of Israeli policy  view the Zionist philosophy as underpinning Israel's treatment of Palestinians. Today's dueling activist movements have obviously spread far beyond exclusively Jewish spaces. Magid said that in that context, opposition to Zionism has frequently been characterized as a "universal expression of antisemitism." He noted that there have long been anti-Zionists within the Jewish community, who believed that the mass settlement of Israel by Jewish migrants and the resulting displacement of indigenous Palestinians was a mistake, and that Judaism should be understood as a global "church" of believers, rather than a separate and unassimilable race.

For many pro-Palestine Jewish activists, uncoupling Jewish identity from Jewish or Israeli nationalism is central to their worldview. They argue that their words and actions are not merely not antisemitic, but a positive expression of Jewish values as they understand them. Focusing on universal principles drawn from the collective Jewish experience, they view the current struggle of the Palestinians as closely akin to the generations of suffering borne by their ancestors.  

"Many of us in the Jewish movement for ceasefire are descendants of people who have survived genocide, pogroms and ethnic cleansing," said Stefanie Fox, executive director of Jewish Voice for Peace. "In our ancestors’ memories, we refuse to be silent and allow our government to fund a genocide against the people of Gaza."

Pro-Israel and Zionist groups and individuals, on the other hand, largely reject the notion that Jewish identity can be separated from Israel, which has now existed as a modern nation-state for 75 years. Doing that, they say, is to deny a safe haven for Jews after centuries of persecution, and also to deny or downplay the historical and spiritual connection between modern Jewish communities and the land of Israel. That worldview lies behind the claim that anti-Zionism and antisemitism are functionally the same thing.

"The belief that the Jews, alone among the people of the world, do not have a right to self-determination, or that the Jewish people’s religious and historical connection to Israel is invalid, is inherently bigoted," says the American Jewish Committee . "When Jews are verbally or physically harassed or Jewish institutions and houses of worship are vandalized in response to actions of the State of Israel, it is antisemitism."

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Reports of antisemitic incidents and antisemitic hate speech have fueled calls to crack down on the pro-Palestine protests. Though some such incidents appear to have been taken out of context,  caused by provocateurs  or revealed as outright fabrications , others have not been disputed , fueling a debate about whether expressions of anti-Jewish hatred have become normalized within the pro-Palestine protest movement. "It's unfortunate that antisemitic actors are using this as an opportunity to attach themselves to a larger movement and make a particular kind of case for themselves," said Magid.

Jim Sleeper, a veteran journalist and author  who has covered campus free-speech issues for years, witnessed the Vietnam War and civil rights protests of the 1960s and the Iraq war protests of the 2000s. The current wave of activism, he observes, is not so different from its antecedents. "There were always people who were really egregious, over-the-top and counterproductive," he said. "So far, I have not really sensed that the anti-Israel protesters are doing anything that bad, other than a few individuals. What's almost inevitable is that there are some opportunistic people who jump on the bandwagon because it's exciting for them."

Some alleged antisemitic incidents appear to have been taken out of context or  caused by provocateurs , but others have not been disputed , fueling a debate about whether anti-Jewish hatred has become normalized within the pro-Palestine protest movement.

When it comes to broader criticism of Israel or support for Palestine, there is little agreement as to where the line between legitimate grievance and antisemitism is drawn. Pro-Palestine protesters have generally called for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the suspension of U.S. military aid to Israel and, especially at campus protests, for universities to divest from companies that are linked to Israel and, they claim, " profit from Israeli apartheid, genocide and occupation in Palestine ." Opponents warn that such a course of action would delegitimize Israel  and weaken it militarily. Many protesters would say that's exactly the point.

A pro-Israel activist, citing the protests against Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Israel, told Salon that while criticizing Israeli government policies is not de facto antisemitism, that's not what the current pro-Palestine protests are doing. "They are protesting against the very existence of Israel, and at times the Jewish people globally," said Mikael Rochman, vice president of Students Supporting Israel at Columbia University. "They only use Palestinian suffering when they can weaponize it to attack the legitimacy of Israel and the Jewish people."

"I do not believe there is anything wrong with supporting Palestinians, as I do myself," Rochman continued, "but with the way in which they do it, which only supports continued conflict and leads to antisemitic acts."

One flashpoint that has raised repeated accusations of antisemitism is the frequent use of the phrase, "From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free," in chants and on protest signs. Critics view that phrase as a call for the elimination of Israel and the genocidal extermination of Israeli Jews; defenders say  it's a call for ending apartheid against Palestinians and replacing the current Israeli regime with a democratic "one-state" solution. Perhaps ironically, Netanyahu's Likud party, which leads the current government coalition in Israel, uses a strikingly similar phrase in its Founding Statement , which declares Jewish sovereignty over the entire territory from the Jordan River to the Mediterranean.

Broader denunciations of the state of Israel are misinterpreted, some protesters say, and fail to distinguish between Israel as it currently exists and its future possibilities. "At this moment, the call is for ceasefire and more. ... [T]he question of whether Israel can survive as a Jewish-supremacist ethnostate is more complicated," wrote Jen Brody and Jim Recht, two members of Harvard Faculty and Staff for Justice in Palestine, in a letter. "We reject the zero-sum notion that one people’s freedom requires the unfreedom of other people. Our liberation as Jews is inextricably bound up with the liberation of Palestinians." (Recht is Jewish, while Brody has Jewish ancestry.)

Want a daily wrap-up of all the news and commentary Salon has to offer? Subscribe to our morning newsletter , Crash Course.

Jewish pro-Palestine activists have acknowledged that some Jewish people may feel offended or uncomfortable in having their deeply-held beliefs called into question. That's not the same as being threatened or persecuted, they say, especially since pro-Palestine Jewish activists are themselves called heretical or self-hating . "It is exhausting and heartbreaking to have politicians, the mainstream media and even our own families question our identities and our commitment to Judaism," said Fox, who pointed out that many politicians like Rep. Elise Stefanik of New York, a right-wing Republican who is not Jewish, posture as opponents of antisemitism while promoting versions of the racist "great replacement" theory .

"When politicians and the media erase anti-Zionist Jews and suggest that all Jews support the Israeli military’s genocide," Fox continued, "this makes Jewish people less safe by suggesting we all support the destruction of Palestinians."

For many anti-Zionist Jews, their community's global safety cannot be bound to an Israeli state whose behavior has drawn worldwide condemnation. They would rather find solidarity not only across Jewish communities around the world, but also, in the words of a member of Rabbis for Ceasefire, with non-Jewish people also "made in b'tzelem elohim, in God's image."

about the Gaza protests

• "Consider the source": Students frustrated by derailment of campus free speech debates
• "We are absolutely horrified": Jewish activists demanding Gaza ceasefire face personal cost
• Israel, the Puritans and Gaza: A dangerous history with a long tail

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As Biden and Trump seek reelection, who are the oldest – and youngest – current world leaders?

Joe Biden, at 81, is the oldest American president , a distinction he’s held since entering office at age 78. As Biden runs for reelection in 2024, he is the ninth oldest national leader in the world, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of sitting leaders in 187 United Nations member states.

Former President Donald Trump, who is running for the White House again this year, is younger than Biden. But at 77, Trump also falls among the 20 oldest world leaders when compared with those currently in power.

With current U.S. President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump both running for reelection to the country’s highest office, Pew Research Center examined the ages of current national leaders to place the ages of Biden and Trump into a global context.

This analysis examines the ages of the current heads of government in 187 countries that are member states of the United Nations, relying on government biographies and regional news articles. It reflects the ages of national leaders – and in a few instances, acting or interim leaders – as of May 1, 2024. It excludes six UN member states for which an exact birth date of the leader could not be found: Afghanistan, Haiti, Iraq, Mali, Niger and Somalia. For each of these countries, we reached out to embassy officials in the United States but did not receive further information.

This analysis focuses mostly on heads of government as defined by a country’s political system or constitution. In some cases, we determined the national leader based on which executive has the power to appoint/dismiss the nominal head of government. In San Marino, where there are two captains regent who share power, we included data for Alessandro Rossi, as he assumed the position most recently.

This analysis also draws on Freedom House country rankings to determine whether countries are free, partly free or not free. These rankings are based on two numerical scores assigned to each country for its political rights and civil liberties.

The median age of each country’s overall population is a 2024 projection from the UN’s World Population Prospects 2022 report . The projections are based on “all available sources of data on population size and levels of fertility, mortality and international migration.”

American voters are skeptical about both candidates’ fitness for the job, according to a recent Center survey . Only about four-in-ten U.S. registered voters are extremely or very confident that Trump has the mental fitness to be president (38%), while a similar share are confident in his physical fitness (36%). Even fewer express this degree of confidence in Biden’s mental (21%) and physical (15%) fitness for the role.

Below are five key facts about the ages of current national leaders.

National leaders range in age from their mid-30s to 91. The youngest leader is Burkina Faso’s Ibrahim Traoré, who is 36. He only slightly edges out two fellow 36-year-olds, Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa and Montenegrin Prime Minister Milojko Spajić. Only two other world leaders are in their 30s: Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris and Chilean President Gabriel Boric.

The oldest national leader is President Paul Biya of Cameroon, who was born in 1933 and took office more than 40 years ago. Biya is the only current national leader in his 90s.

The median age of current national leaders is 62, as of May 1, 2024. The largest share of global leaders today (34%) are in their 60s. Roughly a quarter (22%) are in their 50s; 19% are in their 70s; and 16% are in their 40s. Biden is among the 5% of leaders who are in their 80s.

Countries that are less free tend to have older leaders. In countries that Freedom House classifies as “not free,” the median age of the national leader is 68. That compares with 62 in countries that are classified as “partly free” and 60 in countries classified as “free.”

The United States is one of only three countries that are classified as free and have a leader age 80 or older; the other two are Ghana and Namibia. In Ghana, President Nana Akufo-Addo recently turned 80 in office. And in Namibia, 82-year-old Nangolo Mbumba took over as president earlier this year following the previous leader’s death in office at age 82.

The median age for women leaders and men leaders is the same. Among men who are world leaders, 3% are in their 30s, while no women leaders are in this age group. Yet, of the 14 women leaders currently in power, 29% are in their 40s, compared with 14% of leaders who are men.

Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen of Denmark is the youngest female leader at 46, followed closely by fellow 46-year-old Kaja Kallas , the prime minister of Estonia. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina of Bangladesh is the oldest female leader at 76.

In most countries, the leader is significantly older than the median member of the population. For example, the median American is 38, according to UN population projections for 2024, while Biden is more than twice as old. In fact, the only countries that have a leader who is younger than the median resident of the country are Montenegro, Ireland and Italy. Andorran Prime Minister Xavier Espot Zamora, at 44, is the same age as the median Andorran resident. 

In general, countries that Freedom House classifies as free are more likely than those classified as partly free or not free to have leaders who are closer in age to the median resident of the country.

Note: This is an update of a post originally published on March 24, 2023.

• More Leaders
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Laura Silver is an associate director focusing on global attitudes at Pew Research Center .

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