Encourage the students to learn about economics and politics, knowledge needed to serve as a productive adult member of society. Ask students to write a speech expressing which political party they support. Students who do not have a personal stance should study and formulate an opinion. Alternatively, gather information regarding a current, controversial bill in congress. Ask the student to write a speech expressing approval or disapproval of the bill.
High schoolers have spent most of their lives in the educational system. During this time, many have formulated opinions on changes that could enhance the way schools operate. Ask students to write a persuasive speech in expressing an elective they would like to see implemented in the school. Alternatively, have students address a controversial issue like a school dress code, and why they support or do not support a particular side of the issue.
High schoolers use a majority of their time connecting with others through school activities, social gatherings and online networking. A speech topic could inform the listener of the advancement of online social networking throughout the past decade, and how they use it in their daily lives. Alternatively, speech could focus on the disadvantages of too much social engagement in high school. For example, speak about the possibility of grades being hindered by an overload of extracurricular activities.
Sharing something personal in a high school speech presents a easy way to have the students adjust to public speaking. A speech topic could require each person in the class create a short speech that tells about who they are. As another idea, a personal speech could require the students to prepare a speech outlining the direction they plan for their life to go in the next ten years. This will cause them to evaluate their lives, and may help them prepare for upcoming decisions.