Topics under this subject are considered to be classically persuasive essays because of their broad nature and the abundant resource materials available. The arguments contained can be structured in numerous ways and there is typically no "wrong" way to do so. The challenge here lies in the ability of the student to fairly present both sides of the argument and indicate evidence of why one side has more validity than the other. Possible topics can revolve around a religious context ("Is there a God?") or an economic context ("Capitalism versus Communism").
Persuasive essays that discuss current events are structured based on media reports and expert opinions. These kinds of topics are typically smaller in scope, often with two distinct sides and prevailing arguments. Students are expected to take one of these arguments and illustrate its facts. However, students are also expected to go beyond the facts and form analytical opinions from their research. Possible topics include political events ("U.S. International Relations") and timely legal issues ("Should Drugs be Legalized in Certain States?")
These types of persuasive essays question a system taken as a fact-of-life by society. This addresses the reason for the status quo and why this thinking should be changed. This kind of essay is controversial by nature -- students are expected to take the disruptive side and attempt to disprove "facts" which were previously established. Potential topics could be about a popular industry ("Should Professional Athletes Earn Millions Annually?") or daily activities ("Arguments for Free Public Transportation").
Some students find difficulty in choosing a good topic because of the apparent difficulty to "prove" a side correct. While part of the goal of a persuasive essay is to successfully convince the reader, it is not a requirement of a well-written persuasive essay to do so. The most important factor is how the student structures his arguments, ability to research pertinent facts and to take all relevant factors into consideration. Additionally, a student should choose a topic he feels the most passionate about -- a stronger interest typically leads to a stronger argument.