Choose a topic/issue in current political/social debate about which you can express an argument. Your goal is to be both informative about the topic AND present a debatable thesis centering on your opinion. You may look at the National Debate section of the Opposing Viewpoints database for possible topic areas and to see examples of argumentative pieces that have been developed in these areas. You are not, however, limited to only these topic areas. The only topic you may NOT choose is the topic of abortion.
Topics in this area could include:
• Should community college be free?
• Should there be limitations on or abolishment of stem cell research?
• Is national security more important than an individual’s privacy?
• What is the acceptable level of force that police officers can use in performing their jobs?