topics for speech in school for students

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Public Speaking Tips & Speech Topics

224 School Speech Topics for All Grades [High School, Middle School, Elementary]

Jim Peterson has over 20 years experience on speech writing. He wrote over 300 free speech topic ideas and how-to guides for any kind of public speaking and speech writing assignments at My Speech Class.

In this article:

High School

Middle school, elementary school, school speech topics checklists, list of school speech topics.

Girls are under more pressure in high school.
Schools must not sell unhealthy foods.
Cyberbullies should be suspended from school.
Peer pressure will help students grow.
Parents must not pay kids for good grades.
Students don’t spend enough time reading books.
Class sizes make a big difference.
Schools must get involved with obese students weight issues.
All students should join the gym.
Schools should offer rewards for good test scores.
Cheerleading isn’t a sport.
The media is to blame for the pressure of girls wanting perfect bodies.
Mass-shooting in schools can be prevented.
16 is an appropriate age to start dating.
The in crowd is usually the most insecure group.
Failing is a blessing in disguise.
Students do not know how to live in the moment.
Fashion isn’t all that important.
The methods used to deal with bullies are not effective.
Private schools are not better than government schools.
Co-ed schools are better than single-gender schools.
Recess time must be extended.
Standardized tests are not a measure of a students ability.
Textbooks shouldn’t be replaced by technology in high schools.
Students shouldn’t be graded for gym.
Birth control should be available at schools.
Cheating at school is getting worse.
Sugary drinks should not be sold at school.
Healthy school lunches are a lost cause.
Boys hide their body image pressure.
Smoking makes students outcasts.
‘Name and shame’ does not change teenage behaviour.
Bystanders must be held responsible for not intervening when there is trouble at school.
Gay students need older gay role models.
It should be illegal for under 21’s to buy cigarettes.
Grouping students by ability only benefit the smartest ones.
Students are less religious than their parents.
It is important to have a mix of friends to socialize with.
Kids purposely make parenting hard.
Helping a friend isn’t always good.
Not every teacher has the ability to inspire students.
High school kids don’t need helicopter parents.
High schools don’t recognize a student’s full potential.
Class sizes should not exceed 20 students.
Extra online classes are worth it.
School should be all year round.
Parents embarrass their kids too much.
Attractive students have an advantage over others.
Students have no interest in government matters.
Hard work is more important than talent.
The morning after pill shouldn’t have an age restriction.
Group work in class should be kept small.
The best way to learn is alone.
Teachers don’t use technology to its full potential.
Dropping out of high school should be an illegal offense.
The racial make up of a school is important.
Outings to museums have no educational value.
Creativity isn’t something that can be taught.
Students have too much workload.
Untidy handwriting is a sign of intelligence.
Student’s interests will change in high school.
It is important to take career assessment tests.
Students do not have to get involved with everything in high school.
Weekend jobs make students more responsible.
It is important that students volunteer in fields of interest.
Students must know their place in the classroom.
Teachers want to create leaders.
Tutors are necessary even with good grades.
Locker room talk is demeaning to female students.
Driving must be taught in High School.
Plagiarism is getting out of hand.
The importance of not being a follower.
Students should focus school work ahead of a social life.
Students should leave a team if they are never chosen to play.
Leaving high school with no clear career path isn’t a bad thing.
Students should always have condoms with them.
Never shrug off small assignments.
High school should be treated as if it were a job.
Web filters at school are not restrictive enough.
There is too much focus on sports in high schools.
All students should get involved in exchange programs.
Group projects only cause conflict.
Teachers should be allowed to refuse problem students in their classes.
Principals don’t help develop teachers enough.
Corporal punishment is abuse.
Robotics now and in the future – is it helpful in the daycare business?
Your most embarrassing moment at school and the way you saved your face, solve and fix the awkward situation.
Amazing discoveries or facts you have never heard of before and like to introduce to your class.
Adventure racing and famous heroes on motorbikes – so-called off the road movie clips could be nice video aids Such as Steppenwolf.
Astronomical signs and their meanings. Make it personal by asking a volunteer to give all the info you need.
Nursing your parents when they get older. Lots of young people do that in their spare time, and they do not often speak about it. Take a chance and show them the world of voluntary care by friends, children, and neighbors.
Islands in Oceania, in the tropical Pacific Ocean region. There where the date line starts.
Railroads and trains from 1850, and great train builders and engineers is a high school speech topic to work out.
How to visit and enjoy an art museum with an audio guide tour on your ears.
Strange experiences in a restaurant or bar and the moral lesson you draw after that.
Hurricanes, how they start and their international accepted standards for name giving (boys and girls names from a to z).
Food photography is much difficult than you think.
A narrow escape from trouble …
How to organize surprise parties.
Why are television soaps popular – did you know a whole team of scenarists writes the storylines – often three per edition?
I want a new law on … Well feel free to repair and remedy abuses.
What do you think about often when you enter the school?
What have you always wanted to do and did not have the courage to ask or really act?
What would you like to change and why? This one is especially good as graduation input and output.
Things we can’t understand.
What are your community activities?
Suggestions for a school field trip in the autumn.
Dream explanation, ask for dreams, explain them. Consult dream reading professional and keep away from the shabby occult business.
Rhetorical questions, Socratical debating techniques.
Great places to go in the world.
Hiking trails nobody knows and you want to share.
See Europe in seven days after high school!

Middle school speech topics for public speaking and oral writing assignments from outdoor activities to Greyhound racing and Rodeo riding to sports games. I have brought into being several themes, suggestions and easy to develop ideas for school:

My hobby and pet peeves.
Free time activities that you can recommend.
What brands or products are popular in this school and why?
Unusual experiences in the last year.
Outdoor activities, and indoor activities on a rainy day.
Why we are no longer kids but are called young adults.
Suggestions for fun weekends.
Animation characters and their voices.
Antarctica research of penguins.
Aviation pioneers.
Celebrities, actors, and actresses.
Computer games are great middle school speech topics if you have an interested audience who likes to game at home.
Flying discs tricks on the beach side.
Foreign flags and their story – perhaps you should play the anthems too for a full picture.
Reasons to abandon grounding rules.
Rodeo riding: how to survive more than 30 seconds on the riding machine 🙂
Strange world records set in history.
Skateboarding tips and tricks, safe on the sidewalks.
Greyhound racing and the bet systems that are used.
The world would be a better place if … (fill in your highest dreams)
Environmental problems in our community.
Fashion trends in the last century.
Pen pals or email pals; how traditional patterns have changed.
My favourite sports games on television.
My checklist for if you move to another town.
Kid cooking is cool – if you know how to prep recipes 🙂
My trip abroad to Europe or Latin-America.
Monitoring butterflies in the field outside and in our garden.
Aztec masks and their amazing stories and secrets hidden inside.
Mythological monsters such as the Minotaur and Nymphs.
How to organize a fun weekend for the whole family.
If I was born hundred years ago, I would be …:
African masks and their meaning in holy rituals.
Ancient Chinese emperors and their interesting uniform and dress looks.
The Ice Age; when, how and the causes are good K-6 subjects to come across.
Pollution sources in our world, and what to do about them in a cost-friendly way at home.
A Day In the life of a kid in Ancient Rome, compare it with your own modern life.
Discovering caves are cool grade 6 speech topics to tell something more and show them the work of speleologists.
Traditional fairy tales from around the world – remember the thick book of the Grimm Brothers?
Puppets and their funny looking but indeed very serious theatrical performances from Java, Indonesia.
The Diary of Anne Frank (book or movie) and the meaning today.
My penpal or better: email-pal from the other side of the world.
The secrets of the Egypt King Tutankhamun.
If I was a journalist, I should investigate …
If I won one million dollars, I would …
When I am grown up I want to become a / an …
Last weekend I was at …
The funniest thing that ever happened to me this month or year.
Things that make you happy right away if you have the power to buy or dictate.
Ways I use to relax.
Favorite sports moments.
The character I want to be in a movie the hero with heroic courage / or the villain who gets the worst of it in the end.
My most memorable vacation trip till now.
The best summer camp games I have ever played and enjoyed very much.
My favorite spot in the woods near our cabin.
Your most favorite memories are also great grade 6 speech topics too to talk about in school.
When you take a walk in the woods, you can see more than you might think …
Recipes for kids, orally like your favorite meals and food.
Cool home computer games I like to play, criticize, review and share in class.
The day I was sick and I must see the doctor.
Pot and care for a plant or small vegetable ishard labor and needs patience.
How to make a marionette puppet – a grade 8 speech topic for the artistic
Birds in our backyard, you’re perplexed about the miles they flew to get there.
Oceans of the world: Pacific, Atlantic, Indian, Southern, and Arctic gulf streams.
A ride in a truck for transporting heavy objects.
What is a decent dress code for a serious dinner at official moments:
My musical instrument and the lessons I take.
Why giraffes have long necks.
Animals I should take in Noah’s Ark – and the philosophy behind it.
Why I like to dance my favorite dance.
I cope with fear of public speaking for this grade 8 speech by … (secret tactic)
Magic tricks with simple playing cards for every unexpected occassion.
Exotic fruits and vegetables in grocery stores; look up where they come from.
Best 3D paper models: cars, robots, spaceships, airplanes, buildings.
Things to expect when your mother is pregnant.
Birds, bears and rabbits spend the winter by sleeping, why?
My first visit to a dentist: the correct way to brush and floss your teeth.
Family members I admire: uncles, aunts, nieces or nephews.
Music festivals and the big logistics puzzle of the organizing parties involved.
History of the Panama Canal, and the way the pilotage handle very big ships.
How does global warming affect the icebergs?
If I was my father or mother for one day.
My favorite era in history.
What’s in my room at home.
The school field trip I would like to make.

Elementary school speech topics on animal keeping, favorite things to do at home or the playground and specific hints that lead to innumerable variations:

What makes me happy.
Our last vacation trip.
Fairy tale characters you would like to talk with.
Magic tricks you can show.
Funny things my pet has done. A great quantity of this special theme is to be sorted out of animals and keeing them at home. Do consult your atending if you may bring an animal in class. In case of hesitation – do not cross this line:
My favorite family story.
Oceans in the world.
My neighbourhood.
Funny Halloween costumes, inspires to lots of funny elementary school speech topics.
A visit to the doctor, dentist.
How does it feel to wake up an being a giant?
Places I lived.
Why I want to travel in space to the interstellair universe.
The best paper airplanes withput less folding work.
How boomerangs return to their sender.
Circus clowns in all sorts and characters.
My one-day internship at the fire department.
Fireworks on New Year’s Eve.
The best fishing spots.
My best birthday ever.
I am good at …
This is the song I like to sing every day is: …
Making puzzles of thouands pieces and the tricks I have learned.
Police uniforms or fire department attire outfits.
What can you see in the zoo?
Musical instruments in an full orchestra.

School speech topics tips for verification and 1-2-3 step checking at the secondary middle, high and elementary public speaking homework assignments on teaching skills. In a nutshell: they are easy to answer questions to make a better choice for creating the best result.

Also on this page, you will discover tips to concrete communication issues and education resources. They lead you in the right direction; you only have to use your fantasy.

Let the imaginary juices flow in your brains!

Can We Write Your Speech?

Get your audience blown away with help from a professional speechwriter. Free proofreading and copy-editing included.

Read all my checks for writing subjects and after you have completed that task follow all secure education idea links to the online education lists I have shaped and modified in class education material:

More aggravated lists of themes and valuable information regarding different subjects for future generations education are below. As well as a summary of the implications and / or requirements of what you have found, and school speech topics you could analyze in class.

You can sort out any ideas you like to talk about in oral lessons, scan the possible suggestions and think about what your audience like to hear you talking about: cite short passages and quotation excerpts from well-known experts in the field of research, or refer to good knowledge illustrations and sustainable proof.

Learn to gather material from outside sources about your thread for grades 9 through 12 learning, and deliver your opinion strongly and concisely. Give plain reasons for something you believe. Foster support for your solution, theory or device.

This is principally beneficial for achieving higher education institute assertiveness when you are on stage and put two or more views together, and provide a reason for putting them together by logical reasoning. Another method is approaching the subject matter in both positive and negative lights.

Tracing how something has induced artificially from an earlier state to its current form could welcomed by higher pedagogic instructors.

Next tip: workout extensive information on indoor and outdoor recreation activities to tempt your public to explore other activities than dating, dancing and drinking in a local bar.

Sports is a candidate for finding senior graded school speech topics. E.g. sport as profession to earn a living. With a scientific twist you make it more sophisticated, and because you’re highly qualified and have an actively learning attitude you are able to get their thesis commitment.

Some moves that matter in lower classes are the so-called critize teaching skills, often described as asking and wondering through critical inquiry:

You can help your teacher and fill her or him with enthusiasm by going extracurricular in proposing a particular judgment on a certain top topicality and examen the validity of the arguments by criticizing. This has been in practice in the late seventies – when things went the old-fashioned and more severe way 🙂 – but this technique has made a terrific comeback and is now used in grades 5 through 8 homework assignments.

Many of my visitors look for sixth grade inspiration, or class 6 if you live in India, Bangladesh and Pakistan, Primary 5 or 6 in Singapore, and 6ГЁme in France for example. Anyway, in what country you are right now does not matter; all school speech topics are created for children in the range of eleven and twelve years old.

The same holds good for class conversations of (usually) thirteen to fourteen years old who try to cover explanations of various objects and their meaning in the accustomed world of the eight grade population.

Children speak the truth, is often said 🙂 And that saying is more than true. Give them something to chew on in public – from colouring plates to planting and caring for trees – and it is so easy, a younger persons can do it 🙂

More for girls and boys – although it depends on the specific age or progress of the pupils – can be found at this index number two. Help them to be able to get to know the material, and to make the first steps on the path of learning the rudimentary public speaking skills (that are valuable for their whole life).

I have shaped a list that also contains some reference information for nursery and primary and kindergarten material.

10 Tips to Write the Best High School Valedictorian Speech

Ceremonial Speech Topics

9 thoughts on “224 School Speech Topics for All Grades [High School, Middle School, Elementary]”

The topics are 1: the worst day in my life 2: how can we take care of our elders at home. 3: good qualities about your classmates. 4: how I learnt cycling. 5: if you are alone at home and a stranger enters what would you do.

My topic ideas are: Why I hate speeches (for middle school or elementary school) My favorite type of music (for elementary school) Why parents shouldn’t spank their children and better ways to punish children (for elementary school)

The key to success is positive thinking

My favorite holiday

Wow. Just wow.

mental health is an important issue

“Prayer should be compulsory”…that’s my suggestion of a topic

At school there should be a free period where you can do anything you want

Why is the canteen so expensive?

I accept the Privacy Policy

Reach out to us for sponsorship opportunities

Vivamus integer non suscipit taciti mus etiam at primis tempor sagittis euismod libero facilisi.

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150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics for Students in 2024

April 1, 2024

Do you know that moment in your favorite film, when the soundtrack begins to swell and the main character stands up and delivers a speech so rousing, so impassioned, it has the entire room either weeping or cheering by the time it concludes? What distinguishes the effectiveness of such a speech is not only the protagonist’s stellar delivery but also the compelling nature of the subject matter at hand. Choosing an effective persuasive speech topic is essential for guaranteeing that your future speech or essay is as moving as these . If this sounds like a tall order, have no fear. Below you’ll find a list of some of the best and most interesting persuasive speech topics for high school students to tackle, from the playful (“Pets for President”) to the serious (“Should We Stop AI from Replacing Human Workers?”).

And if you’re craving more inspiration, feel free to check out this list of Great Debate Topics , which can be used to generate further ideas.

What is a Good Persuasive Speech?

Before we get to the list, we must address the question on everyone’s minds: what is a persuasive speech, and what the heck makes for a good persuasive speech topic? A persuasive speech is a speech that aims to convince its listeners of a particular point of view . At the heart of each persuasive speech is a central conflict . Note: The persuasive speech stands in contrast to a simple informative speech, which is intended purely to convey information. (I.e., an informative speech topic might read: “The History of Making One’s Bed,” while a persuasive speech topic would be: “Why Making One’s Bed is a Waste of Time”—understand?)

And lest you think that persuasive speeches are simply assigned by your teachers as a particularly cruel form of torture, remember that practicing your oratory skills will benefit you in all areas of life—from job interviews, to business negotiations, to your future college career in public policy or international relations . Knowing how to use your voice to enact meaningful change is a valuable skill that can empower you to make a difference in the world.

Components of a Great Persuasive Speech Topic

The ideal persuasive speech topic will inspire the audience to action via both logical arguments and emotional appeals. As such, we can summarize the question “what makes a good persuasive speech topic?” by saying that the topic must possess the following qualities:

Timeliness and Relevance . Great persuasive speech topics grapple with a contemporary issue that is meaningful to the listener at hand. The topic might be a current news item, or it might be a long-standing social issue. In either case, the topic should be one with real-world implications.
Complexity . A fruitful persuasive speech topic will have many facets. Topics that are controversial, with some gray area, lend themselves to a high degree of critical thinking. They also offer the speaker an opportunity to consider and refute all counterarguments before making a compelling case for his or her own position.
Evidence . You want to be able to back up your argument with clear evidence from reputable sources (i.e., not your best friend or dog). The more evidence and data you can gather, the more sound your position will be. In addition, your audience will be more inclined to trust you.
Personal Connection. Do you feel passionately about the topic you’ve chosen? If not, it may be time to go back to the drawing board. This does not mean you have to support the side you choose; sometimes, arguing for the opposing side of what you personally believe can be an effective exercise in building empathy and perspective. Either way, though, the key is to select a topic that you care deeply about. Your passion will be infectious to the audience.

150 Good Persuasive Speech Topics

Should tech companies regulate the development of AI systems and automation to protect humans’ jobs?
Should we limit screen time for children?
Is it ethical for AI models like Dall-E to train themselves on artists’ work without the artists’ permission?
Should the government regulate the use of personal drones?
Is mass surveillance ethical? Does its threat to civil liberties outweigh its benefits?
Are virtual reality experiences a valuable educational tool?
Do the positive effects of powerful AI systems outweigh the risks?
Do voice assistants like Siri and Alexa invade individuals’ privacy?
Are cell phone bans in the classroom effective for improving student learning?
Does the use of facial recognition technology in public violate individuals’ privacy?
Should students be allowed to use ChatGPT and other AI tools for writing assignments?
Should AI-generated art be allowed in art shows or contests?
Who holds responsibility for accidents caused by self-driving cars: the driver or the car company?

Business and Economy

Should we do away with the minimum wage? Why or why not?
Is it ethical for companies to use unpaid internships as a source of labor?
Does the gig economy benefit or harm workers?
Is capitalism the best economic system?
Is it ethical for companies to use sweatshops in developing countries?
Should the government provide free healthcare for all citizens?
Should the government regulate prices on pharmaceutical drugs?
Should the government enact a universal base income?
Should customers be required to tip a minimum amount in order to ensure food service workers make a living wage?
Should someone’s tattoos or personal appearance factor into the hiring process?
Should US workers have more vacation time?
Is big game hunting beneficial for local communities?
Should we legalize euthanasia?
Is it ethical to use animals for medical research?
Is it ethical to allow access to experimental treatments for terminally ill patients?
Should we allow genetic engineering in humans?
Is the death penalty obsolete?
Should we allow the cloning of humans?
Is it ethical to allow performance-enhancing drugs in sports?
Should embryonic stem cell collection be allowed?
Do frozen IVF embryos have rights?
Should state and federal investigators be allowed to use DNA from genealogy databases?
Should the government limit how many children a couple can have?
Is spanking children an acceptable form of discipline?
Should we allow parents to choose their children’s physical attributes through genetic engineering?
Should we require parents to vaccinate their children?
Should we require companies to give mandatory paternal and maternal leave?
Should children be allowed to watch violent movies and video games?
Should parents allow their teenagers to drink before they turn 21?
Should the government provide childcare?
Should telling your children about Santa Claus be considered lying?
Should one parent stay home?
Should parental consent be required for minors to receive birth control?
Is it an invasion of privacy for parents to post photographs of their children on social media?

Social Media

Should social media platforms ban political ads?
Do the benefits of social media outweigh the downsides?
Should the government hold social media companies responsible for hate speech on their platforms?
Is social media making us more or less social?
Do platforms like TikTok exacerbate mental health issues in teens?
Should the government regulate social media to protect citizens’ privacy?
Is it right for parents to monitor their children’s social media accounts?
Should social media companies enact a minimum user age restriction?
Should we require social media companies to protect user data?
Should we hold social media companies responsible for cyberbullying?
Should schools ban the use of social media from their networks?
Should we be allowed to record others without their consent?
Do online crime sleuths help or hurt criminal investigations?

Education – Persuasive Speech Topics

Would trade schools and other forms of vocational training benefit a greater number of students than traditional institutions of higher education?
Should colleges use standardized testing in their admissions processes?
Is forcing students to say the Pledge a violation of their right to freedom of speech?
Should school districts offer bilingual education programs for non-native speakers?
Should schools do away with their physical education requirements?
Should schools incorporate a remote learning option into their curriculum?
Should we allow school libraries to ban certain books?
Should we remove historical figures who owned slaves from school textbooks and other educational materials?
Should we have mixed-level classrooms or divide students according to ability?
Should grading on a curve be allowed?
Should graphic novels be considered literature?
Should all students have to take financial literacy classes before graduating?
Should colleges pay student athletes?
Should we ban violent contact sports like boxing and MMA?
Should sports leagues require professional athletes to stand during the national anthem?
Should sports teams ban players like Kyrie Irving when they spread misinformation or hate speech?
Should high schools require their athletes to maintain a certain GPA?
Should the Olympic committee allow transgender athletes to compete?
Should high schools ban football due to its safety risks to players?
Should all high school students be required to play a team sport?
Should sports teams be mixed instead of single-gender?
Should there be different athletic standards for men and women?
In which renewable energy option would the US do best to invest?
Should the US prioritize space exploration over domestic initiatives?
Should companies with a high carbon footprint be punished?
Should the FDA ban GMOs?
Would the world be a safer place without nuclear weapons?
Does AI pose a greater threat to humanity than it does the potential for advancement?
Who holds the most responsibility for mitigating climate change: individuals or corporations?
Should we be allowed to resurrect extinct species?
Are cancer screening programs ethical?

Social Issues – Persuasive Speech Topics

College education: should the government make it free for all?
Should we provide free healthcare for undocumented immigrants?
Is physician-assisted suicide morally justifiable?
Does social media have a negative impact on democracy?
Does cancel culture impede free speech?
Does affirmative action help or hinder minority groups in the workplace?
Should we hold public figures and celebrities to a higher standard of morality?
Should abortion be an issue that is decided at the federal or state level?
Should the sex offender registry be available to the public?
Should undocumented immigrants have a path to amnesty?
Do syringe services programs reduce or increase harmful behaviors?
Should there be a statute of limitations?
Should those who are convicted of a crime be required to report their criminal history on job and housing applications?

Politics and Government

Is the Electoral College still an effective way to elect the President of the US?
Should we allow judges to serve on the Supreme Court indefinitely?
Should the US establish a national gun registry?
Countries like Israel and China require all citizens to serve in the military. Is this a good or bad policy?
Should the police force require all its officers to wear body cameras while on duty?
Should the US invest in the development of clean meat as a sustainable protein source?
Should the US adopt ranked-choice voting?
Should institutions that profited from slavery provide reparations?
Should the government return land to Native American tribes?
Should there be term limits for representatives and senators?
Should there be an age limit for presidential candidates?
Should women be allowed in special forces units?

Easy Persuasive Speech Topics

Should schools have uniforms?
Can video games improve problem-solving skills?
Are online classes as effective as in-person classes?
Should companies implement a four-day work week?
Co-ed learning versus single-sex: which is more effective?
Should the school day start later?
Is homework an effective teaching tool?
Are electric cars really better for the environment?
Should schools require all students to study a foreign language?
Do professional athletes get paid too much money?

Fun Persuasive Speech Topics

Should we allow pets to run for public office?
Does pineapple belong on pizza?
Would students benefit from schools swapping out desks with more comfortable seating arrangements (i.e., bean bag chairs and couches)?
Is procrastination the key to success?
Should Americans adopt British accents to sound more intelligent?
The age-old dilemma: cats or dogs?
Should meme creators receive royalties when their memes go viral?
Should there be a minimum drinking age for coffee?
Are people who make their beds every day more successful than those who don’t?

Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

Is the movie ranking system an effective way to evaluate the appropriateness of films?
Should the government place a “health tax” on junk food?
Is it ethical to create artificial life forms that are capable of complex emotions?
Should parents let children choose their own names?
Creating clones of ourselves to serve as organ donors: ethical or not?
Is it ethical to engineer humans to be better and more optimized than nature intended?
Should we adopt a universal language to communicate with people from all countries?
Should there be a penalty for people who don’t vote?
Should calories be printed on menus?
Does tourism positively or negatively impact local communities?
When used by non-Natives, are dreamcatchers cultural appropriation?
Should companies require their employees to specify pronouns in their signature line?
Should commercial fishing be banned?
Are cemeteries sustainable?
Is it okay to change the race, culture, and/or gender of historical figures in movies or TV shows?

I’ve Chosen My Topic, Now What?

Once you’ve selected your topic, it’s time to get to work crafting your argument. Preparation for a persuasive speech or essay involves some key steps, which we’ve outlined for you below.

How to Create a Successful Persuasive Speech, Step by Step

Research your topic. Read widely and smartly. Stick to credible sources, such as peer-reviewed articles, published books, government reports, textbooks, and news articles. The right sources and data will be necessary to help you establish your authority. As you go, take notes on the details and nuances of your topic as well as potential counterarguments. Research the counterarguments, too.
Choose an angle. For example, if you chose the topic “Should we limit screen time for children?” your speech should come down firmly on one side of that debate. If your topic is frequently debated, such as abortion, capital punishment, gun control, social media, etc. try to find a niche angle or new research. For example, instead of “Should abortion be legal?” you might consider “Should you be able to order abortion pills online?” Another example: “Should the death penalty be banned?” might become “How long is it ethical for someone to stay on death row?” If you do some digging, even the most cliche topics have incredibly interesting and relatively unexplored sub-topics.
Create an outline. Your outline should include an introduction with a thesis statement, a body that uses evidence to elaborate and support your position while refuting any counterarguments, and a conclusion. The conclusion will both summarize the points made earlier and serve as your final chance to persuade your audience.
Write your speech. Use your outline to help you as well as the data you’ve collected. Remember: this is not dry writing; this writing has a point of view, and that point of view is yours . Accordingly, use anecdotes and examples to back up your argument. The essential components of this speech are logos (logic), ethos (credibility), and pathos (emotion) . The ideal speech will use all three of these functions to engage the audience.

How to Practice and Deliver a Persuasive Speech

Talk to yourself in the mirror, record yourself, and/or hold a practice speech for family or friends. If you’ll be using visual cues, a slide deck, or notecards, practice incorporating them seamlessly into your speech. You should practice until your speech feels very familiar, at least 5-10 times.
Practice body language. Are you making eye contact with your audience, or looking at the ground? Crossing your arms over your chest or walking back and forth across the room? Playing with your hair, cracking your knuckles, or picking at your clothes? Practicing what to do with your body, face, and hands will help you feel more confident on speech day.
Take it slow. It’s common to talk quickly while delivering a speech—most of us want to get it over with! However, your audience will be able to connect with you much more effectively if you speak at a moderate pace, breathe, and pause when appropriate.
Give yourself grace. How you recover from a mistake is much more important than the mistake itself. Typically, the best approach is to good-naturedly shrug off a blip and move on. 99% of the time, your audience won’t even notice!

Good Persuasive Speech Topics—Final Thoughts

The art of persuasive speaking is a tricky one, but the tips and tricks laid out here will help you craft a compelling argument that will sway even the most dubious audience to your side. Mastering this art takes both time and practice, so don’t fret if it doesn’t come to you right away. Remember to draw upon your sources, speak with authority, and have fun. Once you have the skill of persuasive speaking down, go out there and use your voice to impact change!

Looking for some hot-button topics in college admissions? You might consider checking out the following:

Do Colleges Look at Social Media?
Should I Apply Test-Optional to College?
Should I Waive My Right to See Letters of Recommendation?
Should I Use the Common App Additional Information Section?
High School Success

Lauren Green

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

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English Speech Topics for Students

Updated on
Apr 2, 2024

Writing an exciting and thoughtful speech requires selecting a good topic, researching it thoroughly, and forming individual opinions to express the same. School students are usually asked to speak on a contemporary topic to help them become good public speakers as well as learn the art of expressing oneself in front of an audience. While many speech competitions often allot topics beforehand, you might also have heard of extempore where topics are given on the spot for speech. This blog brings you a list of common English speech topics as well as some helpful tips and tricks that can assist you in effectively expressing your thoughts and opinions in front of an audience. Before starting, we would like to give you one piece of advice: you can also Humanize AI to humanize these topics for better readability and human touch, if required. Let’s begin!

Checkout our 200+ Essay Topics for Students in English

This Blog Includes:

List of best english speech topics for students, 1-minute speech topics, 2-minute speech topics, 3-minute speech topics, easy topics for speech in english, english speech topics on environment, english speech topics on technology, english speech topics on independence day, english speech topics on diwali, english speech topics on corruption, english speech topics on feminism, english speech topics on mother’s day, english speaking topics on capitalism, engish speech topics on gandhi jayanti, english speech topics on reading, english speech topics on communism, english speech topics on deforestation, english speech topics on social issues, english speech topics on important days & events, english speech topics on greatest leaders in india & around the world, english speech topics on indian culture, english speech topics on proverbs, english speech topics on human rights, english speech topics on education, english speech topics on the importance of water, miscellaneous speech topics, types of persuasive speech topics, tips for writing and speaking a speech.

Speeches are all about one’s thoughts. It should not be copied from somewhere. It is all about what the speaker thinks of any given topic. However, take a look at the following list of English Speech topics on different contemporary issues as well as concepts.

The Best Day of My Life
Social Media: Bane or Boon?
Pros and Cons of Online Learning
Benefits of Yoga
If I had a Superpower
I wish I were ______
Human Rights
Environment Conservation
Women Should Rule the World!
The Best Lesson I Have Learned
Paperbacks vs E-books
How to Tackle a Bad Habit
My Favorite Pastime/Hobby
Why should every citizen vote?
Fear of Missing Out (FOMO): Is it real or not?
Importance of Reading
Importance of Books in Our Life
My Favorite Fictional Character
Introverts vs Extroverts
Lessons to Learn from Sports
Beauty is in the eye of the beholder

Quick Read: English Speaking Books

Quick Read: Essay on Peer Pressure

Quick Read: Essay on Health and Fitness for Students

I mportance of Kindness
Is there Value in Homework?
Things I learned in Lockdown
How can food be recycled?
Should Art be a part of the school curriculum?
Should schools teach sign language?
Women make better presidents/prime ministers
Why books are better than movies?
Life was better when technology was simple
Impact of technology on our health
Should children’s reality shows be banned?
Learning in the Wake of COVID-19
Hard Work vs Smart Work
What Makes Learning Fun?
The Coolest Inventions You’ve Seen
Nuclear Energy
Importance of AI in Education
Importance of Extracurricular Activities
Should exams be banned?
How to Tackle Bullying in Schools?

Speech about dreams
Speech about life
Speech on time
Speech on discipline
Speech on happiness
Speech on kindness
Speech on value of time
Speech on health and fitness
Speech on Doctor
Speech on Nurse
Graduation Day Speech
World Health Day Speech
Sex Education Speech
Importance of Education
Is it beneficial to learn a Second Language?
Music has healing power
Success in life
Self Confidence
18th birthday
Love is more powerful than hate
Social Impact of Covid-19
How can Online Learning be Fun?
Make Public Transport Free
Should violent video games be banned?
Speech on Learning

Exploring English Speech Topics? You must also take a look at Extempore Topics !

Climate Change
Ozone Layer Depletion
Reducing Water Levels
Deforestation
Global Warming
Waste Management
Water-Saving Techniques
Reducing the Green Cover of Earth
Endangered species need protection
Importance of fishing regulations
Importance of investing in alternative fuels
Impact of ocean acidification on marine organisms
The misuse of the term “sustainable development” by environmentalists
Microbial benefits
E-Waste Management
Natural Disasters and their impact on economic growth
Energy alternatives – Only solution to the environmental damage
Extinction of rare species
World Environment Day
Disaster Management
Over and Improper Use of Natural Resources
Air, Water and Soil Pollution
Efficiency of Recycling

Also Read: How to Write Dialogue: Format, Tips and Examples

Technology and Mental Health
Privacy in the Digital Age: Navigating the Challenges of Data Collection and Surveillance
The Impact of Technology on Society
Artificial Intelligence: The New Normal
The Role of Social Media in Communication and Social Interactions
Sustainable Technology: Innovations for a Greener Future
The Rise of E-commerce
Gaming Technology: Entertainment, ESports and Interactive Experiences
The Digital Divide: Bridging the Gap for Equal Access to Technology
The Ethical Dilemmas of Emerging Technologies

Also Read: English Vocabulary: Meaning, Types, Tips to Improve

The Journey of Independence Day
The Significance of Independence Day
Indian Independence Day
Remembering the Founding Fathers
The Spirit of Independence
Independence Day and Volunteering
Independence Day Speeches
India’s Road to Freedom
Independence Day and National Identity
Independence Day in the Digital Age
Independence Day and Women’s Empowerment
Diwali: The Festival of Lights and Its Significance in Hindu Culture
Diwali and the Victory of Good Over Evil
Diwali and the Art of Giving
Diwali and the Spirit of Forgiveness
Diwali and Cultural Exchanges
Diwali and the Essence of Joy
Diwali and Social Responsibility
Diwali and Artistic Expressions
The Rituals and Traditions of Diwali
Diwali and the Symbolism of Light
The Economic Consequence of Corruption
Corruption and International Aid
Media and Corruption
Fighting Corruption
Corruption in Politics
The Role of Transparency and Accountability in Curbing Corruption
The Role of Technology in Combating Corruption
Whistleblowing and Protecting Mechanism
Corruption in Business and Corporate Practices
Understanding Feminism
The Future of Feminism
Feminism and Parenting
Feminism and Online Activism
Feminism and Environmental Activism
Feminism and Reproductive Rights
The Gender Pay Gap: Examining Inequalities in the Workplace
Feminism and its Evolution
Feminism and Body Positivity
Feminism and Media Representation: Encouraging Authentic and Diverse Portrayals of Women
Expressing Gratitude and Love to Mothers
The Influence of Mothers in Shaping Our Values and Beliefs
Motherhood and Education
Mother’s Day and Volunteerism
Mother-Daughter Relationship
The Role of Mothers in Shaping Society
Mother’s Day Crafts and DIY Gifts
Learned Lessons from Mothers
Mother’s Day Around the World: Cultural Traditions and Celebrations
Capitalism: An Introduction to the Economic System and its Principles
The Future of Capitalism
Pros and Cons of Capitalism
Capitalism and Globalisation
Capitalism and Consumerism
Capitalism and Financial Crisis: Undertaking the Risk and Mitigation Measures
Capitalism and Environmental Sustainability
Capitalism and the Role of Government
Corporate Social Responsibility in Capitalism
Capitalism and the Digital Economy
Mahatma Gandhi: The Father of the Nation and His Ideals
Remembering Gandhi: Reflecting On His Life and Legacy
Gandhi’s Influence on the Indian Independence Movement
Satyagraha: The Power of Truth and Nonviolent Resistance
Gandhi’s Philosophy of Swaraj
The Role of Women in Gandhi’s Freedom Struggle
Gandhi’s Teaching on Education and Moral Values
Gandhi’s Lasting Legacy
Gandhi’s Vision for a Just and Inclusive Society
The Relevance of Gandhi’s Principles in Today’s World
The Influence of Reading on Emotional Intelligence and Empathy
Reading and Mental Health
Benefits of Reading
Reading and Empowerment
The Role of Reading in Academic Success and Lifelong Learning
Promoting a Reading Culture: Encouraging Reading Habits in Society
Reading Biographies and Memoirs
Reading and Social Connections
The Joy of Reading: Escaping Into the Different Worlds and Characters
Reading and Personal Identity
The Current State of Communism
Communism: An Introduction to the Ideology and Its Historical Context
The Evolution of Communist Movements
The Role of the State in a Communist Society
The Fall of Communist Regimes
Communism and Religious Freedom
Communism and Gender Equality
Communism and Workers’ Rights
The Criticisms of Communism
Deforestation: Causes, Consequences and Global Impact
Deforestation and Climate Change
Deforestation and Carbon Sequestration
Deforestation and Individual Actions
Deforestation and Wildlife Trafficking
Deforestation and Sustainable Development
Deforestation and Indigenous Communities
Deforestation and Biodiversity Loss
Deforestation and Forest Fires
The Importance of Forests

Quick Read: Speech on Nuclear Energy

Women Empowerment
Education of Girl Child
Unemployment
Casteism
Reservation
Importance of Maintaining Hygiene
Child Labour
Social Distancing
Organ Donation
Importance of the Right to Education
Child Trafficking
Cultural Diversity
Struggles of Immigrants
Impact of Globalisation
Adult education
Independence Day
Mother’s Day
World Cancer Day
World Population Day
World Health Day
Ambedkar Jayanti
Gandhi Jayanti
Human Rights Day
Zero Discrimination Day
Women’s Day
Thanksgiving
Anti-Terrorism Day
Hindi Diwas

Check out this list of all the important national and international days in 202 4 !

Mahatma Gandhi
Jawaharlal Nehru
Raja Rammohan Roy
George Washington
Albert Einstein
APJ Abdul Kalam
Nelson Mandela
Kailash Satyarthi
Diversity in India
Speech on Holi
The Role of Yoga and Meditation in Indian Culture and Its Global Impact
The Importance of Traditional Indian Clothing
Indian Folklore
Indian Festivals
The Art of Indian Dance
Traditional Indian Medicine (Ayurveda)
Indian Epics and Mythology
Social Customs and Etiquettes in Indian Society
Indian Sports and Games

Team Leverage Edu

14 comments

I take english speaking classes, please provide me sone more material to help student’s.

Here are some articles on books and study material that will help your students- https://leverageedu.com/blog/english-speaking-books/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/books-by-charles-dickens/ https://leverageedu.com/blog/best-books-by-george-orwell/

I want topic on students and online classes

It is helpful for my school homework thanks 😸

Glad we could help!

Nice advise 👍

Thank you, Pragya!

Not good topics 🤔🤔

Thanks for the suggestion. We will update the blog!

Helpful for students . So I like it

Thanks for reading! Also, read: Daily Used English Words Speech on Importance of English Reach us at 1800 57 2000 for study-abroad related matters!

You people are giving great contribution in internet learning and it is for all….

Hi, thank you for your valuable feedback.

Awesome! Its really awesome article, I have got much clear idea concerning from this post.

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112 Persuasive Speech Topics That Are Actually Engaging

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

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

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

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

Choose Something You’re Passionate About

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

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

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

Steer Clear of Cliches

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

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

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

Have a Clear Side of Opposition

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

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

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

Environment

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

Science & Technology

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

Social Media

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

Parenting & Family

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

Entertainment

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

Arts & Humanities

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

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

Do Your Research

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

Understand Your Audience

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

Have Someone Read Your Speech

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

Practice Makes Perfect

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

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

50 Topics for Impromptu Student Speeches

Illustration by Catherine Song. ThoughtCo.

Homework Tips
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Private School
College Admissions
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Graduate School
Business School
Distance Learning
M.Ed., Education Administration, University of Georgia
B.A., History, Armstrong State University

For the many people who break out in a sweat at the very idea of speaking in front of an audience , the prospect of speaking on an unknown topic with little to no preparation is likely terrifying. But you don't have to be afraid of impromptu speeches. As it turns out, the secret even to off-the-cuff speeches is preparation.

Impromptu Speech Tips

Decide on your topic
Come up with three supportive statements related to your topic
Prepare a strong conclusion

Use this list of impromptu speech topics to practice making a quick speech outline in your head. For each of the topics below, just think of three main points you'd like to make. For example, if your speech topic is "Your least favorite chores," you could quickly come up with three statements:

I don't know anybody who likes to fold laundry, so the first task on my list of unhappy chores is folding laundry.
Taking out the trash is another chore that most people dread, and I'm no different.
The worst chore in the entire household has to be cleaning the toilet.

If you go into your speech with these statements in your head, you can spend the rest of your time thinking up supporting statements as you speak. When you've identified your three main points, think of a great finishing statement. If you end with a great closer, you'll really impress your audience.

Start Practicing With This List

My three favorite animals.
What you would find in my closet. Make something up.
What you'd find under my bed.
The best letter of the alphabet.
Why your mom/dad is special.
A day that stands out.
The best surprise ever.
If I had a million dollars to give away.
If cats/dogs ruled the world.
A trip to remember.
My favorite day of the year.
If I could only eat three foods forever.
If I could design a school.
Why books are important.
Three surprising facts about me .
How to impress your parents.
How to plan a party.
A job I'd love to have.
A day in my life.
If I could have dinner with anyone.
If I could travel through time.
My favorite book.
An important lesson I've learned.
What I've learned from cartoons.
The smartest cartoon character.
Three things I'd change if I ruled the world.
Why sports are important.
The worst chores at home.
Why I deserve an allowance.
If I were in charge of school lunches.
If I had invented school.
The best theme park rides.
Whom do you admire most?
What is your favorite animal?
How to achieve your dreams.
Why you need a baby brother.
How to annoy an older sister.
How to save money.
Three things that scare me.
Great things about snow days.
Things you can make out of snow.
How to spend a rainy day.
How to walk a dog.
Great things about the ocean.
Things I'll never eat.
How to be a slacker.
Why I like my town.
The best parts of a parade.
Interesting things you see in the sky.
Things to remember when you're camping.
An experience with a bully.
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Last Day of School Activities

School Speech Topics: 200+ Unique Ideas

Delivering a speech is an essential part of every student’s curriculum. It requires confidence to articulate your thoughts and represent them in front of the entire school. It is a beautiful way to interact with your audience, engage with them, and add to their knowledge. This scholarly exercise helps students showcase their critical thinking, soft skills, creative writing, knowledge, viewpoints, and public speaking skills, which allows them to boost their confidence and stand out from the crowd.

The initial step of crafting a speech requires a unique school speech topic. Before starting the business of writing, students must consider their school speech topics. One should decide on their speech topics and get to the writing part as early as possible. But, sometimes, even after brainstorming for hours, students still need help deciding what topic to choose. Don’t worry; we’ve got you covered!

No more stomach-churning and anxiety-inducing thoughts about what topic to choose; our experts have compiled a list of excellent school speech topics. You can use these speech topics to frame an incredible piece of writing.

Table of Contents

Three Pillars of Any Speech

No matter what kind of speech you’re delivering, in all speeches, especially academic speeches, there are always three significant components. These include logic (logos), ethics (ethos), and emotions (pathos).

Logic (Logos):- “Logos” refers to the logical reasoning in your speech. A single link must connect all the pieces of your arguments and statements. Thus, from the introduction to the conclusion, draft logical, meaningful, and reasonable points to give substance to your opinions.
Ethics (Ethos): The second aspect, emotions, or ethos, signifies your ethics, morality, and believability as a speaker. Increasing your credibility will help persuade your professors or readers to accept your arguments and consider the necessary actions.
Emotions (pathos): Emotions play a significant role in convincing someone. It is likely the most crucial aspect of your academic speech. Emotions pique people’s interest, which motivates them to listen to your arguments and consider taking the recommended actions.

Thus, to present a unique, intriguing academic speech, students must ensure that their speeches successfully comply with all these three pillars of speech.

How to Research Speech Ideas for School

There are some fundamental suggestions that you need to follow for selecting your speech topics. These suggestions will help you navigate through the selection process. These include:

Research and narrow down crucial topics that would perfectly fit into a coherent speech topic. Ensure that the selected topic is suitable to enhance your abilities and interact with your audience.
The next step is to identify your targeted audience . Knowing your audience’s demographics will enable you to choose a subject that will capture the audience’s attention from the start. Ensure to be more aligned with the audience’s general areas of interest.
Ensure that your selected topic is not leading your audience in distinct directions where they will find it hard to follow your speech flow.
When you’ve selected your educational speech topics, follow the answers to these 5 Ws to ensure you’re on the right track:
Who is affected by your topic or problem?
Why is this subject significant? What drives the exploration of it?
What regions of the world does the topic affect, or where is it located?
When and how was/is this subject discussed? Is time a crucial component?
What is the most crucial argument or point of view?
The next step is to understand your audience. Knowing your audience’s demographics will enable you to choose a subject that will capture attention from the start and be more in line with general areas of interest.
Keep things interesting for yourself and your audience. Speeches can be tedious. Choose a creative, exciting topic to keep your audience engaged throughout the presentation.

200+ Captivating School Speech Topics

Writing a speech requires coming up with a brilliant topic and then articulating your thoughts and knowledge in a systematic and disciplined manner. Either teacher assigns students their topics for speeches, or students might have the opportunity to select for themselves.

Below is a list of 200+ great speech topics for high school students that can help you draft a powerful speech.

Speech Topics for High School Students

For high school students, the scope of research extends to another level. They can do research on anything and anyone they want. There are numerous topics for speeches that could be interesting to you. Look through the list of topics below to see if you can find something that interests you.

The 1917 Spanish flu
The opioid outbreak in the United States
Ignorance is bliss
The Salem witch trials
Cruelty in animal testing laboratories
How do books make a difference?
Fashion in Victorian Britain
Modern politics, culture, and society
Racial discrimination in the workforce
The power of satire in comedy
Censorship issues in the film industry
Classical mythology in popular cultures
Superhero culture in society
Body donation for medical science: why and why not?
Depletion of the ozone layer
What is the reason for deforestation in developing countries?
Waste management from a global perspective
Water-saving agriculture in China: an overview
Why do endangered species matter?

Read Also – Top 100 Position Paper Topics

Persuasive Speech Ideas for Students

Persuasive speech is crafted to persuade individuals to believe in something or do something irrespective of their traditional beliefs. It is the type of speech that revolves around everything, whether it’s arguing about politics or talking about a balanced diet.Below are some engaging, persuasive speech topics for students. Use this list to get inspired and craft a fantastic speech:

Impact of marketing on individuals and their perception
Effect of peer pressure on students’ mental health
Are zoos ethical? Why animals should not be kept in zoos
Strategies involving students’ interest in learning
Critical global issues: what is the biggest threat to the world?
The past, present, and future of recycling
Conservation of oil and natural gas
Understanding the importance of water reservations
Why is global warming still a threat to human health?
Advertising standards: advertising should be more regulated.
Why has Indonesia banned palm oil exports?
How can television once again be instructive and beneficial?
The truth about political correctness: the two-fold connection of liberalism
Euthanizing stray animals: is it ethical?
How our differences make us unique
The importance of delegation
Technology dependency among teenagers
Benefits of conserved oil
Search engine technologies are replacing traditional research methods.
Is graffiti art or vandalism?

Informative Speech Ideas for School Students

An informative speech is a type of speech that is crafted by centralizing people, events, places, news, things, or processes. This speech is entirely and exclusively focused on facts.

Thus, in simple words, an informative speech imparts knowledge to the audience regarding a particular subject. If you’re thinking of drafting an informative speech, then here are some topic suggestions you can consider:

The importance of the arts for students
The life cycle dynamics of ocean animals
Customer satisfaction surveys in the business world
A prohibition on advertisements that depict violence, ragging, or body shaming to gain TRPs.
Relationship between religion and Education
IUCN Red List of Threatened Species
Why one shouldn’t be afraid of their competitors
The psychology of colors: the effects of colors on behavior
Self-tanner has real-world adverse effects.
Antipodes map: tunnel to the other side of the world
Overweight and obesity
Owning a pet: things to know
Could fining parents cut childhood obesity?
Ancient and Asiatic horse breeds
The history and present of the ivory trade
Causes of deforestation in developing countries
Causes and effects of overpopulation
medical dangers of consuming nicotine
Sexual prejudice in sports

Read Also – Top 100 +Group Discussion Topics

Arts & Culture Speech Topics for High School Students

Here we’ve compiled a catalog of some outstanding arts and culture speech topics to help you frame a memorable speech:

Culture and nationalism
The importance of multicultural Education
Graffiti should be considered an art.
Preserving traditional games as cultural treasures
Classic literature readings versus modern e-books
Art and music therapy
The economics of art museums
The importance of music and the arts for young minds
The E-Library Culture

Incredible School Speech Topics for English & Classical Literature

If you’re a literature student or are keen to study literature or English, then you can look at these below-given school speech topics connected with English and literature.

Keats, the man, medicine, and poetry
Women writers who shaped American literature in the twentieth century
Resolving writer’s block
Shakespeare’s role in shaping the modern language
Evaluating Ernest Hemingway’s narratives for promoting toxic masculinity
The history of book bans in the United States
Symbolism in Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird
Which current literature will endure as classical literature in the future?
Pride and prejudice: the limits of societies
Understanding Virginia Woolf as a feminist
Contemporary movies that depict works of classic literature
The role of Lady Macbeth in the downfall of Macbeth
contribution of women in shaping early American literature
Romanticism in the 18th-century British literature
The status of women in 20th-century English society
Male dominancy in the texts of early British literature
An examination of the “I Have a Dream” speech by Martin Luther King, Jr.
Understanding power and identity in Gothic literature
Agatha Christie as the first lady of crime
The post-romantic and Victorian eras

Read Also – 100+ Anthropology Research Paper Topics

School Speech Topics Regarding Current Affairs and Social Issues

Finding exciting topics regarding current affairs or social issues is pretty straightforward. Crafting a speech around current and social events will have an exceptionally significant impact on your audience. Carefully analyze each topic in the following list:

White nationalism
What lessons have we learned from the pandemic?
The Occupy Wall Street movement
Afghani women under Taliban rule
Modern protest culture
Israel-Palestine relations
Ukraine and Russia are at war.
Liberalism vs socialism
The Me Too movement
Role of the UN in protecting human rights
“Viral” culture in today’s society
Black Lives Do Matter.
Anti-hijab protests in Iran
Human rights as a western construct
A Green New Deal
Tortured justice: no pain, no gain?
Syrian civil war
Global human trafficking: a 2022 report
Generational divisions between Baby Boomers, Millennials, and Generation Z
DACA: Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals

Politics, Law, and Business Related School Speeches Ideas

Writing a speech regarding politics, law, or business can be complicated. Despite their interest in these subjects, students chose them as speech topics. While watching current events or the news can be advantageous, you can also analyze the below-given list for some inspiration:

Marketing niches: is it beneficial for your business?
The role of elections in a democracy
Understanding the influence of social media on shaping political campaigns
Political ideologies that shook the world
Analyzing the government’s role in combating the environment
The future of small businesses
Business performance management
Unorthodox business ideas
Anti-trust policies and provisions
Juvenile Delinquency Prevention
America is not a democracy.
An overview of activity-based management in businesses
Gender-based discrimination in the workplace
Youth and politics: youth participation in changing the world
The business world has forgotten competitive marketing skills.
Democracy vs communalism
Image of “Justice” in Dostoevsky’s Crime and Punishment
Modelling the impact of AI on the global economy
Emerging issues in the private panel institutions

Speech Topic Suggestions on Psychology

Today, psychology is a highly contentious issue. Many students are interested in learning more about psychological issues. Therefore, consider creating your speech around psychology. Check out our collection of topics!

Mental health issues and war veterans
Why does human multitasking fail?
Drug Addiction Hypnotherapy
The impact of media and peers on eating disorders among children
impact of social media on our mental health
The psychology behind cults
Sigmund Freud’s Theories: Simply Psychology
Social determinants of mental health
The psychology of sleep paralysis
Cognitive approaches to insomnia
Abnormal psychology
The psychology of dreams and nightmares
The psychological essence of child geniuses and prodigies
Early identification of autism disorders
The consequences of childhood bullying on mental health and low self-esteem
The relationship between physical and mental illness
The formation of memories in the human brain
Emotional reaction to music: how does music evoke emotions?
The psychology of money

School Speech Topics Based On Technology

Being science students, nobody knows this better than you; those technological speech topics can never be dull or tedious. This field is undoubtedly the most complex or challenging, but what can be fun if there’s no challenge? So, here are some fascinating technology-related speech topics for high school students:

It is preferable to have printed images than to retain electronic copies on a computer.
The significance of regularly creating backups of your computer files
Search engines are replacing libraries.
Future Space Science and Exploration: A Historical Overview
A Scientific and Ethical View on Human Cloning’s Developments
What Is the Future of Artificial Intelligence?
Increase in robotics
How can we continue to profit from the internet?
The Effects and Consequences of Bio-warfare
The future of humankind and its technological impact
The significance of being alert to internet fraud
Phones make it difficult for us to communicate with one another.
Why free internet music should be available.
The role of technology in shaping our lives
The future of AI watches
How are evolving technologies harming human lives?

Topics for Scientific Studies Speeches

Are you searching for compelling subject matter for your speech? You’ll need to choose the proper topic carefully because this is one of the most challenging disciplines of study. Here are a few suggestions.

What Is a Computer Virus?
What Is the Influence of Social Media on Us?
Discover Interesting Facts About the Human Brain
How does the human brain work?
Drug testing shouldn’t be done on animals.
How can geniuses be produced?
How can rainforests be preserved for future generations?
The contribution of Newton to science
The historical scientist with the most impact
How are search engines operated?
How do modern technologies change our lives?
Why shouldn’t whales be used as a food source?
The AI of tomorrow observes

Environmental Education Speech Topics

Despite only minor Ozone Layer loss, we still have a long way to go to protect our environment. If you are into environmentalism, then these given environmental speech topics can help you craft a memorable speech about enhancing the ecological system. Carefully analyze the following intriguing environmental speech ideas for college students:

How to Create a World That Runs on Alternative Energy Sources
What Can We Do to Prevent Animal Abuse?
What human behaviors cause landslides?
There is no longer a lot of fish in the seas and oceans. Why?
Effects of a Growing Population
Why Do Farmers Use Organic Fertilizers?
Are Our Tropical Rain Forests Dying?
The benefits of using reusable bags every day
Whether Pluto should be classified as a planet
Advantages of requiring recycling for everyone
Should the US government increase its funding for space initiatives?
What are the primary risks posed by oil spills in the ocean?
Is it crucial to be informed about what’s going on in space?
Importance of environmental cleanliness

In addition to research and diligent work, brilliant work is essential to prepare an educational speech. Please remember that this is not a research paper but only a speech. Prepare accordingly. Research credible sources, but don’t go overboard. Know when to stop researching and get back to writing.

Speech isn’t just about your writing skills; it also involves your communication skills. Don’t leave it to the last minute; start practicing your speech delivery as soon as you finish writing. Using words is simple if you are precise and confident in your presentation of your work. Be intellectual, passionate, and enthusiastic, and your audience will applaud you appropriately.

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By Alex Brown

I'm an ambitious, seasoned, and versatile author. I am experienced in proposing, outlining, and writing engaging assignments. Developing contagious academic work is always my top priority. I have a keen eye for detail and diligence in producing exceptional academic writing work. I work hard daily to help students with their assignments and projects. Experimenting with creative writing styles while maintaining a solid and informative voice is what I enjoy the most.

50+ Easy English Speech Topics for Students: 2 & 5 Minute Speech

March 16, 2024

Best english speech topics for students.

Speech topics are definitely going to be essential for students to learn about what they can speak when they are presented with an opportunity to speak on a particular topic which is common. There are lots of topics which may be common but students may not be well versed in those topics and hence they may find it difficult to speak clearly and in detail.

In this particular article, we will be mentioning more than 50 easy English speech topics for students and these topics will definitely make them feel better and explore all these to make sure that they become better in terms of public speaking and giving speeches. They can also try to write some content on these topics which can make them feel comfortable with these topics and they can write and speak anywhere confidently and fluently.

Also Check : Popular Proverbs in English

Easy English Speech Topics For Students

There are lots of easy topics on which students can speak and they can definitely find their content available on various sources on the Internet and these topics have been mentioned as follows:

What is success in life?
How can we save ourselves from fake news?
What is self-confidence?
Is love more powerful than hate?
What is the social impact of COVID-19?
Can online learning be fun?
How can violent video games be restricted?
Speech on online games?
Benefits of Music
What are the benefits of learning a second language?
Importance of education in our life

2-Minute Speech Topics For Students

There are lots of topics on which 2-minute speeches can easily be delivered by the students and they need to make sure that these topics are handled very well with enough content to be spoken. Below is a list of these topics about which students can easily feel confident once they start speaking at least for 2 minutes:

Importance of homework in school
Learnings from lockdown of COVID-19
Is it possible to recycle food?
Why should schools teach sign language?
Are women better to become Presidents and Prime Ministers than men?
How are books better than movies for students?
Impact of technology on our life
Should children’s reality shows be completely banned?
Smart work versus hard work: which one is better?
What is nuclear energy?
Importance of kindness in our life

5-Minute Speech Topics For Students

There are topics that students can choose to speak at least for 5 minutes and they can prepare for their speeches for schools and colleges. Below is a list of these topics on which students can try and speak confidently and that will help them feel better in terms of their English:

What are the benefits of music?
How can we get rid of fake news?
Is making public transport free a good step?
What should the government do regarding violent video games?
Speech on honesty
Speech on humanitarian work
Speech on the importance of learning computer
Speech on learning foreign languages
How can self-confidence decide our career?
Is it possible to learn English fast?
How can good politics change a country’s future?

English Speech Topics On Environment

If you speak on topics related to the environment, it will definitely help you speak all the related topics comfortably. Let us know some of the topics from the environment that you can give speeches on:

Speech on ozone layer depletion
Speech on deforestation
Global warming
Water saving methods
Speech on waste management
Speech on climate change
How do natural disasters influence the environment?
Extinction of rare species
Benefits of recycling

English Speech Topics On Technology

Technology plays a very important role in our life and there are many topics that can be helpful for you as a student as you can try to explore them and know more about them to deliver speeches in an effective manner. Let’s look at some technology-related topics:

The Impact of technology on our society
The rise of artificial intelligence
E-commerce and its benefits
Gaming technology
Entertainment industry

English Speech Topics On Festivals

Festivals play a very important role in everyone’s life and they are great especially for brotherhood and there are lots of festivals on which speeches can be delivered. Let us get to know some of the important topics that you can deliver speeches on:

Speech on Diwali
Importance of celebrating festivals together
Speech on Holi
Speech on Eid
Speech on Christmas
Speech on religious festivals and rituals

English Speech Topics On Corruption

It is crucial to spread awareness about corruption and this can be done through speeches as well. There are lots of corruption-related topics that need to be explored.

What is corruption?
Impact of corruption
Media and corruption
How is politics affected by corruption?
How can corruption spoil a company’s environment?

English Speech Topics On Social Issues 4

Social issues are the most important issues that everyone needs to talk about. Having a good grasp on social issues can really make anyone give speeches comfortably. If you are aware of social issues, there are a number of topics you can select and prepare speeches on:

Importance of equality
Education for females
Reservation
Woman empowerment
Child labour
Unemployment in society
Globalization

Also Read : Common English-Speaking Sentences for Beginners

Tips To Prepare And Present A Good Speech

Giving a great speech is an art and you have to do with lots of things that are important for you to keep in mind. Understanding the topic that you are going to speak on is one of the most important things that you as a student of public speaking can think about. If you know that you have a topic, then it is important to go through other things that have been mentioned as follows:

1. Know your audience and engage with them

Since you already know that this is the topic that you are going to speak on, it is imperative for you to understand the type of audience that you are going to speak before. Once you know the audience, you have to start engaging with them during speech which can really enhance the speech in a better way.

2. Keep it simple

You don’t have to complicate your speech by using complicated vocabulary but you have to make sure that your speech is simple and you are able to connect with your audience in a better way. Your main focus should be to convey the message that you want to in as better way as possible.

3. Use your body language

The importance of body language is such that once you understand it and start using it, it will be able to give you more and more confidence in terms of giving your speech in a better. You have to use your body language to make sure that your audience is able to connect with you very clearly. The importance of body language while delivering any speech plays a very essential role in terms of conveying the message effectively.

4. Do as much practice as possible beforehand

Practice is what becomes the key when it comes to delivering a great speech on any topic. Beforehand, you need to practice the written content as much as possible and then you will be able to feel more confident before you step on to deliver your speech.

5. Structure your speech

Having a fixed structure of the topic that you are going to speak on is something which can make you feel more confident. Know what are the things that you are going to speak about next. The structuring of the speech will make sure that there are a few points that are going to be in your mind and you have to speak those points in a very clear manner.

Topics related to the environment, corruption, social issues and technology are so common topics that you as students studying in schools and colleges can make yourself ready with in order to deliver speeches. Once you are able to deliver speeches in English on these topics, it will certainly help in boosting your confidence level and you will be able to feel the difference in your language and in the manner of delivering speech yourself. This is something which if done on a regular basis can certainly make you a better speaker of the English language.

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Speech Topics in English for Students and Children

Many times we have wanted our voices to be heard and also inspire others with our ideas and thoughts. However, we aren’t able to do so in the correct manner sometimes. It is mostly because one fails to find the right words at the right times. That is why we have speeches. They help you attract the attention of the audience and make people listen to you. In school and college, speech topics become a part of our lives. While it is comparatively easy to write an essay, to deliver a speech is an entirely different thing. Proper persuasive speech topics can help you inform and convince your target audience. In order to do that, you need to do thorough research and state valid points to make a good impression.

When we talk about persuasive speech topics, it is important to note that they must inform, educate, convince or motivate your audience. In other words, you will be influencing them to accept your point of view. The finest persuasive speech topics are always stimulating, daring and very crisp and clear. Always remember to choose an interesting persuasive speech topic. It will help attract the attention of the listener or reader from the start to the end. Moreover, make sure to have ample knowledge about the topics, which will assist you in counter-questioning.

When choosing your persuasive speech topic, make sure it is familiar so you can prepare it easily. Further, your audience must care about the topic and must be able to easily visualize them. The main point is to make sure to not choose something that is overdone. Emotional topics help stimulate more emotions and give better chances of achieving the desired outcome.

Types of Persuasive Speech Topics

Factual Persuasive Speech – Use facts and figures to prove whether the topic is true or false
Value Persuasive Speech – Argues whether something is morally correct or not
Policy Persuasive Speech – Speeches that try to advance policies, laws and more.

There are a lot of persuasive speech topics that we consider interesting enough to be chosen as given below. All these persuasive speech topics are relevant and will remain so for a long time. When it comes to choosing persuasive speech topics, your options are infinite. We have compiled some of the best ones to help you make a good impression.

Toppr has done all the thorough research on your behalf so you can solely focus on delivering the speech excellently. In this article, we have listed out numerous important speech topics from various categories for special occasions, on prominent leaders, motivational, persuasive speech topics and more. They are appropriate for everyone from school students to college ones. Our vast collections of speech topics ensure you find anything and everything that you are looking for. Following is a great list of speech topics divided into different categories like persuasive speech topics and more for a better and quick search:

List of 100+ Speech Topics for Students and Children

List of persuasive speech topics.

Will punishing bullies help?
How to speak confidently in public?
Do exam results alone determine a child’s worth?
Do video games promote violence?
How to overcome the fear of Maths?
Should schools have longer recess time?
Should schools make swimming lessons mandatory?
What is the best age to own a mobile phone?
What is better: Paper books or E-Books?
How to overcome exam fever?

List of Persuasive Speech Topics on Environment

How will recycling help us?
Should there be a ban on smoking in public places?
Should zoos be banned?
Should there be a ban on animal testing?
Will banning plastic bags help?
Should exotic animals be kept as pets?
Is the government doing enough to tackle Global Warming?
How to control water pollution?
What is better: Buying pets or Adoption?
Why Elephant riding is unethical?

Speech Topics about Prominent Leaders

APJ Abdul Kalam Speech
Jawaharlal Nehru Speech
Lal Bahadur Shastri Speech
Mahatma Gandhi Speech
Speech On Swami Vivekananda

Speech Topics about Yourself

My Aim In Life Speech
My Mother Speech
My School Life Speech
My School Speech

Get the huge list of more than 500 Essay Topics and Ideas

Speech Topics on Environment and Nature

Climate Change Speech
Global Warming Speech
Save Environment Speech
Save Water Speech
Speech About Nature
Speech On Air Pollution
Speech On Deforestation
Speech On Disaster Management
Speech On Environment
Speech On Importance Of Water
Speech On Pollution
Speech On Waste Management
Speech On Water
Speech On Water Pollution
Speech On World Environment Day

Speech Topics on Festivals and Events

Speech on Ambedkar Jayanti
Children’s Day Speech
Christmas Day Speech
Gandhi Jayanti Speech
Hindi Diwas Speech
Human Rights Day Speech
Independence Day Speech
International Women’s Day Speech
Labour Day Speech
Mother’s Day Speech
Speech On Baisakhi
Speech On Diwali
Speech On World Population Day
Teachers Day Celebration Speech
Teachers Day Speech
Welcome Speech For Independence Day
Tryst With Destiny

Speech Topics on Proverbs

Health Is Wealth Speech
Knowledge Is Power Speech
Laughter Is The Best Medicine Speech
Speech On Unity Is Strength

Speech Topics for Special Occasions

Best Man Speech
Best Farewell Speech
Annual Function Speech
Farewell Speech For Colleague
Retirement Farewell Speech
Thank You Speech
Thank You Speech For Award
Thank You Speech For Birthday
Thank You Speech For Farewell
Vote Of Thanks Speech
Welcome Speech For Republic Day
Welcome Speech For Annual Function
Welcome Speech For College Function
Welcome Speech For Conference
Welcome Speech For Event
Welcome Speech For Farewell

Speech Topics on Social Issues

Beti Bachao Beti Padhao Speech
Clean India Speech
Organ Donation Speech
Road Safety Speech
Speech On Child Labour
Speech On Agriculture
Speech On Cleanliness
Speech On Corruption
Women Empowerment Speech
Speech On Unemployment

Speech Topics about Education

Importance Of Education Speech
Speech on Education
Speech On Books
Speech On Education System In India
Speech On Girls Education
Value Of Education Speech

Speech Topics for Kids

Doctor Speech
Speech On Money
Speech On Mother
Speech On Music
Speech On Respect
Speech On Sports
Speech On Sports And Games
Speech On the Importance of Teacher in Our Lives
Speech About Friendship
Speech On India
Speech On Junk Food
Speech On Grandparents

Speech Topics on Public Speaking Topics

Speech On Article 370
Speech On Constitution Of India
Election Speech
Leadership Speech
Political Speech
Speech About Youth
Speech On Fashion
Speech On Generation Gap
Speech On Indian Army
Speech On Indian Culture
Speech On Internet
Speech On Technology
Speech On Unity
Speech On Yoga
Speech On Travel And Tourism
Speech On Health
Speech On Importance Of Cleanliness

List of Persuasive Speech Topics on Education

Should school uniforms be banned?
Should we allow mobile phones in school?
Co-Education has more benefits or drawbacks?
What is better: Rote learning or Hands-on Learning?
Boarding schools are better than Day schools?
Dropping a year helps students or not?
Are PowerPoint presentations a waste of time?
Having the same grading system for all students, is it fair?
Should it be mandatory for all schools to have a canteen?
Are smart classes beneficial to students?

Motivational Speech Topics

Speech About Dreams
Speech About Life
Speech On Time
Speech On Discipline
Speech On Happiness
Speech On Kindness
Speech On Value Of Time
Speech On Health And Fitness

Tips for Writing a Speech

It does not matter if you have the most innovative ideas if you don’t execute them well in your speech. A good speech always invokes emotion, is well-researched and addresses relevant subjects. In order to write a good speech, make sure to follow the points given below:

Structure: Always remember to have a definite structure when you begin writing your speech. It is a frame that will give shape to your speech and help keep you on track. Jot down all ideas coming to your mind and then connect them so that each part has something interesting to keep the audience intrigued.

Vocabulary: A speech is meant for an audience that is filled with different types of people. You need to make sure you are using the right words so your message is conveyed successfully to each and every one. Only the right words can express and highlight your message. Thus, the level of complexity must match the level of the audience of your speech.

Relatable: Your speech is what you make of it, if your speech has incredible points but you don’t deliver it well, it won’t work. Try to include relatable things in the speech to make everyone comfortable and deliver it in a humanized manner so the audience relates to you as well as your speech.

Examples: When you use examples, it helps support and proves your point in a better manner. It also helps convince the audience and result in better engagement. Try using just enough examples so people buy what you are offering and also to add that emotional edge to your speech.

Short: The worst thing you can do to your audience is to deliver a long speech. Do not try too hard and sum up your views in a short and informative speech. In fact, the longer you take, the more mistakes you will make. When someone is investing their time to listen to you, make sure it is worth it.

To sum it up, a good speech requires time and effort. Try to pick the right topic if it’s in your hand and express your thoughts and opinions freely, without any hesitance. Consistency is key, you won’t get it perfect the first time, but eventually, you will get there.

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Speech about Life for Students and Children
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Speech on Water for Students and Children

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Home — Blog — Topic Ideas — 130 Inspiring Persuasive Speech Topics For Students

130 Inspiring Persuasive Speech Topics For Students

Definition of the Persuasive Speech

Before you explore various persuasive speech topics , let's take a quick look at the definition and learn what a persuasive speech is and how it can be identified in writing. As the title implies, a persuasive speech represents a type of speech that aims to persuade a person to believe in a certain concept or a notion. In some instances, a persuasive speech contains a call to action. A persuasive speech topic may deal with professional challenges, world events, and debates that can be political, commercial, legislative, or educational. Depending on what you study or research, the choices are basically unlimited! Therefore, let your inspiration run free, and ensure that you have at least one statement or argument that poses the ground for persuasion. Choose a certain idea, take a note about your take, and make it clear as you choose a competitive persuasive topic.

How to Compose an Excellent Persuasive Speech?

Regardless of what persuasive essay topics you may choose, specific structure rules will help you to achieve success and avoid confusion as you shape your ideas and make your speech inspiring and clear. Here are the main points to consider:

Choose a topic that inspires you and reflects your research objectives.
Narrow things down and do your best to define the goal of your speech.
Study your target audience and check whether your persuasive speech addresses their concerns.
Continue with the thesis statement representing your opinion or a certain notion.
Create an outline for your speech with the hook sentence in the introduction.
Provide facts from both sides of the debate.
Include at least three pieces of evidence for your writing.
Make a call to action in conclusion and repeat the main points.
Edit your speech for repetitions and grammar mistakes.
Proofread your speech aloud and check the readability factor twice.

List of Persuasive Speech Topics

Below is the list of 130 competitive persuasive speech essay topics you can use for brainstorming purposes as a speaker . Play with the wording of these persuasive speech examples , narrow things down, and choose the category that looks most suitable.

Persuasive Speech Topics for College

Here are some persuasive speech topics college style that you will find helpful:

College education should be made free or funded based on academic merits.
The problems of college debt are artificial and can be resolved.
The secret to college popularity: why fashion still matters in 2023?
The colleges represent the best ground for social movements.
Social media use among college students can benefit their studies.
College safety should be increased, and the parties must have stricter control.
American colleges are better than most European institutions regarding career chances.
Hybrid form of learning is the future of college education.
College bullying and the reasons why the cases of harassment are rarely reported.
The best ways to overcome college depression and anxiety.

Persuasive Speech About Art, Media, and Culture

Dealing with persuasive speech ideas , consider the field of art, media, and culture as one of the branches of science worth exploring. Here are some starting points worth checking:

Modern metal music has roots in the blues and classical music creations.
The older generation sometimes pays attention to the music we like.
Why do college bands remain popular?
The use of art exhibitions in colleges should be obligatory.
The cultural aspect of baseball popularity’s decline in the United States.
The wrong perception of wearing a hoodie: the cultural factor and misconceptions.
The use of social media helps to keep people alert to environmental issues.
Instagram influencers should not be considered journalists.
Video game culture should be considered a separate cultural trend.
Neuroscience and using artificial intelligence to write music will eliminate creativity.

Persuasive Speech About the Economy and Work

Now, if you are majoring in Business Management, studying the Economy, or working in the Financial sector, the following persuasive speech ideas will be quite helpful in keeping you inspired as you overcome initial confusion:

The concept of third-world countries is outdated and must be eliminated.
Cryptocurrencies are damaging to the American economy.
The phenomenon of economic wonder in Iceland is only possible because of the limited population.
Economic education must be an obligatory part of each academic curriculum.
Economic disparity in Afghanistan is caused by the current gender policies.
Workflow issues can be eliminated with the help of LMS platforms.
The challenges of employment in the United States during the pandemic could have been eliminated.
Most social campaigns these days are driven by the funds provided.
There is a man in the middle in every economic executive plan in business.
What are the pros and cons of digital accounting systems, or why are pros speaking against them?

Persuasive Speech About Education

The problems encountered in education always remain a subject of heated debates as education poses a serious concern not among current learners and educators and everyone out there. Check these helpful topic ideas:

ADHD is an overhyped problem and can be addressed with the help of stricter discipline.
Dealing with PTSD and military veterans can be approached with the help of music education.
AI-based tools will never replace the physical teacher in the classroom.
Pandemic situation has shown us that virtual classrooms take away the sense of belonging.
Smartboards as the solution for shy primary school students.
The reasons why there is a negative bias concerning community colleges.
Why should you choose a Christian college for your education?
Handwriting is still an important skill that should not be ignored.
The pros and cons of the Waldorf schools education system.
Augmented Reality is a dangerous concept for middle schools.
The benefits of gamification in the development of cognitive skills.
The mechanisms that should be used for reporting teacher-student abuse.
The problem of gun control in the classrooms: do teachers have a right to carry a gun?
The racial prejudice in the business management schools in the USA: why it's still a problem.
Colleges in the United States should offer free mental coaching sessions.
The reasons why every student should consider becoming an app developer.
The subjects that should be added to a modern college education.
The practice of exchange students leads to a lack of adjustability in the native country.
Females represent better specialists in the cyber security field.
The phenomenon of college athletes: why should they be treated just like anyone else?

Mental Health Persuasive Speech Topics

Dealing with mental health subjects is quite complex. If you are majoring in Healthcare and Psychology, you must remember to be respectful and sensitive as you make your choice and portray a viewpoint :

Why is depression often overlooked as a serious mental health problem?
Social media addiction leads to negative body image issues and wrong perceptions.
The phenomenon of bloggers creates a false impression of instant success.
Childhood abuse recovery: why do the survivors often keep silent?
Schools and colleges in the United States must introduce strict mental health screening.
The negative effect of violent media games on children.
British medical ethics versus American perception of mental health.
LGBT movement and dealing with mental health issues is a unique concept worth exploring.
YouTube mental health courses as a free alternative to commercial offerings.
Armed conflicts lead to prolonged mental health issues in the future.

Business Persuasive Speech Topics

Business marketing and business management also represent a popular field of science for composing an excellent persuasive speech essay. Just take a look at these example ideas :

Why is starting a business as a college student worth it in 2023?
Digital marketing is always the problem of brand loyalty and switching.
Social media and website localization: why should modern businesses implement the practice?
Doing business in China: what are the cultural points worth considering?
Why joining a free business course online will make you a better learner.
The business aspect of the Black Lives Matter social movement.
The male vs. female perception of a successful business in the IT sector.
The use of virtual reality tools to study the target market: a fashion case study.
British versus American understanding of corporate ethics.
Politics have no place in the retail business.

Medical Persuasive Speech Topics

The medical and nursing students will find these persuasive speech ideas quite helpful and interesting :

The problems of the NHS system in the United Kingdom.
The pros and cons of the ObamaCare healthcare campaign.
What are the best methods to overcome professional burnout for nursing personnel?
The most common challenges of the ER nursing department: ethics vs. personal safety.
The readiness for the future risks: analysis of the pandemic threats.
Covid-19 has helped to make our world a safer place.
Why should medical volunteering be developed in 2023?
Technology is not always helpful if it's not accessible in remote areas.
Dealing with religious beliefs when offering medical help.
The limitations when reporting suspected abuse: why the changes must be introduced?

Scientific Persuasive Speech Topics

In case you want to choose something complex and scientific, these ten persuasive speech topic offerings will help to keep you inspired:

Augmented Reality tools usage will help people with learning disabilities learn.
The link between the vaccination risks and the cases of autism among children.
The psychological aspect of using painkillers and the damage to the person's system.
Exploration of nuclear Physics remains useless for most people today.
The negative side of the Green Energy transformation.
Politics should have no place in the scientific community.
An ethical aspect of genetically modified foods is ignored because of the lower costs.
The scientific benefits of uniting physically challenged students with healthy learners.
The positive effect of blues music on the human brain: the cardio wave effect.
Social media changes how communication takes things to another level.

Sports Persuasive Speech Topics

If you are a college athlete or majoring in the field of Sports Coaching and Recreational Medicine, you should consider checking these ten persuasive speech subjects that we have chosen for you:

The best ways to manage stress when you become enrolled as a college athlete.
Playing sports in college helps to eliminate depression and anxiety risks.
College sports must be an obligatory part of the curriculum without grading.
The history of college basketball in the United States helped to shape numerous subcultures.
The social aspect of sports and communication among middle school and primary school learners.
The use of sports to challenge substance abuse in the workplace.
Why does politics have no place in sports, and why should athletes be allowed to compete?
Tennis represents one of the best sports to help people maintain cardiovascular health.
Why should playing golf be made more accessible for people with low income?
Playing sports in college helps to address weight gain issues and improve a person's mood.

Family Persuasive Speech Topics

You can also approach the subject of family relations or talk about the values important to you. Check out these ten ideas below:

The values of the methodist church in the United States and their perception of family.
Stay Together For The Kids tour or how alternative rock bands contribute to family values.
The perception of family times during the Victorian Era.
Why is social media changing how children perceive their parents and grandparents?
Resolution of family conflicts can be resolved with the help of mediation techniques.
The psychology of domestic abuse in the Middle East: why are cultural points not likely to change?
The practice of boarding schools in the United Kingdom and overcoming homesickness.
The challenges of becoming independent when leaving home for college are overrated.
Family problems or growing up in a broken home should not be considered a reason for stigmatization.
The American Dream concept is still relevant for the majority of American families.

Persuasive Speech About Politics and Society

Dealing with politics and society may sound easy, yet it often asks you to narrow things down and provide data from both sides of the debate to keep your position clear. See how it's done in the ten political persuasive speech ideas below:

The concept of the Cold War is more relevant for our times than ever.
Celebrities should not become involved in political campaigns and stay true to the art.
Most American television networks are run by private funds and offer biased information.
The phenomenon of West-Coast and East-Coast politics in the United States is artificial.
Politics and church should not mix, and why religion should not become a part of the conflict.
Racial prejudice in the United States is rooted in wrong politics.
The cultural perception of Canada by an average American is often incorrect.
Marijuana use should be banned as a society cannot control it adequately.
School students should be allowed to vote, starting at 13 years old.
The use of political agendas in colleges should be banned.

Government Persuasive Speech Topics

Now, some students will seek something related to governmental studies or legislation as a way to create their persuasive speech essays. As a way to help you out, here are the subjects for speeches you can start with:

The U.S. government should raise the age limit for the use of alcohol and tobacco.
The controversies related to the military budget of the United States should be turned into a public discussion.
The concept of political immunity and diplomacy should be eliminated as it takes responsibility away.
The government should decrease immigration to the United States.
Politicians should have an obligatory education related to Law and Political Sciences.
Famous media personalities should approach the external politics of the United States.
Governmental support and the problem of cheating with college scholarships.
The problem of racial prejudice could be eliminated with the help of a different political agenda.
The concept of luxury taxing should not be obligatory for celebrities if they participate in charity campaigns.
The reasons why children should learn Political Science and government structure in school.

Discover Thousands of Free Essay Samples!

Getting your persuasive speech done can be quite challenging, so we have created a list of new topics you may consider. Still, you should see the actual essay examples, which we are happy to offer! Depending on the subject you would like to explore in greater depth for your persuasive speech (or any other purpose!), you can always refer to our free database, where you can find amazing essays and topics.

Our website offers thousands of topics that keywords or subjects can check. These represent essays you can use for inspirational purposes as you compose your persuasive speech. If you are unsure about something , you can always get in touch with our team, and we shall happily direct you toward something that fits your academic objectives.

Read your grading rubric twice, or hit us up with your questions! You must be inspired by what you choose because it is the only way to persuade others. Make sure to clarify your point and convince your target audience that your thoughts and ideas are worth checking and following!

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100+ Informative Speech Topics & Ideas for All Students

Post category: Uncategorized
Reading time: 30 mins read

As a student tasked with delivering an informative speech, finding the right topic can be a difficult first step. The challenge doesn’t just end with selecting a topic; it extends to researching, preparing, and effectively presenting it. We’ve got you covered.

Our selection of informative speech topics is filled with captivating and relevant ideas to keep your audience engaged while educating them. You can choose any of these topics as a starting point for an informative and memorable speech.

List of Informative Speech Topics for Students

When selecting informative speech topics for students, the aim is to find subjects that are educational, engaging, and relevant to their interests and experiences. Here are some diverse and thought-provoking informative topic ideas that college students can explore for their informative speeches:

Good Informative Speech Topics for Students

First Aid Basics and Their Importance
Cold and Flu: Symptoms and Prevention
Pediatric Nursing: Caring for Children
Mental Health Awareness in Adolescence
Essentials of Nutritional Health
The Science and Importance of Vaccines
Hygiene Practices to Prevent Illness
The Role of Sleep in Maintaining Health
Understanding and Managing Allergies
An Introduction to Human Anatomy
Special Considerations in Geriatric Nursing
Effective Stress Management Techniques
The Health Benefits of Regular Exercise
Ethical Considerations in Nursing
Managing and Understanding Diabetes
Fundamentals of Wound Care
Common Skin Conditions and Treatments
The Diverse Role of Nurses in Healthcare
Basics of Pain Management
Promoting Cardiovascular Health

Best Informative Speech Topics for College

Advanced First Aid and Crisis Management
In-depth Analysis of Mental Health Disorders
Pediatric Oncology: Challenges and Care
Lifestyle’s Impact on Chronic Diseases
Nutritional Therapy in Healthcare Settings
Vaccine Development and Effectiveness
Infection Control Techniques in Hospitals
Sleep Psychology and Related Disorders
Comprehensive Allergy Management
Detailed Study of Human Physiology
Geriatric Nursing and Age-Related Diseases
Advanced Stress and Anxiety Management
Exercise Physiology in Disease Prevention
Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Nursing
In-depth Look at Diabetes and Endocrine Health
Advanced Techniques in Wound Healing
Dermatology from a Nursing Perspective
Leadership and Management in Nursing
Comprehensive Approaches to Pain Management
Cardiac Care and Rehabilitation Techniques

Easy Informative Speech Topics

Basic First Aid Techniques Everyone Should Know
The Importance of Hand Hygiene in Preventing Infections
Understanding Common Cold: Symptoms and Treatment
Introduction to Healthy Eating and Nutrition
Basic Steps for Blood Pressure Monitoring
Sleep Hygiene: Tips for a Good Night’s Sleep
Stress Management: Simple Relaxation Techniques
Basics of Diabetes: Types and Management
Understanding and Preventing Seasonal Allergies
Basic Wound Care: Do’s and Don’ts
The Role of Vaccinations in Public Health
The Impact of Smoking on Health
Introduction to Mental Health and Well-being
Basic Skin Care and Sun Protection
The Importance of Regular Exercise
Understanding Asthma: Basics and Management
Principles of Healthy Weight Management
Dehydration: Causes, Symptoms, and Prevention
Introduction to Geriatric Health Issues
Pediatric Health: Common Childhood Illnesses

Short Informative Speech Topics

Handwashing: The Best Way to Prevent Germs
Quick Tips for a Healthy Heart
Introduction to CPR: Basic Steps
The Dangers of Antibiotic Resistance
Understanding Migraines and Headache Management
Basic Nutrition: Vitamins and Minerals Essentials
The Significance of Breast Cancer Awareness
Recognizing and Responding to a Stroke
Basic Eye Care and Common Eye Problems
Importance of Vaccines in Disease Prevention
Ear Health and Preventing Hearing Loss
Simple Techniques for Anxiety Relief
Oral Hygiene and Dental Health Basics
Foot Care for Diabetics
Dealing with Common Digestive Disorders
Bone Health: Preventing Osteoporosis
Overview of Common Respiratory Diseases
Basic Understanding of Arthritis
Skin Cancer Awareness and Prevention
Basics of Maternal and Child Health

Interesting/ Fun Informative Speech Topics

The Evolution of Nursing Throughout History
Fascinating Medical Discoveries and Innovations
The Role of Pets and Animals in Healing
Bizarre but True: Unusual Medical Conditions
Medical Miracles: Remarkable Recovery Stories
How Laughter Benefits Physical Health
Exploring the Power of the Placebo Effect
Myths and Facts About the Human Brain
Pioneering Women in the Field of Nursing
The Science Behind Love and Its Health Benefits
Unique Traditional Healing Practices Around the World
The Future of Telemedicine and Virtual Healthcare
The Psychology of Pain: Perception vs. Reality
The Weird World of Rare Genetic Conditions
How Music Therapy Enhances Health and Well-being
The History and Significance of World Health Day
Famous Medical Experiments in History
The Impact of Space Travel on Human Health
The Influence of Social Media on Health Trends
Nursing in War: Stories from the Frontline

Unique Informative Speech Topics

The Link Between Climate Change and Public Health
The Future of Genetic Engineering in Medicine
Exploring the World of Rare Diseases
Nursing Practices in Different Cultures
Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
The Psychology of Color in Healing Environments
The Impact of Globalization on Healthcare
Revolutionary Medical Treatments Under Development
The Ethical Dilemmas of Modern Medicine
The Role of Nutrition in Chronic Disease Management
Virtual Reality and its Application in Healthcare
The Evolution of Surgical Techniques
The Role of Nurses in Disaster Response
Breakthroughs in Brain-Computer Interfaces
The Connection Between Art and Healing
The Growing Field of Gerontechnology
The Science of Sleep Disorders
The Challenges of Healthcare in Remote Areas
The Effects of Social Isolation on Mental Health
The Role of Robotics in Modern Surgery

Informative Speech Topics – 2024 Ideas

The Role of Nursing in Global Health Initiatives
Advances in Stem Cell Research and Therapy
The Future of Personalized Medicine
The Ethics of Assisted Reproductive Technologies
The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Patient Care
The Growing Trend of Plant-Based Diets and Health
The Use of Big Data in Healthcare
The Challenges of Providing Healthcare in Conflict Zones
The Role of Mental Health First Aid
The Impact of Climate Change on Infectious Diseases
Innovations in Wound Care and Healing
The Future of Nursing Education
The Role of Nurses in Palliative and End-of-Life Care
The Effects of Pollution on Respiratory Health
The Importance of Global Vaccine Equity
The Challenges of Rural Healthcare Delivery
Emerging Trends in Healthcare Technology
The Psychology Behind Chronic Pain Management
The Importance of Cultural Competence in Nursing
The Growing Field of Nursing Informatics

Creative Informative Speech Topics

The Art and Science of Nursing
The Role of Storytelling in Patient Care
Innovative Approaches to Patient Education
The Impact of Urban Design on Public Health
The Intersection of Fashion and Medical Wearables
Creative Therapies in Mental Health Care
The Use of Gamification in Health Education
The Role of Nurses in Health Policy Development
Exploring the World of Holistic Nursing
The Future of 3D Printing in Medicine
The Importance of Empathy in Healthcare
The Use of Augmented Reality in Surgical Training
The Role of Nutrition in Cancer Prevention
Innovations in Home Health Care Technology
The History and Future of Epidemics and Pandemics
The Role of Nurses in Climate Change Advocacy
The Use of Social Media in Health Awareness Campaigns
The Evolution of Maternal and Neonatal Care
Exploring the Benefits of Alternative Medicine
The Role of Nurses in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention

What Is An Informative Speech?

An informative speech is a type of speech that aims to educate the audience on a specific topic, providing them with facts, insights, and information in a clear and understandable manner. Its main objective is to enhance the knowledge and understanding of the listeners about the subject being discussed.

What are the 4 Types of Informative Speeches?

Informative speeches are a cornerstone of effective communication, especially in educational and professional settings. They serve the crucial purpose of educating and enlightening audiences on various topics. Broadly categorized, there are four distinct types of informative speeches, each serving a unique role in conveying information.

The four types of informative speeches are:

Descriptive Speeches: These speeches aim to provide a detailed, vivid, and clear picture of a person, place, object, or event. The goal is to make the audience feel as if they are familiar with the subject through the use of descriptive language.

Explanatory Speeches: These focus on explaining a concept, idea, or phenomenon. The objective is to clarify the subject matter and help the audience understand it better, often involving the breaking down of complex ideas into simpler parts.

Demonstrative Speeches: These speeches are about showing or demonstrating how to do something. They are often accompanied by visual aids and step-by-step instructions, making them particularly useful for teaching processes or procedures.

Definition Speeches: This type involves explaining the meaning, context, or background of a specific term, concept, or issue. It’s about providing a clear and precise definition that enhances the audience’s understanding of a subject that might be abstract or complex.

Choosing Informative Speech Ideas

When writing an informative speech, one of the most critical steps is selecting a compelling and appropriate topic. Choose an informative speech topic that is interesting and can captivate your audience and ensure your message is conveyed and understood. Here’s how to choose a topic using the Five W’s – Who, What, When, Where, and Why – approach:

Who: Consider your audience. Who are they? What are their interests, age group, and educational background? Selecting an interesting topic that resonates with the specific demographics of your audience will make your speech more impactful.

What: Determine the subject of your information speech. What topic do you want to address? Ensure it’s informative, interesting, and something you’re passionate about. The ‘what’ should also align with the purpose of your speech – are you aiming to educate, explain, demonstrate, or define?

When: Timing can be crucial. When is the best time to talk about these essay topics? Choose a subject that is timely and relevant. For instance, discussing technological advancements would be more engaging if aligned with recent breakthroughs.

Where: The setting or context where your professional speech will be delivered can influence your choice. Where will you be speaking? In a classroom, a business meeting, or a community event? The environment and occasion can dictate the appropriateness and tone of your topic.

Why: Finally, consider why this topic is essential. Why should your audience care about it? The ‘why’ is crucial for creating a compelling speech that informs and connects with the audience on a deeper level.

How to Write a Killer Informative Speech

Writing a good informative speech involves several key steps, each designed to ensure that your speech is engaging, informative, and memorable. Here’s a guide to help you craft an effective informative speech:

Choose a Topic

When selecting a topic for an informative speech essay, choose one that aligns with your interests and expertise, ensuring a passionate and knowledgeable presentation that resonates with your audience. The topic should be engaging, offering new insights or a deeper understanding of a subject, and appropriately scoped to be thoroughly covered within the time allotted for your speech. This balance ensures that your speech is informative, interesting, relevant, and impactful to those listening.

Understand Your Audience

Understanding your audience is a crucial aspect of preparing an informative speech. This involves analyzing their interests, background knowledge, and expectations to tailor your presentation for maximum engagement and relevance. For instance, a speech aimed at industry professionals should differ in complexity and terminology compared to one intended for high school students.

Knowing the audience’s baseline understanding of the topic helps avoid oversimplification or excessive complexity. Additionally, understanding their interests can guide you in choosing which aspects of the topic to emphasize, making the speech more appealing and relatable. A well-tailored speech, cognizant of its audience, delivers information effectively and ensures that the audience remains engaged and interested throughout the presentation.

Gather Evidence and Facts From Credible Scholarly Sources

Gathering evidence and facts from credible scholarly sources is fundamental in preparing an informative speech. This process involves extensive research to ensure the information you present is accurate, current, and authoritative. Utilizing sources such as academic journals, books, and reputable online databases adds depth and credibility to your speech. It’s important to critically evaluate these sources for their reliability and relevance to your topic.

Incorporating well-researched facts and evidence strengthens your arguments and enhances your speech’s overall quality. It demonstrates to your audience that you thoroughly understand the subject and are committed to providing them with trustworthy and informative information. This careful attention to source selection and fact verification is key to delivering a speech that is engaging and intellectually robust.

Deconstruct the Topic to Select the Best Ideas

Deconstructing the topic involves brainstorming and breaking down the overarching subject into its constituent components or key ideas. By identifying these core elements, you can structure your speech in a logical and organized manner.

This ensures you cover all relevant aspects of the topic and enables you to prioritize and emphasize the most significant and compelling ideas. Through this deconstruction and selection process, you can create a clear, focused, and engaging speech, providing your audience with a well-structured and informative presentation.

Write a Thesis Statement for Your Informative Speech

A thesis statement serves as the compass that guides the entire public speaking presentation. It encapsulates the main message you aim to convey and provides a roadmap for both you as the speaker and your audience.

A well-constructed thesis statement should state the topic and indicate the specific angle, perspective, or key points you plan to cover. It’s the nucleus around your informative essay speech, ensuring your content remains focused and relevant. Moreover, a strong thesis statement provides your audience with a clear understanding of what to expect, enhancing their comprehension and engagement throughout your speech.

Inform Rather Than Persuade the Audience

Here, the primary objective is to inform and educate the audience rather than to persuade or convince them. This key distinction underlines the importance of objectively presenting facts, data, and information without bias or attempting to sway opinions. The aim is to give the audience a well-rounded understanding of the topic, enabling them to form opinions and make informed decisions.

While persuasive speeches focus on advocating for a particular viewpoint, informative speeches prioritize clarity, objectivity, and the dissemination of knowledge. By adhering to this principle of informing rather than persuading, speakers can build trust with their audience and ensure that their message is received as credible and unbiased.

Write the First Draft of Your Speech

Here, you transform your research, unique ideas, and thesis statement into a cohesive and structured narrative. Focusing on getting your ideas down on paper without being overly concerned about perfection is important. Start with a strong introduction that grabs the audience’s attention and presents your thesis statement. In the body of the speech, present your key points or ideas logically, providing supporting evidence and examples.

Finally, craft a conclusion summarizing the main points and leaving a lasting impression. While the first draft may be rough around the edges, it serves as the foundation for refining and improving your speech in subsequent revisions. It’s a critical step in turning your knowledge and insights into an informative and engaging presentation.

Start Writing Your Essay with Power Words

Power words can include compelling statistics, vivid anecdotes, thought-provoking questions, or impactful quotations. The goal is to grab your audience’s attention immediately, piquing their curiosity and drawing them into your speech. They set the tone for your presentation and create an initial impression that can linger throughout the speech.

They also serve as hooks, enticing the audience to listen attentively and setting the stage for the valuable information you are about to impart. Starting your speech with such impactful words creates an engaging opening that sets the tone for the rest of your presentation.

Develop the Body of the Speech

The body of your informative speech is where you delve into the core content, presenting your key points, supporting evidence, and explanations. Each key point should be organized logically, and transitions between them should be smooth to maintain the flow of your speech. To ensure clarity, providing examples, statistics, and relevant facts that bolster your main ideas is essential. Visual aids, if applicable, can enhance comprehension and engagement.

Remember to maintain an objective and informative tone, steering clear of persuasion or bias. By developing the body of your speech with a clear structure and comprehensive content, you enable your audience to follow along easily and gain a deep understanding of the topic. This is where the substance of your speech lies, and a well-structured body ensures that your informative message is effectively conveyed to your audience.

End Your Informative Speech with a Bang

Concluding your informative speech with impact is essential to leave a lasting impression on your audience. This closing section is where you summarize your main points, reinforcing the key takeaways for your listeners. It’s also an opportunity to make a final statement or leave the audience with something to ponder.

An effective conclusion can involve a powerful quote, a thought-provoking question, or a call to action, depending on the nature of your speech. By ending your speech with a “bang,” you ensure that your audience departs with a clear understanding of the topic and a sense of closure, making your presentation memorable and impactful.

Proofread and Edit, Then Present

Proofreading and editing your informative speech is the final critical step before the presentation. Carefully review your speech for clarity, coherence, and grammatical accuracy. Check for any factual inaccuracies or inconsistencies in your content. Ensure that your speech flows smoothly, with logical transitions between ideas. Pay attention to your pacing and tone to ensure a natural and engaging delivery.

If using visual aids, ensure they are well-prepared and integrated seamlessly into your presentation. You must practice your speech multiple times to refine your delivery and become comfortable with the content. Effective proofreading and editing, followed by diligent rehearsal, contribute to a polished and confident presentation that will effectively inform and engage your audience.

Bottom Line

Selecting topics for an informative speech requires thoughtful consideration to ensure the audience is engaged, informed, and enlightened. The key is to choose subjects that are not only interesting and relevant but also rich in content, allowing for a deep dive into facts, data, and insights. A compelling informative speech topic should entertain and cater to the audience’s interests and knowledge level while offering new perspectives or information.

Balancing complexity with clarity is crucial, ensuring the topic is neither too esoteric nor overly simplistic. Whether the speech aims to educate, raise awareness, or provide a fresh outlook on a familiar subject, the topic should spark curiosity and invite further exploration. Ultimately, the success of an informative speech lies in its ability to convey knowledge in a compelling and accessible manner.

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Speech topics for children

141 best speech topics for kids: middle school and up

By: Susan Dugdale

Providing suitable school speech topics for children is often a real challenge.

(And, yes, I know that's an understatement! I've been there as the parent AND as the teacher. Finding that gem of an idea to light up a child's imagination can be a mutually exhausting exercise. Hopefully this page will provide the speech topic you need very quickly. ☺)

What's on this page

8 themed lists of speech topic suggestions
Community and social issues
Arts and culture
Fun and whimsy
Sports and games
Seasons and nature
Animals, birds, fish
Hobbies and interests

Finding suitable speech topics for children

As their teachers or parents, we want stimulating, interesting subjects for them to work with. However we also need them to be aligned with their age group.

If we make the topics too adult, we risk pushing them into areas they're too young to cope with. If we make them too simplistic, we run the risk of minimizing or patronizing their growing sense of awareness.

As in everything, we need to find the balance.

These speech ideas have worked well for me with middle-school children, aged between 11 years to approximately 14 years.

You'll find some are more suitable for an imaginative child and others for a practical, factual child. Of course, the topic you select will also depend on the objective or goal for the speech.

And if by small chance you reach the end of the page and no speech idea has leaped out to grab you, there's another 50+ elocution topics for kids waiting here.

School Speech Topics for Children - Community, School & Social Issues

Image - shadow of a girl holding a flower on green grass. Text: Speech topics for middle school children. Should more 'green' space (parks) be set aside for community use?

That more 'green' space (parks) should be set aside for community use
That recycling should be compulsory
Everyone should do some sort of regular community service.
That large non-electric cars should be banned
What rights should a child have and why?
Smacking a child should be illegal
Does watching violent TV programs make a child think violence is acceptable?
Everybody should have access to healthy affordable housing.
Does advertising influence our food choices?
Do certain types of pop music teach the wrong values?
Should students have the right to choose what school they go to?
Class sizes should be limited to 20
What do you like most about your school?
The school leaving age should be abolished.
Parents should not pay (bribe) their children to get good grades.
Standardized tests are not a reliable a measure of a person's intelligence.
The words we use and how we say them influences how people behave toward us
Failing a class can be a positive thing.
Clothes and being fashionable are way too important.
Wearing a school uniform lessens the distinctions between those who come from more affluent homes and those who don't.
Coed schools are better.
Extra tuition for those who want or need it should be available free of charge.
Bullying behavior needs to be dealt with promptly and firmly.
Parents should monitor how we use the internet.
Chat rooms can be dangerous
Earbuds are anti-social
Good manners are important

Speech Topics for Children - Arts & Culture

Image- street art- girl on a tire swing. Text: Graffiti is art.

Graffiti is art.
Explain a cultural festival or practice of significance to you that others may not know about or appreciate.
Why are film stars so popular?
Who is your favorite screen hero and why?
What is pop art?
Who is your favorite book/cartoon character and why?
What inspires you about dance/art/drama/music or film?
If you were to write a book for your age group to read what would it be about?
My favorite festival is...
I learn the piano, violin, trumpet, drums (insert whatever instrument)...because...
The type of art I like to look at is...
Strange facts about artists, dancers, musicians etc.
If I was a famous screen star I would...
My favorite story/poem/song as a little child was...

Speech Topics for Children - Fun & Whimsy

A day in my life as a... table, pencil, car, potato, bicycle, blackboard, window, ball, or anything else!
If I ruled the world...
Why I am on the top of Santa's nice/naughty list this year
If I was a parent, the ground rules I would make are...
When I'm famous it will be for...
The silliest practical joke I ever played
If I had three wishes they would be...
If I re-wrote the story of 'The Three Little Pigs', 'Cinderella' etc. it would go like this...
I am a fashion guru and I have decided the new trend will be...
What I think of people from the viewpoint of a tree in the school grounds.
My secret life as a hero.
My greatest and best invention.
Weird and wonderful words - what do they mean?
How to write using invisible ink.
My secret code...How to invent and use a coded language.

School Speech Topics for Children - Sports & Games

Explain the game of checkers/drafts/chess.
My favorite sporting hero is...
The best summer sport is...
I enjoy learning gymnastics, martial arts...because...
Extreme sports are dangerously exciting.
In winter I love to ski, ice skate...
Everybody should learn to play a team sport.
Sport should not be compulsory.
The best indoor games are...
The best on-line games are...
In sport, the rules are there to protect the players.
What I learnt through learning to play...
Winning is not so important as participating.
Strange sports or games.

Speech Topics for Children - Food

Image - vintage children's birthday party. Text: Topics for kids - The best birthday party food.

The best meal in the world is...
The foods I do not like are...
My favorite food to make is...
What's in my lunch box compared to what's in my friend's.
How I learnt to cook.
Healthy food I really like
The best sandwich fillings in the world
The best birthday party food
My favorite Christmas (celebration) food.
Mealtimes in our house - a description
Table manners...Are they important?
When we eat out, my favorite thing to order is...
Fashions in food. What foods used to be eaten regularly that has now gone out of fashion?
What food do you eat most of? Potatoes? Bread? Pasta? How many different ways is it served?

Speech Topics for Children - Seasons & Nature

Image: artistic pattern of autumnal leaves. Text: How and why does a tree change the color of its leaves in the fall?

Why do we have seasons?
How and why does a tree change the color of its leaves in the fall?
How does a tree grow?
What type of wind has the greatest impact where you live? Monsoon? Mistral? The Cape Doctor?
Why does the sky appear blue?
Why do we have day and night time?
How come the earth goes round and round?
What are stars?
How does gravity work?
Why are there tides?
Explain how snow is formed.
How is a diamond made?
What is global warming?
Show the patterns formed in frost.
How does a rainbow work?
Research strange plants - carnivorous etc.
What and where are the biggest trees in the world?
How and why should we conserve nature?

Speech Topics for Children - Animals/Birds/Fish

Why is a dog often called a "man's best friend"?
Are there bad dogs or bad dog owners?
What is horse sense?
Do animals communicate with each other? If so, how?
What birds or wild animals do you see regularly in your home area?
How has the horse been used by man throughout history?
What animal makes a great pet and why?
How to look after a pet properly
Do animals really think or do we only think they do?
Is hunting animals fair?
Is eating meat fair?
What rights should animals have?
Tell an inspiring true story about an animal.
Are zoos good places and why?
Find out about conserving animals/birds/fish in your local area.
Retell a myth or legend about an animal/fish/bird.
Research strange or rare animals/birds or fish.
Interview a pet shop owner to find out what are the most popular pets.
What do you think about restrictions around fishing?
Should having a pet cat be banned because they catch birds?
What is the symbolism associated with some animals/birds or fish? For example, a lion stands for courage or strength.

Speech Topics for Children - Hobbies/Interests

Image: - a collection of colorful handmade finger puppets. Text: How to make finger puppets.

My doll/car/card etc collection
How to make a model car, truck, plane ...
How to sew your own clothes
How to knit
How to take a good photograph
The best board games to play with friends
The best online games for kids
How to play an instrument - a flute, a violin, guitar, piano...
How to make a garden
How to do a magic trick, or two
How to fold paper (origami)
How to put on a play or a concert for friends and family
How to make finger puppets
How to scrapbook
How to learn another language
How to ride a horse, skateboard, etc
The best rainy-day activities are...
How to tell a joke
The best thing I've ever learnt...

Other resources for children's speech topics and speeches

If you've found nothing here to ignite your imagination do try this page of 50+ elocution topics for kids.

Image: colorful label saying "50 Speech topics for kids" in a whimsical, sunshiny font.

If you're here looking for a topic for your own child, go through both pages with them: this one and the other. Suggest other possibilities and adaptions of the topics as you go. You'll need to find a subject they genuinely care about and it's best if the final decision is made by them!

Writing a speech for children

Were you looking for information to help you write a speech for children rather than speech topics for them to use? If so, you'll find this page How to write a speech for kids useful.

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How to start a speech for students (Ultimate opening lines)

Hrideep barot.

Public Speaking , Speech Topics , Speech Writing

Schools and their love for speeches is an affair we are all quite aware of. Now if you are looking to move beyond the mundane way of delivering speeches in school and are in search of some amazing speech openings for students, you are at the right place!

Speeches are the most common form of public speaking that is encouraged in schools . Be it for a competition, assignment, presentation, or even as a punishment (oops), speeches are everywhere in a student’s life.

To get a quick idea on speech opening lines for students , don’t forget to check out our video on 3 speech opening lines for students!

But before we dive into understanding how to go about your speeches, it is important to first understand why educational institutes focus so much on speeches or public speaking in general that they begin introducing us to speeches as early as primary sections.

Why is speech encouraged in Primary school?

It is a common practice to give the students a little idea about giving speeches as early as primary school. Part of the reason is that these are the foundational years and form as a stepping stone for the students to get a little more used to public speaking as they move to higher classes .

A couple of ways students in primary schools may be asked to give speeches would be to introduce themselves or at competitions like fancy dress competitions.

What is the use of speech in high school?

In high school, as students gain more understanding about the world at large and develop their opinions, giving speeches is encouraged in school to help them navigate their thoughts to their peers. Further, speeches as a form of public speaking also help build the student’s soft skills .

A few ways giving speeches in high school can help in developing their soft skills are:

1. critical thinking.

Speeches aren’t about blurting out your ideas or opinions, rather it requires you to research and find evidence to back your point of view, or to think critically to deliver a speech that effectively reaches the other students.

2. Problem-solving

Speeches could be framed around a popular or controversial issue that the student wishes to provide their insight into. This would encourage them to come up with solutions. Apart from that, even coming up with a speech can be a task sometimes, and overcoming those challenges too can be counted in as a way of problem-solving

3. Time-management

With a huge number of students in high school, speeches are almost always time-bound. This also means that the students have to structure their speeches in a way that fits the time given, further inculcating time management skills in them.

4. Active listening

Speeches are not only about delivering or conveying your ideas or findings but also about listening carefully to what others have to say in terms of questions that may ask.

Why is speech required at college?

Speeches in college have an entirely different goal than the one that schools have.

In college, it isn’t always mandatory to give speeches or to participate in public speaking. However, a few reasons why giving speeches or public speaking is encouraged in colleges is because:

It helps in developing communication and public speaking skills that can be very beneficial to their professional life later.
Speeches may also be a way to meet new people and make new connections.
It improves the student’s leadership skills. How? We have all heard how a good speaker carries with him or her the potential to influence and lead the crowd, and that is how practicing public speaking in college helps improve a student’s leadership skills.

When can students be asked to give a speech?

As we just discussed that the purpose of giving speeches changes as we progress in our school. However, there are a couple of situations where mostly all students are expected to present their speech. And they are:

Classroom/section speeches

Classroom or section speeches are the ones you give in front of your classmates or people from your age group. Generally, the presentation of assignments and competitions comes under this category.

Graduation Speech

Students may also be expected to present a graduation speech . However, the big difference here is that not everyone gets the opportunity to present a graduation speech or commencement address as it is known.

What type of speech is a graduation speech? Or what type of speech is a commencement speech?

Graduation speeches or commencement speeches are parting speeches wherein the focus is on reflecting on the good times in the institute and motivating others for their bright future ahead. Depending on the purpose as selected by the speaker, these speeches could be persuasive, informative, or entertaining in nature .

How to start a speech as a student

Giving speeches as a student, even if you have been doing it for the past few years can still end up being a little challenging. But rather than giving you tons of tips on things you can focus on while coming up with your speech or speech openings for students, we have got one ultimate tip . If you follow that, you should ideally be able to reach your audience more effectively.

Ultimate tip when writing speeches or speech openings for students

Write how you speak, not how you write.

When I came across this tip, I was surprised too. Because is indeed true that we write very differently when we have to show the speech to someone in written form but if asked honestly, do we speak in such a highly polished, extra professional vocabulary?

The idea is not to write the speech or speech opening riddled with slang but rather in a way that you’d feel comfortable listening to and understanding easily had you been the listener.

So in short, prepare the speech with the listener in mind, not the reader .

What is a good opening line for a speech?

Most opening lines for speech in school begin with a good morning. We usually follow it with greetings or addressing the audience and the guests.

Wondering how you greet everyone in a speech?

Here is a list of ways you can begin with a simple good morning:

Good morning everyone presents here today. I’m delighted to present my views and understanding on a very delicate yet overlooked topic; Gender sensitization in the workplace.
Good afternoon esteemed members of the jury, my friends and peers, and everyone present in the room today.
Good morning to the faculty, the non-teaching staff, and the class of 2022!!

Now it is a good practice to begin your speech with your usual greetings. However, in this blog, we are trying to look beyond the usual.

It doesn’t mean that you will not be saying good morning or your basic greetings; the only difference is that you’ll not be opening your speech with it but addressing these basic formalities later in the speech.

How do you start a speech without saying good morning?

There are a couple of ways you can start a speech without saying good morning. Here are some of the ways we will take a look at in this blog:

“Imagine” scenario
“What if” scenario
Rhetorical questions
Statistics and figures
Powerful statements

Quotes are phrases or things spoken by someone influential . Quotes as speech openings for students can not only help them go beyond the widely popular way of beginning any speech but will also help them establish credibility right in the very beginning!

Now if you have ever wondered,

How to start your speech with a quote?

Here are a couple of examples of using quotes as speech openings for students:

Lon Watters had said that “A school is a building with four walls, with tomorrow inside.” And it would be wrong if I said that I didn’t agree with every bit of what he said. As we come to an end of our journey with this school that has provided us with tons of opportunities to learn, grow, interact and make memories we sure will cherish forever…

“If you don’t have a plan for your life, somebody else does.” This is a quote given by Michael Hyatt and isn’t it something we have all been experiencing all these years of growing up as our parents or guardians make plans for us right from the way we dress to the school we go to and sometimes even the careers we choose. Good morning everyone, I am Myra, a student of XYZ school standing here to voice my opinion on “Factors that influence your career decisions.”

2. “Imagine” Scenario

This happens to be a personal favorite of mine when it comes to speech openings for students. A very simple yet beautiful way to engage your audience right at the beginning of your speech while at the same time allowing them to relate to what you’ll be saying next is what the image” scenarios are all about.

Before we begin, I’d like you to take a moment and imagine walking through a trail. You see the lush greens and pretty sky above you, the most dynamic clouds following everyone you go. Try sniffing the smell of wet soil and a hint of flowery fragrance as you walk towards the edge of the hill expecting to take a glimpse of the utter beauty that these hours of walking would lead you to, but you find something else. You see something that sends chills down your spine. There are some strange men performing rituals right in the very heart of these dense greens. You wonder what it is all about until it hits you; you have just uncovered a cult.

For the next example, I’d like you to take a look at the video below and check for yourself how wonderfully the speaker (although not a student) has made use of the “imagine” scenario to share his tragic experience with his audience.

Imagine a big explosion as you climb through 3,000 ft. Imagine a plane full of smoke. Imagine an engine going clack, clack, clack, clack, clack, clack, clack. It sounds scary. Well I had a unique seat that day. I was sitting in 1D.

3. “What If” Scenario

What if I told you that the best speech openings for students are actually the ones wherein they come up with an opening that best represents their style and comfort at delivering speeches, be it with a joke or a story?

Do you see what I did there?

That is an example of a “what if” scenario. It is similar to the imagination scenario we discussed above but the only difference here is that “what if” speech openings for students focus on providing an alternative idea to the audience while the imagined scenarios provide the audience an opportunity to relate to the speaker.

4. Rhetorical question

Rhetorical questions are questions the speaker includes in his/her/their speech that doesn’t necessarily require the audience to come up with an answer but are posed to get the audience thinking on the same.

Using rhetorical questions as speech openings for students can work wonders especially when you are looking for either a very quick speech opening or have very little time to deliver the speech.

An example of using rhetorical questions for speech opening is given below:

Talking about the new policy that makes it illegal to check the gender of the child before birth, do you think that it will curb the issue of female foeticide? Or will it simply take the activity underground?

The art of silence is phenomenal. Opening your speech in silence can help enhance your speech in two ways.

First, it will give the audience some time to settle in , post which you can expect to grab their dedicated attention. And secondly, silence would give you some time to understand the room and calm your pre-stage anxiousness .

6. Statistics and figures

Want to begin your speech on a hard-hitting and eye-opening note?

Show the numbers, the figures, and any statistics that serve your purpose for giving the speech.

It is very common to overlook the seriousness of any situation when you aren’t aware of the real extent of its seriousness. But when we have numbers in front of us, there is no more room for being in denial.

Examples of using Statistics or figures as speech openings for students

According to the 2019 WWF report , on average, we consume about 1,769 microplastic particles every week. 1769 microplastic particles every single week, can you imagine that?
3.2 million teenagers between the age of 12-17 were depressed in the US as of 2017. Now you can only assume the number has increased over the past 5 years.

7. Powerful Statements

Powerful statements are statements that try to break any common ideologies held by the public. Another example of a powerful statement is stating a fact or idea that isn’t openly spoken .

The video below is one such example of how the speaker tries to break a perception generally held by the people.

How often have we been told to include stories in our speech?

Almost every time isn’t it? So here we are to bombard you yet again by saying that stories are extremely fun and engaging forms of speech openings for students.

You can either share your experience or someone else’s story.

You can also refer to a Recent Conversation by starting your speech with something like “Just the other day as I was walking out of my Philosophy lecture, I asked Mr.Dee about his philosophy on life, and what he said was so eye-opening that I could not wait to share with all of you.”

An adorable example of how to begin a speech with a story is given below to help you get a clearer idea.

Examples of speech openings for students

Speech opening lines for public speaking competitions.

When it comes to public speaking competitions like elocutions, speech competitions, or even presentations, it is almost always recommended to begin with self-introduction . The reason is quite simple; there is a high chance that your audience might not know you .

But if you don’t want to begin with a self-introduction, you can start by using any of the alternatives we discussed earlier. Click here to go back and take another peek at it.

Speech Opening Lines for Self-introductions

Speech openings for self-introductions need to be simple, to the point yet descriptive.

Wait a minute? Wasn’t I contradicting myself in that line?

Yes, but that is how opening lines for self-introductions would ideally work. As people expect you to talk about yourself in depth in the rest of your speech, your opening lines would just be a teaser about yourself.

2 most important things to add in your self-introduction opening lines for students

What do you do?

Other things that you can talk about in these opening lines include:

Where are you from?
What is your goal?
What does your organization do?
A little bit about your family

Examples of opening lines for students

Good morning, I am Reini. I recently graduated from BMU college and have since been working as a Design intern at Desgynopedia.

Hello and good evening everyone. I am Nicole and this is my team, Alina, Tim, Harold, and Noman. We are in our senior year majoring in Organizational psychology. Today we would like to talk about the 5 main Psychological factors that impact any organization’s overall performance.

Hey, I am Nizan. I am a nerd for Political Science and Greek Philosophy and am currently majoring in the same. My love for the subjects is also the reason why I am here to present a topic I found very intriguing “The injustice behind socrates’ death.”

Funny speech opening lines for students

If you are giving a speech for a competition, one of the most fun ways of opening your speech could be to say “Good morning to the faculty, my friends, and (look at the opponents) others.”

Other funny opening line examples:

I almost bunked school today until I realized that this speech carries marks and I sure don’t want to be in a class with our juniors. Just imagine! Who could do that?
Hello and good morning to everyone, except the ones who are well prepared for their speeches today.
Hello everyone, I’m excited to present my speech on XYZ’s topic today. I mean come on, what could be better than waking up at 7 am on a Monday morning to give a speech?
Today I’ll be talking about XYZ because I was told to!

Best Speech Opening Lines by students

1. chase dahl.

In one of the funniest speech opening lines by students, Chase Dahl opens up by saying “You know I have never understood how imagining the audience naked was supposed to make you less nervous. Honestly, I’m just uncomfortable right now.”

2. Kyle Martin (The King’s Academy)

Yet another Valedictorian speech that has caught our eye is the one given by Kyle Martin. The reason we would suggest you take a look into the opening lines of his speech is so that you can take notes on how beautifully he has described the efforts taken by every department of the institute as he tries to thank them for their efforts.

Presentation Opening Lines

Presentation speeches are a little different compared to your usual speeches and the major reason for that is because now you have access to visuals or your PPT.

Besides some of the ways already discussed above, you can begin the presentation by pointing out a particular slide. You can show your audience a graph, table, pictures, or any other creative and eye-catching ideas that can also turn out to be an amazing presentation opening.

How to start a presentation speech example for students

A few common ways you can open your speech are:

Hello everyone, I am Miya. I would first like to thank you all for your time.
For those who don’t know me, my name is Nazia, and if you do know me, hello again!
Good afternoon to all you wonderful people present here. I am Ryan and as you can see on screen, today I’ll be speaking on “The hazards of drinking from plastic bottles.”

For more examples of opening lines check out 50 Speech Opening Lines .

You might also like to know:

How to start a speech for the student council.

Speeches for student council are usually persuasive. They are your pitch to convince your fellow students to vote for you and help you get the position you are looking for.

So ideally, you should start by addressing everyone in the room . Then make a point to introduce yourself. Once you have introduced yourself, remind the audience why you are speaking which means let them know the position you are campaigning for. Bring up at least 1-2 issues that the students are most concerned about and tell them how if elected you’ll provide solutions to their issues.

Try to end it on a high note and don’t forget to add your campaign slogan .

You can also begin by stating your campaign slogan .

Yet another way to begin your speech for the student council is by challenging your opponent’s point of view or campaign . However, this would work only f you have a better strategy or solutions to the issues raised by your opponents.

Lastly, do something that no one expects from you . Let me share a story here to help you understand this point better. During one of the student council speeches, one candidate asked the audience to stand up, move a step in the front then go back to their seats and settle down. Following this, she said, “My parents told me if I could move the audience, I’d win.” And so she did win!

What is a speech class?

A speech class in high school or college is usually a short course or 1-semester course wherein the student is expected to improve on their public speaking skills along with critical thinking and active listening skills.

It essentially enhances their oral communication skills.

This also reminds me to introduce you to our courses that help enhance your public speaking and communication skills. If you are interested, head to Frantically Speaking .

But if your appetite for learning more about opening speeches isn’t satiated yet, we suggest you go check out our Video on the Powerful speech opening lines.

To Conclude

There are tons of ways to get creative with speech openings for students. From saying a simple good morning to adding stories, quotes, statistics, rhetorical questions, and even silence!

Get creative with your speech openings. As we always say, there are no right or wrong ways of public speaking as such, only a way that suits perfectly for you is the one that is right for you.

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80 Impromptu Speech Topics For High School Students

Could you share a few words about yourself? This is one of the common questions asked in interviews, scholarships, or even when getting to know a new group of people. While you may be confused as to the pieces of information to be shared, it is so important to be present in the moment.

It is significant to understand that you are certain to come across various situations that require promptness and creativity. This is why impromptu speech is one of the helpful ways to build this skill for high school students.

Just as history essay topics help you express your words through written communication, impromptu speech allows you to build a better grasp of verbal communication. This article helps you with interesting impromptu speech topics that are thoughtfully selected to help students exercise their critical thinking skills and map their ideas.

Creative impromptu speech topics for high schoolers

The significance of humor in life.
Technology’s effects on society.
The advantages of reading.
The parent’s role in their child’s education.
The force of goodwill.
Significance of time management in life.
Impact of climate change in everyday life.
Importance of friendship in life.
Influence of social media on young adults.
Public speaking is an art.
Advantages of exercising.
Importance of Reducing, Reusing, and Recycling.
Why is quality education a need for the time?
Advantages of Goal setting for the future.
The role of women in history.
The significance of voting.
The power of positive thinking.
The benefits of volunteering.
The impact of video games on children.
The value of cultural diversity.
The role of mentors in life.
The effects of fast food on health.
Do dreams have a hidden meaning?
The importance of forgiving.
Advantages of picking up a new language.
Is adventure travel a lesson for life?
Technology’s function in education.
The significance of productive dialogue.
Smoking’s negative consequences on health.
Importance of building interactive museums for children.
The influence of good role models.
Effects of artificial intelligence on human beings.
Advantages of sports for students.
Significance of enhancing other skills in high school.
The importance of cultural customs.
The function of the media in forming views.
The value of raising awareness of mental illness.
Online shopping’s implications on small local businesses.
Importance of Renewable Energy Sources.
Why is meditation important for personal well-being?
The impact of fashion on self-esteem.
The value of wildlife conservation.
The importance of learning from failure.
The effects of overpopulation.
The significance of personal hygiene.
Power of storytelling for students and adults.
The benefits of a healthy diet.
The impact of space exploration.
The value of community service.
The role of art in therapy.
The importance of sleep for well-being.
The effects of social inequality.
Do art activities impact learning in high school?
The significance of clean water access.
Importance of saving environmental resources for the future.
The benefits of learning to play a musical instrument.
The power of volunteer firefighters.
The value of cultural heritage preservation.
The impact of smartphones on relationships.
The effects of deforestation on the environment.
Why is empathy an important value for students?
The importance of supporting local businesses.
The value of emotional intelligence.
Is internet privacy an important element in today’s time?
The role of space exploration in scientific advancements.
The benefits of eco-friendly transportation.
The value of lifelong learning.
The advantages of neighborhood gardening.
Virtual reality’s effects on education.
The importance of programs for cultural interaction.
The function of humor in stress reduction.
The significance of eco-friendly clothing.
The results of online activism.
The value of sustainable resources.
The efficacy of self-care techniques.
Advantages of urban gardening.
The results of schooling in coding.
The significance of being disaster-ready.
Impact of music therapy for students.
Why should you indulge in self-care practices?

Helpful tips for impromptu speech

Delivering a speech with preparation on funny persuasive topics or political debate topics might be way different than talking on impromptu topics. Hence, it is vital to check for helpful tips and tricks that channel your thoughts in a more organized manner. Check the below tips to make your impromptu speech engaging for the audience.

Organize your thoughts on the topic and join the connecting links. This helps you decide the introduction, main theme, and conclusion of your speech.
Map your ideas and always keep some extra pointers in case you forget the main ones. Mapping ensures that you go in a series without disturbing the rhythm of the speech.
If you relate to the topic well and have something personal to share, go ahead and make it seem like an example thereby entertaining the audience.
Be confident while speaking as there is no wrong or right in sharing your opinions on the topic. Make sure to showcase the firmness in your ideas to create an engaging time.
You can also practice writing by using literary essay topics that allow you to fill your mind with interesting ideas and a plethora of words to enhance your vocabulary.

Wrapping Up

An impromptu speech is certainly a helpful way to encourage participation from everyone in the class. As you deliver your speech, you also get an opportunity to hear others and learn from them.

It is super important to know that impromptu speech is to polish your skills and not a typical competition among your fellow mates. Trust yourself and be clear with the ideas you deliver in your speech. The more confidence you show in your attempt, the more you improvise in verbal communication.

Sananda Bhattacharya, Chief Editor of TheHighSchooler, is dedicated to enhancing operations and growth. With degrees in Literature and Asian Studies from Presidency University, Kolkata, she leverages her educational and innovative background to shape TheHighSchooler into a pivotal resource hub. Providing valuable insights, practical activities, and guidance on school life, graduation, scholarships, and more, Sananda’s leadership enriches the journey of high school students.

Explore a plethora of invaluable resources and insights tailored for high schoolers at TheHighSchooler, under the guidance of Sananda Bhattacharya’s expertise. You can follow her on Linkedin

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How campus protests of the past may inform pro-Palestinian student demonstrations

Demonstrations in the '70s, '80s were launched against university investments.

About 56 years ago, Columbia University's Hamilton Hall was overrun and occupied by student protesters calling for an end to what students called racist policies that displaced communities around the school's campus.

It was one of several campus buildings occupied by protesters in dayslong demonstrations. Students setting up food pantries for protesters, hordes of students and faculty covering campus grounds or students flying flags out of Hamilton Hall windows in the 1960s are some of the familiar scenes echoed in today's protests.

"Demonstrate against the repression and Columbia's racism," read a 1968 flyer listing planned rallies, speakers and musical performances in a schedule of protest activities.

Today, pro-Palestinian student protesters are taking notes from the past -- not just at Columbia, but around the country.

Students have adopted the building takeovers from the Civil Rights Movement and Vietnam War protests, the calls for university divestment from South African apartheid in the 1980s, the encampments of the Occupy Wall Street movement, and more.

"College campuses are the place in American society where really a lot of debates about crucial issues at the moment take place," said Jonathan Fansmith, senior vice president of government relations at the American Council on Education.

He continued, "It's really, in many ways, what colleges and universities are built for -- is to have these intense, often very passionate debates about the key issues of the time."

MORE: Student protesters denounce antisemitism amid criticism over pro-Palestinian encampments at college campuses

The movements of the past were polarizing, as are those of today, taking college campuses by storm and mirrored by today's mass arrests, police action against protesters and altercations between counterdemonstrators and protesters.

Keith E. Whittington, a professor of politics at Princeton University, said that universities are meant to be places to explore controversial topics, acting as pillars of free speech.

"We've given a lot more protection to students to be able to engage in free speech than we might have found a hundred years ago," said Whittington. "Not only doing the heavy lifting of scholarly research and teaching, but also being places where people can debate and engage about how they may personally feel about controversial political and social issues of the day."

As demonstrators protest Israel's war in Gaza and the death toll mounts in the region, protesters are calling for their universities to take action and divest from companies or groups that contribute to Israel's military operations.

Here's a look at the past moments that are reflected in today's protests:

The Civil Rights Movement

In the 1960s, college students led sit-ins guided by the pillars of civil disobedience and nonviolent direct action to protest segregation.

Integrated groups of Black and white student protesters would take over segregated lunch counters, prompting backlash from counterdemonstrators who would harass and assault protesters.

These protests spread to more than 50 cities nationwide, involving tens of thousands of students and leading to hundreds of arrests for their support of the Civil Rights Movement, according to the Civil Rights and Labor History Consortium at University of Washington.

This movement led to the formation of the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee, a student-led civil rights movement with chapters in states across the South that participated in marches, Freedom Rides, and more acts of protest.

SNCC was not dissimilar from the growing leaders of today's anti-war movements, including Students for Justice in Palestine and Jewish Voice for Peace.

In April 1968, anti-racist protesters and anti-war protesters took over Columbia's Hamilton Hall, as well as several other buildings.

These protests were in part to protest the university's construction of an athletic complex that "effectively stole the land from the predominantly Black community that had traditionally used Morningside Park," according to Columbia University Libraries.

Some students were also protesting against military recruitment on campus.

The occupation of Hamilton Hall led to one of the largest mass arrests in New York City history. Police made more than 700 arrests, according to Columbia University.

The Vietnam War

According to the Bill of Rights Institute, a civics nonprofit education center, colleges became the center of the anti-war effort in part because many colleges funded military-related research or allowed corporations with military contracts to recruit new employees on campus.

Ending military recruitment and cutting ties with controversial companies -- including Dow Chemical, which manufactured napalm, an incendiary weapon used in Vietnam -- were key concerns for student protesters.

Students for a Democratic Society became a national organization with tens of thousands of college student members around the country leading demonstrations.

President Richard Nixon promised to bring an end to the war in his campaign for the presidency. So when he announced that the war would be ongoing amid a 1970 U.S. invasion of Cambodia, protests erupted, according to Kent State University archives.

The Ohio National Guard was sent in to quell intensifying anti-war protests and anti-Nixon sentiment at the Kent State campus on May 1, 1970. The Ohio National Guard members fired into a crowd, killing four people and wounding nine students, according to Kent State.

The tragedy triggered a national student strike, forcing hundreds of colleges and universities to close.

South African Apartheid

Born out of the protest strategies from the anti-Vietnam War and Civil Rights Movements, campus demonstrations in the 1970s and 1980s were launched nationwide against university investments in corporations tied to apartheid, the official racial segregation system in South Africa.

Across the country, students built encampments on campus to call for their universities to rescind investments, programs and assets that contribute to or benefit from apartheid.

Some built "shantytowns," according to a Daily Tar Heel student report in the 1980s, to highlight the living conditions of Black South Africans under apartheid.

Dozens of universities answered the call, divesting in such corporations after years of demonstrations.

MORE: Campus protesters are demanding universities divest from Israel. Here's what that means.

The movement was one of the most successful divestment campaigns, with renowned South African anti-apartheid activist and Nobel Prize winner Desmond Tutu saying in 2002 that “there is no greater testament to the basic dignity of ordinary people everywhere than the divestment movement of the 1980s."

These moments in history are reflective in more modern advocacy work, including the Black Lives Matter movement, the Occupy Wall Street movement, and now the pro-Palestinian divestment movement.

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Police tear apart encampment, disperse protesters on UCLA campus

The campus is the latest to call for a heavy police presence in response to student protesters.

Betty Márquez Rosales

May 2, 2024.

Police in full riot gear tore apart a large pro-Palestinian encampment on the UCLA campus early Thursday, one day after a violent attack on the student protesters by a group of counterprotesters . Police arrested over 200 and dispersed most of the protesters at the scene , according to the Los Angeles Times.

The “Palestine solidarity encampment” was set up a week ago, joining national student protests calling for universities to divest from companies with military ties to Israel and opposing the crackdown on student protesters nationwide.

The heavy police presence included a mix of officers from the Los Angeles Police Department, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, California Highway Patrol and UC Police Department, according to multiple news sources.

Police said there was an absence of serious injuries, but the L.A. Times reported multiple cases of bloodied and hurt students requiring medical attention as officers made their way through the encampment.

As of late Wednesday night, hundreds of students remained gathered both inside and near the encampment. Students inside the encampment reportedly prepared for police to enter by fortifying the encampment with “makeshift walls” as police in riot gear began lining up near the encampment.

Some students were willing to be arrested or defend the encampment, with others expecting the police sweep to occur sometime after 1 a.m. Protesters were seen wearing hard helmets, goggles and respirators, according CalMatters , as they waited for police to take action.

Increasing numbers of police began arriving shortly after issuing the unlawful assembly order at 6 p.m. Wednesday, CBS News rteported. By around 10:30 p.m., police officers in riot gear began approaching one of the encampment’s barricaded entrances as a crowd of students chanted “Viva, viva Palestina,” or “Free, free Palestine” in Spanish.

Looks like police are moving in. Not sure if fully breached but appears to be in progress. pic.twitter.com/4e5FItSpYP — Connor Sheets (@ConnorASheets) May 2, 2024

In recent weeks, hundreds of university students and faculty have been arrested across the nation for setting up similar pro-Palestinian encampments.

Increasingly, faculty have spoken up about the campus leaders’ reliance on police to disperse student protests. Such decisions have been made by campus leaders at the University of Southern California, Columbia University, Cal Poly Humboldt, University of Texas Austin, Emory University and several other schools.

“What I found appalling is, to send armed riot police means you practically take into consideration that students might get harmed. So the university, again, kind of failed to protect its students,” said tenured professor of genocide studies Wolf Gruner in a recent Los Angeles Public Press interview .

Faculty have also joined some student encampments, such as Graeme Blair, UCLA associate professor of political science and a member of Faculty for Justice in Palestine.

In a text to the Daily Bruin , UCLA’s student paper, Blair confirmed that “professors inside the encampment ‘plan to be arrested alongside students who have done nothing but talk about a genocide taking place in Palestine.’”

He also stated: “I’m disgusted that after the university failed to protect students simply standing up for causes they believe from an anti-Palestinian mob that tonight they have chosen to endanger students once again by calling in the police. Any harm on students tonight is on them.”

In his comment, Blair referred to the violent events that unfolded at the UCLA campus between Tuesday night and into Wednesday morning when students within the encampment were attacked by around 100 counterdemonstrators supporting Israel.

The counterprotesters arrived on the campus around 10:30 p.m. Tuesday and within the hour began trying to tear down the barricades at the encampment, according to the Los Angeles Times .

The violence escalated within hours, as the pro-Israel protesters threw objects at the encampment and fireworks rained down. Fights also broke out when counterprotesters attempted to break the barricade. Students in the encampment also told the Times that they were hit by a substance they believed was pepper spray. Some people in the encampment were seen being treated for eye irritation, the Times reported.

During the altercation, journalists reporting for the Daily Bruin were also attacked. A group of four student reporters were verbally harassed, beaten, kicked and pepper sprayed. At least one of them went to the hospital and has since been released.

Police were slow to respond to the violence, according to multiple reporters at the site, which local, state, and federal leaders condemned.

One such person was Gov. Gavin Newsom, who commented on the events Wednesday morning on X, formerly Twitter: “I condemn the violence at UCLA last night. The law is clear: The right to free speech does not extend to inciting violence, vandalism, or lawlessness on campus. Those who engage in illegal behavior must be held accountable for their actions — including through criminal prosecution, suspension, or expulsion.”

The violence waned by around 3:45 a.m.

Hours later, University of California President Michael Drake ordered an investigation into how UCLA handled the violent demonstrations.

Following Wednesday’s violence, the president of the union representing UC’s non-senate faculty and librarians called for the resignation of UCLA Chancellor Gene Block.

“We call for the immediate resignation of Chancellor Gene Block for his failure of leadership. Chancellor Block has refused to meet with protestors to discuss their interests; instead he has created an environment that has escalated tensions and failed to take meaningful action to prevent the violence that occurred last night,” said Katie Rodger, president of the University Council-AFT in a joint statement with Jeff Freitas, president of the statewide California Federation of Teachers.

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'Your past does not define your future': Teens graduate while awaiting trial

"Pomp and Circumstance" played. Teachers gave speeches. Kids turned their tassels.

But the small graduation in Mount Auburn was not an ordinary event. These weren’t ordinary graduates.

After the April 5 ceremony, the two teens who received their diplomas could not drive across town to go party with their friends. They weren’t even allowed to leave the venue.

While their peers are looking forward to college or a trade school, these teens are facing possible prison sentences.

'Our job is not to punish them'

This was the third graduation ceremony held at the Hamilton County Youth Detention Center since the beginning of 2023.

While youth at the facility have earned their diplomas in the past, the ceremonies are new. Director Brian Bell said there may have been similar events but not in decades.

“The more we do it, the more we’ll achieve because everyone will want it,” Bell said. ”We’re all in here together. It’s as gratifying for our staff as it is for these kids. Half this staff is here on their off day.”

The state requires the center to provide education to all the youth held there. There are classrooms like you'd find in any other school. In addition to the youth's right to an education, research has shown that education in juvenile facilities lowers recidivism .

The detention center, like other county juvenile lock-ups in Ohio, is only used for pre-trial detention. No one there has been convicted or sentenced, but they have been accused of everything from auto theft to murder. Most of the stays are short, but some youth stay a year or more while their cases work through the court system.

At the facility, the teens take classes and some earn enough credits and pass enough tests to get their diplomas.

Bell, who speaks philosophically about his job and the goals of his facility, said “tangible gratification” is hard to come by behind the locked doors at 2020 Auburn Ave. This ceremony is one of those moments.

Bell emphasized everyone at the center – an average of about 85 kids at any given time – is innocent until proven guilty.

“Our job is not to punish them. It’s to keep them safe,” Bell said. “We do whatever we can to make life a little bit better for them than when they got here. As good or better. Not worse.”

A different kind of milestone

Correctional Officer Whitney Bingham did a Kroger run before heading to work on the day of the graduation. She wanted to pick up some things for the ceremony.

She was scheduled to start work at noon but showed up hours early. She said she was “too excited.”

She greeted the families in the lobby with a huge smile and escorted them to the gymnasium, leading them through a door that had to be unlocked by a guard, downstairs via a secure elevator and through two more locked doors.

In the gym, about two dozen family members and an equal number of staff members sat and stood facing a small podium. Silver, black and gold balloons drifted around the floor.

Simple programs were on every folding chair. Notably absent: the graduates' names. The Enquirer agreed not to name the teens either.

Hamilton County Juvenile Court said both graduates are young men, arrested as teens, facing felony charges in adult court. Both will face trial in front of an adult-court judge and both could be sentenced to time in prisons for adults, not kids.

While this graduation ceremony marks an achievement for these teens, it also means they are closer to going to trial.

'Your past does not define your future'

During the ceremony, the charges the two teens face were never mentioned. If the boys thought about their possible time behind bars, their smiles and poise in their robes didn't show it. Even if those thoughts sneaked in, the crowd of cheering and smiling family members may have been loud enough to drown it out.

The roar of clapping filled the gym as the first graduate walked between the rows of chairs.

He wore a black robe and mortarboard hat with a black and red tassel. These are the colors of his home school, Oak Hills High School.

His principal, J. Travis Hunt, was there to hand over the diploma.

“Your past does not define your future,” Hunt said. “Stay focused on your dreams. May your future be filled with success.”

The teen pulled a yellow piece of paper from under his robe and read the words he'd prepared. He thanked a long list of people including staff members.

“This wouldn’t be possible without my mom, dad, family and God,” he said “I love y’all.”

Gail Ash, a Cincinnati Public Schools teacher assigned to the center, presented the next graduate, welcoming him to the podium with a fist bump.

She called him an “amazing student” who is a lifelong learner and reader.

“These two young men are amazing,” she said, smiling. “Now you may flip your tassels.”

The moms, dads and siblings mobbed their new graduates. It was hug after hug. A young woman took one of them by the hand and twirled him around to get a good look at him in his robe. Everyone got their hugs.

The boys played it cool mostly, but their smiles never faded throughout the ceremony.

'When a student wants help, how do you say no?'

Sister Janet Linz has taught at Purcell Marian for 25 years. Before the ceremony, she had carefully made her way to the gym carrying a small gift bag.

She usually comes to the detention center about twice a month to help the students, but to help one of that day’s graduates, she stepped it up to twice a week.

She said he needed help with English and was very unsure of himself. She worked on the fundamentals but also on his insecurity.

She smiled, remembering when she overheard the boy talking to his friends about the upcoming ACT test. He told them, "I just need to be confident." Her words had sunk in.

Linz said she had always wanted to volunteer at the center, but it wasn’t until last year that she did it. She said it’s taught her a lot.

“To see the expression on the kids’ faces,” she said. “When a student wants help, how do you say no?”

Not giving up

From the podium, Judge Kari Bloom told the teens their work and development matters.

“While we might not have met under the best circumstances, I could not be more proud," she said. “We value education here. To do otherwise is to say when you’re charged with a crime, we give up.”

After the ceremony, the teens and their families headed to three folding tables covered in food. Four other teens also held at the detention center served chicken wings, carrots, cupcakes and snacks.

Those teens helped prepare the meal for the celebration, and like the graduates, were preparing for their own futures. The four were part of a program at the center with Aramark, a food service company. Those who complete the program are guaranteed a job with the company.

The younger kids played and squirmed through the crowd. The families moved the chairs into circles in the gym. The graduates sat close, catching up with their parents and other relatives.

But their time was limited.

A staff member told them they could visit with their new graduates in the gym until 2:30 p.m., just two and a half hours after the ceremony began.

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The Protesters and the President

Over the past week, thousands of students protesting the war in gaza have been arrested..

This transcript was created using speech recognition software. While it has been reviewed by human transcribers, it may contain errors. Please review the episode audio before quoting from this transcript and email [email protected] with any questions.

From “New York Times,” I’m Michael Barbaro. This is “The Daily.”

Free, free, Palestine!

Free, free Palestine!

Free, free, free Palestine!

Over the past week, what had begun as a smattering of pro-Palestinian protests on America’s college campuses exploded into a nationwide movement —

United, we’ll never be defeated!

— as students at dozens of universities held demonstrations, set up encampments, and at times seized academic buildings.

[PROTESTERS CLAMORING]:

response, administrators at many of those colleges decided to crack down —

Do not throw things at our officers. We will use chemical munitions that include gas.

— calling in local police to carry out mass detentions and arrests. From Arizona State —

In the name of the state of Arizona, I declare this gathering to be a violation of —

— to the University of Georgia —

— to City College of New York.

[PROTESTERS CHANTING, “BACK OFF”]:

As of Thursday, police had arrested 2,000 students on more than 40 campuses. A situation so startling that President Biden could no longer ignore it.

Look, it’s basically a matter of fairness. It’s a matter of what’s right. There’s the right to protest, but not the right to cause chaos.

Today, my colleagues Jonathan Wolfe and Peter Baker on a history-making week. It’s Friday, May 3.

Jonathan, as this tumultuous week on college campuses comes to an end, it feels like the most extraordinary scenes played out on the campus of the University of California Los Angeles, where you have been reporting. What is the story of how that protest started and ultimately became so explosive?

So late last week, pro-Palestinian protesters set up an encampment at the University of California, Los Angeles.

From the river to the sea!

Palestine will be free!

Palestine —

It was right in front of Royce Hall, which I don’t know if you are familiar with UCLA, but it’s a very famous, red brick building. It’s on all the brochures. And there was two things that stood out about this encampment. And the first thing was that they barricaded the encampment.

The encampment, complete with tents and barricades, has been set up in the middle of the Westwood campus. The protesters demand —

They have metal grates. They had wooden pallets. And they separated themselves from the campus.

This is kind of interesting. There are controlling access, as we’ve been talking about. They are trying to control who is allowed in, who is allowed out.

They sort of policed the area. So they only would let people that were part of their community, they said, inside.

I’m a UCLA student. I deserve to go here. We paid tuition. This is our school. And they’re not letting me walk in. Why can’t I go? Will you let me go in?

We’re not engaging with that.

Then you can move. Will you move?

And the second thing that stood out about this camp was that it immediately attracted pro-Israel counterprotesters.

And what did the leadership of UCLA say about all of this, the encampment and these counterprotesters?

So the University of California’s approach was pretty unique. They had a really hands-off approach. And they allowed the pro-Palestinian protesters to set up an encampment. They allowed the counterprotesters to happen. I mean, this is a public university, so anyone who wants to can just enter the campus.

So when do things start to escalate?

So there were definitely fights and scuffles through the weekend. But a turning point was really Sunday —

[SINGING IN HEBREW]:

— when this group called the Israeli American Council, they’re a nonprofit organization, organized a rally on campus. The Israeli American Council has really been against these pro-Palestinian protests. They say that they’re antisemitic. So this nonprofit group sets up a stage with a screen really just a few yards from the pro-Palestinian encampment.

We are grateful that this past Friday, the University of California, stated that they will continue to oppose any calls for boycott and divestment from Israel!

[PROTESTERS CHEERING]

And they host speakers and they held prayers.

Jewish students, you’re not alone! Oh, you’re not alone! We are right here with you! And we’re right here with you in until —

[WORDLESS SINGING]:

And then lots of other people start showing up. And the proximity between protesters and counterprotesters and even some agitators, makes it really clear that something was about to happen.

And what was that? What ended up happening?

On Monday night, a group of about 60 counterprotesters tried to breach the encampment there. And the campus police had to break it up. And things escalated again on Tuesday.

They stormed the barricades and it’s a complete riot.

[PROTESTER SHOUTING]:

Put it down! Put it down! Put it down!

I went to report on what happened just a few hours after it ended.

And I spoke to a lot of protesters. And I met one demonstrator, Marie.

Yeah, my first name is Marie. M-A-R-I-E. Last name, Salem.

And Marie described what happened.

So can you just tell me a little bit about what happened last night?

Last night, we were approached by over a hundred counterprotesters who were very mobilized and ready to break into camp. They proceeded to try to breach our barricades extremely violently.

Marie said it started getting out of hand when counterprotesters started setting off fireworks towards the camp.

They had bear spray. They had Mace. They were throwing wood and spears. Throwing water bottles, continuing fireworks.

So she said that they were terrified. It was just all hands on deck. Everyone was guarding the barricades.

Every time someone experienced the bear spray or Mace or was hit and bleeding, we had some medics in the front line. And then we had people —

And they said that they were just trying to take care of people who were injured.

I mean, at any given moment, there was 5 to 10 people being treated.

So what she described to me sounded more like a battlefield than a college campus.

And it was just a complete terror and complete abandonment of the university, as we also watched private security watch this the entire time on the stairs. And some LAPD were stationed about a football field length back from these counterprotesters, and did not make a single arrest, did not attempt to stop any violence, did not attempt to get in between the two groups. No attempt.

I should say, I spoke to a state authorities and eyewitnesses and they confirmed Marie’s account about what happened that night, both in terms of the violence that took place at the encampment and how law enforcement responded. So in the end, people ended up fighting for hours before the police intervened.

[SOMBER MUSIC]

So in her mind, UCLA’s hands-off approach, which seemed to have prevailed throughout this entire period, ends up being way too hands off in a moment when students were in jeopardy.

That’s right. And so at this point, the protesters in the encampment started preparing for two possibilities. One was that this group of counterprotesters would return and attack them. And the second one was that the police would come and try to break up this encampment.

So they started building up the barricades. They start reinforcing them with wood. And during the day, hundreds of people came and brought them supplies. They brought food.

They brought helmets, goggles, earplugs, saline solution, all sorts of things these people could use to defend themselves. And so they’re really getting ready to burrow in. And in the end, it was the police who came.

[PROTESTERS SHOUTING]:

So Wednesday at 7:00 PM, they made an announcement on top of Royce Hall, which overlooks the encampment —

— administrative criminal actions up to and including arrest. Please leave the area immediately.

And they told people in the encampment that they needed to leave or face arrest.

[DRUM BEATING]: [PROTESTERS CHANTING]

And so as night falls, they put on all this gear that they’ve been collecting, the goggles, the masks and the earplugs, and they wait for the police.

[DRUM BEATING]:

And so the police arrive and station themselves right in front of the encampment. And then at a certain point, they storm the back stairs of the encampment.

[PROTESTERS CHANTING]:

And this is the stairs that the protesters have been using to enter and exit the camp. And they set up a line. And the protesters do this really surprising thing.

The people united!

They open up umbrellas. They have these strobe lights. And they’re flashing them at the police, who just slowly back out of the camp.

[PROTESTERS CHEERING]:

And so at this point, they’re feeling really great. They’re like, we did it. We pushed them out of their camp. And when the cops try to push again on those same set of stairs —

[PROTESTER SHOUTS]:

Hold your ground!

— the protesters organized themselves with all these shields that they had built earlier. And they go and confront them. And so there’s this moment where the police are trying to push up the stairs. And the protesters are literally pushing them back.

Push them back! Push them back!

Push them back!

And at a certain point, dozens of the police officers who were there, basically just turn around and leave.

So how does this eventually come to an end?

So at a certain point, the police push in again. Most of the conflict is centered at the front of these barricades. And the police just start tearing them apart.

[METAL CLANGING]

[CLAMORING]

They removed the front barricade. And in its place is this group of protesters who have linked arms and they’re hanging on to each other. And the police are trying to pull protesters one by one away from this group.

He’s just a student! Back off!

But they’re having a really hard time because there’s so many protesters. And they’re all just hanging on to each other.

We’re moving back now.

So at a certain point, one of the police officers started firing something into the crowd. We don’t exactly know what it was. But it really spooked the protesters.

Stop shooting at kids! Fuck you! Fuck them!

They started falling back. Everyone was really scared. The protesters were yelling, don’t shoot us. And at that point, the police just stormed the camp.

Get back. Get back.

Back up now!

And so after about four hours of this, the police pushed the protesters out of the encampment. They had arrested about 200 protesters. And this was finally over.

And I’m just curious, Jonathan, because you’re standing right there, you are bearing witness to this all, what you were thinking, what your impressions of this were.

I mean, I was stunned. These are mostly teenagers. This is a college campus, an institution of higher learning. And what I saw in front of me looked like a war zone.

[TENSE MUSIC]

The massive barricade, the police coming in with riot gear, and all this violence was happening in front of these red brick buildings that are famous for symbolizing a really open college campus. And everything about it was just totally surreal.

Well, Jonathan, thank you very much. We appreciate it.

Thanks, Michael.

We’ll be right back.

Peter, around 10:00 AM on Thursday morning as the smoke is literally still clearing at the University of California Los Angeles, you get word that President Biden is going to speak.

Right, exactly. It wasn’t on his public schedule. He was about to head to Andrews Air Force base in order to take a trip. And then suddenly, we got the notice that he was going to be addressing the cameras in the Roosevelt Room.

They didn’t tell us what he was going to talk about. But it was pretty clear, I think. Everybody understood that it was going to be about these campus protests, about the growing violence and the clashes with police, and the arrests that the entire country had been watching on TV every night for the past week, and I think that we were watching just that morning with UCLA. And it reached the point where he just had to say something.

And why, in his estimation and those of his advisors, was this the moment that Biden had to say something?

Well, it kind of reached a boiling point. It kind of reached the impression of a national crisis. And you expect to hear your president address it in this kind of a moment, particularly because it’s about his own policy. His policy toward Israel is at the heart of these protests. And he was getting a lot of grief. He was getting a lot of grief from Republicans who were chiding him for not speaking out personally. He hadn’t said anything in about 10 days.

He’s getting a lot of pressure from Democrats, too, who wanted him to come out and be more forceful. It wasn’t enough, in their view, to leave it to his spokespeople to say something. Moderate Democrats felt he needed to come out and take some leadership on this.

And so at the appointed moment, Peter, what does Biden actually say in the Roosevelt Room of the White House?

Good morning.

Before I head to North Carolina, I wanted to speak for a few moments about what’s going on, on our college campuses here.

Well, it comes in the Roosevelt Room and he talks to the camera. And he talks about the two clashing imperatives of American principle.

The first is the right to free speech and for people to peacefully assemble and make their voices heard. The second is the rule of law. Both must be upheld.

One is freedom of speech. The other is the rule of law.

In fact, peaceful protest is in the best tradition of how Americans respond to consequential issues. But, but, neither are we a lawless country.

In other words, what he’s saying is, yes, I support the right of these protesters to come out and object to even my own policy, in effect, is what he’s saying. But it shouldn’t trail into violence.

Destroying property is not a peaceful protest. It’s against the law. Vandalism, trespassing, breaking windows, shutting down campuses —

It shouldn’t trail into taking over buildings and obstructing students from going to class or canceling their graduations.

Threatening people, intimidating people, instilling fear in people is not peaceful protest. It’s against the law.

And he leans very heavily into this idea that what he’s seeing these days goes beyond the line.

I understand people have strong feelings and deep convictions. In America, we respect the right and protect the right for them to express that. But it doesn’t mean anything goes.

It has crossed into harassment and expressions of hate in a way that goes against the national character.

As president, I will always defend free speech. And I will always be just as strong and standing up for the rule of law. That’s my responsibility to you, the American people, and my obligation to the Constitution. Thank you very much.

Right, as I watched the speech, I heard his overriding message to basically be, I, the president of the United States, am drawing a line. These protests and counterprotests, the seizing and defacing of campus buildings, class disruption, all of it, name calling, it’s getting out of hand. That there’s a right way to do this. And what I’m seeing is the wrong way to do it and it has to stop.

That’s exactly right. And as he’s wrapping up, reporters, of course, ask questions. And the first question is —

Mr. President, have the protests forced you to reconsider any of the policies with regard to the region?

— will this change your policy toward the war in Gaza? Which, of course, is exactly what the protesters want. That’s the point.

And he basically says —

— no. Just one word, no.

Right. And that felt kind of important, as brief and fleeting as it was, because at the end of the day, what he’s saying to these protesters is, I’m not going to do what you want. And basically, your protests are never going to work. I’m not going to change the US’s involvement in this war.

Yeah, that’s exactly right. He is saying, I’m not going to be swayed by angry people in the streets. I’m going to do what I think is right when it comes to foreign policy. Now, what he thinks is that they’re not giving him enough credit for trying to achieve what they want, which is an end of the war.

He has been pressuring Israel and Hamas to come to a deal for a ceasefire that will, hopefully, in his view, would then lead to a more enduring end of hostilities. But, of course, this deal hasn’t gone anywhere. Hamas, in particular, seems to be resisting it. And so the president is left with a policy of arming Israel without having found a way yet to stop the war.

Right. I wonder, though, Peter, if we’re being honest, don’t these protests, despite what Biden is saying there, inevitably exert a kind of power over him? Becoming one of many pressures, but a pressure nonetheless that does influence how he thinks about these moments. I mean, here he is at the White House devoting an entire conversation to the nation to these campus protests.

Well, look, he knows this feeds into the political environment in which he’s running for re-election, in which he basically has people who otherwise might be his supporters on the left disenchanted with him. And he knows that there’s a cost to be paid. And that certainly, obviously, is in his head as he’s thinking about what to do.

But I think his view of the war is changing by the day for all sorts of reasons. And most of them having to do with realities on the ground. He has decided that Israel has gone far enough, if not too far, in the way it has conducted this operation in Gaza.

He is upset about the humanitarian crisis there. And he’s looking for a way to wrap all this up into a move that would move to peacemaking, beginning to get the region to a different stage, maybe have a deal with the Saudis to normalize relations with Israel in exchange for some sort of a two-state solution that would eventually resolve the Palestinian issue at its core.

So I think it’s probably fair to say that the protests won’t move him in an immediate kind of sense. But they obviously play into the larger zeitgeist of the moment. And I also think it’s important to know who Joe Biden is at heart.

Explain that.

He’s not drawn to activism. He was around in 1968, the last time we saw this major conflagration at Columbia University, for instance. At the time, Joe Biden was a law student in Syracuse, about 250 miles away. And he was an institutionalist even then.

He was just focused on his studies. He was about to graduate. He was thinking about the law career. And he didn’t really have much of an affinity, I think, for his fellow students of that era, for their activist way of looking at things.

He tells a story in his memoir about walking down a street in Syracuse one day to go to the pizza shop with some friends. And they walk by the administration building. And they see people hanging out of the windows. They’re hanging SDS banners. That’s the Students for a Democratic Society, which was one of the big activist groups of the era.

And he says, they were taking over the building. And we looked up and said, look at those assholes. That’s how far apart from the antiwar movement I was. That’s him writing in his memoir.

So to a young Joe Biden, those who devote their time and their energy to protesting the war are, I don’t need to repeat the word twice, but they’re losers. They’re not worth his time.

Well, I think it’s the tactics they’re using more than the goals that he disagreed with. He would tell you he disagreed with the Vietnam War. He was for civil rights. But he thought that taking over a building was performative, was all about getting attention, and that there was a better way, in his view, to do it.

He was somebody who wanted to work inside the system. He said in an interview quite a few years back, he says, look, I was wearing sports coats in that era. He saw himself becoming part of the system, not somebody trying to tear it down.

And so how should we think about that Joe Biden, when we think about this Joe Biden? I mean, the Joe Biden who, as a young man, looked upon antiwar protesters with disdain and the one who is now president and his very own policies have inspired such ferocious campus protests?

Yeah, that Joe Biden, the 1968 Joe Biden, he could just throw on a sports coat, go to the pizza shop with his friends, make fun of the activists and call them names, and then that’s it. They didn’t have to affect his life. But that’s not what 2024 Joe Biden can do.

Now, wherever he goes, he’s dogged by this. He goes to speeches and people are shouting at him, Genocide Joe! Genocide Joe! He is the target of the same kind of a movement that he disdained in 1968. And so as much as he would like to ignore it or move on or focus on other things, I think this has become a defining image of his year and one of the defining images, perhaps, of his presidency. And 2024 Joe Biden can’t simply ignore it.

Well, Peter, thank you very much. We appreciate it.

[UPBEAT MUSIC]

Here’s what else you need to know today. During testimony on Thursday in Donald Trump’s hush money trial, jurors heard a recording secretly made by Trump’s former fixer, Michael Cohen, in which Trump discusses a deal to buy a woman’s silence. In the recording, Trump asks Cohen about how one payment made by Trump to a woman named Karen McDougal would be financed. The recording could complicate efforts by Trump’s lawyers to distance him from the hush money deals at the center of the trial.

A final thing to know, tomorrow morning, we’ll be sending you the latest episode from our colleagues over at “The Interview.” This week, David Marchese talks with comedy star Marlon Wayans about his new stand-up special.

It’s a high that you get when you don’t know if this joke that I’m about to say is going to offend everybody. Are they going to walk out? Are they going to boo me? Are they going to hate this. And then you tell it, and everybody cracks up and you’re like, woo.

Today’s episode was produced by Diana Nguyen, Luke Vander Ploeg, Alexandra Leigh Young, Nina Feldman, and Carlos Prieto. It was edited by Lisa Chow and Michael Benoist. It contains original music by Dan Powell and Marion Lozano, and was engineered by Chris Wood. Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly.

That’s it for “The Daily.” I’m Michael Barbaro. See you on Monday.

May 7, 2024 • 27:43 How Changing Ocean Temperatures Could Upend Life on Earth
May 6, 2024 • 29:23 R.F.K. Jr.’s Battle to Get on the Ballot
May 3, 2024 • 25:33 The Protesters and the President
May 2, 2024 • 29:13 Biden Loosens Up on Weed
May 1, 2024 • 35:16 The New Abortion Fight Before the Supreme Court
April 30, 2024 • 27:40 The Secret Push That Could Ban TikTok
April 29, 2024 • 47:53 Trump 2.0: What a Second Trump Presidency Would Bring
April 26, 2024 • 21:50 Harvey Weinstein Conviction Thrown Out
April 25, 2024 • 40:33 The Crackdown on Student Protesters
April 24, 2024 • 32:18 Is $60 Billion Enough to Save Ukraine?
April 23, 2024 • 30:30 A Salacious Conspiracy or Just 34 Pieces of Paper?
April 22, 2024 • 24:30 The Evolving Danger of the New Bird Flu

Hosted by Michael Barbaro

Featuring Jonathan Wolfe and Peter Baker

Produced by Diana Nguyen , Luke Vander Ploeg , Alexandra Leigh Young , Nina Feldman and Carlos Prieto

Edited by Lisa Chow and Michael Benoist

Original music by Dan Powell and Marion Lozano

Engineered by Chris Wood

Listen and follow The Daily Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube

Warning: this episode contains strong language.

Over the past week, students at dozens of universities held demonstrations, set up encampments and, at times, seized academic buildings. In response, administrators at many of those colleges decided to crack down and called in the local police to detain and arrest demonstrators.

As of Thursday, the police had arrested 2,000 people across more than 40 campuses, a situation so startling that President Biden could no longer ignore it.

Jonathan Wolfe, who has been covering the student protests for The Times, and Peter Baker, the chief White House correspondent, discuss the history-making week.

On today’s episode

Jonathan Wolfe , a senior staff editor on the newsletters team at The New York Times.

Peter Baker , the chief White House correspondent for The New York Times covering President Biden and his administration.

A large crowd of people in a chaotic scene. Some are wearing police uniforms, other are wearing yellow vests and hard hats.

Background reading

As crews cleared the remnants of an encampment at U.C.L.A., students and faculty members wondered how the university could have handled protests over the war in Gaza so badly .

Biden denounced violence on campus , breaking his silence after a rash of arrests.

There are a lot of ways to listen to The Daily. Here’s how.

We aim to make transcripts available the next workday after an episode’s publication. You can find them at the top of the page.

The Daily is made by Rachel Quester, Lynsea Garrison, Clare Toeniskoetter, Paige Cowett, Michael Simon Johnson, Brad Fisher, Chris Wood, Jessica Cheung, Stella Tan, Alexandra Leigh Young, Lisa Chow, Eric Krupke, Marc Georges, Luke Vander Ploeg, M.J. Davis Lin, Dan Powell, Sydney Harper, Mike Benoist, Liz O. Baylen, Asthaa Chaturvedi, Rachelle Bonja, Diana Nguyen, Marion Lozano, Corey Schreppel, Rob Szypko, Elisheba Ittoop, Mooj Zadie, Patricia Willens, Rowan Niemisto, Jody Becker, Rikki Novetsky, John Ketchum, Nina Feldman, Will Reid, Carlos Prieto, Ben Calhoun, Susan Lee, Lexie Diao, Mary Wilson, Alex Stern, Dan Farrell, Sophia Lanman, Shannon Lin, Diane Wong, Devon Taylor, Alyssa Moxley, Summer Thomad, Olivia Natt, Daniel Ramirez and Brendan Klinkenberg.

Our theme music is by Jim Brunberg and Ben Landsverk of Wonderly. Special thanks to Sam Dolnick, Paula Szuchman, Lisa Tobin, Larissa Anderson, Julia Simon, Sofia Milan, Mahima Chablani, Elizabeth Davis-Moorer, Jeffrey Miranda, Renan Borelli, Maddy Masiello, Isabella Anderson and Nina Lassam.

Jonathan Wolfe is a senior staff editor on the newsletters team at The Times. More about Jonathan Wolfe

Peter Baker is the chief White House correspondent for The Times. He has covered the last five presidents and sometimes writes analytical pieces that place presidents and their administrations in a larger context and historical framework. More about Peter Baker

Luke Vander Ploeg is a senior producer on “The Daily” and a reporter for the National Desk covering the Midwest. More about Luke Vander Ploeg

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224 School Speech Topics for All Grades [High School, Middle School, Elementary]

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