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If you think about it, as a student, one of the most challenging prospects you will encounter in school is selecting topics for explanatory essays. Although this task may seem daunting, you can rest easy knowing that we have you covered. To make your work simpler, we have provided more than 220 explanatory essay ideas to choose from or inspire you to develop your own topic. All you have to do is go through the explanation essay topics from college essay writing services and select the one that interests you. Before delving into this list, we would first like to define what explanatory essay topics are, enumerate their characteristics, and clarify the process involved in picking them.

What Are Explanatory Essay Topics?

Explanatory topics refer to research titles that enlighten or explain any confusing situation or information. In other words, topics for an explanatory essay mainly focus on investigating and expounding ideas, evaluating all evidence provided, and forming and defining clear thesis statements. Unlike descriptive writing style, explanatory essays are fact-based. In this respect, they are very similar to exploratory essay topics , where you aklso need to dicuss different facts on the subject. Explanatory essay topics are essential in helping your target readers increase their knowledge of a subject, comprehend a process or procedure, or understand a particular concept. As a student, you must know how and always be ready to write expository essays because they are among the most widely proposed academic papers. Some common examples of explanation papers include cause and effect, definition, and how-to essays.

Characteristics of Good Explanatory Essay Topics

Before you feel excited and rush into selecting a unique title for your paper, you should keep in mind the key characteristics that are integral to valid explanatory writing topics. Having a clear idea of the qualities of good topics for an explanatory essay will get you closer to your goal. Some of those vital features include the following:

Simple It should be easy for your readers to understand.
Clear and precise The language used ought to be unambiguous.
Meaningful The title should add value or have a purpose it seeks to fulfill.
Attractive The topic should capture your reader’s attention.
Expressive It must convey your thoughts and intentions.

How to Choose an Explanatory Essay Topic?

Before writing your essay, you should first come up with an explanatory topic that will interest you and your audience. The title is the first thing that will attract readers to your paper. Deciding on topics for an explanatory essay can be very challenging. Sometimes you may end up experiencing mental blocks, which may prevent you from coming up with creative ideas for your essay. When this happens, the following steps will guide you in choosing unique and exciting explanation writing topics:

Brainstorm ideas and list all topics that interest you and might engage your potential audience.
From your list, evaluate the most appropriate titles and eliminate irrelevant ones.
Narrow down your focus to include only topics that are interesting to you and meaningful to your audience.
Determine the title you can confidently call your favorite.
Ensure that your chosen title adheres to the guidelines set by your professor or school.

Best Topics for Explanatory Essays

Now that you are more familiar with selecting explanatory essay topics , your next job is to actually choose the most suitable one that can guarantee you the highest grade. For your inspiration, check the list of the best topics to write an explanatory essay on that we have provided below:

Public vs. private school: which one is better?
Impacts of higher education on students' future careers.
Significant consequences that will be witnessed if the internet crashes today.
Psychological impacts of teen pregnancies.
How does the brain forget simple things?
What is the meaning of life?
Processes involved in making electronic music.
Reasons why people should aim to prevent air pollution.
Effects of depression on high school students.
Short-term effects of global warming.

Interesting Explanatory Essay Ideas

Refrain from settling for common explanatory essay ideas. To excite your target readers, always seek interesting topics for your paper. Below are stimulating ideas for an explanatory essay.

Negative impacts of America’s space exploration.
How has social media affected socialization?
How do dogs smell fear in humans?
How important is mental health in today’s society?
Impacts of the Cold War on America-Russia relationship.
Importance of having basic IT skills now and in the future.
Advantages that people get from expressing their emotions.
How does a person’s personality change in various stages of development?
Human brain: latest development and impacts in its study.
How teachers can manage school bullying in middle school.
Personal and societal problems brought by obesity.
Impacts of social media on enhancing education.
Why should people embrace gardening as a hobby?
Effective ways to reduce electricity consumption at home.
How America helped end World War II.

Simple Topics for Explanatory Essay

However, if complicated titles are not your everyday cup of tea, you should look at simple explanation writing topics. To get you started, here are examples of topics for an explanatory essay that you can use:

Negative impacts of smartphones on marriages.
Managing gender inequalities in the workplace.
How to write an informative essay.
Ways of preventing racism in America.
How can frequent internet usage negatively affect students?
Negative impacts brought by junk food on people’s health.
How COVID-19 pandemic negatively impacted education.
How does music affect people’s moods?
Benefits that people get from being multilingual.
Efficient ways that can be used to maintain an active lifestyle.
Ways in which overpopulation and poverty are related.
How to remain optimistic in the midst of financial hardships.
Effective ways to treat soldiers suffering from PTSD.
How communication has changed in the past 10 years.
How would life be without computers?

Creative Explanatory Essay Topics

Being creative in choosing explanatory topics can ensure you get the highest grades. Inspire yourself with the following innovative explanation essay topics:

Efficient ways in which animals can relieve stress.
Tactics that can be employed to win in a chess match.
How is social media used for income generation?
Using music to boost productivity at work.
Reasons why building a house is more manageable than buying one.
Efficient measures for helping a drowning person.
Effective methods that can help manage gambling addictions.
Effects of social media on people’s subconscious.
What is the correlation between eating disorders and loneliness?
How virtual communication has replaced real one.
How does memory affect people’s personalities?
How technology has contributed to increasing number of divorce cases.
Using various forms of art therapy in managing people with Alzheimer’s disease.
How does the immediate environment affect a person’s perception of racism?
Rise of exam cheating due to the internet.

Good Explanatory Essay Topics

Conducting an online search of ideas for explanatory essay can leave you confused because of the vast number of potential titles. However, you should not be scared by this because we have narrowed down the list of good topics for explanatory essays below to make your work easier:

How did the Civil War impact America?
Key reasons why people should use renewable energy sources.
Factors that have contributed to rising cases of obesity.
Measures that can be taken for treating mental disorders.
Challenges faced by Queen Victoria during her reign.
Dangers brought by military activities in East Asia.
Why is it challenging to fight against the impacts of global warming?
Measures used in preventing early pregnancies among teenagers.
Advantages and disadvantages of eating organic food.
How to prevent the effects of cyberbullying.
Ways that can improve quality of public education.
Effective tactics that can be used in identifying lies.
Impacts of getting bad grades in education.
How does jazz music affect the brain?
Dangerous habits that affect a person’s memory.

Unique Topics for an Explanatory Essay

To stand out from the crowd of other students, you need unique ideas for an explanatory essay. Below is a list of exceptional explanatory writing topics:

Why is being influential better than richness?
Steps involved in learning basic magic tricks.
How do cats manage to land on their feet when falling?
Effective survival techniques that can be used when one is stranded in the forest.
Ways in which age changes people's needs.
Measures that ordinary people may take to help homeless people.
Future challenges that technological advancements may bring into communication.
Is space exploration a viable solution for overpopulation?
How will parental roles change in future?
Are emotions affecting people’s intelligence?
How a teacher’s personality influences students.
Influence of astronomy in Ancient Greece .
Positive impacts of the Great Depression on marriages.
How do antidepressants negatively affect the brain?
How movies have influenced violent tendencies among the youths.

Explanatory Essay Topics & Ideas for Students

Explanatory research essay topics are among the most popular in education. Their popularity means that, in one way or another, high school and college students must encounter such assignments. But you should be chill about it. The next time your professor asks you to write a paper on explanatory essay ideas, visit this article for inspiration. Below we have provided expository titles for high school and college students.

Explanatory Essay Topics for High School

If you are a high school student and are having trouble coming up with suitable explanatory essay topics for your paper, relax and let us help you out. Below we have compiled various examples of topics to write an explanatory essay on:

Types of cognitive bias and how to overcome them.
How can people rebuild relationships with lost friends?
Political recognition of indigenous languages in America.
Ways in which students can use technology to enhance their education.
How Cold War influenced American culture.
Major benefits of art therapy in physical health.
Reasons for the increase in social media addiction among students.
Modern forms of Maslow’s Hierarchy of needs.
How do pets increase the levels of happiness in people?
Impacts of imperialism and internal colonization in America.
How did Stone Age technology impact farming methods?
Why is it difficult to achieve perpetual motion?
Applications of colloids and suspension in everyday life.
How can people use food waste as a key source of clean energy?
Are high school students focusing more on science and forgetting art?

Explanatory Essay Topics for College Students

Sometimes, getting ideas for an explanatory essay becomes challenging for college students. You will need inspiration upon finding yourself in this situation. As a result, we have come up with a list of explanatory essay topics for college students that can trigger your imagination:

Benefits of using social media as a source of income.
How has communication changed in the past decade?
Adverse effects that social media has on human interaction processes.
Reasons for the rising cases of suicide among college students.
Major achievements of Martin Luther King Jr. in his fight for justice and equality.
Reasons for rising number of divorce cases in America.
Christopher Columbus’ explorations and their impacts on today’s world.
How did Bill Gates' initiative in creating Microsoft change the world?
Effective ways to ensure future financial success.
How childhood experiences impact behavior during adulthood.
What are the major differences between living and existing?
How did Nikola Tesla’s invention of the coil change the world?
Is public speaking an essential tool for college students?
Should there be restrictions on social media usage among teenagers?
Measures that can be taken to prevent early pregnancies.

Explanatory Essay Topics by Subjects

Explanation writing topics can be used to write different papers that cover various issues. However, due to the vast number of subjects to choose from, students may find it challenging to pick a suitable title for their papers. For that reason, we have decided to narrow down and classify these topics for explanatory essays into definite groups: literature, history, social issues, science, technology, business, and health. Go through the list below and select the one you will be able to easily and comprehensively discuss.

Explanatory Essay Topics in Literature

There are many explanatory topics that you can write on different aspects of literature. But to narrow your search, below we have presented the best literature explanatory essay ideas:

How is the theme of change depicted in Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart ?
Mood expressions in Vladimir Nabokov’s Lolita .
Societal roles of women in the 18th century as portrayed in Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice .
How the sacrificial gender roles are depicted in A Doll’s House .
In what ways did classic writers' style enhance their credibility?
Effectiveness of literature in managing stress.
Romeo and Juliet : major symbols and their importance.
How does Shakespeare tackle the issue of witchcraft in Macbeth ?
The theme of ‘sexuality’ as depicted in The History Boys .
What is the central theme of Henrik Ibsen’s An Enemy of the People ?
Which character deserves a happy ending in Oedipus Rex ?
Implications of Bella Swan turning into a vampire.
Did Harry Potter’s life in an abusive home impact his behavior?
How compelling are secondary characters developed in A Song of Ice and Fire ?
Feminist movement of the 18th century and its impact on male authors.

History Explanatory Essay Topics

History topics for an explanatory essay are common subjects that students love writing about. To set you off, here are historical topics for explanatory writing:

How did colonialism negatively affect countries in Africa?
What key factors led to Hitler starting World War II?
Significant contributions that Abraham Lincoln made in the war against slavery.
Causes and impacts of Cuban Revolution.
In what ways have political developments in Western countries impacted other countries?
What factors led to the French Revolution, and what was its impact?
The Soviet Union: causes and consequences of its collapse on the rest of Europe.
Means of transport that took enslaved people to America.
Origin and impacts of Salem Witch trials.
How the invention of gunpowder became significant.
Impacts of major changes during the Middle Ages on the modern world.
Impacts of Japanese Samurai honor on industrial development
How was the first newspaper launched?
Impacts of the Cold War on the relationship between America and Russia.
How Ming Dynasty rule impacted trade in China.

Explanatory Essay Topics on Social Issues

Many studies have been conducted on social issues. For your paper to stand out, you need compelling explanatory essay ideas that can shed some new light on societal matters. Below we have provided some explanation essay topics that can make this task easy for you:

Why is it important for people to learn social values?
How COVID-19 pandemic contributed to the high cost of living in developing nations.
Impacts of gun control laws on how people live.
What impacts have mental illnesses had on society?
Consequences brought by obesity on how people interact with each other.
How have parental roles changed over time?
Causes and prevention of homelessness in the US.
Urbanization: negative consequences for Americans.
Social stratification and its impacts on society.
How to curb rising unemployment cases among American youths.
Effective measures for preventing cases of racism in high school.
Mental health problems brought by social media addiction.
How do online social relationships differ from face-to-face interactions?
Challenges faced in teaching the older generation modern technology.
How poverty contributes to the increased spread of HIV/AIDS.

Science Topics for Explanatory Essays

Science is a subject that cuts across many areas, including mathematical, social, physical, and biological. As a result, science topics for an explanatory essay are fairly widespread among students. To get you going, here are great science ideas for an explanatory essay:

How do fats and calories relate to one another?
Which part of the brain is responsible for enhancing creativity?
How does the white blood cell fight disease-causing organisms in the body?
Periodic table: its history and development.
Albert Einstein: his biography and scientific contributions.
Biological changes that occur in the body when one is living a sedentary lifestyle.
Human nervous system: its makeup and primary functions.
Processes involved in the synthesis of protein.
How do weather and climate differ?
Mechanisms involved in pumping blood throughout the body.
Similarities and differences between plant and animal cells.
How do animals dream?
Physical and chemical properties of mercury as an element of the periodic table.
Roles played by bacteria in human bodies.
How does the law of inertia affect motion?

Technology Explanatory Essay Topics

Due to the ever-changing nature of technology and innovation, it is tough to exhaust all explanatory topics that may be written about them. Since technology covers an exceedingly broad scope, simplify your search and consider the ideas for explanatory essay that we have narrowed down for you:

Roles played by robotics in the health industry.
How has virtual reality impacted the world?
Nanotechnology: its impacts on dentistry.
How is it possible for people on Earth to migrate to another planet?
Most efficient alternative sources of energy that can be used instead of electricity.
How has surrogacy affected the concepts of marriage?
Disadvantages associated with artificial intelligence in education.
Advantages and disadvantages of using 3D printers.
How has development of atomic technology impacted world security?
Advantages of having self-parking cars.
How genetic engineering projects changed human life.
Role of quantum physics in comprehending the laws of nature.
Impacts of using drones on modern warfare.
Consequences of cellular technology on electrical engineering.
How technology has contributed to positive growth of the music industry.

>> View more: Technology Topics

Business Explanatory Essay Topics

Business is a broad subject that can provide you with an array of ideas for your explanatory writing topics. However, remember that you must maintain uniqueness in order to stand out. Below are exclusive business explanation essay topics that will keep you at the top:

Methods used by employers to ensure their employees remain physically and mentally healthy.
Negative impacts brought by office politics on staff performance.
Environmental responsibilities performed by an organization.
How can employees report harassment cases by the Human Resources department?
How can a business use social media for advertising its products and services?
Business culture: advantages and disadvantages of having one.
Why do many businesses choose to employ people with experience over recent graduates?
Significant challenges facing the world economy.
How did Brexit affect foreign business relations in Europe?
Negative impacts of poor service on an organization.
How can companies ensure fairness in the allocation of duty?
Steps taken by companies to solve internal conflicts.
How do companies deal with sexual harassment cases in the workplace?
Long-term benefits of non-disclosure agreements to a company.
How can businesses participate in raising awareness of global warming?

Explanatory Essay Topics About Health

One of the contemporary issues that people have taken a keen interest in is their well-being. As a result, explanatory topics about health have risen in popularity among readers. The following are perfect examples of explanatory essay ideas for you to choose from:

Reasons why protecting your health should begin from a young age.
Methods employed to manage flat feet in children.
What are the health risks associated with participation in sports?
Negative impacts of a sedentary lifestyle on a student's health.
Does heavy school workload impact high school students' health?
Natural ways used in joint pains among the elderly.
How metformin is used in the prevention of diabetes.
Best methods that can protect your heart from cardiovascular complications.
Existing methods used in treating Duchene muscular dystrophy.
Steps involved in maintaining a healthy body weight.
Types and causes of eating disorders that affect a person’s health.
Effective ways that can be employed in managing symptoms of depression.
What is the relationship between obesity and fast foods?
Clinical trials: what are the advantages of participating in them?
Natural ways of managing Huntington's diseases.

Explanatory Writing Prompts

Explanatory writing prompts refer to 1-3 topic sentences that ask a question or raise an issue that can be informatively answered in an essay. Explanatory prompts aim at guiding or centering the contents of your writing on informing your target readers or professors. If you wish to write explanatory essay prompts, you should look at the list below for inspiration:

What is the definition of a family? Who is considered part of the family?
Events that led to the Cold War starting.
What steps are involved in caring for a vegetable garden during the summer?
Are TV advertisements effective in influencing purchasing habits? Why or why not?
Rise of plastic use in the world. Has it had a positive or negative effect on the environment?
Famous inventions that have changed people’s lives in the past five years, and who invented them?
Step-by-step guide on how to play baseball.
Best community to live in between rural, suburban, and urban.
How would the world survive without electricity?
Best book that every person should read in their lifetime.
Easy ways in which people can reduce their carbon footprint.
Best method for dealing with bullies.
What qualities should a good friend possess?
How connecting with people digitally will change in the future.
How sports are important in managing delinquents.

Bottom Line on Explanatory Essay Topics

Now that you know more about topics for explanatory essays, their characteristics, and how to select them, we hope you will never be scared to tackle your expository assignments. We have also provided you with a list of topics for explanatory writing that you can choose from. A catalog of explanatory essay ideas can inspire you to develop a suitable topic for your paper. It is our opinion that selecting a right title for your essay should be able to make the experience of writing your paper enjoyable.

In case you need more suggestions, don't hesitate to look for titles in our blog. From satire essay topics to expository essay topics , you will find ideas for any taste.

Let our academic experts help you. We are eager to provide a smart solution even within a tough deadline without compromising the quality. Give us your idea, pay for essay writing and our writers will craft a great essay for you.

Daniel Howard is an Essay Writing guru. He helps students create essays that will strike a chord with the readers.

The Big List of Essay Topics for High School (120+ Ideas!)

Ideas to inspire every young writer!

What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?

High school students generally do a lot of writing, learning to use language clearly, concisely, and persuasively. When it’s time to choose an essay topic, though, it’s easy to come up blank. If that’s the case, check out this huge round-up of essay topics for high school. You’ll find choices for every subject and writing style.

Argumentative Essay Topics
Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics
Compare-Contrast Essay Topics
Descriptive Essay Topics
Expository and Informative Essay Topics
Humorous Essay Topics

Literary Essay Topics

Narrative and Personal Essay Topics
Personal Essay Topics
Persuasive Essay Topics

Research Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics for high school.

When writing an argumentative essay, remember to do the research and lay out the facts clearly. Your goal is not necessarily to persuade someone to agree with you, but to encourage your reader to accept your point of view as valid. Here are some possible argumentative topics to try. ( Here are 100 more compelling argumentative essay topics. )

The most important challenge our country is currently facing is … (e.g., immigration, gun control, economy)
The government should provide free internet access for every citizen.
All drugs should be legalized, regulated, and taxed.
Vaping is less harmful than smoking tobacco.
The best country in the world is …
Parents should be punished for their minor children’s crimes.
Should all students have the ability to attend college for free?
Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

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Schools should require recommended vaccines for all students, with very limited exceptions.
Is it acceptable to use animals for experiments and research?
Does social media do more harm than good?
Capital punishment does/does not deter crime.
What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?
Do we really learn anything from history, or does it just repeat itself over and over?
Are men and women treated equally?

Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics for High School

A cause-and-effect essay is a type of argumentative essay. Your goal is to show how one specific thing directly influences another specific thing. You’ll likely need to do some research to make your point. Here are some ideas for cause-and-effect essays. ( Get a big list of 100 cause-and-effect essay topics here. )

Humans are causing accelerated climate change.
Fast-food restaurants have made human health worse over the decades.
What caused World War II? (Choose any conflict for this one.)
Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

How does playing sports affect people?
What are the effects of loving to read?
Being an only/oldest/youngest/middle child makes you …
What effect does violence in movies or video games have on kids?
Traveling to new places opens people’s minds to new ideas.
Racism is caused by …

Compare-Contrast Essay Topics for High School

As the name indicates, in compare-and-contrast essays, writers show the similarities and differences between two things. They combine descriptive writing with analysis, making connections and showing dissimilarities. The following ideas work well for compare-contrast essays. ( Find 80+ compare-contrast essay topics for all ages here. )

Public and private schools
Capitalism vs. communism
Monarchy or democracy
Dogs vs. cats as pets

Paper books or e-books
Two political candidates in a current race
Going to college vs. starting work full-time
Working your way through college as you go or taking out student loans
iPhone or Android
Instagram vs. Twitter (or choose any other two social media platforms)

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School

Bring on the adjectives! Descriptive writing is all about creating a rich picture for the reader. Take readers on a journey to far-off places, help them understand an experience, or introduce them to a new person. Remember: Show, don’t tell. These topics make excellent descriptive essays.

Who is the funniest person you know?
What is your happiest memory?
Tell about the most inspirational person in your life.
Write about your favorite place.
When you were little, what was your favorite thing to do?
Choose a piece of art or music and explain how it makes you feel.
What is your earliest memory?

What’s the best/worst vacation you’ve ever taken?
Describe your favorite pet.
What is the most important item in the world to you?
Give a tour of your bedroom (or another favorite room in your home).
Describe yourself to someone who has never met you.
Lay out your perfect day from start to finish.
Explain what it’s like to move to a new town or start a new school.
Tell what it would be like to live on the moon.

Expository and Informative Essay Topics for High School

Expository essays set out clear explanations of a particular topic. You might be defining a word or phrase or explaining how something works. Expository or informative essays are based on facts, and while you might explore different points of view, you won’t necessarily say which one is “better” or “right.” Remember: Expository essays educate the reader. Here are some expository and informative essay topics to explore. ( See 70+ expository and informative essay topics here. )

What makes a good leader?
Explain why a given school subject (math, history, science, etc.) is important for students to learn.
What is the “glass ceiling” and how does it affect society?
Describe how the internet changed the world.
What does it mean to be a good teacher?

Explain how we could colonize the moon or another planet.
Discuss why mental health is just as important as physical health.
Describe a healthy lifestyle for a teenager.
Choose an American president and explain how their time in office affected the country.
What does “financial responsibility” mean?

Humorous Essay Topics for High School

Humorous essays can take on any form, like narrative, persuasive, or expository. You might employ sarcasm or satire, or simply tell a story about a funny person or event. Even though these essay topics are lighthearted, they still take some skill to tackle well. Give these ideas a try.

What would happen if cats (or any other animal) ruled the world?
What do newborn babies wish their parents knew?
Explain the best ways to be annoying on social media.
Invent a wacky new sport, explain the rules, and describe a game or match.

Explain why it's important to eat dessert first.

Imagine a discussion between two historic figures from very different times, like Cleopatra and Queen Elizabeth I.
Retell a familiar story in tweets or other social media posts.
Describe present-day Earth from an alien’s point of view.
Choose a fictional character and explain why they should be the next president.
Describe a day when kids are in charge of everything, at school and at home.

Literary essays analyze a piece of writing, like a book or a play. In high school, students usually write literary essays about the works they study in class. These literary essay topic ideas focus on books students often read in high school, but many of them can be tweaked to fit other works as well.

Discuss the portrayal of women in Shakespeare’s Othello .
Explore the symbolism used in The Scarlet Letter .
Explain the importance of dreams in Of Mice and Men .
Compare and contrast the romantic relationships in Pride and Prejudice .

Analyze the role of the witches in Macbeth.

Dissect the allegory of Animal Farm and its relation to contemporary events.
Interpret the author’s take on society and class structure in The Great Gatsby .
Explore the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia.
Discuss whether Shakespeare’s portrayal of young love in Romeo and Juliet is accurate.
Explain the imagery used in Beowulf .

Narrative and Personal Essay Topics for High School

Think of a narrative essay like telling a story. Use some of the same techniques that you would for a descriptive essay, but be sure you have a beginning, middle, and end. A narrative essay doesn’t necessarily need to be personal, but they often are. Take inspiration from these narrative and personal essay topics.

Describe a performance or sporting event you took part in.
Explain the process of cooking and eating your favorite meal.
Write about meeting your best friend for the first time and how your relationship developed.
Tell about learning to ride a bike or drive a car.
Describe a time in your life when you’ve been scared.

Write about a time when you or someone you know displayed courage.

Share the most embarrassing thing that ever happened to you.
Tell about a time when you overcame a big challenge.
Tell the story of how you learned an important life lesson.
Describe a time when you or someone you know experienced prejudice or oppression.
Explain a family tradition, how it developed, and its importance today.
What is your favorite holiday? How does your family celebrate it?
Retell a familiar story from the point of view of a different character.
Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision.
Tell about your proudest moment.

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

Persuasive essays are similar to argumentative , but they rely less on facts and more on emotion to sway the reader. It’s important to know your audience, so you can anticipate any counterarguments they might make and try to overcome them. Try these topics to persuade someone to come around to your point of view. ( Discover 60 more intriguing persuasive essay topics here. )

Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?
Everyone should be vegetarian or vegan.
What animal makes the best pet?
Visit an animal shelter, choose an animal that needs a home, and write an essay persuading someone to adopt that animal.
Who is the world’s best athlete, present or past?
Should little kids be allowed to play competitive sports?
Are professional athletes/musicians/actors overpaid?
The best music genre is …

What is one book that everyone should be required to read?

Is democracy the best form of government?
Is capitalism the best form of economy?
Students should/should not be able to use their phones during the school day.
Should schools have dress codes?
If I could change one school rule, it would be …
Is year-round school a good idea?

A research essay is a classic high school assignment. These papers require deep research into primary source documents, with lots of supporting facts and evidence that’s properly cited. Research essays can be in any of the styles shown above. Here are some possible topics, across a variety of subjects.

Which country’s style of government is best for the people who live there?
Choose a country and analyze its development from founding to present day.
Describe the causes and effects of a specific war.
Formulate an ideal economic plan for our country.
What scientific discovery has had the biggest impact on life today?

Tell the story of the development of artificial intelligence so far, and describe its impacts along the way.

Analyze the way mental health is viewed and treated in this country.
Explore the ways systemic racism impacts people in all walks of life.
Defend the importance of teaching music and the arts in public schools.
Choose one animal from the endangered species list, and propose a realistic plan to protect it.

What are some of your favorite essay topics for high school? Come share your prompts on the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out the ultimate guide to student writing contests .

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468 Explanatory Essay Topics & Good Ideas

18 January 2024
16 min read

Explanatory essay topics delve into complex subjects, dissecting them to expose underlying components for better understanding. These themes may range from scientific phenomena, social issues, and technological advancements to historical events. The goal is to clarify obscure aspects, spotlighting how individual elements interact within a broader context. These topics demand detailed research, critical thinking, and clear, comprehensive writing, ultimately striving to inform, educate, and enlighten readers, enhancing their understanding and perspective of the chosen subject. The successful explanation of such topics illuminates intricacies otherwise overlooked, extending the conversation and potentially catalyzing new thought and innovation.

Simple Explanatory Essay Topics

Understanding the Food Pyramid
How Does Photosynthesis Work?
Steps in Making a Peanut Butter Sandwich
Process of Creating a DIY Birthday Card
Elements of a Balanced Diet
Understanding How a Rainbow Forms
How Do Bees Produce Honey?
Unfolding the Journey of a Letter in the Mail System
Elements of a Successful Garage Sale
Breaking Down the Process of Baking Bread
How Day and Night Occur?
Decoding the Concept of Time Zones
Understanding the Water Cycle
Basic Steps to Plant a Seed
How Do Animals Prepare for Winter?
Journey of Milk From Farm to Market
How Does a Bicycle Work?
Understanding Cloud Formation
What Happens During an Eclipse?

Interesting Explanatory Essay Topics

Unraveling Secrets of Domestic Cat Life
Origami: Journey to the Heart of an Ancient Art
Dreaming: Unveiling the Hidden Realm
Magic Tricks and Their Hidden Mechanisms
Bee Communication: A Closer Look
Deep Sea Exploration: What We Know and What We Don’t
Astronaut Training: An Insider’s Perspective
Hummingbird Hover: A Phenomenon Explained
From Larva to Butterfly: The Stages Unfolded
Roller Coasters: The Science of Thrills
The Human Immune System: A Comprehensive Breakdown
Black Holes: Comprehension of the Incomprehensible
Making Movies: The Process Behind the Screen
Northern Lights: An Illuminating Exploration
Ant Colonies: Life Beneath the Surface
Our Solar System: Grasping Its Vast Scale
Coral Reefs: A Dive Into Vibrant Ecosystems
Bermuda Triangle: Unlocking the Mystery
Wine Making: Understanding Its Intricacies
Deja Vu: Decoding the Phenomenon

Explanatory Essay Topics for High School

Fundamentals of Human Nutrition
Creating a Personal Budget: An Overview
The Beauty of Geometry in Architecture
Cryptocurrencies: Understanding Digital Money
Exploring the Biomechanics of Sports
Photosynthesis: A Simple Explanation
Climate Change: Causes and Consequences
Origins and Influences of Pop Art
The Fascinating World of Ants
Artificial Intelligence: A Glimpse Into the Future
Ice Age: Understanding Its Significance
Globalization: A Brief Overview
Sustainable Agriculture: Practices and Benefits
Quantum Physics: A Simplified Introduction
Constitutional Law: Breaking Down Its Complexity
Recycling Process: A Step-By-Step Guide
Modern Robotics: An Exciting Journey
Journey Through the Human Digestive System
Myths and Facts About Space Travel

Explanatory Essay Topics for Middle School

Solar System’s Planets: A Journey Through Space
Life Cycle of a Butterfly: Transformation Stages
Food Pyramid: A Balanced Diet Guide
Volcanoes: A Peek Into Their Formation
Origins of Common Superstitions
Rainbows: A Colorful Phenomenon Explained
Creation of Comic Books: The Behind-the-Scenes
Understanding Tides: Moon’s Effect on Earth’s Waters
Video Games Design: The Creative Process
Saving Money: Importance of Financial Literacy
Earthquake Science: Understanding Seismic Activities
Origami: The Art of Paper Folding
Ecosystems: Exploring Forest Habitats
Tsunamis: Oceanic Waves of Destruction
Why Do Leaves Change Color in Autumn?
Photosynthesis: The Miracle of Plant Life
Internet: How Has This Technology Changed Our Lives?
Understanding the Phases of the Moon
Global Warming: A Simplified Overview
History of Animated Movies: From Drawings to Digital

Explanatory Essay Topics for College Students

Cryptography: Securing Information in the Digital Age
Artificial Intelligence: Disruption in Modern Industry
Sustainability: Strategies for Achieving Green Goals
Climate Change: Decoding Science and Misinformation
Blockchain Technology: Beyond Cryptocurrency
Jazz Music: Roots and Influence on Modern Sound
Machine Learning: Applications in Everyday Life
Public Health: Global Pandemic Response
Cybersecurity: Challenges in the Age of the Internet
Green Architecture: Design for a Sustainable Future
Cultural Appropriation: Navigating the Fine Line
Modern Politics: Intersection With Social Media
Nuclear Energy: Balancing Benefits and Risks
Space Exploration: Future Possibilities and Challenges
Bioethics: Delicate Matters in Modern Medicine
Consumer Behavior: Psychological Perspectives
Urban Planning: Creating Livable Cities
Foreign Language Acquisition: Cognitive Benefits
Quantum Computing: Future of Information Processing

Social Issues Explanatory Topics

Understanding Systemic Racism: An Ongoing Challenge
Gender Inequality: Breaking the Glass Ceiling
Poverty: An International Dilemma
Child Labor: Exploitation of Innocence
Religious Intolerance: Barriers to Coexistence
Globalization: Harmonizing Cultures and Economies
Human Trafficking: A Hidden Crisis
Cyberbullying: Virtual Threats, Real Consequences
Refugee Crisis: A Humanitarian Challenge
Euthanasia: Dilemmas at the End of Life
LGBTQ+ Rights: Road to Equality
Mental Health Stigma: Confronting Misunderstandings
Climate Change: A Social and Environmental Issue
Drug Abuse: Understanding Addiction
Education Inequality: Bridging the Gap
Homelessness: Unveiling the Invisible Population
Digital Divide: Access in an Information Age
Racial Profiling: Discrimination in Justice
Internet Privacy: Safeguarding Personal Information
Child Soldiers: Warfare’s Innocent Victims

Explanatory Topics on Technology

Deciphering Quantum Computing: A Revolutionary Leap
Nanotechnology: A New Frontier in Medicine
Artificial Intelligence: Bridging the Gap between Humans and Machines
Interconnected World: Unraveling the Internet of Things
Cybersecurity: Safeguarding Our Digital Universe
Space Technology: Exploring Extraterrestrial Existence
Machine Learning: An Algorithmic Paradigm
Blockchain Technology: A New Age of Decentralization
Biotechnology: Decoding the Blueprint of Life
Smart Cities: Blueprint for a Sustainable Future
3D Printing: Crafting a New Dimension
Virtual Reality: A Paradigm Shift in Interaction
Augmented Reality: Overlaying Digital on Physical
Renewable Energy Technologies: A Sustainable Power Matrix
Bioinformatics: The Fusion of Biology and Information Technology
Big Data: Unveiling Patterns, Trends, and Associations
Neural Networks: Mimicking the Human Brain
Advanced Robotics: Machines With Human-Like Characteristics
Cryptography: The Science of Secure Communication

Education Explanatory Essay Topics

Bilingual Education: Fostering Multicultural Understanding
Challenges in Special Education: Inclusion and Diversity
Holistic Education: A More Comprehensive Approach
Standardized Testing: Merits and Drawbacks
Homeschooling: An Alternative Educational Route
Innovative Methods in Early Childhood Education
E-Learning: The Future of Education
Curriculum Development: Customizing Learning
Education Funding: Exploring Disparities
Education Technology: Tools for Enhanced Learning
Gifted Education: Catering to Exceptional Learners
Character Education: Building Integrity in Students
Classroom Management: A Key to Successful Learning
Teacher Training: Professional Development in Education
Literacy: Foundation of Learning
Student Motivation: Fuel for Educational Success
Parental Involvement: An Integral Part of Education
Inclusive Education: Equal Opportunities for All
School Nutrition: Influencing Student Health and Performance
Foreign Language Education: The Path to Global Citizenship

Health and Medicine Explanatory Topics

Genomic Medicine: Unfolding Genetic Mysteries
Epidemiology: Tracking Disease Patterns
Precision Medicine: Personalizing Treatments
Bioethics: Navigating Moral Dilemmas in Healthcare
Digital Health: Technology Meets Medicine
Pharmacogenomics: Genetic Influence on Drug Response
Healthcare Policy: Influences and Consequences
Mental Health: Unveiling Invisible Illnesses
Environmental Health: Linking Ecology and Well-Being
Medical Errors: Mitigating Unintended Consequences
Telemedicine: Remote Care Possibilities
Immunotherapy: A Revolutionary Approach to Cancer Treatment
Neuroscience: Unraveling the Mind’s Complexities
Aging and Geriatrics: Understanding Longevity
Pediatric Care: Tailoring Medicine for Children
Alternative Medicine: Beyond Conventional Practices
Chronic Illness Management: Improving Quality of Life
Global Health Disparities: Bridging the Gap
Health Informatics: Data-Driven Care

Science and Technology Explanatory Topics

Artificial Intelligence: Future Prospects
Quantum Computing: Beyond Binary Logic
Space Exploration: Mars and Beyond
Nanotechnology: Manipulating Matter on an Atomic Scale
Renewable Energy: Harnessing Sun, Wind, and Sea
Gene Editing: CRISPR and Its Applications
Virtual Reality: Immerging Experiences in Digital Domain
Climate Change Modeling: Predicting Environmental Future
Cybersecurity: Safeguarding Digital Assets
Data Science: Turning Information Into Insights
Biotechnology: Innovations in Medicine and Agriculture
Autonomous Vehicles: Redefining Transportation
3D Printing: From Prototypes to Body Parts
Dark Matter and Dark Energy: Unseen Cosmic Forces
Internet of Things: Interconnecting Everyday Devices
Robotics: Automating the Future
Astrophysics: Probing the Universe’s Secrets
Deep Learning: Advanced Machine Learning Techniques
Sustainable Technology: Balancing Progress and Preservation

History and Culture Explanatory Essay Topics

Decoding Ancient Egyptian Hieroglyphs
Dance Forms: Expressions of Cultural Identity
Medieval Europe: Feudalism and Power Structures
Graffiti: Artistic Expression or Vandalism?
Silk Road: Trade, Culture, and Conflict
Famous Artists in the Renaissance Period
Architectural Marvels of Ancient Rome
Historical Influence of the Latin Language
Native American Culture: Traditions and Beliefs
French Revolution: Causes and Consequences
African American Music: From Blues to Hip Hop
Cultural Implications of the Japanese Tea Ceremony
History of European Colonization in Africa
Legacy of Greek Philosophy
Civil Rights Movement: Achievements and Aftermath
Harlem Renaissance: Influence on African American Literature
Significance of the Mayan Calendar
Indian Caste System: Historical and Contemporary Perspectives
Mysteries of Bermuda Triangle

Politics and Government Explanatory Topics

Foreign Policies: An Examination of US-Sino Relations
Decentralization: Swiss Confederation Case Study
Analyzing Iran’s Theocratic Structure
Brexit: A Retrospective Analysis
Cuba’s Socialism: Key Determinants and Outcomes
Exploring the Phenomenon of Populism in Modern Politics
North Korea’s Political System: A Detailed Examination
Influence of Social Media on Political Campaigns
Analysis of the Israel-Palestine Conflict
India’s Political Landscape: A Study of Coalition Politics
Understanding Neoliberalism Through Chile’s Economic Transformation
Political Power Dynamics in the European Union
Russian Federation: The Politics of Autocracy
US Electoral College: Purpose and Criticisms
Political Stability: A Detailed Study of Singapore’s Government
Political Upheavals: A Case Study of Arab Spring
Understanding the Politics of South Africa Post-Apartheid
Feminism in Politics: A Study of Women’s Political Representation
Analyzing Political Corruption: The Case of Brazil

Explanatory Topics About Environmental Issues

Climate Change: Predictive Modelling of Future Scenarios
Decoding the Mystery of Coral Reef Bleaching
Plastic Pollution: Analyzing the Great Pacific Garbage Patch
Urban Sprawl: Environmental Consequences and Sustainable Solutions
Endangered Species: A Close Look at Sumatran Tigers
Understanding Ocean Acidification and Its Consequences
Forest Conservation: Successful Strategies in Costa Rica
Melting Polar Ice Caps: Implications for Global Sea Levels
Hydraulic Fracturing: An Environmental Perspective
Deforestation in the Amazon: Causes and Consequences
Sustainable Agriculture: A Detailed Study of Permaculture
Biodiversity Loss: Unraveling the Sixth Mass Extinction
Sustainable Energy: The Prospects of Hydrogen Fuel
Air Quality: The Perils of Indoor Air Pollution
Waste Management: Innovative Solutions in Sweden
Freshwater Scarcity: Exploring Solutions in Arid Regions
Unsustainable Fishing Practices: A Case Study of the North Sea
Understanding the Environmental Impacts of Fast Fashion
E-Waste: Challenges and Opportunities in Recycling
Urban Green Spaces: Benefits and Implementation Strategies

Explanatory Essay Topics on Business and Economics

Blockchain Technology: Potential in Streamlining Supply Chains
Demystifying the Concept of Behavioral Economics
Cryptocurrency Market: Analyzing Trends and Predictions
Circular Economy: Probing the Possibility of Zero Waste
Startups: Unraveling the Success Story of Silicon Valley
Digital Marketing: Power of Social Media Platforms
Understanding Financial Crises: Lessons From the Great Depression
Globalization: Case Study on Multinational Corporations
Trade War: Evaluating the US-China Conflict
Inflation: Detailed Study of Hyperinflation in Zimbabwe
Income Inequality: Analyzing Global Disparity
Economic Growth: The Asian Tigers’ Phenomenon
E-Commerce: The Rise and Dominance of Amazon
Sustainable Businesses: Unpacking the Triple Bottom Line
Microfinance: Prospects in Poverty Alleviation
Understanding the Gig Economy: Uber as a Case Study
Market Monopolies: Implications in the Tech Industry
Corporate Social Responsibility: Unraveling the Case of Patagonia
Economic Impact of Climate Change: A Global Perspective
Green Economy: Probing the Growth of Renewable Energy Sector

Literature and Art Explanatory Topics

Unpacking Magical Realism: “One Hundred Years of Solitude” and Gabriel García Márquez’s Legacy
Gothic Literature: Edgar Allan Poe’s Influence and “The Fall of the House of Usher”
Narrative Structure in “Mrs. Dalloway”: An In-Depth Look at Stream of Consciousness
Surrealism in Art: Salvador Dali’s “The Persistence of Memory”
Postmodernism in Literature: Decoding Don DeLillo’s “White Noise”
Feminist Literature: An Examination of Sylvia Plath’s “The Bell Jar”
Harlem Renaissance: Highlighting Zora Neale Hurston’s “Their Eyes Were Watching God”
Transcendentalism in Literature: Understanding Thoreau’s “Walden”
Abstract Expressionism in Art: Analyzing Jackson Pollock’s “No. 5, 1948”
Symbolism in Literature: Deciphering Fitzgerald’s “The Great Gatsby”
Modernism: Probing Into Virginia Woolf’s “To the Lighthouse”
Film Adaptation of Literature: Evaluating Stanley Kubrick’s “A Clockwork Orange”
Beat Generation Literature: Investigating Jack Kerouac’s “On the Road”
Dystopian Literature: Delving Into Margaret Atwood’s “The Handmaid’s Tale”
Romanticism in Literature: Unveiling the Themes in Wordsworth’s “I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud”
Expressionism in Art: Analyzing Edvard Munch’s “The Scream”
Metafiction: Understanding the Intricacies in Barth’s “Lost in the Funhouse”
Epic Poetry: Exploring the World of Homer’s “Iliad”
Graphic Novels: The Art and Narrative in “Maus” by Art Spiegelman

Explanatory Topics About Psychology and Sociology

Social Dynamics in Diverse Communities: An Analytical Approach
Exploring Human Behavior: Understanding the Psychology of Crime
Emotional Intelligence: A Comprehensive Review and Critique
Milgram’s Experiment: The Ethical Implications and Lessons Learned
Child Development: Language Acquisition in Early Childhood
Jungian Archetypes: Their Influence on Personality Development
Cognitive Dissonance: A Detailed Analysis
Intersectionality: Exploring Its Influence on Individual Identity
Psychoanalytic Theory: Revisiting Sigmund Freud’s Interpretation of Dreams
Bystander Effect: A Critical Examination in the Context of Modern Society
Nature Versus Nurture: The Enduring Debate in Personality Development
Cult Behavior: Psychological Mechanisms Underlying Collective Action
False Memories: A Deep Dive Into the Phenomenon and Its Implications
Stereotypes and Prejudice: Deconstructing Social Constructs
Gender Identity: A Comprehensive Look at Its Formation
Neuroplasticity: The Revolutionary Concept in Neuroscience
Attachment Theory: A Review of Its Role in Human Relationships
Operant Conditioning: A Critical Appraisal of B.F. Skinner’s Experiments
Cultural Norms: Their Influence on Social Behavior
Happiness: Exploring the Psychological and Sociological Aspects of Subjective Well-Being

Philosophy and Religion Explanatory Essay Topics

Analyzing Nietzsche’s Assertion of God’s Death: Implications for Modern Philosophy
Descartes and the Cartesian Doubt: An Explanatory Analysis
Eastern Philosophy: Unraveling the Concepts of Taoism
Kierkegaard’s Leap of Faith: An Existentialist Perspective
Just War Theory: An Evaluation in the Context of Modern Conflicts
Aristotle’s Metaphysics: Understanding the Doctrine of Hylomorphism
Reincarnation Concept in Hindu Philosophy: An In-Depth Analysis
Spinoza’s Pantheism: A Critical Examination of Divine Nature
Transcendentalism: Emerson and Thoreau’s Contributions to American Philosophy
Sufism: Understanding the Mystical Branch of Islam
Theodicy Problem: An Exploration of Evil in a World Created by an Omnipotent God
Buddhism: An Investigation Into the Four Noble Truths
Kantian Ethics: Exploring the Categorical Imperative
St. Thomas Aquinas’s Five Ways: Proving the Existence of God
Jain Philosophy: Non-Absolutism and Its Implications
Confucian Ethics: Analyzing the Doctrine of Reciprocity
Zoroastrianism: Tracing the Ancient Persian Religion and Its Impact
Stoicism: Its Relevance in Contemporary Life
Derrida’s Deconstruction: Challenging Traditional Philosophical Concepts

Sports and Leisure Activities Explanatory Topics

Judo Techniques: An Examination of Kuzushi and Tsukuri
Hiking as a Form of Mindfulness Practice: An In-Depth Study
Chess Strategies: Understanding the Sicilian Defense
Scuba Diving: Safety Protocols and Equipment Usage
Marathon Training: Essential Guidelines for Optimal Performance
Soccer Tactics: Analyzing the Tiki-Taka Style
Mountaineering: Necessary Skills for Conquering High Peaks
Origins of Basketball: A Detailed Study of James Naismith’s Invention
Tennis: A Study of Different Court Surfaces and Their Effects on Gameplay
Exploration of Surfing: Understanding Wave Selection and Riding Techniques
Archery: The Science Behind Precision and Accuracy
Yoga: Unraveling the Meaning and Purpose of Different Asanas
Cricket: Appreciating the Nuances of Spin Bowling
Kiteboarding: Techniques and Safety Measures
Pilates: Core Principles and Their Health Benefits
Badminton Footwork: The Key to Effective Game Play
Fishing: An Exploration of Different Techniques and Their Success Rates
Ballet: Understanding the Significance of Pointe Work
Table Tennis: The Importance of Spin in Gameplay
Equestrian Sports: The Art of Dressage Explained

Current Events and News Explanatory Topics

Dynamics of Hybrid Workplaces in the Post-Pandemic World
Cryptocurrency Regulations: Diverse Approaches Around the Globe
Migration Patterns Altered by Climate Change
Decoding China’s Belt and Road Initiative: Strategic Aims and Implications
Brexit: Detailed Examination of Long-Term Economic Consequences
Online Privacy: Discussing Data Protection Laws Across Different Jurisdictions
Vaccine Diplomacy: Covid-19 and Global Health Politics
Influence of Social Media on Contemporary Political Movements
Artificial Intelligence: Exploring Ethical Questions and Future Challenges
Emerging Trends in Renewable Energy Technologies
Global Plastic Waste Crisis: Potential Solutions and Challenges
Digital Currency: Understanding Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDC)
The Proliferation of Cybercrime in the Digital Age
Analysis of Refugee Crisis in the Mediterranean: Causes and Responses
Global Disparities in Covid-19 Vaccination Rates and Their Implications
Space Tourism: A New Frontier or a Futile Endeavour?
Decarbonization Strategies in the Global Shipping Industry
Gig Economy: Analyzing Workers’ Rights and Legal Frameworks
Global Rise of Right-Wing Populism: Causes and Consequences

Explanatory Essay Topics About Personal Experiences

Solo Travel Decoded: My Insights and Lessons
Living in a Non-English-Speaking Country: My Story of Overcoming Language Barriers
How I Coped With Loss: Personal Narratives and Healing
Living With a Chronic Illness: My Personal Experience
My Adoption Journey: Insights From an Adoptive Parent
Surviving Unemployment: My Personal Coping Strategies
My Struggle With Imposter Syndrome: A Personal Reflection
From Novice to Mastery: My Journey in Learning a New Skill
One Year in a Monastery: My Journey of Self-Discovery
Moving Across Continents: My Immigrant Experience
My Road to Recovery: Battling Addiction and Finding Sobriety
Parenting in a Digital Age: My Personal Experiences and Observations
Navigating the Loss of a Loved One: My Personal Experience With Grief
Transitioning to a Vegan Lifestyle: My Personal Journey and Lessons
Turning a Hobby Into a Business: My Personal Journey
Mid-Life Career Change: My Insights and Challenges
My Adult Friendship Experiences: Navigating the Dynamics
Resilience After Failure: My Personal Setbacks and Lessons
Entering the World of Self-Publishing: My Personal Journey and Advice
Adapting to the New Normal: My Experience With Remote Work

Explanatory Topics on Hobbies and Interests

Digital Photography: An Exploration of Techniques and Styles
Origins of Scrapbooking: A Creative Form of Personal History
Understanding the Basics of Stamp Collection
Insights Into the World of Amateur Astronomy
Gardening Techniques: A Look Into Sustainable Practices
Knitting Patterns: A Journey Through Textures and Designs
Home Brewing: A Guide to Crafting Your Own Beer
Origami Art: The Beauty of Paper Folding
Underwater Exploration: Basics of Scuba Diving
Vintage Car Restoration: The Allure and Techniques
Numismatics: Unraveling the History of Coin Collecting
Exploring Bird Watching: Species Identification and Habitats
Board Games: Strategy, Skill, and Luck
Cooking Techniques: Exploring Different Cuisines
Piano Playing: An Introduction to Techniques and Styles
Biking Trails: An Overview of Types and Safety Measures
Meditation Practices: A Journey Into Mindfulness
Pottery: A Look Into Clay Molding Techniques
Aquarium Setup: Understanding Fish Care and Aqua Scaping

Travel and Tourism Explanatory Topics

Cultural Nuances: Exploring World Customs Through Travel
Backpacking Through Europe: An In-Depth Overview
Understanding Ecotourism: Balancing Leisure and Sustainability
Tourism in Antarctica: A Unique and Fragile Frontier
Essentials of Planning a Cruise Holiday
Historic Sites in Egypt: A Journey to the Ancient World
Exploring Hospitality Traditions around the World
Intricacies of Wine Tourism in Bordeaux
Wildlife Safari Experience in African Countries
Culinary Tourism: A Taste of Global Cuisines
Bhutan’s Gross National Happiness: A New Dimension to Tourism
Camping Essentials: A Guide to Outdoor Adventures
Journey Through the Silk Road: Historical and Cultural Insights
Revealing the Mysteries of Dark Tourism
World’s Most Scenic Train Rides: A Traveler’s Perspective
Cultural Festivals: An Excursion Into Global Celebrations
Deep Dive Into Underwater Hotels: A New Trend in Tourism
Touring Space: The Future of Tourism?
Navigating the Grand Canyons: Geological Wonders and Tourism
Asia’s Hidden Gems: Lesser-Known Tourist Destinations

Explanatory Essay Topics for Food and Cooking

Understanding Food Pairings in Fine Dining
Sourdough Bread Making: A Detailed Overview
Culinary Traditions of the Mediterranean Diet
Journey through French Pastries: A Sweet Exploration
Demystifying Molecular Gastronomy: A Science or an Art?
Basics of Sushi Preparation: Japanese Culinary Art
Slow Cooking Techniques: Enhancing Flavor and Nutrition
Brewing Techniques: A Guide to Craft Beers
Barbecue Styles Around the World: Smoky Delights
Deconstructing Wine Tasting: Notes, Bouquet, and Terroir
Vegetarian Cuisine: Diverse and Nutrient-Rich Dishes
Exploring the Art of Making Artisan Cheese
Indian Spices and Their Culinary Uses
Culinary Innovations: Food Presentation and Plating Techniques
Understanding the Health Benefits of Fermented Foods
Italian Pasta Varieties: More Than Just Spaghetti
Unfolding the Mysteries of Truffle Hunting
Mexican Street Food: A Tour of Tacos, Tamales, and Tortas
Tea Cultures Around the World: Beyond the Cup
Baking Basics: From Simple Cookies to Elaborate Cakes

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How to Write an Explanatory Essay: Topics, Outline, Example

Have you ever been tasked with writing an explanation essay and wondered where to start? You’re not alone! Many students struggle with the challenge of presenting complex ideas in a concise and engaging manner. Fear not; with the right approach, learning how to write an explanation essay can be a rewarding experience that enhances your understanding of a topic and sharpens your writing skills.

In this blog post, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of crafting an exemplary explanation essay. We will explore the definition and purpose of explanatory essays, offer tips on topic selection, outline development, and delve into the essentials of how to write an explanatory essay. By the end of this post, you will be equipped with the knowledge and confidence to tackle any explanatory essay assignment that comes your way.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

Explanatory essays, akin to expository essays , provide an unbiased and objective analysis of a topic with the aim of informing and clarifying.
Choosing the right topic for your explanatory essay involves selecting a neutral, engaging, and relevant topic supported by ample researchable information.
Writing an explanatory essay requires conducting thorough research, utilizing transitions & linking words judiciously, citing sources accurately & revising/editing to ensure high quality work.

Explanatory Essays: Definition and Purpose

An expository essay, also known as an explanatory essay or an explanatory paper, is a type of explanatory writing wherein one is required to describe and elucidate a particular point of view, incident, event, or situation. Unlike argumentative or persuasive essays, the goal of explanation essays, including expository essays, is to offer an unbiased and objective analysis of a topic, aiming to inform and clarify without arguing or persuading. By presenting information in a clear and organized manner, explanatory essays help readers develop a better understanding of the subject matter.

Explanatory essays follow the traditional explanatory essay format, which includes an introduction, three body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The thesis statement, located in the introduction, is a specific and argumentable statement that concisely presents the primary concept of the essay. The body paragraphs provide evidence and explanations to support the thesis, while the conclusion ties everything together and leaves the reader with a clear understanding of the author’s presentation.

Choosing the Right Topic for Your Explanatory Essay

Selecting an appropriate topic is a crucial step in crafting a successful explanatory essay. A well-written explanation essay seeks to offer an unbiased and objective analysis of a topic, with the intention of informing and elucidating without trying to convince. Therefore, it is essential to choose a topic that is neutral, engaging, and aligns with your interests and the interests of your target audience.

To generate ideas for an explanation essay, consider topics that you have personal experience with or are genuinely curious about. It is also important to ensure that the topic can be effectively researched and that there is ample information available to compose a comprehensive paper. Once you have a list of potential topics, evaluate them based on their relevance to the assignment and your familiarity with the subject matter. This will help you select a topic that will not only be engaging to your readers but also enjoyable for you to research and write about.

Crafting a Strong Thesis Statement

The thesis statement is the backbone of your explanation essay, as it sets the stage for the rest of the paper. A strong explanation essay thesis statement should be concise, debatable, and supportable, summarizing the main idea and purpose of the essay. It is important to invest time and effort into crafting a compelling thesis statement, as it will guide your research and shape the overall structure of your essay.

To develop an effective thesis statement, start by identifying the primary concept or argument that you want to convey in your essay. Then refine your statement to ensure that it is succinct and specific, while still being arguable and justifiable.

If you find yourself struggling to create a strong thesis statement, consider drafting a rough version and returning to it after you have completed the rest of the paper. This will allow you to refine your statement based on the evidence and arguments presented in your essay.

Developing an Effective Explanatory Essay Outline

An effective explanatory essay outline is essential for organizing your thoughts and ideas in a logical manner, ensuring a smooth flow throughout your essay. The outline should include an introduction, body, and conclusion, each containing specific information arranged in a logical manner to ensure the continuity of the paper. By creating a detailed outline, you can easily identify any gaps in your research or argumentation and make revisions as needed.

In the following subsections, we will delve into strategies for writing an engaging explanatory essay introduction, structuring body paragraphs, and crafting a compelling conclusion. These techniques will help you create an effective explanatory essay outline that will serve as a roadmap for your writing process.

Introduction Strategies

The introduction is the first part of your essay that your readers will encounter, and it plays a crucial role in grabbing their attention and setting the stage for the thesis statement. To create an engaging introduction, you can employ various hooks, such as rhetorical questions, quotes, or statistics, to capture the reader’s interest and provide a foundation for your thesis statement.

An effective introduction should also provide a concise overview of the subject matter and the primary concepts that the reader will encounter while perusing the essay. This background information helps your readers understand the context of your essay and prepares them for the arguments and evidence presented in the body paragraphs. By crafting an engaging and informative introduction, you set the tone for the rest of your essay and encourage your readers to continue reading.

Structuring Body Paragraphs

Structuring body paragraphs involves presenting evidence to support your thesis statement while ensuring clarity and logical organization. Each body paragraph should focus on a particular aspect of the topic and provide evidence to back it up. This can include facts, quotes, statistics, survey results, and examples that help validate your arguments and substantiate your assertions.

To ensure clarity and logical organization in your body paragraphs, you can employ various techniques, such as utilizing transitions between paragraphs, supplying examples to elucidate points, and employing linking words to connect ideas. Transitions and linking words, such as “however,” “therefore,” “in addition,” and “furthermore,” can help guide your readers through your essay and make it easier for them to follow your ideas and arguments.

By carefully structuring your body paragraphs, you can create a coherent and persuasive explanatory essay that effectively supports your thesis statement.

Crafting a Compelling Conclusion

The conclusion of your explanation essay is your final opportunity to leave a lasting impression on your readers. A compelling conclusion should summarize the main points presented in your essay, restate your thesis statement, and offer recommendations or a call to action. This helps to reinforce the key ideas and arguments in your essay and leaves your readers with something to ponder.

When crafting your conclusion, it is important to avoid introducing new information or arguments, as this can confuse your readers and weaken the overall impact of your essay. Instead, focus on providing a concise and convincing summary of the evidence presented in your essay and how it supports your thesis statement. By doing so, you can leave your readers with a clear understanding of your essay’s purpose and a sense of closure.

Writing Your Explanatory Essay: Step-by-Step Process

Now that you have a solid understanding of the key components of an explanation essay, it is time to embark on the writing process. In this section, we will outline a step-by-step process for writing an explanatory essay, which includes conducting thorough research, utilizing transitions and linking words, and citing sources to avoid plagiarism.

By following this step-by-step process, you can ensure that your explanation essay is well-structured and informative, providing your readers with a clear understanding of the subject matter. With practice and persistence, you can master the art of explanatory essay writing and create engaging, persuasive essays that effectively convey complex ideas.

Conducting Thorough Research

Conducting thorough research is essential for an explanation essay, as it helps gather credible evidence (facts, quotes, statistics, survey results, and examples) to support your thesis statement. Begin by selecting a topic that is of personal interest and has some familiarity. Once you have chosen a topic, conduct preliminary research to ensure that there is sufficient information available to compose a comprehensive paper.

When gathering information for your essay, it is crucial to utilize dependable sources, such as scholarly articles, books, and websites. Be sure to take notes and keep track of the sources you have used, as this will make it easier to reference them in your essay and avoid plagiarism. By conducting thorough research, you can ensure that your essay is well-supported and provides a comprehensive analysis of the topic.

Utilizing Transitions and Linking Words

Utilizing transitions and linking words is crucial for ensuring a smooth flow throughout your explanation essay and making it easier for readers to follow your ideas and arguments. Examples of transitions and linking words include phrases such as “however”, “therefore”, “in addition” and “furthermore”.

Incorporating these transitions and linking words in your essay helps guide your readers through the progression of your arguments and enhances the overall readability of your paper. Be sure to use them judiciously and avoid overusing a specific transition or linking word, as this may become repetitive and detract from the flow of your essay.

By employing a variety of transitions and linking words, you can create a cohesive and engaging explanatory essay that effectively conveys your ideas.

Citing Sources and Avoiding Plagiarism

Citing sources accurately and consistently is crucial for avoiding plagiarism and ensuring the credibility of your explanation essay. When composing an explanation essay, sources are typically cited following either MLA, APA, or Harvard formatting. In-text citations generally include the author’s name and the year the source was published, and for direct quotations, the page number must also be specified.

By accurately citing your sources, you not only give credit to the original authors, but also demonstrate your commitment to academic integrity and the credibility of your essay. Be sure to double-check your citations and proofread your essay for any errors or inconsistencies in your referencing style. By doing so, you can avoid plagiarism and ensure that your essay is a credible and accurate representation of your research and ideas.

Analyzing Explanatory Essay Examples

Analyzing explanatory essay examples can provide valuable insights into the structure, style, and content of successful essays, helping you improve your own writing. By examining well-written examples, you can gain a better understanding of the key elements of an explanation essay, such as the thesis statement, the organization of body paragraphs, and the overall flow of the essay.

When analyzing explanatory essay examples, pay close attention to the clarity of the explanations, the use of evidence to support the argument, and the general structure and format of the essay. Also, consider the effectiveness of the thesis statement and the essay in conveying information.

By studying and learning from exemplary essays, you can refine your own writing and create an engaging, informative, and well-structured explanation essay. In fact, knowing how to write an explanation essay is essential for developing your skills in this area.

Tips for Revising and Editing Your Explanatory Essay

Once you have completed your explanation essay, it is essential to revise and edit your work to ensure that it is of high quality and free of mistakes. Start by reviewing your essay for clarity, organization, and logical flow. Check that your thesis statement is clear and concise, and that your body paragraphs effectively support your argument.

During the revision process, ask yourself the following questions: Is the essay organized effectively? Are the transitions between paragraphs seamless? Are there any grammatical or orthographic errors? Are sources referenced accurately? If necessary, make any revisions to improve the overall quality and coherence of your essay.

Finally, proofread your essay for any remaining errors and inconsistencies. Consider presenting your essay to a trusted friend or classmate for feedback, as they may be able to spot mistakes that you may have missed. By revising and editing your essay, you can ensure that it is polished, engaging, and free of errors.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the format of an explanatory essay.

An explanation essay format typically consists of an introduction, three body paragraphs with one subtopic per paragraph, and a conclusion. It is a basic essay structure which can be further expanded as needed.

Formal language should be used and the goal is to make a connection with the reader through the text.

What is the best way to start an explanatory essay?

To begin an explanation essay, start with an attention-grabbing statement or question that draws your readers in. This should be written in a formal tone, and include a clear conclusion in the first sentence without an introduction or summary.

What are the main parts of an explanatory essay?

An explanation essay typically consists of an introduction with a hook, some background information, and a thesis statement.

It then progresses to further explain the topic and draw a conclusion.

How do you write a 5 paragraph explanatory essay?

To write a five-paragraph explanatory essay, you must create an introduction that introduces the main topic and states the thesis, three body paragraphs to support the thesis, and a concluding paragraph to wrap up the points made in the essay.

The tone should be formal throughout, with clear connections to the reader.

What is the main difference between an explanatory essay and an argumentative essay?

Explanatory essays seek to explain a topic without presenting an argument, while argumentative essays make an assertion and support it with evidence.

These two types of essays have different goals and require different approaches. Explanatory essays focus on providing information and context, while argumentative essays focus on making a persuasive argument.

When writing an essay, it is important to write an explanation.

In conclusion, writing an exemplary explanation essay requires a clear understanding of the topic, careful planning, thorough research, and effective organization. By following the step-by-step process outlined in this blog post, you can create engaging, informative, and persuasive explanatory essays that effectively convey complex ideas. With practice and persistence, you can master the art of explanatory essay writing and tackle any assignment that comes your way.

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22 Writing Explanatory Essays

Writing Explanatory Essays Chapter Opener

Start-Up Activity

Ask students about their Internet habits. Take a poll:

How many texts have you sent in the last week?

How many videos have you watched in the last week?

How many articles have you read?

How many games have you played?

Thanks to the Internet, more data has been created in the past two years than in all of human history. Tweets, texts, photos, posts, emails, records of everything we eat and everywhere we go and everything we do. . . . Why? Why do humans produce so much information? Because we like it. That's what explanatory writing seeks to do. It creates and shares information. Why? Because we like it.

Think About It

“Knowledge is power. Information is liberating. Education is the premise of progress, in every society, in every family.”

—Kofi Annan

State Standards Covered in This Chapter

CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.2
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.2.A
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.2.B
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.9-10.1
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.9-10.2
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.9-10.3
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.9-10.5
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.RI.9-10.6
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.4
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.5
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.2.C
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.2.D
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.2.E
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.W.9-10.2.F
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.9-10.1
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.9-10.1.A
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.9-10.2
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.9-10.3
CCSS.ELA-LITERACY.L.9-10.6

LAFS Covered in This Chapter

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Present to students the basic structure of explanatory writing—a topic supported by main points that are in turn supported by key details. Students can develop their own line diagrams for topics that interest them.

Show students that different details do different work in explanatory writing. Instead of simply listing details about their topics, students should select the details that help them achieve their purpose. In other words, writers should always be thinking about what their readers already know and need to know, and what details will be most helpful (and in what order).

Analyzing with a Line Diagram

Analyze parts of a topic with a line diagram.

Related Resource Tags

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Page 171 from Write Ahead

Sample explanatory essay.

Have volunteers read each paragraph of this engaging model about Native American ironworkers and New York skyscrapers. Help them see the strategy the writer used to engage readers (asking a question, and then painting a picture of skyscrapers). Then point out how the thesis statement not only names the focus but also makes readers interested to find out more.

Help students see that each middle paragraph begins with a topic sentence that expresses a main point. The main point both supports the thesis statement and summarizes the details to come in the paragraph.

After you finish reading through the model (on the next page), lead a discussion of it using the suggestions below.

Also show students other examples of high school explanatory writing .

Page 172 from Write Ahead

Sample explanatory essay (cont.).

Have volunteers finish reading the paragraphs in the sample essay. Then lead a discussion of it, using prompts like the following:

Why is this topic so interesting? (It combines contrasting things: great Mohawk warriors with industrial-age technology, people known for living with nature with people packed into dense urban environments. The model also focuses on a little-known and fascinating piece of U.S. history.)
What are the main points of the essay, and how do they support the focus? (Mohawk men had to prove themselves, the courage and agility required by fur trapping made Mohawks great at steel working, Mohawks built the skyscrapers of the turn of the 1900's; these main points explain a little-known part of American history.)
What details in this essay were most surprising to you?
How do surprising details keep you engaged? (You naturally want to find things out; curiosity drives the reading process.)

Ask students what surprising facts they know about life in your city, your state, or your nation. Get the ball rolling by sharing one of your own surprising facts.

(For example, before movies, people used to line up to look at panorama paintings that were 40 feet tall and 500 feet wide and displayed in round barns across the nation. A company in Wisconsin employed classically trained German artists to work in large teams to paint scenes from the Civil War and the Bible, which would be displayed for months in a city, drawing large crowds. After the people stopped coming, the canvas would be rolled up on a 40-foot-long spool and sent to another city with a round barn to be displayed. A portion of one such painting remains in Gettysburg to commemorate the battle there.)

Show your students how truth really is stranger—and more interesting—than fiction.

Let your discussion guide students to possible topics for their own explanatory essays.

Page 173 from Write Ahead

Help students use the PAST questions to analyze the writing situation.

The P urpose is to explain a topic in a way that engages readers.
The A udience is you and the student's classmates.
The S ubject is a topic that interests the student.
The T ype of writing is an explanatory essay.

Then lead students through the topic-selection strategies. Point them also to pages 44–45 for more topic ideas .

Afterward, download and distribute the KWL Chart to help students reflect on their prior knowledge of the topic and organize questions for research.

Page 174 from Write Ahead

Forming a thesis statement and organizing support.

Remind students of the structure of explanatory writing (page 170), with a clear focus (thesis) supported by main points and details. This page will help them gather and organize the parts of their writing.

Lead students through the process of creating a strong thesis statement. In a single sentence, the thesis statement should name the subject and provide an interesting thought or feeling about it. Of course, the rest of the essay then should explore that thesis with main points and details to explain the main points.

Show your students that the outline at the bottom of the page does exactly that. It provides the thesis (at the top), records each main point (with Roman numerals), and gives supporting details (with letters). Outlines may seem like frustrating diversions on the road to writing a first draft, but help students realize that if they have a well-written outline, they already have their thesis statement, topic sentences, and main details. All that remains is to flesh out the writing into an essay form.

Page 175 from Write Ahead

Use this page to support students as they draft their explanatory essays. The top and bottom parts of the page provide specific strategies that students can use to open and close their essays. Review these strategies and examples and encourage students to use them to invite their readers in and leave them with something to think about.

Of course, the middle part delivers the content that readers seek. If students have gathered and organized information during prewriting (pages 174–175), the drafting phase should roll out effortlessly.

Page 176 from Write Ahead

Use this page to support students as they make improvements to their writing. Specifically, help students understand how to layer details, presenting a concept, explaining it, and giving an example. You use this approach every day in class, so students should be quite familiar with this way to present information.

To support students in their revisions, download and distribute the Explanatory Revising Checklist . You can also provide students the Response Sheet to help them review the work of peers and provide constructive criticism.

Page 177 from Write Ahead

Use this page to teach your students the critical skill of creating parallel structure. Tell them it is like a teeter-totter. If two 6-year-old girls are riding it, it works. If a 6-year old girl is on one side and a Sumo wrestler on the other, it doesn't work. Basically, when ideas are joined by the coordinating conjunction and or or, they must be equal ideas. Both must be the same part of speech (noun and noun, verb or verb), the same type of phrase (prepositional phrase and prepositional phrase, infinitive or infinitive), or the same kind of clause (independent and independent, dependent or dependent). Once students understand parallel structure, they will be better able to organize their writing and their thinking. Have students make sure their writing is parallel in structure.

Provide students the Explanatory Editing Checklist to guide their work. As an alternative, you could download and distribute the general Editing Checklist .

Page 178 from Write Ahead

Evaluating explanatory essays.

Download and distribute the Explanatory Assessment Rubric when it comes time for students to evaluate their work. (You might also provide this rubric at the beginning of the writing process so that students know the target they are shooting for.) Assign a grading scale, such as 1 (Not at all) to 6 (Completely). The cumulative score can then be multiplied by 3 to reach a percentage (with a perfect score of 108—an A+, or 8 points of extra credit).

01 All About Writing
02 One Writer's Process
03 Traits of Effective Writing
04 Developing a Portfolio
05 Publishing Your Writing
06 Prewriting
07 Writing the First Draft
08 Revising Your Writing
09 Group Advising
10 Editing and Proofreading
11 Creating Clear Sentences
12 Combining Short Sentences
13 Writing Concise Paragraphs
14 Building Effective Essays
15 Writing with Style
16 Writing Techniques and Terms
17 Journal Writing
18 Using Learning Logs
19 Writing Emails and Blog Posts
20 Writing Personal Narratives
21 Other Narrative Forms
23 Other Explanatory Forms
24 Building Arguments
25 Writing Argument Essays
26 Other Argument Forms
27 Writing Literary Analyses
28 Other Responses to Literature
29 Summarizing, Paraphrasing, and Quoting
30 Writing Research Reports
31 Writing Stories
32 Writing Poems
33 Writing in Science
34 Writing in Social Studies
35 Writing in Math
36 Writing in the Workplace
37 Searching for Information
38 Conducting Online Research
39 Improving Media Literacy
40 Using Social Media
41 Conducting Library Research
42 Thinking and Writing
43 Thinking Critically
44 Thinking Creatively
45 Reading Nonfiction
46 Reading Literature
47 Reading Graphics
48 Improving Vocabulary
49 Viewing Skills
50 Classroom Skills
51 Speaking and Listening Skills
52 Group Discussion Skills
53 Test-Taking Skills
54 Planning Skills
55 Marking Punctuation
56 Editing for Mechanics
57 Improving Your Spelling
58 Commonly Misused Words
59 Understanding Idioms
60 Understanding Sentences
61 The Parts of Speech
62 Language
64 Mathematics
65 Geography
66 Government

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Student Opinion

Over 1,000 Writing Prompts for Students

Compiled by Michael Gonchar

April 12, 2018

Note: We have 300 new argumentative writing prompts to add to this list.

Of all the resources we publish on The Learning Network, perhaps it’s our vast collection of writing prompts that is our most widely used resource for teaching and learning with The Times.

We’ve published iterations of this post in the past — 200 , 401 and even 650 prompts — but never before have we gathered all our prompts, for both personal and argument writing, into one categorized list.

Admittedly, the list is huge. In fact, there are 1,219 questions below on everything from video games and fashion to smartphones and parenting, and each prompt links to a Times article as well as to additional subquestions that can encourage deeper thinking.

To help you navigate this page, here’s an index of topics:

Technology (1-74): Social Media • Smartphones • Internet & Tech Arts & Entertainment (75-248): Music • Television • Video Games • Movies & Theater • Books & Reading • Writing • The Arts • Language & Speech School & Career (249-449): School • Learning & Studying • Education Tech • Teachers & Grading • School Rules & Student Life • College • Work & Careers Identity & Family (450-828): Parenting • Family • Childhood Memories • Growing Up • Overcoming Adversity • Your Personality • Religion & Morality • Role Models • Gender • Race & Ethnicity • Neighborhood & Home • Money & Social Class • What If... Social Life & Leisure Time (829-1,059): Friendship • Dating & Sex • Looks & Fashion • Food • Sports & Games • Travel • Holidays & Seasons • Shopping & Cars Science & Health (1,060-1,140): Science & Environment • Animals & Pets • Exercise & Health Civics & History (1,141-1,219): Guns & the Justice System • Government Policy • History & News

So dive into the hundreds of writing prompts below — and let us know in the comments how you might use them in your classroom.

Social Media

1. Is Social Media Making Us More Narcissistic? 2. Are You the Same Person on Social Media as You Are in Real Life? 3. How Young Is Too Young to Use Social Media? 4. What Advice Do You Have for Younger Kids About Navigating Social Media? 5. How Do You Use Facebook? 6. What Is Your Facebook Persona? 7. How Real Are You on Social Media? 8. What Memorable Experiences Have You Had on Facebook? 9. Does Facebook Ever Make You Feel Bad? 10. Does Facebook Need a ‘Dislike’ Button? 11. Has Facebook Lost Its Edge? 12. Would You Consider Deleting Your Facebook Account? 13. Would You Quit Social Media? 14. Do You Have ‘Instagram Envy’? 15. Who Is Your Favorite Social Media Star? 16. What’s So Great About YouTube? 17. What Has YouTube Taught You? 18. What Are Your Favorite Viral Videos? 19. What Are Your Favorite Internet Spoofs? 20. What Would You Teach the World in an Online Video? 21. Do You Ever Seek Advice on the Internet? 22. Would You Share an Embarrassing Story Online? 23. Do You Use Twitter? 24. Is Snapchat a Revolutionary Form of Social Media? 25. Why Do You Share Photos? 26. How Do You Archive Your Life? 27. What Ordinary Moments Would You Include in a Video About Your Life? 28. Are Digital Photographs Too Plentiful to Be Meaningful? 29. Do You Worry We Are Filming Too Much? 30. Have You Ever Posted, Emailed or Texted Something You Wish You Could Take Back? 31. Would You Want Your Photo or Video to Go Viral? 32. Do You Worry Colleges or Employers Might Read Your Social Media Posts Someday? 33. Will Social Media Help or Hurt Your College and Career Goals? 34. Should What You Say on Facebook Be Grounds for Getting Fired? 35. Are Anonymous Social Media Networks Dangerous? 36. Should People Be Allowed to Obscure Their Identities Online? 37. Are Parents Violating Their Children’s Privacy When They Share Photos and Videos of Them Online? 38. Would You Mind if Your Parents Blogged About You?

Smartphones

39. Are You Distracted by Your Phone? 40. Are You Distracted by Technology? 41. Does Technology Make Us More Alone? 42. Is Your Phone Love Hurting Your Relationships? 43. How Has the iPhone Affected Your Life? 44. How Young Is Too Young for an iPhone? 45. Do You Always Have Your Phone or Tablet at Your Side? 46. Do Screens Get in the Way of the Rest of Your Life? 47. Do You Experience FOMO When You Unplug? 48. How Much of Your Day is Voluntarily Spent Screen-Free? 49. Does Your Digital Life Have Side Effects? 50. Do You Think Teenagers Are Replacing Drugs With Smartphones? 51. Are You ‘Addicted’ to Texting? 52. How Many Text Messages Are Too Many? 53. Can a GIF Work Better Than Words? 54. Have You Ever Sent an Odd Message Because of Auto-Correct? 55. Do You Spend Too Much Time on Smartphones Playing ‘Stupid Games’? 56. Do Apps Help You or Just Waste Your Time? 57. What Makes HQ Trivia So Popular? 58. Is Pokémon Go a Positive Cultural Force? Or Is it Just Another Excuse for People to Stare at Their Phones?

Internet & Tech

59. Is the Internet Broken? 60. How Do You Protect Your Personal Information From Hackers? 61. How Careful Are You Online? 62. What Story Does Your Personal Data Tell? 63. Do You Worry About the Lack of Anonymity in the Digital Age? 64. Do You Wish You Had More Privacy Online? 65. Would You Be Willing to Pay for Facebook or Google in Exchange for Your Privacy? 66. Have You Ever Been Scammed? 67. Whom Would You Share Your Passwords With? 68. What Tech Tools Play the Biggest Role in Your Life? 69. What New Technologies or Tech Toys Are You Most Excited About? 70. To What Piece of Technology Would You Write a ‘Love Letter’? 71. Do Machines Represent a Threat to Humans? 72. Do You Think Recreational Drones Are Safe? 73. What Role Will Robots Play in Our Future? 74. Will Wearable Technology Ever Really Catch On?

Arts & Entertainment

75. What Songs Are on Your Favorite Playlist? 76. What Are You Listening To? 77. What Musicians or Bands Mean the Most to You? 78. What Music Inspires You? 79. Who in Your Life Introduces You to New Music? 80. Do You Think You’ve Already Forged Your Lifelong Taste in Music? 81. How Much Is Your Taste in Music Based on What Your Friends Like? 82. What Are Your Earliest Memories of Music? 83. Will Musical Training Make You More Successful? 84. What Role Does Hip-Hop Play in Your Life? 85. Which Pop Music Stars Fascinate You? 86. Who Is Your Favorite Pop Diva? 87. What’s Your Karaoke Song? 88. Which Artists Would You Like to See Team Up? 89. How Closely Do You Listen to Lyrics? 90. What Song Lyrics Do You Consider Literature? 91. What Current Musicians Do You Think Will Stand the Test of Time? 92. What Artists or Bands of Today Are Destined for the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame? 93. What Musician, Actor or Author Should Be a Superstar, but Hasn’t Quite Made It Yet? 94. What Artists Do You Believe Are the Future of Music? 95. What Can You Predict About the Future of the Music Industry? 96. What Artists Do You Consider ‘Sellouts’? 97. How Much Can an Artist Borrow From Earlier Musicians Before It Becomes Stealing? 98. Who Does Hip-Hop Belong To?

99. What Are Your Favorite TV Shows? 100. What Are the Best Things You’ve Watched, Read, Heard or Played This Year? 101. What Are Your TV Habits? 102. Do Your Television Viewing Habits Include ‘Binge-Watching’? 103. What Role Does Television Play in Your Life and the Life of Your Family? 104. What Television Shows Have Mattered to You? 105. How Often Do You Watch a Television Show When It Originally Airs? 106. Have You Fallen Into ‘Friends’ or Any Other Older Television Shows? 107. What Old Television Shows Would You Bring Back? 108. Why Do We Like Reality Shows So Much? 109. What Ideas Do You Have for a Reality Show? 110. What Reality TV Show Would You Want to Be a Guest Star On? 111. Should Children Be Allowed to Compete on TV? 112. What Are Your Favorite Cartoons? 113. What Are Your Favorite Commercials? 114. What Makes a Good Commercial? 115. How Much Are You Influenced by Advertising? 116. Does Reality TV Promote Dangerous Stereotypes? 117. Do TV Shows Like ‘16 and Pregnant’ Promote or Discourage Teenage Pregnancy? 118. Is ‘13 Reasons Why’ Raising Awareness About Teenage Suicide, or Glamorizing It? 119. Do You Watch Hollywood Awards Ceremonies? 120. Why Do We Like to Watch Rich People on TV and in the Movies? 121. Should the Private Lives of Famous People Be Off Limits? 122. Should We Be Privy to the Lives of Celebrities’ Children? 123. Do You Think Child Stars Have It Rough? 124. Does TV Capture the Diversity of America Yet? 125. Is TV Too White? 126. What Stereotypical Characters Make You Cringe? 127. What Makes a Good TV Show Finale?

Video Games

128. Should Video Games Be Considered a Sport? 129. What Have You Learned Playing Video Games? 130. What Are Your Favorite Video Games? 131. Do You Play Violent Video Games? 132. Should Stores Sell Violent Video Games to Minors? 133. Do Violent Video Games Make People More Violent in Real Life? 134. When Should You Feel Guilty for Killing Zombies? 135. Who Are Your Opponents in Online Gaming? 136. Do You Like Watching Other People Play Video Games? 137. How Excited Are You About the Possibilities of Virtual Reality? 138. Can a Video Game Be a Work of Art? 139. What Game Would You Like to Redesign? 140. How Sexist Is the Gaming World?

Movies & Theater

141. What Are Your Favorite Movies Ever? 142. What Were the Best Movies You Saw in the Past Year? 143. What Movies Do You Watch, or Reference, Over and Over? 144. What Movies, Shows or Books Do You Wish Had Sequels, Spinoffs or New Episodes? 145. What Have You Learned From Movies? 146. Do You Like Horror Movies? 147. Are ‘Dark’ Movies O.K. for Kids? 148. What Is Your Favorite Comedy? 149. Are There Topics That Should Be Off Limits to Comedy? 150. What Is Your Favorite Sports Movie? 151. Who Are Your Favorite Movie Stars? 152. Would You Pay Extra for a 3-D Movie? 153. Where, and How, Do You Watch Movies? 154. What Are the Best Live Theatrical Performances You’ve Ever Seen? 155. Have You Ever Stumbled Upon a Cool Public Performance? 156. Have You Ever Performed for an Audience or Shared Creative Work With Others? 157. Does Live Theater Offer Something You Just Can’t Get Watching Movies or TV? 158. Is Hollywood Becoming More Diverse? 159. What — if Anything — Does the Current Hollywood Film Industry Lack?

Books & Reading

160. What Are the Best Books You’ve Read? 161. Read Any Good Books Lately? 162. What Are Your Favorite Young Adult Novels? 163. What Do You Want to Read This Summer? 164. What Books Do You Think Every Teenager Should Read? 165. What Role Have Books Played in Your Life? 166. Do You Read for Pleasure? 167. Do You Have a Favorite Novelist? 168. To What Writer Would You Award a Prize? 169. Has a Book, Movie, Television Show, Song or Video Game Ever Inspired You to Do Something New? 170. When Have You Seen Yourself and Your Life Reflected in a Book or Other Media? 171. Who Are the Characters That Authors Should Be Writing About? 172. Do You Prefer Your Children’s Book Characters Obedient or Contrary? 173. How Much Power Do Books Have to Teach Young People Tolerance of Others? 174. Do You Read E-Books? 175. Are Paper Books Better Than E-Books? 176. Would You Trade Your Paper Books for Digital Versions? 177. Does Reading a Book Count More Than Listening to One? 178. What Childhood Classic Would You Like to See Turned Into a Movie or TV Show? 179. Are Shortened Versions of Classic Adult Literature Right for Young Children? 180. Is There Any Benefit to Reading Books You Hate? 181. Do You Read or Write Poetry? 182. What Memorable Poetry Have You Ever Read or Heard? 183. What Magazines Do You Read, and How Do You Read Them? 184. Do You Enjoy Reading Tabloid Gossip? 185. Are There Books That Should Be Banned From Your School Library? 186. Do We Still Need Libraries?

187. What Purpose Does Writing Serve in Your Life? 188. Why Do You Write? 189. Are You a Good Storyteller? 190. What’s Your Favorite Joke? 191. Do You Keep a Diary or Journal? 192. Do You Have a Blog? 193. Do You Want to Write a Book? 194. When Do You Write by Hand? 195. Do You Write in Cursive? 196. Do You Write in Your Books? 197. What Is Your Most Memorable Writing Assignment? 198. Do You Ever Write About Challenges You Face in Life? 199. What ‘Mundane Moments’ From Your Life Might Make Great Essay Material? 200. What Would You Write in a Letter to the Editor? 201. If You Had a Column in The New York Times, What Would You Write About? 202. Would You Ever Write Down a Secret and Bury It in the Ground?

203. What Is Your Favorite Type of Art? 204. What Are Your Favorite Works of Art? 205. What Work of Art Has Changed Your Life? 206. What Are the Most Memorable Works of Visual Art You Have Seen? 207. Which Photograph Stays In Your Memory? 208. What’s the Coolest Thing You’ve Ever Seen in a Museum? 209. Do We Need Art in Our Lives? 210. How Important Is Arts Education? 211. What Has Arts Education Done For You? 212. Can Graffiti Ever Be Considered Art? 213. Should Graffiti Be Protected? 214. Can You Separate Art From the Artist? 215. Is It Possible to Separate Art From the Artist Who Created It? 216. Are There Subjects That Should Be Off-Limits to Artists, or to Certain Artists in Particular? 217. Should Society Support Artists and Others Pursuing Creative Works? 218. Should Displays of Art Be Welcome in All Public Spaces? 219. Does Pop Culture Deserve Serious Study? 220. What Do You Think of the Obamas’ Portrait Choices?

Language & Speech

221. What Words Do You Hate? 222. What Words or Phrases Do You Think Are Overused? 223. How Much Slang Do You Use? What Are Your Favorite Words? 224. What Current Slang Words and Expressions Do You Think Will Endure? 225. What Words or Phrases Do You Think Are Overused? 226. What Words or Phrases Should Be Retired? 227. Why Do So Many People Say ‘Like’ and ‘Totally’ All the Time? 228. Do You Say ‘Kind of, Sort of’ More Than You Realize? 229. How Much Do You Curse? 230. Have Curse Words Become So Common They Have Lost Their Shock Value? 231. Do Laws That Ban Offensive Words Make the World a Better Place? 232. How Good Are You at Coming Up With Witty Comebacks? 233. When Did You Last Have a Great Conversation? 234. What Makes a Great Conversation? 235. How Often Do You Have ‘Deep Discussions’? 236. Do You Wish Your Conversations Were Less Small Talk and More ‘Big Talk’? 237. Are We Losing the Art of Listening? 238. How Do You Greet Your Friends and Family? 239. When Do You Choose Making a Phone Call Over Sending a Text? 240. How Much Information Is ‘Too Much Information’? 241. What Does Your Body Language Communicate? 242. Do You Sometimes ‘Hide’ Behind Irony? 243. How Good Is Your Grammar? 244. Does Punctuation in Text Messages Matter? 245. When Do You Remember Learning a New Word? 246. Where Do You Find the Meanings of Unfamiliar Words? 247. Do You Speak a Second, or Third, Language? 248. Should Everyone Learn at Least One Other Language?

School & Careers

249. Should the School Day Start Later? 250. Would a Later School Start Time Increase Student Success? 251. Is Your School Day Too Short? 252. Should Schools Cancel Summer Vacation? 253. Do You Think a Longer School Calendar Is a Good Idea? 254. Should the Dropout Age Be Raised? 255. Should We Rethink How Long Students Spend in High School? 256. Should Students Be Allowed to Skip Senior Year of High School? 257. Should Kids Head to College Early? 258. Do You Like School? 259. Are You Stressed About School? 260. Are High School Students Being Worked Too Hard? 261. What Are You Really Learning at School? 262. What Are You Looking Forward To, or Dreading, This School Year? 263. Would You Rather Attend a Public or a Private High School? 264. How Much Does It Matter to You Which High School You Attend? 265. Are Small Schools More Effective Than Large Schools? 266. Would You Want to Go to a School Like This One? 267. What Kind of Education System Do You Think Is Best? 268. How Would You Grade Your School? 269. What Can Other Schools Learn — and Copy — From Your School? 270. What Would You Miss if You Left Your School? 271. What Do You Hope to Get Out of High School? 272. Should High Schools Do More to Prepare You for Careers? 273. Would You Want to Be Home-Schooled? 274. Should Home-Schoolers Be Allowed to Play Public School Sports? 275. Should All Children Be Able to Go to Preschool? 276. What Is the Purpose of Preschool? 277. Should Kindergarten Be More About Play or Literacy?

Learning & Studying

278. Do Teachers Assign Too Much Homework? 279. Does Your Homework Help You Learn? 280. Do You Need a Homework Therapist? 281. Do You Participate in Class? 282. What Is the Right Amount of Group Work in School? 283. What Do You Think of Grouping Students by Ability in Schools? 284. Does Class Size Matter? 285. What Is Your Best Subject? 286. What’s the Most Challenging Assignment You’ve Ever Had? 287. What Is the Most Memorable Concept You’ve Learned in Science Class, and How Did You Learn It? 288. What Memorable Experiences Have You Had in Learning Science or Math? 289. Are You Afraid of Math? 290. Do We Need a Better Way to Teach Math? 291. Is Shakespeare Too Hard? 292. What Are the Best Ways to Learn About History? 293. How Would You Do on a Civics Test? 294. Does Geography Skill Make You a Better Citizen? 295. What Career or Technical Classes Do You Wish Your School Offered? 296. Does Gym Help Students Perform Better in All Their Classes? 297. Should Reading and Math Be Taught in Gym Class Too? 298. Do You Learn Better After Moving Around? 299. Do Kids Need Recess? 300. What Was Your Favorite Field Trip? 301. What Are Your Best Tips for Studying? 302. Do You Use Study Guides? 303. Is Everything You’ve Been Taught About Study Habits Wrong? 304. What Would You Like to Have Memorized? 305. Should Schools Be Teaching, and Evaluating, Social-Emotional Skills Like ‘Grit’? 306. Should Schools Teach You How to Be Happy? 307. Should Schools Teach Children How to Cook? 308. What ‘Pop-Up’ Classes Do You Wish Your School Offered? 309. Do Schools Provide Students With Enough Opportunities to Be Creative? 310. Does the Way Your Classroom Is Decorated Affect Your Learning? 311. How Much Does Your Life in School Intersect With Your Life Outside School?

Teachers & Grading

312. What Do You Wish Your Teachers Knew About You? 313. When Has a Teacher Inspired You? 314. Has a Teacher Ever Changed Your Mind-Set? 315. What Teacher Would You Like to Thank? 316. What Makes a Good Teacher? 317. Class Time + Substitute = Waste? 318. Should Students Be Able to Grade Their Teachers? 319. How Formal Should Students Be When Interacting with their Teachers and Professors? 320. Have You Ever Been Humiliated by a Teacher? How Did it Affect You? 321. Have Your Teachers or Textbooks Ever Gotten It Wrong? 322. Do You Feel Your School and Teachers Welcome Both Conservative and Liberal Points of View? 323. Do You Have a Tutor? 324. How Important Are Parent-Teacher Conferences? 325. Should Students Be Present at Parent-Teacher Conferences? 326. How Should Parents Handle a Bad Report Card? 327. Does Your School Hand Out Too Many A’s? 328. Do Girls Get Better Grades Than Boys in Your School? 329. How Well Do You Think Standardized Tests Measure Your Abilities? 330. How Seriously Should We Take Standardized Tests? 331. Do You Spend Too Much Time Preparing for Standardized Tests? 332. Should Schools Offer Cash Bonuses for Good Test Scores? 333. Do Your Test Scores Reflect How Good Your Teachers Are? 334. Should Discomfort Excuse Students From Having to Complete an Assignment? 335. Should Schools Give Students ‘Body’ Report Cards?

Education Tech

336. Are the Web Filters at Your School Too Restrictive? 337. Does Technology in the Classroom Ever Get in the Way of Learning? 338. Do Your Teachers Use Technology Well? 339. Should Tablet Computers Become the Primary Way Students Learn in Class? 340. Can Cellphones Be Educational Tools? 341. Should Students Be Barred From Taking Cellphones to School? 342. Should Teachers and Professors Ban Student Use of Laptops in Class? 343. How Do You Use Wikipedia? 344. Should There Be More Educational Video Games in School? 345. Is Online Learning as Good as Face-to-Face Learning? 346. Would You Like to Take a Class Online? 347. Is Live-Streaming Classrooms a Good Idea? 348. How Would You Feel About a Computer Grading Your Essays? 349. Who Should Be Able to See Students’ Records? 350. Does Your School Offer Enough Opportunities to Learn Computer Programming? 351. Does Your School Value Students’ Digital Skills? 352. Do You Know How to Code? Would You Like to Learn?

School Rules & Student Life

353. Are School Dress Codes a Good Idea? 354. How Does Your School Deal With Students Who Misbehave? 355. Can Students at Your School Talk Openly About Their Mental Health Issues? 356. What Role Should the Police Have in Schools? 357. What Are the Best Teaching Methods for Getting Students to Behave Well in Class? 358. Should Schools Be Allowed to Use Corporal Punishment? 359. Is Cheating Getting Worse? 360. Do You Know People Who Cheat on High-Stakes Tests? 361. Is a ‘Regret Clause’ a Good Idea for Cases of Academic Dishonesty? 362. Should Schools Put Tracking Devices in Students’ ID Cards? 363. How Should Schools Handle Unvaccinated Students? 364. How Big a Problem Is Bullying or Cyberbullying in Your School or Community? 365. How Should Schools Address Bullying? 366. How Should Schools Address Cyberbullying? 367. What Should the Punishment Be for Acts of Cyberbullying? 368. When Do Pranks Cross the Line to Become Bullying? 369. How Should Schools Respond to Hazing Incidents? 370. How Do You Feel About Proms? 371. Is Prom Worth It? 372. Do You Want to Be ‘Promposed’ To? 373. Is Prom Just an Excuse to Drink? 374. What’s the Best Party You’ve Ever Been To? 375. What Role Do School Clubs and Teams Play in Your Life? 376. Should All Students Get Equal Space in a Yearbook? 377. Should Yearbooks Include Political News? 378. Should School Newspapers Be Subject to Prior Review? 379. Should More Student Journalists Have Independent Editorial Control? 380. What Are Your Thoughts on Riding the School Bus?

381. How Necessary Is a College Education? 382. Is College Overrated? 383. How Prepared Are You For College? How Well Do You Think You’ll Do? 384. What Worries Do You Have About College? 385. Where Do You Want to Go to College? 386. Does It Matter Where You Go to College? 387. Do College Rankings Really Matter? 388. Do Other People Care Too Much About Your Post-High School Plans? 389. What Are Your Sources for Information About Colleges and Universities? 390. Should Colleges Find a Better Way to Admit Students? 391. Is the College Admissions Process Fair? 392. Should Colleges Use Admissions Criteria Other Than SAT Scores and Grades? 393. Do You Support Affirmative Action in College Admissions? 394. Are Early-Decision Programs Unfair? Should Colleges Do Away With Them? 395. What Criteria Should Be Used in Awarding Scholarships for College? 396. Should Engineers Pay Less for College Than English Majors? 397. What Is the Perfect Number of College Applications to Send? 398. What Role Has Community College Played in Your Life or the Life of Someone You Know? 399. How Much Do You Worry About Taking the SAT or ACT? 400. What Personal Essay Topic Would You Assign to College Applicants? 401. What Qualities Would You Look For in a College Roommate? 402. Would You Want to Take a Gap Year After High School? 403. What Specialty College Would You Create? 404. What Makes a Graduation Ceremony Memorable? 405. Should a College Education be Free? 406. Is Student Debt Worth It? 407. Are Lavish Amenities on College Campuses Useful or Frivolous? 408. Do Fraternities Promote Misogyny? 409. Should Fraternities Be Abolished? 410. Is a Sorority a Good Place for a Feminist? 411. Should Colleges Offer Degrees in Sports? 412. Should ‘Despised Dissenters’ Be Allowed to Speak on College Campuses?

Work & Careers

413. What Do You Want to Be When You Grow Up? 414. Do You Have a Life Calling? 415. What’s Your Dream Job? 416. What Jobs Are You Most Curious About? 417. What Are Your Longtime Interests or Passions? 418. Do You Think You Will Have a Career That You Love? 419. How Can You Ensure That Your Future Career is Right for You? 420. What Do You Want More From a Career: Happiness or Wealth? 421. What Investment Are You Willing to Make to Get Your Dream Job? 422. Would You Consider Moving Overseas for a Job? 423. What Do You Hope to Be Doing the Year After You Graduate From College? 424. What Would You Choose to Do If You Had Unlimited Free Time and No Restrictions? 425. Is ‘Doing Nothing’ a Good Use of Your Time? 426. Where Do You See Yourself in 10 Years? 427. Would You Like to Be Famous? 428. Would You Consider a Nontraditional Occupation? 429. Would You Rather Work From Home or in an Office? 430. Would You Want to Be a Teacher? 431. Would You Like to Be a Fashion Model? 432. What Hidden Talents Might You Have? 433. What ‘Back-to-the-Land’ Skills Do You Have, or Wish You Had? 434. Would You Like to Be a Farmer? 435. What Skill Could You Teach in Two Minutes? 436. What Have You Made Yourself? 437. What Would You Like to Learn to Make by Hand? 438. What Idea Do You Have That Is Ahead of Its Time? 439. Do You Have an Idea for a Business or App? 440. What Would You Create if You Had Funding? 441. How Did You Start Doing Something You Love? 442. Did You Ever Take a Break From Doing Something You Love? 443. What Have You Done to Earn Money? 444. Do You Have a Job? 445. Is It O.K. to Use Family Connections to Get a Job? 446. Should All High School Students Be Able to Get a Summer Job if They Want One? 447. Would You Quit if Your Values Did Not Match Your Employer’s? 448. Should Employers Be Able to Review Job Applicants’ SAT Scores? 449. How Important Is Related Experience in Doing a Job?

Identity & Family

450. How Close Are You to Your Parents? 451. How Are You and Your Parents Alike and Different? 452. Will You Follow in Your Parents’ Footsteps? 453. Are You Being Raised to Pursue Your Dreams? 454. Do You Have Helicopter Parents? 455. Do Your Parents Spy on You? 456. How Permissive Are Your Parents? 457. How Much Freedom Have Your Parents Given You? 458. At What Age Should Children Be Allowed to Go Places Without Adult Supervision? 459. Should Children Be Allowed to Wear Whatever They Want? 460. How Do Your Parents Teach You to Behave? 461. How, and by Whom, Should Children Be Taught Appropriate Behavior? 462. How Should Parents Discipline Their Kids? 463. When Does Discipline Become Child Abuse? 464. Should Parents Bribe Their Children? 465. Should Parents Make Their Children Clean Their Room? 466. How Do You Make Parenting Difficult for Your Parents? 467. How Often Do You Fight With Your Parents? 468. What Advice Would You Give to Your Mom, Dad or Guardian on How to Be a Better Parent? 469. Do Your Parents Try Too Hard to Be Cool? 470. Do You Ever Feel Embarrassed by Your Parents? 471. Do Your Parents Support Your Learning? 472. Do You Talk About Report Cards With Your Parents? 473. Do You Want Your Parents to Stop Asking You ‘How Was School?’ 474. How Much Do Your Parents Help With Your Homework? 475. Have Your Parents and Teachers Given You Room to Create? 476. How Closely Do Your Parents Monitor Your App Use? 477. Should Parents Limit How Much Time Children Spend on Tech Devices?

478. Who Is Your Family? 479. How Do You Define ‘Family’? 480. What Have You and Your Family Accomplished Together? 481. What Events Have Brought You Closer to Your Family? 482. How Has Your Family Helped or Hindered Your Transition to a New School? 483. What’s Your Role in Your Family? 484. Have You Ever Changed a Family Member’s Mind? 485. How Well Do You Get Along With Your Siblings? 486. Is Your Family Stressed, Tired and Rushed? 487. What Are Your Family Stories of Sacrifice? 488. What Possessions Does Your Family Treasure? 489. What Hobbies Have Been Passed Down in Your Family? 490. What’s the Story Behind Your Name? 491. What Are Your Favorite Names? 492. How Have You Paid Tribute to Loved Ones? 493. What Does the World Need to Know About an Important Person in Your Life? 494. What Do You Know About Your Family’s History? 495. Did Your Parents Have a Life Before They Had Kids? 496. What Family Traditions Do You Want to Carry On When You Get Older?

Childhood Memories

497. What Is Your Earliest Memory? 498. What Was Your Most Precious Childhood Possession? 499. What Is Your Most Prized Possession? 500. What Objects Tell the Story of Your Life? 501. What Do You Collect? 502. What Were Your Favorite Childhood Shows and Characters? 503. Do You Have Childhood Memories of Being Read Aloud To? 504. What Were Your Favorite Picture Books When You Were Little? 505. What Things Did You Create When You Were a Child? 506. What Places Do You Remember Fondly From Childhood? 507. What Food or Flavor Do You Remember Tasting for the First Time? 508. What Do You Wish You Could See, Hear, Read or Experience for the First Time All Over Again? 509. What Childhood Rules Did You Break? 510. Have You Ever Felt Embarrassed by Things You Used to Like? 511. Do You Wish You Could Return to Moments From Your Past? 512. Was There a Toy You Wanted as a Child but Never Got? 513. What’s the Best Gift You’ve Ever Given or Received? 514. Have You Ever Given, or Received, a Perfect Gift? 515. What’s the Most Memorable Thing You Ever Got in the Mail? 516. Have You Ever Lost (or Found) Something Valuable? 517. What Nicknames Have You Ever Gotten or Given? 518. What Are Your Best Sleepover Memories? 519. What Old, Worn Out Thing Can You Just Not Part With?

520. Is It Harder to Grow Up in the 21st Century Than It Was in the Past? 521. Is Modern Culture Ruining Childhood? 522. Are Adults Hurting Young Children by Pushing Them to Achieve? 523. Is Childhood Today Too Risk-Free? 524. Do We Give Children Too Many Trophies? 525. What Have You Learned in Your Teens? 526. What Do You Remember Best About Being 12? 527. What Personal Achievements Make You Proud? 528. What Are You Grateful For? 529. What Are Some Recent Moments of Happiness in Your Life? 530. What Rites of Passage Have You Participated In? 531. What Advice Would You Give Younger Kids About Middle or High School? 532. What Have You Learned From Older People? 533. What Have You Learned From a Younger Person — and What Have You Taught An Older Person? 534. What Can Older People Learn From Your Generation? 535. What Do Older Generations Misunderstand About Yours? 536. Do You Recognize Yourself in Descriptions of ‘Generation Z’? 537. What Should We Call Your Generation? 538. When Do You Become an Adult? 539. Do You Have ‘Emerging Adult’ Skills? 540. When You Are Old Enough to Vote, Will You? 541. When Should You Be Able to Buy Cigarettes, Drink Alcohol, Vote, Drive and Fight in Wars? 542. Does Your Generation Have Too Much Self-Esteem? 543. Is Your Generation More Self-Centered Than Earlier Generations? 544. Do You Think Anxiety Is A Serious Problem Among Young People? 545. Is Our Culture of Online Shaming Out of Control? 546. Do ‘Shame and Blame’ Work to Change Teenage Behavior? 547. Do You Think Teenagers Can Make a Difference in the World?

Overcoming Adversity

548. What Challenges Have You Overcome? 549. What Are Your Secret Survival Strategies? 550. What Do You Do When You Encounter Obstacles to Success? 551. When Have You Failed? What Did You Learn From It? 552. When Have You Ever Succeeded When You Thought You Might Fail? 553. What Life Lessons Has Adversity Taught You? 554. Does Suffering Make Us Stronger and Lead to Success? 555. Which Is More Important: Talent or Hard Work? 556. Are You Hopeful About the Future? 557. When Have You Reinvented Yourself? 558. What Work Went Into Reaching Your Most Difficult Goals? 559. Is Struggle Essential to Happiness? 560. How Often Do You Leave Your ‘Comfort Zone’? 561. What Do You Gain From Pursuing Something You Do Really, Really Badly? 562. When Was the Last Time You Did Something That Scared or Challenged You? 563. What Are You Afraid Of? 564. What Are Your Fears and Phobias? 565. What Are Your Personal Superstitions? 566. Do You Like Being Alone? 567. How Often Do You Cry? 568. Do You Ever Feel Overlooked and Underappreciated? 569. How Have You Handled Being the ‘New Kid’? 570. How Do You Deal With Haters? 571. How Do You React When Provoked? 572. What Good Can Come from Disagreements? 573. When Should You Compromise? 574. Have You Ever Changed Your Mind About a Hot-Button Issue? 575. What Role Does Stress Play in Your Life? 576. Does Stress Affect Your Ability to Make Good Decisions? 577. How Do You Relieve Stress? 578. How Important Is Keeping Your Cool? 579. Is ‘Be Yourself’ Bad Advice? 580. Do People Complain Too Much? 581. What’s Your Favorite Mood Booster? 582. How Do You Find Peace in Your Life? 583. Does Your Life Leave You Enough Time to Relax? 584. Do You Set Rules for Yourself About How You Use Your Time? 585. What Did You Once Hate but Now Like? 586. What Kind of Feedback Helps You Improve? 587. Is Trying Too Hard to Be Happy Making You Sad? 588. Does Achieving Success Always Include Being Happy? 589. Do Adults Who Are ‘Only Trying to Help’ Sometimes Make Things Worse? 590. Have You Ever Felt Pressured by Family or Others in Making an Important Decision About Your Future?

Your Personality

591. What Makes You Happy? 592. What Motivates You? 593. What Are You Good At? 594. What Is Your Personal Credo? 595. When in Your Life Have You Been a Leader? 596. Are You More of a Leader or a Follower? 597. Do Great Leaders Have to Be Outgoing? 598. How Well Do You Perform Under Pressure? 599. How Well Do You Take Criticism? 600. Are You Hard or Easy on Yourself? 601. How Full Is Your Glass? 602. Do You Have a Hard Time Making Decisions? 603. How Much Self-Control Do You Have? 604. How Good Are You at Waiting for What You Really Want? 605. What Role Does Procrastination Play in Your Life? 606. How Good Are You at Time Management? 607. What Kind of Time Management Skills Are You Learning from the Adults in Your Life? 608. How Do You Remember What You Need to Remember? 609. How Productive and Organized Are You? 610. Under What Conditions Do You Do Your Best Work? 611. How Do You Express Yourself Creatively? 612. Can Creativity Be Scheduled? 613. Are You a Good Listener? 614. When and For What Reasons Do You Seek Silence? 615. Are You a Perfectionist? 616. How Competitive Are You? 617. Do You Perform Better When You’re Competing or When You’re Collaborating? 618. Has Modesty Ever Prevented You From Celebrating an Achievement? 619. How Emotionally Intelligent Are You? 620. How Stoic Are You? 621. How Do You Cope With Grief? 622. How Good Are You at Saying Goodbye? 623. Do You Take More Risks When You Are Around Your Friends? 624. Do You Unknowingly Submit to Peer Pressure? 625. Have You Ever Felt Pressured to Betray Your Beliefs? 626. How Easy — or Hard — Is It for You to Say No When You Want To? 627. How Do You Handle Fear? 628. Do You Think You’re Brave? 629. How Much of a Daredevil Are You? 630. What Activities Make You Feel Most Alive? 631. What Pranks, Jokes, Hoaxes or Tricks Have You Ever Fallen For or Perpetrated? 632. How Impulsive Are You? 633. Are You a Novelty-Seeker? 634. How Do You Deal With Boredom? 635. How Often Do You Talk to Yourself? 636. What Annoys You? 637. Do You Apologize Too Much? 638. Do You Know How to Say ‘I’m Sorry?’ 639. Do You Have Good Manners? 640. How Materialistic Are You? 641. Are You a Saver or a Tosser? 642. Are You a Hoarder or a Minimalist? 643. Are You an Introvert or an Extrovert? 644. Are You Popular, Quirky or Conformist? 645. Are You a Nerd or a Geek? 646. What Would Your Personal Mascot Be? 647. What Assumptions Do People Make About You? 648. How Strong Is Your Sense of Smell? 649. What Animal Are You Most Like?

Religion & Morality

650. What Is the Role of Religion or Spirituality in Your Life? 651. How Important Is Your Spiritual Life? 652. Do You Believe That Everything Happens for a Reason? 653. How Much Control Do You Think You Have Over Your Fate? 654. Can You Be Good Without God? 655. Are You Less Religious Than Your Parents? 656. Can You Pass a Basic Religion Test? 657. What Can You Learn From Other Religions? 658. Do You Believe That Everything Happens for a Reason? 659. How Important Do You Think It Is to Marry Someone With the Same Religion? 660. How Trustworthy Are You? 661. How Comfortable Are You With Lying? 662. When Do You Lie? 663. Have You Ever Lied to Your Parents or Done Something Behind Their Backs? 664. Can You Spot a Liar? 665. What Ethical Dilemmas Have You Faced? 666. Have You Ever Had to Make a Sacrifice to Help Someone You Care About? 667. Have You Ever Donated Your Time, Talents, Possessions or Money to Support Anyone in Need? 668. When Is the Last Time You Did Something Nice for a Stranger? 669. Do Bystanders Have a Responsibility to Intervene When There is Trouble? 670. Do Leaders Have Moral Obligations? 671. Have You Ever ‘Paid It Forward’? 672. Can Kindness Become Cool? 673. What Acts of Kindness Have You Witnessed or Participated In? 674. Is Teenage ‘Voluntourism’ Wrong? 675. Have You Ever Taken Something You Weren’t Supposed To? 676. When Is Looting Morally O.K.? 677. Do You Ever Eavesdrop? 678. How Much Do You Gossip?

Role Models

679. Who Are the People – Famous or Not – You Admire Most? 680. Who Are Your Heroes? 681. What Is a Hero? 682. Do We Need More Diverse Superheroes? 683. Who Is Your Role Model? 684. Who Inspires You? 685. What Makes Someone a Great Leader? 686. What Acts of Bravery Have You Witnessed? 687. What’s the Best Advice You’ve Gotten? 688. What Are Some ‘Words of Wisdom’ That Guide Your Life? 689. Who Outside Your Family Has Made a Difference in Your Life? 690. If You Had Your Own Talk Show, Whom Would You Want to Interview? 691. To Whom, or What, Would You Like to Write a Thank-You Note? 692. What Leader Would You Invite to Speak at Your School? 693. What Six People, Living or Dead, Would You Invite to Dinner? 694. Who’s Your ‘Outsider Role Model’?

695. Have You Ever Been Told You Couldn’t Do Something Because of Your Gender? 696. Do Parents Have Different Hopes and Standards for Their Sons Than for Their Daughters? 697. How Do Your Parents Share the Responsibilities of Parenting? 698. How Do Male and Female Roles Differ in Your Family? 699. Do You Consider Yourself a Feminist? 700. What Does Feminism Mean to You? 701. What Have You Learned From the Women in Your Life? 702. What Experiences Have You Had With Gender Bias in School? 703. Is School Designed More for Girls Than Boys? 704. Why Do Boys Lag Behind Girls in Reading? 705. Does Separating Boys and Girls Help Students Perform Better in School? 706. Is Single-Sex Education Still Useful? 707. What Does it Mean to Be ‘a Real Man’? 708. Do We Need to Teach Boys and Men to Be More Emotionally Honest? 709. What Have Been Your Experiences With Catcalling or Other Kinds of Street Harassment? 710. What Should We Do to Fight Sexual Violence Against Young Women? 711. How Should the Problem of Sexual Assault on Campuses Be Addressed? 712. What Is Your Reaction to the #MeToo Movement? 713. Why Aren’t There More Girls in Leadership Roles? 714. Do Professional Women Need a ‘Girls’ Lounge’? 715. Why Aren’t More Girls Choosing to Pursue Careers in Math and Science? 716. Why Aren’t More Girls Pursuing Careers in Computing and Tech Fields? 717. Now That Women Can Serve in All Combat Roles in the U.S. Military, Should They Also Be Required to Register for the Draft? 718. Do Female Athletes Get Short Shrift? 719. Should Sports Be Coed? 720. Should the Boy Scouts Be Coed? 721. Do You Believe in Equal Rights for Women and Men? 722. Does the U.S. Constitution Need an Equal Rights Amendment? 723. Is It Harder Being a Girl? 724. Do We Need New Ways to Identify Gender and Sexuality? 725. Should Toys Be More Gender-Neutral? 726. Should There Be More Boy Dolls? 727. What Rules Should Apply to Transgender Athletes When They Compete? 728. Are Women Better at Compromising and Collaborating? 729. Do Boys Have Less Intense Friendships Than Girls?

Race & Ethnicity

730. Is America ‘Backsliding’ on Race? 731. Why Is Race So Hard to Talk About? 732. How Often Do You Interact With People of Another Race or Ethnicity? 733. Do You Ever Talk About Issues of Race and Class With Your Friends? 734. What Is Your Racial and Ethnic Identity? 735. Have You Ever Tried to Hide Your Racial or Ethnic Identity? 736. Have You Experienced Racism or Other Kinds of Discrimination in School? 737. Is Your Generation Really ‘Postracial’? 738. What’s the Racial Makeup of Your School? 739. Does Your School Seem Integrated? 740. Should Schools Strive for Racial Diversity Among Teachers? 741. How Should Parents Teach Their Children About Race and Racism? 742. Is ‘Black Panther’ a ‘Defining Moment’ for the United States — and Particularly for Black America?

Your Neighborhood & Home

743. How Much Does Your Neighborhood Define Who You Are? 744. What’s Special About Your Hometown? 745. What Marketing Slogan Would You Use for Your Town or City? 746. What Would You Name Your Neighborhood? 747. Who Are the ‘Characters’ That Make Your Town Interesting? 748. Who Is the ‘Mayor’ of Your School or Neighborhood? 749. What Do the Types of Dogs in Your Neighborhood Say About Where You Live? 750. What Would a TV Show About Your Town Spoof? 751. What ‘Urban Legends’ Are There About Places in Your Area? 752. Do You Know Your Way Around Your City or Town? 753. How Well Do You Know Your Neighbors? 754. What Is Your Favorite Place? 755. What’s Your Favorite Neighborhood Joint? 756. What Is Your Favorite Street? 757. Do You Hang Out in the Park? 758. How Much Time Do You Spend in Nature? 759. How Do You Get Your Nature Fix? 760. What Small Things Have You Seen and Taken Note Of Today? 761. What Buildings Do You Love? What Buildings Do You Hate? 762. What Are the Sounds That Make Up the Background Noise in Your Life? 763. What Sounds Annoy You? 764. What Public Behavior Annoys You Most? 765. Have You Ever Interacted With the Police? 766. What Local Problems Do You Think Your Mayor Should Try to Solve? 767. What Ideas Do You Have for Enhancing Your Community? 768. Where Do You Think You Will Live When You Are an Adult? 769. Do You Think That in Your 20s You Will Live in a City? 770. Would You Most Want to Live in a City, a Suburb or the Country? 771. Do You Think You Might Like Communal Living When You’re an Adult? 772. What Would Your Ideal City Look Like? 773. What City or Town Most Captures Your Imagination? 774. Would You Want a Bike Share Program for Your Community? 775. Is Your Bedroom a Nightmare? 776. What is Your Favorite Place in Your House? 777. What’s Your Favorite Room? 778. How Important Is Keeping a Clean House? 779. Do You Need to De-Clutter Your Life? 780. Does Keeping a Messy Desk Make People More Creative? 781. Do You Plan on Saving Any of Your Belongings for the Future? 782. With Your Home in Danger, What Would You Try to Save? 783. What Would You Grab in a Fire? 784. What Would You Put in Your Emergency ‘Go-Bag’? 785. Who Lived Long Ago Where You Live Now? 786. What Would Your Dream Home Be Like?

Money & Social Class

787. What Are Your Expectations About Earning, Saving and Spending Money? 788. What Choices Do You Make About Money Every Day? 789. Are You a Saver or a Spender? 790. What Have Your Parents Taught You About Money? 791. Do You Expect Your Parents to Give You Money? 792. How Much Financial Help Do You Expect From Your Parents in the Future? 793. How Important a Role Has Money, Work or Social Class Played in Your Life? 794. Do You See Great Disparities of Wealth in Your Community? 895. Is It Possible to Start Out Poor in This Country, Work Hard and Become Well-Off? 896. Should Rich People Have to Pay More Taxes? 897. Do We Need a Higher Minimum Wage? 898. Can Money Buy You Happiness? 899. Does Buying and Accumulating More and More Stuff Make Us Happier? 800. What Are the Best Things in Life and Are They Free? 801. What Causes Should Philanthropic Groups Finance? 802. Should Charities Focus More on America? 803. What Organizations Do You Think People Should Give to This Holiday Season? 804. Whom, or What, Would You Want to Help With a Crowdfunding Campaign? 805. Do Poor People ‘Have It Easy’? 806. Should People Give Money to Panhandlers? 8

807. What Would You Do if You Won the Lottery? 808. What Superpower Do You Wish You Had? 809. What Era Do You Wish You Had Lived In? 810. Would You Want to Be a Tween or Teen Star? 811. Would You Want to Be a Child Prodigy? 812. Would You Want to Grow Up in the Public Eye? 813. What Kind of Robot Would You Want? 814. What Fantasy Invention Would You Want to Exist in Reality? 815. What Would You Outsource if You Could? 816. What Would You Like to Learn on Your Own? 817. What Would You Be Willing to Wait in a Really Long Line For? 818. If You Were a Super Rich Philanthropist, What Causes Would You Support? 819. What Would You Do if You Were President? 820. What Famous Person Would You Like to Visit Your School? 821 Who Would Be the Ideal Celebrity Neighbor? 822. What Do You Want to Be Doing When You’re 80? 823. Do You Want to Live to 100? 824. What Do You Want Your Obituary to Say? 825. What Do You Want to Be Known for After Your Death? 826. Would You Like to Be Cryogenically Preserved (Frozen!) Upon Your Death? 827. If the World Was Ending, What Would You Want to Say? 828. What Items Would You Place in a Time Capsule for Future Generations?

Social Life & Leisure Time

829. Do You Spend Enough Time With Other People? 830. How Often Do You Spend One-on-One Time With Your Closest Friends? 831. Do You Have a Best Friend? 832. Do You Find It Easier to Make New Friends Online or In Person? 833. How Good a Friend Are You? 834. Do You Like Your Friends? 835. What Fads Are You and Your Friends Into Right Now? 836. How Have You Helped a Friend in a Time of Need? 837. Do You Have Any Unlikely Friendships? 838. How Do You Feel About Introducing Friends from Different Parts of Your Life? 839. Do You Ever ‘Mix It Up’ and Socialize With Different People at School? 840. Is Competitiveness an Obstacle to Making or Keeping Friendships? 841. How Should You Handle the End of a Friendship? 842. Have You Ever Felt Left Out?

Dating & Sex

843. Have You Ever Been in Love? 844. What Advice Would You Give to Somebody Who Just Started Dating? 845. Are You Allowed to Date? 846. Is Dating a Thing of the Past? 847. How Do You Think Technology Affects Dating? 848. What Are the Basic ‘Rules’ for Handling Breakups? 849. What’s the Best Way to Get Over a Breakup? 850. What’s the Best Way to Heal a Broken Heart? 851. What Are the Most Meaningful Relationships in Your Life? 852. What Are Your Beliefs About Marriage? 853. Should Couples Live Together Before Marriage? 854. Should Your Significant Other Be Your Best Friend? 855. Could Following These Directions Make You Fall in Love With a Stranger? 856. How Should Children Be Taught About Puberty and Sex? 857. Is Hookup Culture Leaving Your Generation Unhappy and Unprepared for Love? 858. Are Affirmative Consent Rules a Good Idea? 859. Should Birth Control Pills Be Available to Teenage Girls Without a Prescription? 860. Should the Morning-After Pill Be Sold Over the Counter to People Under 17? 861. How Big of a Problem Is Sexting? 862. What Advice Should Parents and Counselors Give Teenagers About Sexting? 863. How Should Parents Address Internet Pornography? 864. Do You Think Porn Influences the Way Teenagers Think About Sex? 865. How Did You Learn About Sex?

Looks & Fashion

866. Are Models Too Skinny? 867. Is There Too Much Pressure on Girls to Have ‘Perfect’ Bodies? 868. How Much Pressure Do Boys Face to Have the Perfect Body? 869. Have You Inherited Your Parents’ Attitudes Toward Their Looks? 870. Has Anyone Ever Said That You Look Like Someone Famous? 871. What Is Your All-Time Favorite Piece of Clothing? 872. Do You Have a Signature Clothing Item? 873. What’s Your Favorite T-Shirt? 874. Do You Care What You Wear? 875. Does What You Wear Say Anything About You as a Person? 876. Should You Always Have the Right to Wear What You Want? 877. What Does Your Hairstyle Say About You? 878. What’s on Your Fashion Shopping List? 879. Are You a Sneaker Head? 880. How Far Would You Go for Fashion? 881. Should You Care About the Health and Safety of Those Making Your Clothing? 882. What Are the Hot Fashion Trends at Your School Right Now? 883. What Current Trends Annoy You? 884. Do ‘Saggy Pants’ Mean Disrespect? 885. Would You Ever Consider Getting a Tattoo? 886. Who Should Decide Whether a Teenager Can Get a Tattoo or Piercing? 887. What Are Your Opinions on Cosmetic Surgery? 888. Do Photoshopped Images Make You Feel Bad About Your Own Looks? 889. Doctored Photos: O.K. or Not? 890. How Important Is It to Be Attractive in Our Society?

Meals & Food

891. What Foods Bring Up Special Memories for You? 892. What Are the Most Memorable Meals You’ve Ever Had? 893. What’s Your Favorite Holiday Food Memory? 894. What’s Your Comfort Food? 895. What Are Your Favorite Junk Foods? 896. What’s Your Favorite Candy? 897. What’s Your Favorite Sandwich? 898. What Convenience Foods Make You Happy? 899. Are You Now, or Have You Ever Been, a Picky Eater? 900. What Are Your ‘Food Rules’? 901. What Messages About Food and Eating Have You Learned From Your Family? 902. How Often Does Your Family Eat Together? 903. How Much Food Does Your Family Waste? 904. Have You Ever Experienced Food Insecurity? 905. Is Breakfast Really the Most Important Meal of the Day? 906. Do You Prefer Your Tacos ‘Authentic’ or ‘Appropriated’? 907. What Food Would You Like to Judge in a Taste-Off? 908. Do You Cook? 909. What Would You Most Like to Learn to Cook or Bake? 910. What Do You Eat During the School Day? 911. Do You Eat Cafeteria Food? 912. Is School Lunch Really All That Bad? 913. Do You Think a Healthier School Lunch Program Is a Lost Cause? 914. Should French Fries and Pizza Sauce Count as Vegetables? 915. Are Your Eating Habits Healthy? 916. How Concerned Are You About Where Your Food Comes From? 917. Is It Ethical to Eat Meat? 918. Do You Pay Attention to Calorie Counts for Food? 919. Do You Pay Attention to Nutrition Labels on Food? 920. Should Sugary Drinks Be Taxed? 921. Should the Government Limit the Size of Sugary Drinks? 922. Should Teenagers Think Twice Before Downing Energy Drinks? 923. Do You Eat Too Quickly? 924. Are Manners Important? 925. What Are Your Favorite Restaurants? 926. What Restaurant Would You Most Like to Review? 927. How Long Is It O.K. to Linger in a Cafe or Restaurant? 928. Should Restaurants Do Away With Tipping?

Sports & Games

929. What’s the Most Impressive Sports Moment You’ve Seen? 930. Who Is Your Favorite Athlete, and Why? 931. Who Are Your Sports Heroes? 932. What Sports Teams Do You Root For? 933. When Has a Sports Team Most Disappointed You? 934. Do You Participate in March Madness? 935. Does Being a Fan Help Define Who You Are? 936. How Far Would You Go to Express Loyalty to Your Favorite Teams? 937. How Much Should Fans Be Allowed to Distract Opposing Teams? 938. What Fan Memorabilia Would You Pay Big Bucks For? 939. Are You a Fair-Weather Fan? 940. Are You a Football Fan? 941. Do You Watch the Super Bowl? 942. Should Parents Let Their Children Play Football? 943. Should High Schools Drop Football Because Too Many Players Are Getting Injured? 944. If Football Is So Dangerous to Players, Should We Be Watching It? 945. Are Some Youth Sports Too Intense? 946. Does a Championship Game Always Need to Have a Winner (and a Loser)? 947. Should There Be Stricter Rules About How Coaches Treat Their Players? 948. Do Fans Put Too Much Pressure on Their Favorite Professional Athletes? 949. Does Better Sports Equipment Unfairly Improve Athletic Ability? 950. Should Technology in Sports Be Limited? 951. What Extreme Sports Interest You Most? 952. Are Some Extreme Sports Too Extreme? 953. Is Cheerleading a Sport? 954. Should Cheerleading Be an Olympic Sport? 955. Has Baseball Lost Its Cool? 956. Do Sports Teams Have a Responsibility to Hold Players to a Standard for Their Personal Conduct? 957. Should Athletes Who Dope Have to Forfeit Their Titles and Medals? 958. How Big a Deal Is It That an N.B.A. Player Came Out as Gay? 959. Should Women’s Basketball Lower the Rims? 960. Should College Football Players Get Paid? 961. Should Colleges Fund Wellness Programs Instead of Sports? 962. Where Should Colleges and Sports Teams Draw the Line in Selling Naming Rights? 963. Is ‘Redskins’ an Offensive Name for a Team? 964. Is It Offensive for Sports Teams to Use Native American Names and Mascots? 965. What Are Your Thoughts on Sports Betting? 966. Should Sports Betting Be Legal Everywhere? 967. How Young Is Too Young to Climb Mount Everest? 968. Should Girls and Boys Sports Teams Compete in the Same League? 969. Why Do You Play Sports? 970. What Kinds of Games and Puzzles Do You Like? 971. Do You Enjoy Playing Games or Solving Puzzles? 972. What Are Your Favorite Board Games? 973. What Are Your Favorite Games? 974. What Rules Would You Like to See Changed in Your Favorite Sports? 975. How Would You Change Your Favorite Sport? 976. What Game Would You Like to Redesign?

977. Where Do You Want to Travel? 978. What Is Your Fantasy Vacation? 979. What Would Your Fantasy Road Trip Be Like? 980. What Crazy Adventure Would You Want to Take? 981. What Local ‘Microadventures’ Would You Like to Go On? 982. How Would You Spend Your Ideal Family Vacation? 983. How Has Travel Affected You? 984. What Kind of Tourist Are You? 985. What Are the Best Souvenirs You’ve Ever Collected While Traveling? 986. What Famous Landmarks Have You Visited? 987. What’s the Coolest Thing You’ve Ever Seen in Nature? 988. What Do You Think You Would Learn From Traveling to All 50 States? 989. How Much Do You Know About the Rest of the World? 990. Would You Like to Live in Another Country? 991. Would You Want to Be a Space Tourist? 992. If You Could Time-Travel, Where Would You Go? 993. How Good Is Your Sense of Direction?

Holidays & Seasons

994. How Do You Celebrate Your Birthday? 995. Should the United States Celebrate Columbus Day? 996. A Short Fall Break, but What Should We Call It? 997. Will You Be Wearing a Halloween Costume This Year? 998. When Does a Halloween Costume Cross the Line? 999. Should Halloween Costumes Portray Only ‘Positive Images’? 1,000. Dressing Up Like Creepy Clowns: Freedom of Expression or Public Nuisance? 1,001. Do You Like Scary Movies and Books? 1,002. What Is the Scariest Story You Have Ever Heard? 1,003. Do You Believe in Ghosts? 1,004. Do You Believe in Astrology? 1,005. What Are Your Thanksgiving Traditions? 1,006. Will Your Family Members Disagree With Each Other About Politics This Thanksgiving? 1,007. What Has Been Your Most Memorable Thanksgiving? 1,008. What Do You Look Forward to Most – and Least – During the Holiday Season? 1,009. What Are Your Tips for Enjoying the Holiday Season? 1,010. How Will You Spend the Holiday Break? 1,011. What Does Santa Claus Mean to You? 1,012. Do You Look Forward to New Year’s Eve? 1,013. Do You Make New Year’s Resolutions? 1,014. How Do You Fight the Winter Blues? 1,015. What Would You Do on a Snow Day? 1,016. What Are Your Experiences With Severe Weather? 1,017. How Do You Feel About Valentine’s Day? 1,018. How Do You Celebrate Spring? 1,019. What Would Your Fantasy Spring Break Be Like? 1,020. What Are You Looking Forward to This Summer? 1,021. What Would Your Ideal Summer Camp Be Like? 1,022. What Are Your Favorite Summer Hangouts? 1,023. What’s Your Favorite Summer Food? 1,024. What Is Your Favorite Summer Movie? 1,025. What’s on Your Summer Reading List? 1,026. Do You Have a Summer Job? 1,027. What Did This Summer Teach You? 1,028. Do You Choose Summer Activities to Look Good on Applications? 1,029. What Are the Best Things You Did This Summer? 1,030. How Do You Prepare to Go Back to School? 1,031. How Can People Make the Most of Long Holiday Weekends? 1,032. What’s Your Sunday Routine? 1,033. What Work, Sport or Pastime Do You Like to Do at Night? 1,034. Would Life Be Better Without Time Zones?

Shopping & Cars

1,035. Do You Ever Hang Out at the Mall? 1,036. How Would You Make Over Your Mall? 1,037. Do You Shop at Locally Owned Businesses? 1,038. What’s Your Favorite Store? 1,039. To What Company Would You Write a Letter of Complaint or Admiration? 1,040. To What Business Would You Like to Give Advice? 1,041. Do Politics Ever Influence How or Where You Shop? 1,042. Do Companies Have a Responsibility to Contribute Positively to Society? 1,043. Should We Think Twice Before Buying Online? 1,044. Is Amazon Becoming Too Powerful? 1,045. How Much Do You Trust Online Reviews? 1,046. Should Companies Collect Information About You? 1,047. Could You Stop Shopping for an Entire Year? 1,048. What Are the Best Things You’ve Acquired Secondhand? 1,049. Did You Take Part in Any Post-Thanksgiving Shopping? 1,050. What Time Should Black Friday Sales Start? 1,051. How Important Is It to Have a Driver’s License? 1,052. Are You a Good Driver? 1,053. Do You Have a Dream Car? 1,054. Would You Like to Ride in a Car That Drives Itself? 1,055. Should Distracted Driving Be Punished Like Drinking and Driving? 1,056. Should Texting While Driving Be Illegal in Every State? 1,057. Is Drinking and Driving Still a Problem for Teenagers? 1,058. If Teenagers Are Such Bad Drivers, Should They Be Allowed to Drive? 1,059. Are Self-Driving Vehicles the Wave of the Future?

Science & Health

Science & Environment

1,060. How Green Are You? 1,061. How Do You Try to Reduce Your Impact on the Environment? 1,062. Do You Ever Feel Guilty About What, or How Much, You Throw Away? 1,063. What Could You Live Without? 1,064. Should Single-Use Plastic Shopping Bags Be Banned? 1,065. What Are Your Thoughts About Wind Power? 1,066. Do We Crank Up the A.C. Too High? 1,067. How Concerned Are You About Climate Change? 1,068. How Should Nations and Individuals Address Climate Change? 1,069. If You Were President, What Would You Do About Climate Change? 1,070. Should Schools Teach About Climate Change? 1,071. How Do You Celebrate Earth Day? 1,072. Should Developers Be Allowed to Build in and Near the Grand Canyon? 1,073. Should Scientists Try to Help People Beat Old Age So We Can Live Longer Lives? 1,074. Should Extinct Animals Be Resurrected? If So, Which Ones? 1,075. How Do You Think Dinosaurs Went Extinct? 1,076. Given Unlimited Resources, What Scientific or Medical Problem Would You Investigate? 1,077. What Are the Five Greatest Inventions of All Time? 1,078. What Would You Invent to Make the World a Better Place? 1,079. When Is It O.K. to Replace Human Limbs With Technology? 1,080. Should Fertilized Eggs Be Given Legal ‘Personhood’? 1,081. Do You Think Life Exists — or Has Ever Existed — Somewhere Besides Earth? 1,082. Do You Believe in Intelligent Alien Life? 1,083. Will Humans Live on Mars Someday? 1,084. Would You Want to Be a Space Tourist? 1,085. What Would You Name a New Star or Planet?

Animals & Pets

1,086. How Do You Feel About Zoos? 1,087. Do Gorillas Belong in Zoos? 1,088. Is It Unethical for a Zoo to Kill a Healthy Giraffe? 1,089. Should Farm Animals Have More Legal Protections? 1,090. Is It Wrong to Focus on Animal Welfare When Humans Are Suffering? 1,091. Is It Ethical to Genetically Engineer Animals? 1,092. When Is Animal Testing Justified? 1,093. Should Certain Animals Have Some of the Same Legal Rights As People? 1,094. Should Circuses Be Animal Free? 1,095. Is This Exhibit Animal Cruelty or Art? 1,096. Should You Go to Jail for Kicking a Cat? 1,097. Should You Feel Guilty About Killing Spiders, Ants or Other Bugs? 1,098. Should Emotional Support Animals Be Allowed on College Campuses? 1,099. Are Emotional-Support Animals a Scam? 1,100. What Are the Animals in Your Life? 1,101. What’s Your Relationship Like With Your Pet? 1,102. How Well Do You Know Your Pet? 1,103. Should We Be Concerned With Where We Get Our Pets? 1,104. What Does a President’s Choice of Pet — or Choice Not to Have a Pet at All — Say About Him? 1,105. What Have You Learned From Animals? 1,106. What Are Your Thoughts on Cats? 1,107. Would You Want to Hang Out at a Cat Cafe? 1,108. Why Do We Love Watching Animal Videos So Much? 1,109. What Are Your Most Memorable Stories About Wildlife?

Exercise & Health

1,110. Do You Like to Exercise? 1,111. Do You Get Enough Exercise? 1,112. How Has Exercise Changed Your Health, Your Body or Your Life? 1,113. How Much Do You Think About Your Weight? 1,114. How Often Do You Engage in ‘Fat Talk’? 1,115. What Are Your Healthy Habits? 1,116. What Health Tips Have Worked for You? 1,117. What Rules Do You Have for Staying Healthy? 1,118. What Habits Do You Have, and Have You Ever Tried to Change Them? 1,119. Do You Have Any Bad Health Habits? 1,120. How Careful Are You in the Sun? 1,121. Do We Worry Too Much About Germs? 1,122. How Well Do You Sleep? 1,123. What Are Your Sleep Habits? 1,124. How Much of a Priority Do You Make Sleep? 1,125. Do You Get Enough Sleep? 1,126. Should the Drinking Age Be Lowered? 1,127. Should the Legal Age to Purchase Tobacco Be Raised From 18 to 21? 1,128. Should E-Cigarettes Be Banned for Teenagers? 1,129. Do You Vape? Is Smoking Still a Problem Among Teenagers? 1,130. Are Antismoking Ads Effective? 1,131. Should Marijuana Be Legal? 1,132. Should Students Be Required to Take Drug Tests? 1,133. Should Middle School Students Be Drug Tested? 1,134. How Common Is Drug Use in Your School? 1,135. If You Drink or Use Drugs, Do Your Parents Know? 1,136. Is Your School a ‘Party School’? 1,137. Have You Been To Parties That Have Gotten Out of Control? 1,138. Why Is Binge Drinking So Common Among Young People in the United States? 1,139. Should Universities Work to Curtail Student Drinking? 1,140. Would You Ever Go Through Hazing to Be Part of a Group?

Civics & History

Guns & the Justice System

1,141. What Are Some Answers to America’s Gun Violence? 1,142. What Should Lawmakers Do About Guns and Gun Violence? 1,143. Can High School Students Make a Real Impact on the Problem of Gun Violence in the United States? 1,144. What Do You Think of the #WalkUpNotOut Movement? 1,145. How Should We Prevent Future Mass Shootings? 1,146. Are We Becoming ‘Numb’ to School Shootings? 1,147. Would You Feel Safer With Armed Guards Patrolling Your School? 1,148. Should Teachers Be Armed With Guns? 1,149. Should Guns Be Permitted on College Campuses? 1,150. Would Arming College Students Help Prevent Sexual Assaults on Campus? 1,151. Where Do You Stand on Unconcealed Handguns? 1,152. What Is Your Relationship With Guns? 1,153. What Should Be the Purpose of Prison? 1,154. Should Prisons Offer Incarcerated People Education Opportunities? 1,155. Should Felons Be Allowed to Vote After They Have Served Their Time? 1,156. Should the United States Stop Using the Death Penalty? 1,157. What Do You Think of the Police Tactic of Stop-and-Frisk? 1,158. When Should Juvenile Offenders Receive Life Sentences? 1,159. Do Rich People Get Off Easier When They Break the Law? 1,160. Should All Police Officers Wear Body Cameras? 1,161. Should Prostitution Be Legal? 1,162. Should Physician-Assisted Suicide Be Legal in Every State? 1,163. Should Terminally Ill Patients Be Allowed to Die on Their Own Terms?

Government Policy

1,164. How Strong Is Your Faith in American Democracy? 1,165. Is America Headed in the Right Direction? 1,166. What Do American Values Mean to You? 1,167. Do You Think It Is Important for Teenagers to Participate in Political Activism? 1,168. How Would You Like to Help Our World? 1,169. What Cause Would Get You Into the Streets? 1,170. Have Your Ever Taken Part in a Protest? 1,171. What Would You Risk Your Life For? 1,172. When Have You Spoken Out About Something You Felt Had to Change? 1,173. Should the Voting Age Be Lowered to 16? 1,174. Should Voting Be Mandatory? 1,175. Does Voting for a Third-Party Candidate Mean Throwing Away Your Vote? 1,176. Do You Consider Yourself a Republican, Democrat or Independent? 1,177. If You Were Governor of Your State, How Would You Spend a Budget Surplus? 1,178. What Local Problems Do You Think Your Mayor Should Try to Solve? 1,179. Should the United States Care That It’s Not No. 1? 1,180. Do You Trust Your Government? 1,181. What Do You Think of President Trump’s Use of Twitter? 1,182. What Do You Think the Role of the First Lady — or First Spouse — Should Be Today? 1,183. What Is More Important: Our Privacy or National Security? 1,184. When Is the Use of Military Force Justified? 1,185. When Should Countries Negotiate With Their Traditional Enemies? 1,186. Should the U.S. Be Spying on Its Friends? 1,187. Should Countries Pay Ransoms to Free Hostages Held by Terrorists? 1,188. What Responsibility Do We Have to Take In Refugees From Global Humanitarian Crises? 1,189. Should Millions of Undocumented Immigrants Be Allowed to Live in the U.S. Without Fear of Getting Deported? 1,190. Should the Government Allow ‘Dreamers’ to Stay in the U.S. Without Fear of Being Deported? 1,191. Are Children of Illegal Immigrants Entitled to a Public Education? 1,192. What Do We Owe Our Veterans?

History & News

1,193. What Event in the Past Do You Wish You Could Have Witnessed? 1,194. What Are the Most Important Changes, in Your Life and in the World, in the Last Decade? 1,195. What National or International Events That You Lived Through Do You Remember Best? 1,196. What Famous Figure From the Past Fascinates You Most? 1,197. What Does Dr. King’s Legacy Mean to You? 1,198. Who Do You Think Has Been ‘Overlooked’ By History? 1,199. What Recent Events Will Most Likely Be Featured in History Museums Someday? 1,200. Why Should We Care About Events in Other Parts of the World? 1,201. What News Stories Are You Following? 1,202. How Do You Get Your News? 1,203. Are You Having More Conversations With Friends and Family About Politics? 1,204. What Is Your Reaction to the Recent Flood of Breaking Political News? 1,205. Do You Ever Get the ‘Bad News Blues’? 1,206. Are We Being Bad Citizens If We Don’t Keep Up With the News? 1,207. Is Your Online World Just a ‘Filter Bubble’ of People With the Same Opinions? 1,208. Do Your Friends on Social Media All Have the Same Political Opinions You Do? 1,209. How Do You Know if What You Read Online Is True? 1,210. Do You Think You Can Tell When Something Is ‘Fake News’? 1,211. Do You Believe in Online Conspiracy Theories? 1,212. What Are Your Experiences With Internet-Based Urban Legends? 1,213. Are Political Memes Dangerous to Democracy? 1,214. Should National Monuments Be Protected by the Government? 1,215. Should Confederate Statues Be Removed or Remain in Place? 1,216. What Supreme Court Cases, Now or in the Past, Interest You Most? 1,217. Should Free Speech Protections Include Self Expression That Discriminates? 1,218. Is It O.K. to Refuse to Serve Same-Sex Couples Based on Religious Beliefs? 1,219. What Will You Remember About President Obama and His Legacy?

Many of the questions above are still open to comment, though not all.

A few questions have been removed from this list since it was originally published.

Teachers, please let us know in the comments how you use this list, or any of our previous prompts lists, in your classes.

30 Great Explanatory Essay Topics

Explanatory essays are one of the most common essay types students are asked to write. Teachers and students may find it hard at first to come up with interesting topics for explanatory essays, and so we have put together this list of explanatory essay topics for students to write about. First, let’s take a look at what exactly an explanatory essay is.

An Explanatory essay is a type of essay in which the author explains a topic, event, or situation in detail and presents a point of view on the subject. This point of view can be based on the author’s own opinion, or from a different point of view as long as the reasons behind it at explained.

Now that you know what an explanatory essay is, here are some great topics for an explanatory essay. If this is the first time your students are writing this type of essay, you may want to provide them with an explanatory essay example to help them understand the style and format of this kind of essay.

30 Great Explanatory Essay Topics For Students

What is the most exciting sport to watch? Write an explanatory essay explaining why you feel that way.
Do you think kids and teenagers should be allowed access to social media ? Provide at least 3 reasons to support your answer.
What’s the best meal or snack you can make at home? Explain step by step how to make it.
What do you think is the most important rule to follow at school and why?
Write an explanatory essay about a tradition or holiday that you do not celebrate.
Which animals make the best pets? Write an essay explaining why you feel that way.
What an explanatory essay about an event that had a big impact on your life.
What is the most helpful piece of technology you own? Write an explanatory essay explaining why you think it is the most useful.
Who is the most influential person in your country? Write an explanatory essay explaining why you think they are so influential.
What does it mean to be ‘responsible’? How does being responsible change with age?
What is ‘cyberbullying’, and what are some things you and your peers can do to prevent cyberbullying.
What are the main differences between your generation and your parents’ generation?
Write about a 21st-century invention or innovation that has significantly changed how we live our lives.
Everyone is different! What makes you unique?
What does it mean to be a good friend? Write at least three qualities a good friend should have.
If you could build your dream home, what would it be like?
Name one thing you are really good at. Write an explanatory essay explaining how you would teach this skill to others.
What’s more important, being rich or being happy? Provide three reasons why you feel the way you do.
Do you think the school lunch in your school is good? Write an explanatory essay explaining why you like or dislike your school lunch.
Has the rise of social media had a positive or negative effect on society? Provide at least three reasons why you feel this way?
What’s the best sandwich you’ve ever had? Write an essay explaining the ingredients and how to make the perfect sandwich.
Should children and teenagers be allowed to play computer games? Write an explanatory essay justifying your answer.
What does freedom mean to you?
Do you think big tech companies have too much power? Write an explanatory essay justifying your answer.
Should advertisers be allowed to target children in their ads? Write an essay explaining and justifying your answer.
What job would you like to do in the future? Write an explanatory essay detailing a typical day at the position you chose.
What important issues would you address if you were the president? Explain why these issues are important to you.
Write an essay explaining the plot of your favorite book or movie and why you like it so much.
Which season do you like the most? Write an explanatory essay explaining what it is like at that time of year and why you like it.
What would you do if you couldn’t use your cellphone for a week? How would your typical day be different?

Download And Print

Download and print these Explanatory Essay Topics.

As you can see, there are lots of interesting explanatory essay topics students can write about. No matter which topic students choose, be sure to let them know the more they write the more they will improve and enjoy writing. Be sure you go, make sure to check out the related writing resources below for many more topic ideas.

Related Writing Resources

Argumentative Writing Topics Adventure Writing Prompts Writing Prompts For Writing About Yourself

How to Write an Explanatory Essay: Comprehensive Guide with Examples

What Is an Explanatory Essay: Definition

Have you ever been tasked with explaining a complex topic to someone without prior knowledge? It can be challenging to break down complex ideas into simple terms that are easy to understand. That's where explanatory writing comes in! An explanatory essay, also known as an expository essay, is a type of academic writing that aims to explain a particular topic or concept clearly and concisely. These essays are often used in academic settings but can also be found in newspapers, magazines, and online publications.

For example, if you were asked to explain how a car engine works, you would need to provide a step-by-step explanation of the different parts of the engine and how they work together to make the car move. Or, if you were asked to explain the process of photosynthesis, you would need to explain how plants use sunlight, water, and carbon dioxide to create energy.

When wondering - 'what is an explanatory essay?', remember that the goal of an explanatory paper is to provide the reader with a better understanding of the topic at hand. Unlike an opinion essay , this type of paper does not argue for or against a particular viewpoint but rather presents information neutrally and objectively. By the end of the essay, the reader should clearly understand the topic and be able to explain it to others in their own words.

Also, there is no set number of paragraphs in an explanatory essay, as it can vary depending on the length and complexity of the topic. However, when wondering - 'how many paragraphs in an explanatory essay?', know that a typical example of explanatory writing will have an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.

However, some essays may have more or fewer body paragraphs, depending on the topic and the writer's preference. Ultimately, an explanatory essay format aims to provide a clear and thorough explanation of the topic, using as many paragraphs as necessary.

30 Interesting Explanatory Essay Topics

Now that we have defined what is explanatory essay, the next step is choosing a good explanatory topic. A well-chosen topic is interesting and relevant to your audience while also being something you are knowledgeable about and can provide valuable insights on. By selecting a topic that is too broad or too narrow, you run the risk of either overwhelming your audience with too much information or failing to provide enough substance to fully explain the topic. Additionally, choosing a topic that is too controversial or biased can lead to difficulty in presenting information objectively and neutrally. By choosing a good explanatory topic, you can ensure that your essay is well-informed, engaging, and effective in communicating your ideas to your audience.

Here are 30 creative explanatory essay topics by our admission essay service to consider:

The Impact of Social Media on Modern Communication
Exploring the Rise of Renewable Energy Sources Worldwide
The Role of Genetics in Personalizing Medicine
How Blockchain Technology is Transforming Finance
The Influence of Globalization on Local Cultures
The Science Behind the Human Body’s Circadian Rhythms
Understanding the Causes and Effects of Global Warming
The Evolution of Artificial Intelligence and Its Future
The Psychological Effects of Social Isolation
The Mechanisms of Dreaming: What Happens While We Sleep?
The History and Cultural Significance of Coffee
How Does the Stock Market Work? An Introductory Guide
The Importance of Bees in Ecosystem Maintenance
Exploring the Various Forms of Government Around the World
The Process of DNA Replication and Its Importance
How Personal Finance Trends Are Shaping the Future of Banking
The Effects of Music on Human Emotion and Brain Function
Understanding Climate Change: Causes, Effects, and Solutions
The Role of Antioxidants in Human Health
The History of the Internet and Its Impact on Communication
How 3D Printing is Revolutionizing Manufacturing
The Significance of Water Conservation in the 21st Century
The Psychological Impact of Advertising on Consumer Behavior
The Importance of Vaccinations in Public Health
How Autonomous Vehicles Will Change the Future of Transportation
Exploring the Concept of Minimalism and Its Benefits
The Role of Robotics in Healthcare
The Economic Impact of Tourism in Developing Countries
How Urban Farming is Helping to Solve Food Security Issues
The Impact of Cultural Diversity on Workplace Dynamics

How to Start an Explanatory Essay: Important Steps

Starting an explanatory essay can be challenging, especially if you are unsure where to begin. However, by following a few simple steps, you can effectively kick-start your writing process and produce a clear and concise essay. Here are some tips and examples from our term paper writing services on how to start an explanatory essay:

Choose an engaging topic : Your topic should be interesting, relevant, and meaningful to your audience. For example, if you're writing about climate change, you might focus on a specific aspect of the issue, such as the effects of rising sea levels on coastal communities.
Conduct research : Gather as much information as possible on your topic. This may involve reading scholarly articles, conducting interviews, or analyzing data. For example, if you're writing about the benefits of mindfulness meditation, you might research the psychological and physical benefits of the practice.
Develop an outline : Creating an outline will help you logically organize your explanatory essay structure. For example, you might organize your essay on the benefits of mindfulness meditation by discussing its effects on mental health, physical health, and productivity.
Provide clear explanations: When writing an explanatory article, it's important to explain complex concepts clearly and concisely. Use simple language and avoid technical jargon. For example, if you're explaining the process of photosynthesis, you might use diagrams and visual aids to help illustrate your points.
Use evidence to support your claims : Use evidence from reputable sources to support your claims and arguments. This will help to build credibility and persuade your readers. For example, if you're writing about the benefits of exercise, you might cite studies that demonstrate its positive effects on mental health and cognitive function.

By following these tips and examples, you can effectively start your expository essays and produce a well-structured, informative, and engaging piece of writing.

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Explanatory Essay Outline

As mentioned above, it's important to create an explanatory essay outline to effectively organize your ideas and ensure that your essay is well-structured and easy to follow. An outline helps you organize your thoughts and ideas logically and systematically, ensuring that you cover all the key points related to your topic. It also helps you identify gaps in your research or argument and allows you to easily revise and edit your essay. In this way, an outline can greatly improve the overall quality and effectiveness of your explanatory essay.

Explanatory Essay Introduction

Here are some tips from our ' do my homework ' service to create a good explanatory essay introduction that effectively engages your readers and sets the stage for the entire essay:

Start with a hook: Begin your introduction with an attention-grabbing statement or question that draws your readers in. For example, you might start your essay on the benefits of exercise with a statistic on how many Americans suffer from obesity.
Provide context: Give your readers some background information on the topic you'll be discussing. This helps to set the stage and ensures that your readers understand the importance of the topic. For example, you might explain the rise of obesity rates in the United States over the past few decades.
State your thesis: A good explanatory thesis example should be clear, concise, and focused. It should state the main argument or point of your essay. For example, you might state, ' Regular exercise is crucial to maintaining a healthy weight and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.'
Preview your main points: Give your readers an idea of what to expect in the body of your essay by previewing your main points. For example, you might explain that you'll be discussing the benefits of exercise for mental health, physical health, and longevity.
Keep it concise: Your introduction should be brief and to the point. Avoid getting bogged down in too much detail or providing too much background information. A good rule of thumb is to keep your introduction to one or two paragraphs.

The Body Paragraphs

By following the following tips, you can create well-organized, evidence-based explanation essay body paragraphs that effectively support your thesis statement.

Use credible sources: When providing evidence to support your arguments, use credible sources such as peer-reviewed academic journals or reputable news outlets. For example, if you're writing about the benefits of a plant-based diet, you might cite a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association.
Organize your paragraphs logically: Each body paragraph should focus on a specific aspect or argument related to your topic. Organize your paragraphs logically so that each one builds on the previous one. For example, if you're writing about the causes of climate change, you might organize your paragraphs to focus on human activity, natural causes, and the effects of climate change.
Use transitional phrases: Use transitional phrases to help your readers follow the flow of your ideas. For example, you might use phrases such as 'in addition,' 'furthermore,' or 'on the other hand' to indicate a shift in your argument.
Provide analysis: Don't just present evidence; provide analysis and interpretation of the evidence. For example, if you're writing about the benefits of early childhood education, you might analyze the long-term effects on academic achievement and future earnings.
Summarize your main points: End each body paragraph with a sentence that summarizes the main point or argument you've made. This helps to reinforce your thesis statement and keep your essay organized. For example, you might end a paragraph on the benefits of exercise by stating, 'Regular exercise has been shown to improve mental and physical health, making it a crucial aspect of a healthy lifestyle.'

Explanatory Essay Conclusion

Here are some unique tips on how to write an explanatory essay conclusion that leaves a lasting impression on your readers.

Offer a solution or recommendation: Instead of summarizing your main points, offer suggestions based on the information you've presented. This can help to make your essay more impactful and leave a lasting impression on your readers. For example, if you're writing about the effects of pollution on the environment, you might recommend using more eco-friendly products or investing in renewable energy sources.
Emphasize the importance of your topic: Use your concluding statement to emphasize the importance of your topic and why it's relevant to your readers. This can help to inspire action or change. For example, suppose you're writing about the benefits of volunteering. In that case, you might emphasize how volunteering helps others and has personal benefits such as improved mental health and a sense of purpose.
End with a powerful quote or statement: End your explanatory essay conclusion with a powerful quote or statement that reinforces your main point or leaves a lasting impression on your readers. For example, if you're writing about the importance of education, you might end your essay with a quote from Nelson Mandela, such as, 'Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.'

Explanatory Essay Example

Here is an example of an explanatory essay:

Explanatory Essay Example:

Importance of Basketball

Final Thoughts

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50 Fun Prompt Writing Ideas for High School Students

May 16, 2023

Students either love or hate writing. Those who love it usually are the ones who enjoy reading as well. They might spend their time journaling, composing poetry, or writing short stories. These students not only enjoy the process; they embrace it with every part of their being and enjoy engaging in assigned prompt writing ideas!

For most students, however, writing is synonymous with drudgery. They hear that they are going to have to write something, and they automatically shut down. Because of this unfortunate mindset usually brought about by the feeling of overwhelm, we need to get our students to see the value of high school writing activities that include easy-to-teach Prompt Writing Ideas.

There are so many options beyond the traditional five-paragraph essay! Keep reading for 50 Prompt Writing Ideas for High School Students !

Need help with Test Prep? Check out this FREE Pack of 3 Test Prep Activities to help students achieve success on standardized tests

Table of Contents

50 Prompt Writing Ideas for High School Students

10 Narrative Prompt Writing Ideas

Before starting my business, I didn’t really see the value of writing stories. I mean, I enjoy a good story. I love reading short stories by Edgar Allan Poe , some of William Shakespeare’s plays , and other random historical fiction. Beyond personal entertainment or academia, I could not really see why teaching narrative writing was so important.

Boy, was I wrong!

Narrative writing is so valuable. Think about it. When we buy something, we really want to hear the story behind it.

We listen to how something was created, how a person struggled with a problem, and how a product provided a solution! We connect with each other through stories!

Here are some relatively simple ways to incorporate narrative writing in your high school classroom with 10 Prompt Writing Ideas:

Write a Journal Entry- Students can respond to someone from a story as if they know the character personally.
Create an Advertisement- Students can include a story from a “buyer” as an ad technique.
Informational/Argument Essays- Students can use a short narrative as support.
Post on Social Media- Students can create a post that tells a story about something…anything!
Develop a Business Plan- Students can create a business plan and use narratives to relay the potential of a future business.
Write a Poem/Song- Students can write a poem or song that actually tells a story.
Create a Website- Students can create an About Me page for a fictitious online store that includes a story.
Participate in a Job Interview- Students can conduct interviews with each other and include stories that demonstrate certain skills or knowledge.
Give a Speech- Students can do research on an idea they are passionate about and include stories to support their ideas.
Record a Video- Students can write and record stories about their lives and “post” them on various platforms.

10 Satirical Prompt Writing Ideas

When it comes to bridging the gap between reading satire and writing satire , students need guidance. I would start by reading both “Sending Grandma to the Ovens” and “A Modest Proposal.” These two texts are similar in structure, purpose, and topic. Your students can model their own essays after these texts. They can even propose something!

Here are some HOW TO satirical prompt writing ideas :

How to be a wonderful boyfriend or girlfriend
How to propose to someone
How to be a good student
How to be a productive employee
How to grow a business
How to be an amazing parent
How to be an effective writer
How to prepare for exams
How to get a job
How to create friendships

10 Expository Prompt Writing Ideas

Essentially, an exposition seeks to explain something. And things in our world ALWAYS need explaining!

We crave information, and one of my major goals as a teacher is to encourage students to seek out information instead of what just pops up on social media feeds. We have so much knowledge, it can be overwhelming, so giving students a focus would be super helpful.

When writing an exposition, students have several options:

They can write about what they already know, write about what they don’t know by doing research, or write about a combination of the two.

Need help with teaching research? Click below!

Here are some expository prompt writing ideas that might require a bit of research:

Interesting hobbies I never knew about
Skills I will need for life
Getting a job interview
Jobs that we take for granted
Things to do when we don’t have electricity
What I never knew about my family
Popular foods in…(a culture/country)
Why certain songs are popular
Uses for a cell phone
History of chocolate

10 Argument Prompt Writing Ideas

One of the toughest types of writing involving prompt writing ideas for students is the argument essay. Now, I am talking about the “you need to do research to make your case” kind of argument paper.

Let’s be real. Instead of doing the research ourselves, we rely on one or two news outlets to tell us information, or maybe, God forbid, we scroll through social media to get our information.

And I don’t know about you. I usually just get an interpretation or opinion on the facts. I don’t get the actual stories, statistics, and facts. I get, at most, a watered-down version of what I should actually know.

This reality is why we MUST teach our students how to support their ideas with cited evidence. We don’t need to teach students merely to argue. They do this beautifully with their friends on a daily basis. They need to know how to locate credible evidence, and I am not just talking .gov, .org, or .edu! This requirement of credibility applies to pretty much any prompt writing ideas!

Here are some argument prompt writing ideas that will REQUIRE research:

Should student loans be forgiven?
Should everyone go to college?
Should social media companies be allowed to censor content?
Should students have to take higher-level math?
Should high school or college students be required to take a financial literacy course?
Should students take a gap year before going to college?
Should there be a minimum wage?
Should students earn grades in their classes (A, B, C, D, F)?
Should classes be organized by age or ability in a specific subject area?
Should volunteer hours be required for graduation?

Notice: You don’t have to ask students to write a ten-page argument paper in order to feel like your students are learning what they need to know to be successful. You could start with a page, a paragraph, a discussion, or even a 1-minute presentation. Not everything has to be formal in the introductory stage. Sometimes, we want to get our students thinking about the topic and excited before they begin!

10 Rhetorical Analysis Prompts

I am a big fan of requiring students to practice writing a rhetorical analysis essay . At first, it can be daunting. Even the word “rhetoric” can be difficult to explain at times.

Most of the Prompt Writing Ideas below can be used or revised to fit any piece of rhetoric:

How does the speaker use logos in achieving the purpose of the speech?
What techniques are used by the author to relay the message that_____?
How does the writer include emotional language in order to appeal to the audience?
Why is repetition used throughout the passage?
What forms of evidence support the rhetor’s argument?
How are the rhetorical appeals used in relation to the audience’s perspective?
Why might the tone of the speaker change throughout the text?
What kinds of strategies are used in online ads versus physical ads?
How might you use different techniques when talking with your parents/guardians versus your friends?
What types of diction and/or syntax might a creator use when discussing a topic in college?

If you go step by step through the analysis writing process, your students can master this skill. It might take more time than you think, but most students will achieve some level of success. Plus, they can apply these skills to any essay they will have to write in the future! You can teach How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis Essay Step By Step !

teach how to write a rhetorical analysis essay

By modeling what you want, you will more likely get what you want from your students. This process also applies to writing a rhetorical analysis essay. Going through every step above is key to success.

Here are some reading and writing packs that may make the rhetorical analysis essay process that much easier:

Sinners in the Hands of An Angry God Rhetorical Analysis Pack
A Modest Proposal Rhetorical Analysis Pack
The Declaration of Independence: Rhetorical Analysis Writing Pack
Gettysburg Address Activities: Rhetorical Analysis Short Response
Declaration of Sentiments Rhetorical Devices Analysis Activity Stanton
Sojourner Truth Speech Aint I a Woman: Summary, Rhetorical Analysis
Patrick Henry’s Give Me Liberty Give Me Death Speech Rhetorical Analysis Pack
Florence Kelley Speech About Child Labor Rhetorical Analysis Pack
Sending Grandma to the Ovens Rhetorical Analysis Pack

Need more Prompt Writing Ideas for your middle or high school classroom ? Check out my store Kristin Menke-Integrated ELA Test Prep !

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7+ Explanatory Essay Examples That Get the Best Grades

Meredith Sell

Writing explanatory essays is hard, even for experienced scholars.

In this post, I want to try to tackle the major challenges students face when writing this type of essay, using examples of successful essays. These challenges include:

Struggling to come up with the right idea . (solution: brainstorming techniques )
Difficulty in organizing the essay. (solution: working on the outline of the essay)
Not having enough evidence or sources to back up points. (solution: doing proper research )
Failing to come up with a conclusion. (solution: following our guide to conclusions )
Not having enough knowledge of the topic. (solution: summarizing key articles on the topic)
Having trouble finding the right words. (solution: writing with Wordtune )
Not having enough time to finish the essay. (solution: working on student time management )
Not being able to present arguments effectively. (solution: learning essay persuasion techniques )

As you can see, for every issue there is the relevant solution, but it takes time to implement it. Another way of tackling this essay is to see other people's essay examples and getting inspiration from them.

Write your explanatory essay faster with this FREE AI tool > Write your explanatory essay faster with this FREE AI tool >

What Is an Explanatory Essay?

If you google “explanatory essay”, you’ll find a bunch of sites saying that an explanatory essay is the same as an expository essay, or that it’s totally different, or not even mentioning that expository essays exist. Who’s right?

Answer: Whoever your professor agrees with.

No, seriously. Your professor decides the parameters of your assignment. So if your professor defines an explanatory essay as one that describes a perspective or analyzes the efficacy of, for example, a local housing policy—that’s the definition you should work from.

But if your professor distinguishes between explanatory essays (which simply explain what something is and how it works or was developed) and expository essays (which expose the reality of a person, place, thing, or idea through investigation and evaluation), you should distinguish between them as well.

For the purposes of this piece, we’re going to use explanatory and expository interchangeably. The dividing line that some draw between these essay types is unnecessarily technical. What’s important is that both:

Use an objective perspective
Let the facts speak for themselves

As long as your essay does the same (and includes analysis if required by your professor), you should be in good shape.

Example of explanatory essay

We wrote a whole article on generating essay topic ideas , but here is a good example that can help you get an idea for your own essay:

Why is having a dog as a pet such a wonderful experience?

Dogs are one of the most popular pets in the world. They are beloved companions that bring joy and happiness into the lives of their owners. Dogs have been domesticated for thousands of years and have evolved to become the perfect pet for humans. In this essay, I will explain why having a dog as a pet is a wonderful experience.

One of the primary benefits of having a dog as a pet is the companionship they offer. Dogs are social animals that thrive on human interaction. They are loyal and loving creatures that are always there for their owners. Dogs can help alleviate feelings of loneliness and depression, and provide comfort and support during difficult times.

Another benefit of having a dog as a pet is the health benefits they offer. Studies have shown that owning a dog can help lower blood pressure, reduce stress, and improve overall health. Dogs require daily exercise, which encourages their owners to be more active and can lead to a healthier lifestyle. Additionally, having a dog can boost the immune system and reduce the risk of allergies and asthma in children.

Dogs are also great for families with children. They can help teach children about responsibility, compassion, and empathy. Children can learn to care for and nurture their pets, which can be beneficial for their emotional development. Dogs are also great playmates for children and can provide hours of entertainment and fun.

Training and caring for a dog can also be a rewarding experience. Dogs can be trained to perform a variety of tasks, such as fetching, obedience, and even therapy work. The process of training a dog can help strengthen the bond between the owner and the dog and can be a fulfilling experience. Additionally, caring for a dog requires daily attention and can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment for the owner.

In conclusion, having a dog as a pet can be a wonderful experience. Dogs offer companionship, health benefits, and can be great for families with children. Caring for a dog can also be a rewarding experience and can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment for the owner. Owning a dog is a big responsibility, but the rewards far outweigh the effort required.

Example of an explanatory paragraph, generated with AI:

A few subtypes of explanatory essays:

Description or definition essay example

‍ Perhaps the most basic, this subtype does the deceptively simple work of, well, describing or defining a concept, place, person, etc.

Example: How Suspension Bridges Work

This essay explains: The way suspension bridges are constructed and how their design enables them to carry such immense weight.

Cause-and-effect essay example

This type of essay hones in on a particular phenomenon to show what caused it (i.e., where it came from) and how it influences other things.

Example: How Federally Funded Highways Transformed the United States

This essay explains: The history of federally funded highways in the U.S., when federal programs to fund highway construction started, why politicians and others thought highways were important, and what the effect has been on the landscapes, communities, economies, and ecosystems of the country.

Compare-and-contrast essay example

Take two or more things, gather the facts about them, and then write about their similarities and differences.

Example: Hybrid vs. Electric Cars

This essay explains: The various features of hybrid and electric cars, and shows how they are either different or similar in terms of: cost, energy consumption, size, drive time, ease of use, and so on.

‍ How-to essay example

Walk your reader step-by-step through a procedure so they can do it for themselves. (We’re doing this later!)

Example: How to Prepare for an Intercontinental Bike Trip

This essay explains: How to get ready for a bike trip between nations and continents. Readers learn how to research their route, find out what travel documents they need, choose the right gear, and determine how much training they should do before leaving.

Problem and solution essay example

Explain a problem (along with its causes and effects) and then describe one or more potential solutions to that problem. This subtype could also be combined with compare-and-contrast to determine the most effective solution.

Example: How Bike Infrastructure Could Solve American Obesity

This essay explains: How American reliance on motorized vehicles promotes a sedentary lifestyle that drives obesity, whereas building bike lanes and trails could encourage Americans to be more active and improve their health one pedal at a time.

‍ Chronology essay example

Explain the history or backstory of a person, place, thing, or idea in chronological order.

Example: The Evolution of the Bicycle

This essay explains: The initial invention of the bicycle and how its shape, frame, and size changed over the years.

What type of explanatory essay are you writing? Hopefully, this list helped you hone in. Now, let’s start the writing process.

5 Steps to Write Your Essay

Whether you’re writing an explanatory/expository essay or a persuasive essay, the process of researching and writing is pretty much the same. Both genres require research, organization, and thought . But with expository essays, the thought focuses on making sure you understand your topic inside-out and determining the best way to explain it, while with persuasive essays, you’re focused on crafting a convincing argument.

Follow these steps to turn that blank page into a final manuscript:

1. Choose topic and angle.

Do you have free rein to write about the topic of your choice? Make the most of it.

In college, my public speaking professor let us choose all of our own speech topics. A classmate gave an explanatory presentation on how to survive the zombie apocalypse . She brought props and had the class totally enchanted. Our professor encouraged creativity, so I’m sure she earned a winning grade—and had fun in the process.

You can’t use props or sound in a written essay, but you can still work some creative magic. That magic starts with choosing your topic and angle.

To choose well, first make sure you understand the assignment:

What exactly has your professor asked you to write? Which of the subtypes should your piece be?
Are there any parameters for what type of topic you can write about?
What kind of class is this? An English composition class will offer more freedom than, say, a history class focused on the French Revolution.

If you’re allowed to write about anything, brainstorm a list of topics you’re curious about. Then think of smaller topics within that area.

Example: Transportation

Electric cars
The highway system
Engineering

Any of these topics you could easily write volumes about, so next, narrow down to your specific angle. One way I like to come up with angles is to think of how two or three different topics intersect.

Example 1: electric cars + the highway system

Angle: How Much Will It Cost to Update Federal Highways with Charging Stations for Electric Cars

Notice that this angle includes a third element: cost

Example 2: bicycles + bridges

Angle: The Safest Bridges for Bicycles Have One Thing in Common: No Cars

Third element: safety

Example 3: electric cars + buses

Angle: Electric Cars vs. Buses: Which Is Better for the Environment?

Third element: environment

Your turn: Make a list of topics you’re interested in. Then, identify some intersecting topics. Based on your assignment parameters, develop an angle that narrows your focus to an intersection that interests you.

Not sure what angle to go with? Do some broad research on your topics and then return to this step.

2. Research, research, research.

Explanatory essays require solid research. These essays exist to lay out the facts for the reader so they can clearly understand the topic. Your opinion—what you think about electric cars or suspension bridges or transportation infrastructure—doesn’t matter. And it doesn’t belong here.

Where you should start your research depends on how much knowledge you already have.

If you’re writing about suspension bridges and you already know the Brooklyn Bridge and Golden Gate Bridge are suspension bridges, you probably don’t need to start with the encyclopedic entry for “suspension bridges”. But if you don’t know the basic facts about your topic, encyclopedias are a great place to start.

Thanks to the advances of technology—and this marvelous thing called the internet—you don’t have to go to a research library to gain that ground-level knowledge of your topic. But you do still need to make sure you’re drawing from credible sources.

For encyclopedias, try these to start:

Encyclopedia.com

Dictionaries can be helpful too:

Merriam-Webster
Dictionary.com

Once you know your topics’ basic facts, focus on researching those topics in the context of your angle . It may help to make a list of questions you’re trying to answer so you can keep your research focused.

Example: Electric Cars vs. Buses: Which Is Better for the Environment?

Are most buses gas-powered or electric?
What’s the average emissions of greenhouse gas from gas-powered buses?
How much energy do electric cars use? What’s the lifespan of their batteries? Are they just using electricity that was produced in a polluting way somewhere else? What about electric buses?
How many people can ride a bus? How many people typically are transported by one car?
What would be the average energy consumption per person in an electric car versus a bus?

Once you know the questions you need to answer, look for sources that address those questions. For an academic essay, you’ll probably want to stick with academic sources : peer-reviewed studies and research papers published by academic journals. But official government databases can also be useful. And news stories from reputable publications can provide some direction as well (check with your professor to see whether or not you can use news publications as sources for your essay). Your educational institution likely provides access to all of these kinds of sources through the university library.

Your turn: Think through your angle and make a list of questions your piece needs to answer. Next, start searching academic databases for the information you need. Take notes as you research, and be sure to save any links, titles, author names, page numbers, and publication information you’ll need to properly cite your sources.

3. Outline your essay.

Call me crazy, but I actually think this is the fun part. I hated writing outlines when I was in school, but since making my living as a professional writer, they’ve become the #1 way I beat writer’s block.

First: Throw out the idea that your outline should be a series of bullet points neatly organized into sections and subsections. Your outline only needs to make sense to you , so play around to find an approach that works with your brain. The idea here is simply to make a map you’ll follow when you sit down to write.

Here’s what I do:

Identify the specific hook I’m going to use to start things off.
List the different examples and details I need to include.
Use the main focus or idea of my piece to order everything in a natural, logical way.

A lot of times, my outline becomes a combination of bullet points and sentences or paragraphs I write as I’m sketching out the piece. I’m basically just thinking the piece through, from beginning to end. Instead of getting stuck while I’m writing, I work through the tough spots in the outlining stage.

This is what my outline looked like for this piece:

Okay, that’s kind of long, so I cut it off early—but you get the point.

A lot of times, my outline starts as bare-bones bullets. As I work on it, ideas pop up that I stick in where they make sense. But when I write, those elements might move around ( notice how the examples of transportation essays got bumped up to the section on subtypes of essays ).

Your outline is just a guide. It’s not an architect’s blueprint that needs to be followed to the exact millimeter. There’s room for things to change.

But an outline keeps you on-track when you’re writing . If you find yourself stuck (or lost) in the writing step, reference your map. You might need to backtrack, move what you’ve written around, or adjust your route.

Your turn: Take a few minutes and sketch out your essay. Where does it start? What points does it hit? Are there any ways you see the different points connecting that should inform how you order them? As you think it through, scribble out any lines or paragraphs that come to you and stick them in the outline where they make the most sense. Even if you don’t use these exact words later, they’ll help prevent that deer-in-the-headlights stare that hits when you see a blank page.

Time to put everything together!

With your outline and research ready, start your intro and set up your piece. Your opening should briefly introduce your readers to the topic(s) you’re writing about and the questions you’re going to answer—but don’t give everything away. You want to stir up readers’ curiosity and give them a reason to keep reading.

Depending on the length of your essay, your intro may be one to three paragraphs long (longer pieces get longer intros). But it should be concise and to the point, and smoothly transition into the body of your essay.

The body is the meat and potatoes of your piece. Answer those questions, flesh out your explanation, and give readers a thorough understanding of your topic. Show off your research! Include those bizarre and fascinating facts you learned along the way. Use a tasteful metaphor or compelling anecdote to explain some of the more difficult aspects of your topic.

As you write, be sure to follow a consistent logic throughout your piece:

If you’re detailing a history or an event, use chronological order: start at the beginning and write about the events in the order that they happened.
Are you explaining how a machine or other invention works? Start with where the movement starts—the pedals of a bicycle, the wind turning the turbines—or with the feature doing the most significant work (e.g., the wires of the suspension bridge).
Other logics include: size (small to large, large to small), significance (greatest to least), or space (left to right, right to left, outside to center, center to outside).

You don’t need to label everything you write about as the “next biggest” or “least significant”, but sticking to a logic helps your readers orient themselves—and helps you determine which paragraph or subtopic should go where. This way, your thoughts clearly flow from one paragraph to the next.

‍ Quick note: If you can’t name the logic that’s guiding your piece, don’t worry. As long as your paragraphs naturally follow each other and all questions raised in the intro are answered by the end, your essay probably follows a logic just fine. But if you feel like your piece bounces around willy-nilly, play with a couple different logics and see if one smoothly orders your sentences and paragraphs.

Your turn: Get writing! If you’re stuck on the intro, try writing a working title for your piece to focus your attention. Then, follow your outline to work all the way from the beginning to a conclusion that sums everything up.

If you can, let your piece sit for at least a day. Then, for the editing process , open up that document and read through with these questions in mind:

Does the essay fulfill the assignment? Review the assignment description from your professor. Does your essay tick all the boxes? If not, what’s missing? Can you weave that element into what you’ve already written? Revise as necessary.
Are the sentences and paragraphs ordered in a way that makes logical sense? If your essay feels clunky in places, you might have switched logics (as explained above) or you might need to insert some more explanation that clearly ties the sentences or paragraphs together. Make sure your essay doesn’t just list facts, but also shows how they relate to each other.
Does the hook catch your eye? The beginning of your piece should grab your reader’s attention. Check out our advice for prize-winning hooks here .
Does the conclusion effectively sum things up? Instead of repeating everything your essay says, your conclusion should briefly distill the main takeaway or core idea for your reader. It should show that you’ve fulfilled the promise made in your intro, without being unnecessarily repetitive or redundant.
Have you cited all your sources? Make sure to cross this off before hitting “submit.” Follow the citation style specified by your professor.
Is spelling and grammar clean and correct? You are writing, after all, and these things matter. A bonus tip to help you catch those sneaky typos: Read your piece backwards. You might be surprised what you spot.

Did We Explain That Well Enough?

This blog was basically a long, non-academic explanatory essay, so hopefully, you’ve learned something new and are feeling less overwhelmed about your essay on medieval literature, transportation infrastructure, Persian history—or whatever you’re writing about.

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50 Engaging Narrative Essay Topics for High Schoolers

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What’s Covered:

Narrative essays vs. analytical essays, how to pick the right narrative essay topic, elements of a strong narrative essay, engaging narrative essay topics for high schoolers, where to get your narrative essay edited for free.

Narrative essays are an extensive form of writing that gives readers the opportunity to follow along as a person goes through a journey or sets of experiences. Rather than providing analytic insight, narrative essays simply share a story and offer a first-person account. These essays may seem easy to write at first, but it takes a certain finesse to write a narrative essay that is interesting, cohesive, and well-researched. Whether you’re looking for a unique topic to write about, or just want some new inspiration, CollegeVine is here to help! These 50 narrative essay topics are engaging, unique and will have you writing in no time.

A narrative essay is a great way to express your personal experiences and opinions, but it is important to remember that this type of essay is different from an analytical paper. In a narrative essay, you do not need to provide background information or explain your thoughts and feelings; instead, you simply tell a story. It’s important to avoid too much telling in your writing; instead, use creative details and vivid imagery to make readers feel as if they are actually right there with you.

Where You Will Encounter Narrative Essays

This type of essay is typically encountered in high school, where students may be required to write personal statements to prepare for their Common App essay . Narrative essays are also commonly seen in AP Language and Composition. Therefore, it’s important you are aware of the style because you are bound to have a narrative essay assignment.

Of course, before you start writing, it is important to pick the right essay topic. There are many factors involved in the process of picking the perfect narrative essay topic for your story.

You should always choose a topic that you are passionate about, since writing on something you care about will make the process much easier. Not only will it be more interesting to create your paper around something that truly interests you, but it will also allow you to fully express yourself in your essay. You also want to be sure that the topic has enough material to work with. If your chosen topic is too short, you will not have enough content to write a complete paper. For example, if you are writing about your experience getting lost at the mall, make sure that you have enough information to work with to craft an engaging narrative.

The best topic for an engaging narrative essay is one that focuses on showing versus telling, has a clear structure, and provides a dialogue. These elements come together to form an engaging narrative essay. Regardless of what subject you pick, any topic may be turned into a fascinating, A+ worthy narrative using the tips below.

Show, Don’t Tell

To write a good narrative essay, it’s important to show, not tell. Instead of simply informing your audience, show them what you mean. For example, instead of saying “I was nervous,” you could say “My heart began to race and my stomach filled with butterflies.” Also make sure to use sensory details, such as sights, sounds and tastes, and include a personal reflection at the end of your narrative.

Begin with a Strong Opening Line

A good narrative essay will begin with an attention-grabbing opening line. But make sure to avoid common clichés, such as “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” Instead, come up with something original and specific to you and your situation. For example: “My pre-calc teacher was obsessed with circles. I mean, he even used circular note cards.” Or, “It all started the day my mom brought home a guinea pig.”

Follows a Three-Act Structure

A strong narrative essay follows the same three-act structure as other essays. But in order to make it interesting, you’ll need to come up with a creative way to break things down into sections. For example, using the guinea pig example from above, you could write the following:

Act 1 – Introduction: The day my mom brought home a guinea pig.
Act 2 – Conflict: The day I had to say goodbye to my beloved pet.
Act 3 – Conclusion: Looking back at how much I miss him now that he’s gone.

Conclude with Personal Reflection

To conclude your narrative essay, you’ll want to explain what this specific experience taught you or how you’ve changed. For example, upon realizing that her pre-calc teacher was obsessed with circles, the writer of the previous example begins to notice circular shapes everywhere. Another way to conclude your narrative essay is by touching on how this experience impacted you emotionally. For example, after losing his guinea pig, the writer explains how much he missed it.

Use Dialogue

Include a conversation in your essay to make it come alive. For example, instead of simply saying that you met a new friend, talk about how you introduced yourselves or what they were wearing when you met them.

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The following list of 50 narrative essay topics is divided into categories. This will make it easier to find a topic that fits your writing style.

1. What is a childhood song that still sticks with you today?

2. Your first day of Kindergarten

3. Talk about a time when you’re siblings looked up to you

4. Describe the best birthday party you’ve ever had

5. Talk about the best day you ever spent with a childhood friend

6. Explain your first childhood hobby

7. Describe your first halloween costume

8. A family vacation gone wrong

9. Your first family reunion

10. Describe a tradition that is unique to your family

11. Describe your family to a person who’s never met them before

12. What frustrates you most about your family

13. If you could only keep one memory of your family, what would it be and why?

14. Describe a time your family embarrassed you in public

15. The most beautiful place in the world

16. Your favorite season and why

17. If you were a part of nature, what element would you be? Why?

18. When you go outside, which of your senses are you most thankful to have?

19. Describe the first time you witnessed a tornado

20. Write a poem about your favorite season

21. Describe yourself as one of the four seasons

22. Describe a time in which you felt connected with nature

23. Describe the first time you played an instrument and how you felt

24. What major event would be much worse if music was removed, and why?

25. If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

26. What would a life without music look like?

27. If you could master one instrument, what would it be and why?

Relationships

28. What if you had never met your best friend?

29. Describe a time when you fixed a broken relationship

30. Talk about a movie that defined a relationship for you

31. Describe your first date

32. Describe the first time you made a friend

33. Describe your relationship with your parents

Self Reflection

34. Have you ever fooled someone? If so, describe what happened and how you felt about it

35. What is the worst thing you’ve done to someone else?

36. Write about the difference between how things seem and how they really are.

37. Have you ever been embarrassed in some way? If so, describe the situation and how it affected you as well as those around you

38. Have you ever witnessed something really beautiful? Describe it

39. Is your glass half empty or half full?

Overcoming Adversity

40. Have you ever been very afraid of something but tried your hardest to appear fearless? If so, describe that experience

41. When have you ever succeeded when you thought you might fail

42. What are your secret survival strategies?

43. Describe the last time you were stressed and why?

44. Describe a time when you were discriminated against

45. The most memorable class you’ve had and why

46. Your favorite study abroad memory

47. Describe your kindergarten classroom

48. Describe your first teacher

49. The first time you experienced detention

50. Your first field trip

Hopefully these topics will get you thinking about a personal experience that could make for a thoughtful and engaging narrative essay. Remember, a strong narrative essay must contain relatable details and a clear flow that keeps the reader entertained and engaged to read all the way to the end.

If you need some additional guidance on your narrative essay, use CollegeVine’s free peer review essay tool to get feedback for free!

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Current time by city

For example, New York

Current time by country

For example, Japan

Time difference

For example, London

For example, Dubai

Coordinates

For example, Hong Kong

For example, Delhi

For example, Sydney

Geographic coordinates of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia

City coordinates

Coordinates of Elektrostal in decimal degrees

Coordinates of elektrostal in degrees and decimal minutes, utm coordinates of elektrostal, geographic coordinate systems.

WGS 84 coordinate reference system is the latest revision of the World Geodetic System, which is used in mapping and navigation, including GPS satellite navigation system (the Global Positioning System).

Geographic coordinates (latitude and longitude) define a position on the Earth’s surface. Coordinates are angular units. The canonical form of latitude and longitude representation uses degrees (°), minutes (′), and seconds (″). GPS systems widely use coordinates in degrees and decimal minutes, or in decimal degrees.

Latitude varies from −90° to 90°. The latitude of the Equator is 0°; the latitude of the South Pole is −90°; the latitude of the North Pole is 90°. Positive latitude values correspond to the geographic locations north of the Equator (abbrev. N). Negative latitude values correspond to the geographic locations south of the Equator (abbrev. S).

Longitude is counted from the prime meridian ( IERS Reference Meridian for WGS 84) and varies from −180° to 180°. Positive longitude values correspond to the geographic locations east of the prime meridian (abbrev. E). Negative longitude values correspond to the geographic locations west of the prime meridian (abbrev. W).

UTM or Universal Transverse Mercator coordinate system divides the Earth’s surface into 60 longitudinal zones. The coordinates of a location within each zone are defined as a planar coordinate pair related to the intersection of the equator and the zone’s central meridian, and measured in meters.

Elevation above sea level is a measure of a geographic location’s height. We are using the global digital elevation model GTOPO30 .

Elektrostal , Moscow Oblast, Russia

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15 Engaging Explanatory Writing Prompts
The following prompts are meant for high-school level writers. Students may need to research the topics in order to respond with sufficient depth and complexity. 11. Addressing Cyberbullying. Cyberbullying involves using technology to harm, intimidate, and embarrass others.
220+ Explanatory Essay Topics for Excellent Writing
Explanatory Essay Topics for High School. If you are a high school student and are having trouble coming up with suitable explanatory essay topics for your paper, relax and let us help you out. Below we have compiled various examples of topics to write an explanatory essay on: Types of cognitive bias and how to overcome them.
120+ Fascinating Essay Topics for High School Students
The following ideas work well for compare-contrast essays. ( Find 80+ compare-contrast essay topics for all ages here.) Public and private schools. Capitalism vs. communism. Monarchy or democracy. Dogs vs. cats as pets. WeAreTeachers. Paper books or e-books. Two political candidates in a current race.
22 Explanatory Writing Prompts » JournalBuddies.com
Of course, into middle and high school, pre-teens and teens are refining those skills. I hope you have your writers explore this excellent form of writing. Oh, and our list of explanatory writing topics ideas could also be used as interesting expository essay ideas. Having said that, let's explore… Some Bonus Essay Ideas And A Few Final Words
21 Explanatory Essay Topics for Students » JournalBuddies.com
As students enter middle school and begin to prepare to succeed as a high school student during their high school years, they should be introduced to various types of essays. ... If you enjoyed these Explanatory Essay Writing Topics for Students, please share them on Facebook, Twitter, and/or Pinterest. I appreciate it! Sincerely, Jill ...
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During the 2020-21 school year, we asked 176 questions, and you can find them all below or here as a PDF. The questions are divided into two categories — those that provide opportunities for ...
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Interesting Explanatory Essay Topics. Unraveling Secrets of Domestic Cat Life. Origami: Journey to the Heart of an Ancient Art. Dreaming: Unveiling the Hidden Realm. Magic Tricks and Their Hidden Mechanisms. Bee Communication: A Closer Look.
How to Write an Explanatory Essay: Topics, Outline, Example
To write a five-paragraph explanatory essay, you must create an introduction that introduces the main topic and states the thesis, three body paragraphs to support the thesis, and a concluding paragraph to wrap up the points made in the essay. The tone should be formal throughout, with clear connections to the reader.
24 Explanatory Essay Topics That Will Expand Your Horizons
4. Explain the most prominent theme of Macbeth. Most would agree that the most prominent theme in the play is power and its ability to corrupt. Your essay might explore this theme and how it is portrayed in Macbeth. You might also expand the discussion to compare the theme and its portrayal in other works.
22 Writing Explanatory Essays
The Type of writing is an explanatory essay. Then lead students through the topic-selection strategies. Point them also to pages 44-45 for more topic ideas. Afterward, download and distribute the KWL Chart to help students reflect on their prior knowledge of the topic and organize questions for research.
Over 1,000 Writing Prompts for Students
Of all the resources we publish on The Learning Network, perhaps it's our vast collection of writing prompts that is our most widely used resource for teaching and learning with The Times. We ...
Explanatory Writing Prompts
Explanatory or informative writing prompts are an important tool for teachers and students alike, particularly in light of Common Core ELA standards, which cover this writing style.The informative ...
30 Great Explanatory Essay Topics
30 Great Explanatory Essay Topics. Writing Topics. Explanatory essays are one of the most common essay types students are asked to write. Teachers and students may find it hard at first to come up with interesting topics for explanatory essays, and so we have put together this list of explanatory essay topics for students to write about.
How to Write an Explanatory Essay: Topics, Outline, Example
For example, you might explain the rise of obesity rates in the United States over the past few decades. State your thesis: A good explanatory thesis example should be clear, concise, and focused. It should state the main argument or point of your essay. For example, you might state, ' Regular exercise is crucial to maintaining a healthy weight ...
50 Fun Prompt Writing Ideas for High School Students
Here are some relatively simple ways to incorporate narrative writing in your high school classroom with 10 Prompt Writing Ideas: Write a Journal Entry- Students can respond to someone from a story as if they know the character personally. Create an Advertisement- Students can include a story from a "buyer" as an ad technique.
7+ Explanatory Essay Examples That Get the Best Grades
Writing explanatory essays is hard, even for experienced scholars. In this post, I want to try to tackle the major challenges students face when writing this type of essay, using examples of successful essays. These challenges include: Struggling to come up with the right idea. (solution: brainstorming techniques) Difficulty in organizing the ...
15 Engaging Explanatory Writing Prompts
When you want your students to practice explanatory writing, present yours equipped one or more of the following prompts, grouped by difficulty. You can also intro students to the BY strategy to helped them understand what each explanatory query lives asks them to do. Beginning Expository Prompts (Grades 4-5) The ensuing explanatory ask are means for learners who are moving from paragraph ...
50 Engaging Narrative Essay Topics for High Schoolers
A good narrative essay will begin with an attention-grabbing opening line. But make sure to avoid common clichés, such as "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.". Instead, come up with something original and specific to you and your situation. For example: "My pre-calc teacher was obsessed with circles.
22 Explanatory Writing Topics & Prompt Ideas required Students
The key to getting your students to love explanatory writing is to give them ok explanatory writing topics and finding. Benefit these explanatory how requests to get started! 22 Explanatory Writing Prompts • JournalBuddies.com | 100+ Informative Essay Topics For School And College Students
Moscow Oblast
Moscow Oblast (Russian: Московская область, romanized: Moskovskaya oblast, IPA: [mɐˈskofskəjə ˈobləsʲtʲ], informally known as Подмосковье, Podmoskovye, IPA: [pədmɐˈskovʲjə]) is a federal subject of Russia (an oblast).With a population of 8,524,665 (2021 Census) living in an area of 44,300 square kilometers (17,100 sq mi), it is one of the most densely ...
Flag of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia : r/vexillology
More Topics Animals and Pets Anime Art Cars and Motor Vehicles Crafts and DIY Culture, Race, and Ethnicity Ethics and Philosophy Fashion Food and Drink History Hobbies Law Learning and Education Military Movies Music Place Podcasts and Streamers Politics Programming Reading, Writing, and Literature Religion and Spirituality Science Tabletop ...
The flag of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia which I bought there
More Topics Animals and Pets Anime Art Cars and Motor Vehicles Crafts and DIY Culture, Race, and Ethnicity Ethics and Philosophy Fashion Food and Drink History Hobbies Law Learning and Education Military Movies Music Place Podcasts and Streamers Politics Programming Reading, Writing, and Literature Religion and Spirituality Science Tabletop ...
Geographic coordinates of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia
Geographic coordinates of Elektrostal, Moscow Oblast, Russia in WGS 84 coordinate system which is a standard in cartography, geodesy, and navigation, including Global Positioning System (GPS). Latitude of Elektrostal, longitude of Elektrostal, elevation above sea level of Elektrostal.

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How to Write an Explanatory Essay: Topics, Outline, Example

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Explanatory Essays: Definition and Purpose

Choosing the Right Topic for Your Explanatory Essay

Crafting a Strong Thesis Statement

Developing an Effective Explanatory Essay Outline

Introduction Strategies

Structuring Body Paragraphs

Crafting a Compelling Conclusion

Writing Your Explanatory Essay: Step-by-Step Process

Conducting Thorough Research

Utilizing Transitions and Linking Words

Citing Sources and Avoiding Plagiarism

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Tips for Revising and Editing Your Explanatory Essay