opinion essay topics module g

LEARN ENGLISH with Howard

• English topic vocabulary and links
• The Web's Largest Resource forPhrases, Verbs & Idioms
• 2. Synonyms
• 3. Vocabulary Topic Learning
• 4. Find words by ...
• 5. In different languages
• 6. Rhyme Zone
• 1. English for Medical Professionals - OET
• 4. TOEIC / GMAT / PTE
• 5. Exam prep and comparison - IELTS, TOEFL, PTE, TOEIC

Wednesday, February 9, 2000

Essay writing for the g module - grammar & writing - high school.

250+ Opinion Essay Topics to Write About

Table of contents

• 1 How to Select the Best Opinion Essay Topic?
• 2 Opinion Essay Writing Tips
• 3 Opinion Essay Topics for High School
• 4 Opinion Essay Topics for College Students
• 5 Personal Opinion Essay Topics
• 6 Public Opinion Essay Topics
• 7 Nursing Opinion Essay Topics
• 8 Opinion Essay Topics on Culture
• 9 Social Media Opinion Essay Topics
• 10 Sports Opinion Essay Topics
• 11 Psychology Opinion Essay Topics
• 12 Political Science Opinion Essay Topics
• 13 Thought-Provoking Opinion Writing Topics
• 14 History Opinion Essay Topics
• 15 Environment Opinion Essay Topics
• 16 Education Opinion Essay Topics
• 17 Literature Opinion Essay Topics

Opinion essay topics and ideas are a great way to share your thoughts and opinions on various subjects. These essays let you explore topics like current events, social issues, and political debates. Choosing a topic that you care deeply about helps you express and support your viewpoint.

It is crucial to write your essay in a clear and concise manner. Make sure your arguments are straightforward and backed by reliable evidence. It’s also essential to consider other people’s opinions with respect. This approach not only enriches your essay but also demonstrates your critical thinking skills and deep understanding of the topic.

How to Select the Best Opinion Essay Topic?

When you choose an opinion essay topic, consider the purpose of the essay and who will read it. Select a topic that will capture and hold your readers’ interest. Focus on topics you feel passionate about and have strong opinions on. It’s important to check how much research you need for the topic.

After you narrow down your list, research the topic well to make sure you understand it thoroughly. Also, think about different viewpoints and prepare to address them in your essay. Finally, ensure the topic is relevant and timely. If you follow these steps, you can choose the best topics for your opinion essay.

• Consider the purpose of your essay. Do you want to inform, persuade, or entertain? Knowing this will help you choose a suitable topic.
• Think about the audience. Are you writing for a general audience or a specific group? Knowing your audience helps you pick a topic that will interest and engage them.
• Consider the scope of your essay. Will it be short or long? Will you discuss one issue or many? This knowledge will guide you to select a suitable topic.
• Research your potential topics. Find reliable sources and look at different perspectives on the issue. This will help you make an informed decision about which topic is best for your essay.
• Choose a topic you are passionate about . A topic you care about makes the opinion paper process easier and more enjoyable.

Opinion Essay Writing Tips

We’ve created some steps for you to follow to select the perfect topic for your opinion paper:

Opinion Essay Topics for High School

There is a variety of opinion writing ideas that high school students can choose from. Some popular opinion topics, for example, include the significance of staying physically fit, the importance of eating habits, the implications of eating disorders, how government controls religious practices, etc. The important point to note while selecting an opinion essay topic is to consider your personal beliefs and interests.

• The benefits of a college education
• Impact of social media on adolescent growth
• The pros and cons of standardized testing
• The importance of physical education
• The benefits of extracurricular activities
• The effects of bullying on teen development
• Why are family bonds important?
• An opinion essay on the benefits of positive self-esteem
• The effects of teenage pregnancy on teen development
• The pros and cons of co-ed schooling
• The importance of volunteer work
• The benefits of a healthy diet
• The effects of teenage drinking and drug use
• Is time management suitable for students?
• The importance of a good education
• Should students be allowed to have cell phones in school?
• Should students have to wear uniforms?
• Should students be required to take physical education classes?
• Should students be allowed to grade their teachers?
• Should students be required to do community service?
• Should students be allowed to pray in school?
• Should students be allowed to eat during class?
• Should students be allowed to listen to music during class?
• Should students be allowed to use social media in school?
• Should students be allowed to have part-time jobs?

Opinion Essay Topics for College Students

A college student usually navigates through a plethora of different controversial issues and dilemmas during his/her education. Students who want to express their thoughts and ideas while also engaging in meaningful debate can use opinion essay writing as an opportunity. From campus violence related issues to gun laws, students get the chance to express their views and beliefs. Some good opinion essay topics that are relevant to the experiences are as follows:

• The impact of social media on the development of teenage social skills
• The benefits of studying abroad for college students
• The effects of a college education on future income potential
• The importance of internships for college students
• The value of a liberal arts education
• How to choose the right college for you
• How to pay for college
• The role of college athletics in the educational experience
• How to balance work and school
• The challenges of returning to school as an adult
• The impact of technology on the college experience
• The changing role of the professor in the classroom
• The benefits of study groups
• How to stay motivated in college
• The importance of college graduation

Personal Opinion Essay Topics

Topics for personal opinion essays can encompass everything from current events to personal experiences. When selecting a topic for an opinion essay, it’s crucial to ensure that you have a strong stance and can back it up with solid evidence. Opinion topics provide an opportunity to persuade others and introduce them to a diverse range of perspectives.

• The impact of social media on personal relationships
• The dangers of smoking
• The importance of regular exercise
• The effects of stress on the body
• The benefits of getting a good night’s sleep
• The dangers of drinking alcohol
• The importance of staying safe online
• The effects of technology on the brain
• The benefits of meditation
• The dangers of using too much screen time
• The benefits of a positive outlook on life
• The effects of gratitude on happiness
• The importance of spending time with loved ones
• The importance of taking time for oneself
• Should parents be allowed to choose their children’s education?
• Should the government impose stricter gun control laws?
• Should the death penalty be abolished?
• Should the voting age be lowered?
• Should the legal drinking age be lowered?
• Should marijuana be legalized?
• Should the government provide free healthcare?
• Should the government provide free college tuition?
• Should the government increase taxes on the wealthy?
• Should the government invest more in renewable energy sources?

Public Opinion Essay Topics

Public opinion refers to the attitudes and views held by a substantial segment of society regarding a specific issue. These opinions are typically impacted by a range of factors, such as government policies, personal experiences, and cultural values. Here are some ideas for public opinion essay topics to consider:

• How does the media shape public opinion?
• Are there any benefits to having a public opinion?
• How much impact do social networking platforms have on us?
• Does the public have a right to know everything?
• How can we ensure that the public’s opinion is heard?
• How does angry parenting affect children?
• The pros and cons of health insurance
• Modern pop stars and their influence on the youth
• Does the government have a responsibility to act on the opinion of the public?
• Is it possible to have a collective opinion?
• How can we ensure that public opinion is not impacted by fake news?
• Who should be responsible for shaping the opinion of the common man?
• Analysing the impact of media coverage on public
• The effectiveness of military training programs
• The pros and cons of using medical marijuana

Nursing Opinion Essay Topics

• What are the benefits of a career in nursing?
• What challenges do nurses face in the healthcare system?
• How can nurses best advocate for their patients?
• What role does technology play in modern nursing?
• How can nurses help to reduce medical errors?
• How can nurses help to improve patient satisfaction?
• What is the impact of nurse-patient ratios on patient care?
• How can nurses help to reduce healthcare costs?
• What ethical considerations are important for nurses to consider?
• How can nurses help to reduce health disparities?

Opinion Essay Topics on Culture

• The Impact of Social Media on Culture
• The Role of Religion in Society
• The Impact of Technology on Culture
• The Influence of Music on Culture
• The Impact of Immigration on Culture
• The Role of Education in Shaping Culture
• The Impact of Media on Culture
• The Influence of Art on Culture
• The Impact of Language on Culture
• The Role of Family in Shaping Culture
• The Impact of Social Class on Culture
• The Role of Gender in Society
• The Impact of Globalization on Culture
• The Influence of Pop Culture on Society
• The Role of Tradition in Culture

Social Media Opinion Essay Topics

Online social platforms have become a significant part of our daily existence. They affect various aspects of our lives in various ways. Hence, there are a multitude of potential essay topics to consider.

• How have online social platforms changed the way we communicate?
• Online social platforms shaping the way we think
• Influence of social media on human behaviour
• How can we use online social platforms for our benefit?
• Drawbacks of using digital social platforms
• Ways how online social platforms impact mental health
• Is your physical health impacted by the excessive use of online social apps?
• Influence of social media platforms on relationships.
• How does excessive use of social media affect our productivity?
• Is it ethical for parents to have access to social media control tools?
• How are political leaders using online social apps for their own benefit?
• How is social media shaping our societal norms?
• Unleashing the power of social media platforms and online communication
• Do online social platforms affect our control over privacy?
• Navigating the dark side of online social platforms and their threat to our society

Sports Opinion Essay Topics

If you’re a sports fan, there are many aspects of sports that make for great opinion essay topics. Whether you choose to write about the impact of sports on youth growth or the evolving nature of the sports world, make sure to present a clear, well-supported opinion backed by relevant research and data.

• The impact of sports on society
• An opinion essay on the business of sports
• Sports and its contribution to national identity
• The impact of sports on individual development
• The positive and negative effects of sports on mental health
• Sports and the media
• Sports and gender
• Sports and disability
• Elite sports and the exploitation of athletes
• Amateur sports and the benefits for participants
• Sports and obesity
• Sports and violence
• Sports and gambling today and in the past decades
• The impact of sports on international relations
• Envisioning the future of sports, trends and predictions

Psychology Opinion Essay Topics

Psychology is a captivating field of study that has sparked numerous opinions and debates for years. If you’re seeking thought-provoking topics for your opinion essay within psychology, there are many fascinating options to choose from:

• How does the human brain process information?
• How do different cultures perceive mental illness?
• How does the media affect the way people view mental illness?
• What are the benefits of therapy?
• What are the different types of therapy?
• Assessing the Efficiency of Various Therapeutic Approaches
• How do family dynamics affect mental health?
• An opinion essay on stress and its effect on mental health?
• How does trauma affect mental health?
• How does poverty affect mental health?
• How does immigration affect mental health?
• How does discrimination affect mental health?
• How does social media affect mental health?
• Do Internal online platforms affect mental health?
• Technological advancement in the field of psychology
• The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
• The Role of Genetics in Personality Development
• The Effects of Childhood Trauma on Adult Mental Health
• The Impact of Technology on Human Behavior
• The Relationship Between Stress and Mental Health
• The Impact of Substance Abuse on Mental Health
• The Role of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Mental Health
• The Impact of Sleep Deprivation on Mental Health
• The Role of Attachment Theory in Mental Health
• The Impact of Culture on Mental Health
• The Role of Exercise in Mental Health
• The Impact of Parenting Styles on Mental Health
• The Role of Nature vs. Nurture in Mental Health
• The Impact of Social Support on Mental Health
• The Role of Gender in Mental Health
• The Impact of Religion on Mental Health
• The Role of Self-Esteem in Mental Health
• The Impact of Media on Mental Health
• The Role of Nutrition in Mental Health
• The Impact of Trauma on Mental Health

Political Science Opinion Essay Topics

The study of politics provides numerous opportunities for crafting thought-provoking opinion essays. There is a range of topics to choose from, covering everything from local politics to international governance and political control instruments.

• The impact of social media on political participation
• The impact of campaign finance on the political process
• The role of the media in shaping public opinion
• How does the voting system impact the political outcomes
• The impact of political polarisation on legislative productivity
• The impact of gerrymandering on electoral outcomes
• The impact of term limits on the quality of representation
• The impact of redistricting on political representation
• Campaign advertising and its effect on voter behaviour
• Political dynasties and how they shape political competition
• The role and effect of youth engagement in the political process
• The impact of women’s participation in politics
• Does ethnic diversity contribute to political outcomes?
• Religious diversity and how it shapes political outcomes
• The influence of social media on political division

Thought-Provoking Opinion Writing Topics

A powerful way to communicate and engage your perspective with society is by opinion writing For instance, you can write about artificial intelligence, the slavery controversy, global warming, any philosophy essay topics , or modern society. In all cases, a successful opinion essay resonates with you on a personal level.

• What is the key to academic success?
• Does Asian culture dominate the business world?
• Eating disorders—is the media to blame?
• Vulgar power display and its impact on society – is this a good thing?
• Is the current drinking age too high?
• Are angry parents to blame for behavioral problems in children?
• What are your personal views on domestic violence?
• Is modern culture based on the ideology of feminism?
• Do we need to rethink the way we approach education?
• Is the internet a positive or negative force in our lives?
• Should we be worried about the rise of artificial intelligence?
• How do we deal with the challenges of globalization and economic inequality?
• What is the future of the human race?
• Should we be more environmentally conscious and take steps to help with global warming?
• How can we create a better world?

History Opinion Essay Topics

History is a realm that lets you get a glimpse of the past and understand how events of the past shaped the world of today. There are many opinion essay topics that you can choose from, including the events leading up to World War, civil wars, and colonialism.

• How has the role of women changed in society over the past few decades?
• How has modern culture affected the way we view traditional values?
• How do different cultures view slavery and the slave trade?
• How does the rest of the world view our country and its politics?
• How did World War II affect the entire world?
• How has the internet changed the way we research and learn about history?
• How do different cultures celebrate holidays and traditions?
• What are some lesser-known historical facts about your own country?
• What are some controversial topics in history that are still debated today?
• How do we remember and commemorate historical events?
• How do we balance historical accuracy with artistic license when telling historical stories?
• What is the future of historical research and scholarship?
• How do we ensure that the lessons of history are not forgotten?
• What is the impact of historical revisionism on our understanding of the past?
• How does history shape our understanding of the present and future?
• The Impact of the Industrial Revolution on Society
• The Legacy of the American Revolution
• The Role of Women in Ancient Civilizations
• The Influence of Religion on Politics
• The Causes of the French Revolution
• The Impact of Imperialism on Colonialism
• The Significance of the Cold War
• The Legacies of the Civil Rights Movement
• The Impact of the Scientific Revolution
• The Role of Technology in Modern Society

Environment Opinion Essay Topics

We cannot deny the fact that the environment is an important part of our planet, and it has a paramount impact on all of us. If you are an environment enthusiast, then you must be searching for an opinion essay topic that translates your beliefs.

• What are the most effective ways to reduce air pollution?
• Should governments impose stricter regulations on companies to reduce their environmental impact?
• Should the use of plastic be banned?
• Is nuclear energy a viable alternative to fossil fuels?
• What are the most effective ways to reduce water pollution?
• Should governments invest more in renewable energy sources?
• What are the benefits and drawbacks of using genetically modified crops?
• Should the use of pesticides be banned?
• How can we reduce our reliance on fossil fuels?
• What are the most effective ways to reduce deforestation?

Education Opinion Essay Topics

There are several opinion essay topics that can be explored in the field of education. This can include the role of technology in the education system, gender bias faced by students, and unequal access to quality education.

• How can academic writing help students achieve academic success?
• What are the benefits of distance learning for high school students?
• Personal skills that students develop in single-gender schools.
• Is sex education necessary in the school curriculum?
• How effective is home-schooling as an educational option?
• Is it a challenging task to educate modern children?
• What are the flaws in the current educational system?
• How can the school curriculum be improved?
• What is the impact of age differences on the educational process?
• How do modern children spend their free time?
• What are the benefits of challenging tasks for students?
• How can students balance their academic and personal lives?
• Is there a way to reduce stress in the educational process?
• What are the benefits of a healthy lifestyle for students?
• Should standardized tests be abolished?
• Should college tuition be free?
• What is the best way to teach a foreign language?
• Should the education system be more flexible?
• Should online education be more widely available?
• Should schools prioritize STEM education?
• Should schools provide more vocational training?
• Should schools have uniforms? Should schools have a longer school day?
• Should schools have a longer school year?
• Should schools have more extracurricular activities?
• Should schools provide more mental health services?
• Should schools provide more career guidance?
• Should schools be more culturally inclusive?
• Should schools provide more financial literacy education?
• Should schools provide more technology education?
• Should schools have more parental involvement?
• Should schools have more community involvement?
• Should schools have more global awareness education?
• Should schools have more environmental education?

Literature Opinion Essay Topics

Literature is a landscape that is rich and offers the opportunity to explore the intangible, such as human experience and emotions.

• Is there a universal classic book that everyone should read?
• Is there a difference between classic literature and modern literature?
• How has literature changed over the years?
• What is the most important element of a successful novel?
• What is the most important thing a reader should look for in a book?
• Is there a difference between reading a book and watching a movie based on the book?
• What is the most important lesson that literature can teach us?
• What is the most important thing that literature can teach us about life?
• How has literature influenced society?
• What is the most important thing that literature can teach us about ourselves?
• How has literature changed over time?
• What is the most important thing that literature can teach us about the world?
• How has literature shaped our culture?
• What is the most important thing that literature can teach us about justice?
• How has literature impacted our understanding of history?
• How has literature shaped our understanding of morality?
• What is the most important thing that literature can teach us about love?
• How has literature helped to shape our understanding of gender roles?
• What is the most important thing that literature can teach us about democracy?
• How has literature helped to shape our understanding of race and ethnicity?

Opinion topics are not easy to decide on. But if you want to write a winning essay, you need to pick a topic that you have a good understanding of. No matter if you’re writing about education, politics, or sports, it’s important to have solid evidence and examples to back up your opinion. This way, you can write an interesting and convincing essay that will have a lasting impact on your reader.

Readers also enjoyed

WHY WAIT? PLACE AN ORDER RIGHT NOW!

Just fill out the form, press the button, and have no worries!

We use cookies to give you the best experience possible. By continuing we’ll assume you board with our cookie policy.

• תחומי דעת - למידה
• תפיסות ומגמות
• גני ילדים ומעונות
• כלי עזר להוראה
• מאגר הקלטות
• אקדמיה ברשת
• מאגר סרטי קולנוע - אקדמי +
• כאן חינוכית
• מפגש כיתה וירטואלי (סינכרוני)
• מרחב למידה דיגיטלי כיתתי (אסינכרוני)
• הדרכות מקוונות
• אתם שואלים - אנחנו עונים
• בית הספר הווירטואלי
• מיקוד דיגיטלי
• בינה מלאכותית יוצרת
• הכל לגננת בלמידה משולבת
• מקוונים בשבילך
• למידה משולבת: הלכה למעשה
• למידה שיתופית מתוקשבת
• קל-לי בדיגיטלי
• מרחב מלווה מקצוע
• חלופות בהערכה
• הכיתה האינטראקטיבית
• סביבות תוכן
• ספרי לימוד דיגיטליים
• יחידות הוראה מתוקשבות
• משימות אורייניות מתוקשבות
• קורסים מקוונים לכיתות ה-ו
• קורסים מקוונים לכיתות ז-ט
• קורסים מקוונים לחט"ע
• זכויות יוצרים
• הנחיות ללמידה משולבת
• סביבת מודל של משרד החינוך לבתי הספר
• סביבת ענן לחינוך Google
• סביבת ענן לחינוך –Microsoft office 365
• המקפצה – שיעורים מקוונים חינם
• קורסים ללמידה עצמאית לכיתות ה-ו
• MOOC בבתי הספר
• בגרופ - הכנה לבגרות בקבוצות וואטסאפ
• קורסי הכנה לבגרות ללמידה עצמאית
• קורסים ללמידה עצמאית לכיתות ז-ט
• חשיבה מחשובית ורובוטיקה - למידה מרחוק
• כלים ומשחקים דיגיטליים
• המקפצה - סדנאות דיגיטליות יומיות בשנת הלימודים
• חינוך מיוחד
• מחוננים ומצטיינים
• עולים חדשים
• שח"ר - ילדים ונוער בסיכון
• הכלה והשתלבות
• לוח השנה העברי
• צהרוני ניצנים
• בשבילי הזיכרון
• לוח חופשות - חוזר מנכ"ל
• תוכנית הבגרויות הגמישה
• ועדת ביטון - הסיפור השלם
• בחינות בגרות
• הכנה לבחינות בגרות
• קורסי הכנה לבגרות
• האקדמיה החדשה
• תוכניות ייחודיות
• נבחרות ישראל במדעים
• היכרות עם החינוך הטכנולוגי
• חינוך לקיימות
• תוכנית מב"ט
• עתודה מדעית טכנולוגית
• תוכנית ההייטק
• ג'אם טק – למידה בין-תחומית
• למידה משמעותית
• برامج إضافيّة
• תקומה וגבורה
• יש מקום לכולם
• חינוך לכל הדעות
• חינוך לחשיבה
• זכויות התלמיד והתלמידה
• המטה לחינוך אזרחי וחיים משותפים
• מגדר ושוויון בין המינים בחינוך
• חינוך פיננסי
• אורח חיים בטוח
• מעורבות חברתית
• הוגנות בחינוך
• מטיילים עם תחומי הדעת
• שירות לאומי
• כנסים ומפגשים מקוונים
• איתור וזיהוי ילדים בסיכון
• מיניות במרחב בטוח
• מרחב פדגוגי
• פיתוח מקצועי והדרכה
• שירות ותמיכה
• הצהרת נגישות
• תצוגה מותאמת
• English Pedagogy
• TEACHING AND LEARNING MATERIALS

Writing Rubrics

• Updated Writing Rubrics for MODULE G (16582) and F (external 16584) (posted January 2020)
• Updated Writing Rubrics for MODULE C (016382) & D (external 016484) (posted January 2020)

You might also like...

Bagrut Guidelines

Dictionaries

New Immigrants

Your idea is here.

פורטל זה נבנה עבור מורים ונועד לשימוש צרכי חינוך בלבד. העמוד מכיל קישורים לאתרים חיצוניים שאינם אתרי משרד החינוך. תוכן אתרים אלה וכל המוצג בהם (לרבות פרסומות) הינו באחריות בעלי האתרים בלבד. אם נתקלתם בבעיה כלשהי או שיש לכם הצעות או הערות בנוגע לתוכן, באפשרותכם לפנות אלינו בקישור זה.

Module G Opinion Essay

nicolerubinger

writing opinion

Loading ad...

• Google Classroom
• Microsoft Teams
• Download PDF

Verify originality of an essay

Get ideas for your paper

Cite sources with ease

200+ Amazing Opinion Essay Topics and Ideas

Updated 23 Jul 2024

Choosing to write an opinion essay can be challenging if student does not consider relevant opinion essay topics that would meet an event or subject, making it suitable to provide good argumentation. When college professor asks to present such essay type, it means that formal writing piece on particular topic or event is requested. It must represent an opinion, a personal take on specific issue.

Still, as one wants to maintain academic style structure for opinionated writing, it is necessary to mention an opposite view right before conclusion paragraph. Yet, how does one choose successful opinion essay topic to receive A grade? Just like paper title generator , one needs strong arguable thesis subject. Selecting the right opinion essay topics is crucial for a persuasive argument, and an essay writing service can assist in refining your topic and crafting a strong essay. Choosing good opinion essay topic should relate to personal skills, experience, reliable sources, analysis, and solid research that reveals reasons for specific viewpoint.

7 Opinion Essay Writing Tips

Good opinion writing topics may be compared to prompts that instantly describe what the article is about. The same goes for each piece of writing where opinion is given. Here are writing tips from EduBirdie’s experts that make essay writing a breeze.

• Brainstorm Future Topic - select from several opinion essay topics so one can see if chosen research meets course requirements.
• Use Supporting Evidence - always backup presented information with reliable sources that include accurate citations.
• Mind Opinion Paragraph Topic Sentence - make sure that prompt is clear as to what side is taken.
• Remember Opposite Viewpoint - always insert opposing reasoning that’s why choose a suitable opinion essay topic.
• Turn to Related Research - see if there is any other research on given subject.
• Strong Thesis - first paragraph should have perspective statement that links to subsequent paragraphs.
• Proofreading - check twice for grammar, spelling, structure, citing to meet each grading rubric points.

200 Opinion Essay Topics Divided by Subject

Good opinion topics are relevant to initial discipline and student’s strongest skills. Below are 150 ideas in most popular disciplines to choose from. Good assignment idea asks a question and is  argumentative, posing an opinion.

Political Science Opinion Essay Topics

• The Effectiveness of the United Nations in Maintaining International Peace
• The Impact of Social Media on Political Campaigns and Elections
• Universal Basic Income: A Solution to Economic Inequality or a Utopian Dream?
• The Role of Whistleblowers in Modern Democracies
• Climate Change Policy: Should It Be a Central Focus in Political Agendas?
• The Future of the European Union Post-Brexit
• The Ethics and Implications of Political Lobbying
• Cybersecurity in Politics: Protecting the Integrity of Elections
• The Influence of Corporate Money in American Politics
• Immigration Policy: Balancing Human Rights and National Security
• The Pros and Cons of Direct Democracy in the Digital Age
• The Role of Political Satire in Shaping Public Opinion
• Nuclear Non-Proliferation: An Achievable Goal or a Lost Cause?
• The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Future Political Decision-Making
• The Role of Women in Political Leadership Globally
• Political Polarization: Causes and Solutions for Bridging the Divide
• The Ethics of Drone Warfare and Remote Military Intervention
• The Influence of Religion on Political Policies and Decisions
• The Rise of Populism: Causes and Consequences for Global Politics
• Media Censorship and Freedom of Speech in Authoritarian Regimes

Need more writing assistance?

Connect with our top writers and receive writing sample crafted to your needs.

History Opinion Essay Topics

• The True Motivations Behind European Colonization of the Americas
• The Impact of the Industrial Revolution on Modern Society
• The Role of Women in World War II and Its Long-Term Effects
• The Historical Accuracy of the 'Great Man' Theory of History
• The Consequences of the Treaty of Versailles: Fair or Overly Punitive?
• The Influence of Ancient Greek Democracy on Modern Political Systems
• The Ethics of Atomic Bombings in Hiroshima and Nagasaki
• The Crusades: Religious Duty or Economic and Political Gain?
• The Fall of the Soviet Union: Inevitable or Preventable?
• The Role of Propaganda in Shaping Public Opinion During the Cold War
• The Impact of the Renaissance on Modern Western Thought
• The Historical Significance of the Silk Road in Global Trade
• The Legacy of Colonialism in Africa: Development Hindered or Helped?
• The Effectiveness of Non-Violent Protests in the Civil Rights Movement
• The Real Causes of the Great Depression and Its Lessons for Today
• The Influence of the Mongol Empire on Eurasian History
• The Role of the Printing Press in Democratizing Knowledge
• The Historical Impact of the Spanish Inquisition on Religious Freedom
• The Significance of the Berlin Wall in the Context of the Cold War
• The Evolution of Feminism and Its Impact on Modern Society

Environment Opinion Essay Topics

• The Real Impact of Climate Change on Global Weather Patterns
• The Effectiveness of International Agreements in Combating Climate Change
• Should Governments Prioritize Economic Growth Over Environmental Protection?
• The Role of Renewable Energy in Shaping the Future of Global Energy Policies
• The Ethics of Genetic Modification in Agriculture: Balancing Risks and Benefits
• Ocean Pollution: The Unseen Crisis Affecting Marine Life and Human Health
• The Impact of Deforestation on Biodiversity and Climate
• Urban Sprawl: Environmental Catastrophe or Necessary Growth?
• The Feasibility of a Zero-Waste Lifestyle in Modern Society
• The Role of Individual Actions vs. Corporate Responsibility in Environmental Conservation
• The Future of Electric Vehicles and Their Impact on the Environment
• The Consequences of Overfishing: A Global Perspective
• The Viability of Nuclear Energy as a Clean Energy Source
• The Impact of Fast Fashion on the Environment and Sustainable Alternatives
• The Role of Technology in Solving Environmental Challenges
• The Ethics and Environmental Impact of Animal Testing
• Water Scarcity: A Looming Global Crisis
• The Environmental Costs of Digital Technology and E-Waste
• The Effectiveness of Carbon Tax in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions
• Sustainable Agriculture: The Key to Feeding the World Without Destroying It

Nursing Opinion Essay Topics

• The Impact of Nurse-to-Patient Ratios on Patient Care Quality
• The Role of Nurses in Shaping Health Policy Decisions
• Ethical Implications of Rationing Care in Times of Healthcare Shortages
• The Effectiveness of Holistic Nursing Practices in Modern Healthcare
• Mental Health Nursing: Addressing the Stigma in Healthcare Settings
• The Challenges and Rewards of Geriatric Nursing
• The Role of Technology in Enhancing Nursing Efficiency and Patient Care
• Nursing Burnout: Causes, Consequences, and Prevention Strategies
• The Importance of Cultural Competence in Nursing
• The Impact of Telemedicine on Nursing Practices and Patient Access to Care
• Nursing Leadership: Key to Effective Healthcare Teams
• The Ethics of End-of-Life Care in Nursing
• Pediatric Nursing: Balancing Emotional Connection with Professional Detachment
• The Role of Nurses in Patient Education and Health Literacy
• The Future of Nursing: Trends and Predictions in Healthcare
• The Challenges of Rural Nursing and Strategies for Improvement
• Nursing and Public Health: Bridging the Gap Between Hospital and Community
• The Impact of Nursing on Patient Satisfaction and Hospital Ratings
• The Role of Advanced Practice Nurses in Healthcare System
• The Importance of Evidence-Based Practice in Nursing

Save your time! We can take care of your essay

• Proper editing and formatting
• Free revision, title page, and bibliography
• Flexible prices and money-back guarantee

Social Media Opinion Essay Topics

• The Impact of Social Media on Teenage Mental Health
• Social Media: A Tool for Social Change or a Platform for Misinformation?
• The Ethics of Data Collection and Privacy in Social Media
• The Role of Social Media in Modern Political Campaigns
• Cyberbullying: The Dark Side of Social Media
• The Influence of Social Media on Body Image and Self-Esteem
• Social Media Addiction: Myth or Reality?
• The Effectiveness of Social Media as a Tool for Education and Learning
• The Role of Social Media in Business Marketing and Consumer Engagement
• The Impact of Social Media on Interpersonal Communication Skills
• Social Media Influencers: Shaping Consumer Behavior and Culture
• The Pros and Cons of Censorship and Moderation on Social Media Platforms
• The Role of Social Media in Cultural Preservation and Globalization
• Social Media and the News: The Changing Landscape of Information Dissemination
• The Psychological Effects of Social Media 'Likes' and Validation
• The Future of Social Media: Trends and Predictions
• Social Media as a Platform for Artistic Expression and Recognition
• The Role of Social Media in Crisis Management and Emergency Response
• The Impact of Social Media on Professional Networking and Career Development
• Social Media and Democracy: Enhancing or Hindering Public Discourse?

Education Opinion Essay Topics

• The Pros and Cons of Standardized Testing in Education
• The Impact of Technology and Digital Learning on Traditional Classroom Education
• Should Financial Education Be a Mandatory Part of School Curriculum?
• The Role of Arts Education in Student Development
• Homeschooling vs. Traditional Schooling: Benefits and Drawbacks
• The Effectiveness of Bilingual Education in Schools
• The Importance of Physical Education in Schools
• The Role of Teachers vs. Technology in the Future of Education
• The Impact of School Uniforms on Student Behavior and School Culture
• The Pros and Cons of Sex Education in Schools
• The Influence of Social Media on Student Learning and Concentration
• The Necessity of Life Skills Education in Schools
• The Benefits and Challenges of Inclusive Education
• The Role of Parental Involvement in Children's Education
• The Impact of Cultural Diversity in the Classroom
• The Future of Higher Education: Online vs. Traditional Universities
• The Role of Education in Promoting Environmental Awareness
• The Ethics of Corporate Sponsorship in Schools
• The Importance of Teaching Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Skills
• The Effect of Class Size on Student Learning and Teacher Effectiveness

Generation Gap Opinion Essay Topics

• The Impact of Technology on the Generation Gap
• Understanding the Different Work Ethics Across Generations
• The Influence of Pop Culture on Bridging or Widening the Generation Gap
• The Role of Social Media in Shaping Generational Identities
• Differences in Political Views Between Generations
• The Evolution of Family Dynamics Across Generations
• How Education Systems Have Changed and Their Impact on Different Generations
• The Shift in Life Goals and Aspirations Across Generations
• Generational Differences in Attitudes Towards Mental Health
• The Changing Nature of Retirement and Its Perception Across Generations
• The Effect of Globalization on the Generation Gap
• Intergenerational Communication: Challenges and Solutions
• The Role of Music in Defining Generational Gaps
• Differences in Environmental Consciousness Across Generations
• The Impact of Economic Fluctuations on Different Generations
• Generational Perspectives on Gender Roles and Equality
• How Technological Advancements Are Perceived Differently by Various Generations
• The Influence of Historical Events on Generational Worldviews
• The Changing Nature of Privacy and Sharing in the Digital Age Across Generations
• The Role of Elders in Modern Society: Respected or Overlooked?

Literature Opinion Essay Topics

• The Relevance of Shakespeare in Modern Times
• The Role of Women in Victorian Literature
• Dystopian Literature: A Reflection of Society's Fears or a Warning for the Future?
• The Impact of Cultural Background on Interpretations of Classic Literature
• The Representation of Race and Ethnicity in Contemporary Literature
• The Influence of Digital Media on the Evolution of Narrative Forms
• The Role of Mythology in Modern Literature
• The Ethics of Posthumous Publications in Literature
• The Significance of the Bildungsroman Genre in Shaping Young Adult Perspectives
• The Impact of Translation on Literary Interpretation and Appreciation
• The Evolution of Science Fiction and Its Predictions for the Future
• The Role of Literature in Social and Political Change
• The Psychological Depth in Gothic Literature
• The Importance of Children's Literature in Early Development
• The Representation of Mental Health in Modern Novels
• The Influence of Historical Events on Literary Movements
• The Role of Symbolism in Poetry
• The Decline of Reading in the Digital Age: Causes and Consequences
• The Representation of LGBTQ+ Characters in Literature
• The Impact of Literary Awards on Readership and Publishing Trends

Culture Opinion Essay Topics

• The Impact of Globalization on Local Cultures
• Cultural Appropriation vs. Cultural Exchange: Where to Draw the Line?
• The Role of Traditional Festivals in Modern Society
• The Influence of Pop Culture on Youth Identity
• The Preservation of Indigenous Languages and Cultures
• The Impact of Western Culture on Eating Habits Worldwide
• Cultural Impacts of Tourism: Beneficial or Harmful?
• The Role of Art and Literature in Cultural Preservation
• The Effects of Digital Media on Cultural Practices and Traditions
• The Evolution of Family Structures and Values in Different Cultures
• Cultural Perspectives on Gender Roles and Equality
• The Role of Museums in Cultural Education and Preservation
• The Influence of Hollywood on Global Film Cultures
• Cultural Responses to Climate Change
• The Impact of Immigration on Cultural Identity
• The Role of Music in Cultural Expression and Unity
• Cultural Attitudes Towards Aging and Elderly Care
• The Effect of Consumerism on Cultural Values
• Cultural Traditions vs. Modern Healthcare Practices
• The Role of Language in Shaping Cultural Identity

Psychology Opinion Essay Topics

• The Effectiveness of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy in Treating Anxiety Disorders
• The Impact of Social Media on Adolescent Mental Health
• Nature vs. Nurture: The Ongoing Debate in Psychological Development
• The Ethics of Using Placebos in Psychological Research
• The Psychological Effects of Long-Term Remote Work
• The Role of Psychology in Understanding and Combating Climate Change Denial
• The Influence of Childhood Trauma on Adult Behavior and Mental Health
• The Effectiveness of Art Therapy in Mental Health Treatment
• The Stigma Surrounding Mental Health: Causes and Solutions
• The Psychology of Addiction: Beyond Substance Abuse
• The Impact of Sleep on Mental Health and Cognitive Function
• The Role of Emotional Intelligence in Personal and Professional Success
• The Psychological Implications of Virtual Reality Technologies
• The Influence of Parenting Styles on Child Development
• The Role of Psychology in Enhancing Sports Performance
• The Impact of Stereotypes and Prejudices on Social Behavior
• The Psychological Effects of Aging in a Youth-Centric Society
• The Role of Resilience in Overcoming Trauma
• The Influence of Music on Mood and Cognitive Performance
• The Ethics and Effectiveness of Deception in Psychological Studies

These are far not all topics we offer. Contact our 24/7 experts for specific essay topics or help with opinion essay writing.

Opinion Essay Sample for Students

It is not a secret that best way to learn is by examples, therefore, below is an opinion essay samples that you may use as an example while completing your own opinion essay on any topic:

Social Media has Negative Impact on Body Image

Social media networks may be compared to invisible role models that dictate fashion and moral standards. Since there is no control per se making information is freely available even to young people, social networks contribute to distorted standards promotion. One of them is body image that is based on celebrities and anorexia templates that results in eating disorders and traumatic experiences. Because of power of peer pressure online, young people copy improper and distorted viewpoints in order to become popular and successful, which results in healthcare hazards including mental breakdowns.

Social networks like Facebook or Instagram, control what is popular by sharing or reposting celebrities’ images which unificates body shapes and fashion standards. Having a post by certain pop star or an actress (actor) in social network influences personal views even subconsciously. It forces young people to mimic their heroes by eating less and focusing on brand clothes, copying improper behaviors. Striving to become popular among initial circle, online users limit themselves to what is being offered and repeated on a daily basis.

Even though it can be assumed that online users do not always count on peer pressure, but large media networks promote fashion standards and body image with forced advertisements that link certain patterns with success and power. Those that oppose negative Instagram impact should research narcissistic digital era culture behavior that rarely promotes healthy eating or physical activity. Networking itself limits physical interaction, proper body images analysis that person encounter on his or her own without socio-cultural pressure.

Thus, it seems that online media promotes incorrect viewpoints and takes away creativity, personal analysis, leaving no freedom of making a choice. Online promotion is powerful, yet this power must have supervision within ethical and moral norms, promoting a healthy lifestyle.

Affordable Homework Help

No matter if you need opinion paper topics, at EduBirdie you always receive plagiarism-free work because every assignment is written from scratch by native speakers with Masters or PhD degrees. Affordable prices, expert writers, easy order placing process is not everything! Even if you have about 3-5 hours left to finish homework, you can order urgent essay and get things done in time! Do not risk your future, contact us now!

Was this helpful?

Thanks for your feedback.

Written by David Kidwell

David is one of those experienced content creators from the United Kingdom who has a high interest in social issues, culture, and entrepreneurship. He always says that reading, blogging, and staying aware of what happens in the world is what makes a person responsible. He likes to learn and share what he knows by making things inspiring and creative enough even for those students who dislike reading.

Related Blog Posts

100 fantastic process essay topics for students.

Writing different essays on different topics requires different processes. While it is a simple concept, it is not always so easy to know how to ge...

200+ Reflective Essay Topics For All Students

When trying to think about the best topic ideas, you may end up with endless possibilities. Because this can turn out to be a very daunting task, y...

Inspiring Informative Essay Topics in 2024 + Writing Tips

Table of contents How to Choose Informative Essay Topic Ideas? 👍 Good Informative Essay Topics 🔝 Top Informative Essay Topics 🖊️ ...

Join our 150K of happy users

• Get original papers written according to your instructions
• Save time for what matters most

49 Opinion Writing Prompts for Students

• Lesson Plans
• Grading Students for Assessment
• Becoming A Teacher
• Assessments & Tests
• Elementary Education
• Special Education
• Homeschooling

One of the most common essay types is the opinion, or persuasive, essay. In an opinion essay , the writer states a point of view, then provides facts and reasoned arguments to support that viewpoint. The goal of the essay is to convince the reader to share the writer’s opinion.

Students aren't always aware of how many strong opinions they already hold. Use the following opinion writing prompts to inspire them to start thinking and writing persuasively.

Prompts About School and Sports

School- and sports-related topics often elicit strong opinions in students. Use these writing prompts to kick off the brainstorming process.

• Ch-ch-ch-changes . What is one thing about your school that needs to change? Is bullying an issue? Do students need longer breaks or a dress code? Choose one vital issue that needs to change and convince school leaders to make it happen.
• Special guest. Your school is trying to decide on a famous person to give a speech or presentation to students. Who do you think they should choose? Write an essay to convince your principal.
• Oxford or bust. Is the Oxford comma essential or obsolete?
• Scribble scrabble. Do students still need to learn cursive handwriting?
• Co-ed conflict. Would students perform better if more schools were single-gender rather than co-ed? Why or why not?
• Participation awards. Should there be winners and losers in sports, or is participation the ultimate goal?
• Homework overload. Write an essay to convince your teacher to assign less homework.
• Sports. Which sport (or team) is the best? What makes it better than the others?
• No slacking . Write an essay persuading a fellow student to do their homework.
• Class trip. This year, students get to vote on where to go for a class trip. Write an essay convincing your fellow students to vote for the place you’d like to go.
• Superlatives. Which would you rather be: a top student, a talented athlete, or an accomplished artist?
• Virtual athletes . Video games competitions are often aired on TV and treated like sports competitions. Should video games be considered sports?
• Class debate. Should classes that students may not use or that don’t interest them (such as physical education or foreign language) be required?

Prompts About Relationships

Friendships, dating, and other relationships can be both rewarding and exasperating. These writing prompts about relationships will help students explore their feelings about both the positive and the negative moments.

• Snitch. Your best friend tells you about his plan to cheat on a test. Should you tell an adult? Why or why not?
• Give it a chance. Your best friend is convinced that she would hate your favorite book, even though she's never read it. Convince her to read it.
• Friendships vs. relationships. Are friendships or romantic relationships more important in life? Why?
• Driving age. What age do kids start driving in your state? Is that age too old, too young, or just right? Why?
• Truth or consequences. Your best friend asks your opinion about something, but you know that a truthful answer will hurt her feelings. What do you do?
• Who chooses? Your best friend is visiting, and you want to watch TV together, but his favorite show is at the same time as your favorite show. Convince him that your show is a better choice.
• Fun times. What is the most fun thing you and your best friend have ever experienced together? Why does it deserve the top spot?
• Dating. Are long-term dating relationships good or bad for teens?
• New friends. You want to spend time with a new student at school, but your best friend is jealous. Convince your friend of the importance of including the newcomer.
• Be mine. Is Valentine’s Day worthwhile or just a scheme for the greeting card and chocolate industry to make more money?
• Debbie Downer. Should you cut ties with friends or relatives who are always negative?
• He loves me not. Is it really better to have loved and lost than never to have loved at all?
• Elders. Should you respect your elders merely because they are older, or is respect something that must be earned?

Prompts About Family, Pets, and Leisure Time

The following writing prompts related to family, furry friends, and free time will help students reflect on preferences, ethics, and integrity.

• Self-reflection. This time, you're the one who needs convincing! Write an essay to persuade yourself to start a healthy habit (or kick a bad habit).
• Paper wars. Should toilet paper hang with the loose end resting on the top of the roll or hanging from the bottom?
• Movie vs. book. Choose a book that has been made into a movie. Which version is better, and why?
• Weekend wanderings . Do you prefer to stay home on the weekends or get out and do things around town? Write an essay to convince your parents to let you do what you prefer this weekend.
• Sweepstakes. A travel agency is hosting an essay contest to give away an all-expenses-paid trip to the one place in the world you’d most love to visit. Craft a winning essay that convinces them they need to choose you.
• Zoo debate. Is it ethical to keep animals in zoos? Why or why not?
• Presence of pets. Should there be limits on the types of places pets can go (e.g. airplanes or restaurants)? Why or why not?
• Inspiring stories. What is the most inspiring book you’ve ever read? Why is it so inspiring?
• Dollar discovery. You find a $20 bill in the parking lot of a crowded store. Is it okay to keep it, or should you turn it in to customer service?
• Vacation day. What is the very best way to spend an unexpected day off from school and why is it the best?
• Digital or print? Is it better to read books in print or digitally? Why?

Prompts About Society and Technology

The people and technology around us have a significant impact on our lives. These writing prompts encourage students to consider the effect that society and technological advances have on our day-to-day lives.

• Reverse technology. Pick one technological advancement that you think the world would be better off without. Explain your reasoning and persuade the reader.
• Out of this world . Do aliens exist? Why or why not?
• Social media. Is social media good or bad for society? Why?
• Emoji. Has the use of emoji stunted our ability to express ourselves in writing, or does it help us identify our emotions more precisely?
• Auto safety. Have advancements like self-driving cars, blind spot indicators, and lane departure warning systems made driving safer, or have they just made drivers less attentive?
• Exploration Mars. Write a letter to Elon Musk convincing him that you should be part of a colony to Mars.
• Fundraisers. Is it okay for kids to stand outside stores and ask shoppers for money for their sports teams, clubs, or band? Why or why not?
• Inventions. What is the greatest invention ever made? Why is it the best?
• Important cause. In your opinion, what global problem or issue deserves more attention than it currently receives? Why should more time and money be invested in this cause?
• Minimalism. Does living a minimalist lifestyle make for a happier life? Why or why not?
• Gaming gains. Are video games generally a positive or a negative influence? Why?
• Rose-colored glasses. Is the current decade the best era in history? Why or why not?
• Paper or plastic. Should plastic bags be outlawed?
• Writing Prompts for 7th Grade
• Writing Prompts for Elementary School Students
• 3 Real World Exit Slips for Formative Assessment
• Engage Students With a Four Corners Debate
• 8 First Day of High School Activities to Get to Know Your Students
• Writing a Lesson Plan: Closure and Context
• Topics for a Lesson Plan Template
• The Best Interactive Debate Websites for Students and Teachers
• Lesson Plan Step #8 - Assessment and Follow-Up
• Using Bloom's Taxonomy for Effective Learning
• Write Lesson Plans
• Writing a Lesson Plan: Independent Practice
• Writing a Lesson Plan: Guided Practice
• Writing a Lesson Plan: Anticipatory Sets
• 5 Ways to Celebrate National Poetry Month in the Classroom
• Writing a Lesson Plan: Objectives and Goals

• English Home
• Online Grammar
• Online Literature
• Book Reports/Projects
• Module G & C - Writing
• Oral Bagrut
• Present Tenses
• Past Tenses
• The Conditionals
• Relative Pronouns
• The Road Not Taken
• As I Grew Older
• Rules of the Game
• A Summer's Reading
• Mr Know All
• Thank You Ma'am
• The Treasure of Lemmon Brown
• Count That Day Lost
• The Caged Bird
• Inherit the Wind

Module G & C: Writing  

Compositions - G 

Opinion Essa y

Opinion Essay ( Video Lesson )

For & Against Ess ay  

For & Against ( Video Less on )

Descriptive - G  

Instruct ions   & Example s

Descriptive Essays ( Video Lesson )  

Descriptive Essay Task  

Informal Letter - C

Informal Letter Explanation  

Descriptive - C

Descriptive Explanation  

Descriptive PPT Presentation

Additional Material

Connec t ors  

Relative Prono uns

Useful Idioms and P hrases

Vocabula ry

Punctuation & Capi talization  

Note: The lessons on this page are intended to assist the students of Ort Binyamina and are not official Ministry Instructions. These are writing techniques and strategies intended for internal use only. 

Make a free website with Yola

Writing for Module G

• Word Document File

Description

Questions & answers, sarah greenberg english literature and writing.

• We're hiring
• Help & FAQ
• Privacy policy
• Student privacy
• Terms of service
• Tell us what you think

Questions? Call us: 

Email: 

• How it works
• Testimonials

Essay Writing

• Essay service
• Essay writers
• College essay service
• Write my essay
• Pay for essay
• Essay topics

Term Paper Writing

• Term paper service
• Buy term papers
• Term paper help
• Term paper writers
• College term papers
• Write my term paper
• Pay for term paper
• Term paper topic

Research Paper Writing

• Research paper service
• Buy research paper
• Research paper help
• Research paper writers
• College research papers
• Write my research paper
• Pay for research paper
• Research paper topics

Dissertation Writing

• Dissertation service
• Buy dissertation
• Dissertation help
• Dissertation writers
• College thesis
• Write my dissertation
• Pay for dissertation
• Dissertation topics

Other Services

• Custom writing services
• Speech writing service
• Movie review writing
• Editing service
• Assignment writing
• Article writing service
• Book report writing
• Book review writing

Popular request:

Top 100 opinion essay topics in 2020.

August 5, 2020

When you need some great opinion essay topics, you just read our list of 100 amazing ideas and pick the opinion essay topic you like. It’s that simple, and it is 100% free. Our seasoned writers are experts at writing opinion essay topics and they can even teach you how to write opinion essay – if you need our help.

Get an A+ With Our Awesome Opinion Essay Topics

Let’s be honest: writing an opinion essay can be so much easier if you have the right topic. Our amazing writers have put together a list of awesome ideas for opinion essays for you. You can use any one of our topics for free and you can even reword them as you see fit. Pick one of the following topics and start writing right away!

Environment Opinion Essay

If you are interested in the environment and have something to prove, you are more than welcome to write your paper on an environmental topic:

• Is global warming a big lie?
• The creation of the Panama Canal.
• Should we chip animals to keep track of them?
• The Polar Ice Cap is at risk.
• Polar bears are on the brink of extinction.
• Will electric cars save our environment?

Opinion Essay Topics 5th Grade

5th grade students will be thrilled to learn that we have some excellent topics that they can use in 2020:

• Do we really need to eat animals?
• What is true friendship really?
• Why you need at least a second language.
• What is the best TV show right now?
• Family time is very important.

Best 5-paragraph Opinion Paper Topics

If you want to make sure the topic you choose is perfect for a 5 paragraph essay, just pick one of the topics below:

• Should we abolish the death penalty in the US?
• What’s the best place for a summer vacation?
• Music helps you do your homework quicker.
• Reasons to ban smoking.
• Problems of the current United States tax system.
• We should ban the export of weapons.

IELTS Opinion Essay Topics

Are you preparing for the IELTS test? Take a look at our IELTS opinion essay topics, pick the one you like, and then go ahead and write the best essay you can:

• Why do you think prevention is better than cure?
• Information security problems in the 21st century.
• Single-sex schools vs. co-ed schools.
• Can children learn by watching TV?
• Advantages and disadvantages of buying online.

Easy Topics for Writing an Opinion Essay

There are some easy topics that you can write an essay on in a matter of hours. Here are some of the best examples we can think of:

• We need free Wi-Fi in all public places in the US.
• Do we really need the death penalty?
• The Internet should not be censored in any way.
• I support the 3-day weekend.
• The benefits of learning history.
• We should clone people.

Social Media Opinion Topics

Are you interested in writing about social media? Or perhaps you want people to know your option about something related to social media. Here are some topics for you:

• Censorship on the Internet in the 21st century.
• Does Twitter act like a political messenger?
• Is Facebook ruining our social life?
• Students rely too much on their gadgets.
• Not using social media for 3 days in a row.
• Identity theft on social media platforms.

College-level Opinion Writing Topics

College-level opinion essay topics are more complex than high school ones (we have those in our list as well). Here are some examples you can use right now:

• College education should be free for everyone in the US.
• College lectures should be made shorter.
• Children should not be targeted by ads.
• The disadvantages of e-learning.
• COVID-19 used to suppress our constitutional rights.

Funny Opinion Paper Topics

Did you know that making your professor laugh is one of the easiest ways to get some bonus points? Just use one of our funny opinion paper topics:

• KFC is my least favorite restaurant.
• Drinking wine every day is recommended.
• The benefits of being a gaming pro.
• The things your driving instructor didn’t tell you.
• No, the client is almost never right.
• Here is what your dog thinks about you.

Political Science Opinion Topics

We have some of the best political science opinion paper topics that you can think of (updated for 2020). Here are some examples:

• The true face of political leaders.
• Gun control and the politics behind it.
• Is socialism better than capitalism?
• Does the US economy depend on migrants?
• Why I love the US foreign policy.
• The media today has no freedom of speech.

Some Unpopular Opinion Topics

You are free to write your opinion about anything you like, including unpopular opinion topics. Give one of these ideas a try right now:

• Abortion should be made illegal everywhere.
• Why we need to be able to own guns.
• Mandatory death penalty offences.
• The Mexico border wall.
• Students are getting too much homework. (one of the greatest opinion essay topics)
• The United States lost the Vietnam War.

Topics About Nursing

Are you interested in writing about nursing? Finding the right topic in nursing has never been easier. Just pick one of our ideas:

• Should we force people to vaccinate their children?
• Healthcare and racial problems.
• The benefits of Obama Care.
• What causes Autism?
• Stress in the ER room.

Some Ideas for Opinion Articles

You can find opinion essay examples free of charge on the Internet, but you can’t find excellent topics. Here are some interesting ideas for you:

• We should tax the rich more.
• The real number of calories in fast food products.
• How to dress for success.
• Legalizing marijuana in the United Kingdom.
• Why I hate my last name. (one of the best topics for opinion essay papers)
• We need genetically modified crops.
• Why are Stem cells so useful?

Opinion Essay Topics About Education

You are more than welcome to write an essay about education, of course. You can find some excellent opinion essay examples on our blog as well.

• Benefits of non-traditional schools.
• Should we trust online sources?
• Ways to fight campus violence.
• The best alternative to the GPA. (one of the best ideas for opinion writing)
• Gender schools should not exist in the 21st century.

Good Opinion Topics for High School

Looking for some good opinion essay topics for high school? We are here to help! Choose one of the topics below and start writing right away:

• Humans will be on Mars by 2030.
• Herbal practitioners are con artists.
• The problem with tsunami warning systems.
• Is remote education any good?
• Are e-books reliable sources of information?
• Identifying the generation gap.

History Topics

We have some opinion paper topics related to history that we think you will love. Here are some of the best:

• The history of the smartphone.
• The Abolition of Slavery in the US.
• Discuss symbolism in Ancient Rome.
• How WW II started.
• Racial bias in Ancient Egypt.
• What caused the Pearl Harbor attack?

A Couple of Public Opinion Topics

Looking for some opinion ideas related to public opinion? Stop struggling to find the perfect topic and pick one of the ideas from our list:

• Gun control enforcement problems.
• Best way to prevent illegal abortions.
• Should Obama Care be eliminated?
• Signs our foreign policy is not working.
• Does the US have the right to police the world?
• Bernie Sanders of Donald Trump?
• Should the US focus on preventing global warming?

Topics About Animals

Read a great opinion essay sample to get an idea about how to write the paper and then pick one of our topics related to animals:

• Poaching is putting African elephants at risk.
• Should we train our pets?
• Pets should be kept only outside.
• We would perish without bees. (one of the best opinion writing ideas)
• Exotic animals as pets.
• Banning the use of animals in circuses.
• Zoo animals are unhappy.

Writing an Opinion Essay: Tips and Tricks

When writing an opinion essay, you need to know how to start. Before you get to writing the paper, learn how do you start off an opinion essay. Remember that the opening statement in opinion essay is very important. It can make or break your paper.

To learn how to start an opinion essay quickly, you should read a few good opinion essay samples. Our academic writers and editors can help you with some samples or simply show you how to write an opinion essay. And remember, starting with an opinion essay outline is an extremely important step towards an A+!

Take a break from writing.

Top academic experts are here for you.

• How To Write An Autobiography Guideline And Useful Advice
• 182 Best Classification Essay Topics To Learn And Write About
• How To Manage Stress In College: Top Practical Tips  
• How To Write A Narrative Essay: Definition, Tips, And A Step-by-Step Guide
• How To Write Article Review Like Professional
• Great Problem Solution Essay Topics
• Creating Best Stanford Roommate Essay
• Costco Essay – Best Writing Guide
• How To Quote A Dialogue
• Wonderful Expository Essay Topics
• Research Paper Topics For 2020
• Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics

EL Education Curriculum

You are here.

• ELA G4:M3:U3

Using Writing to Share an Opinion

In this unit.

• Guiding Questions and Big Ideas

The Four Ts

Content connections.

• Habits of Character

Unit-at-a-Glance

Accountable independent reading, supporting english language learners.

• Texts and Resources to Buy

Preparation and Materials

• Technology and Media

Additional Language and Literacy Block

• Optional Activities

You are here:

• ELA Grade 4

Like what you see?

Order printed materials, teacher guides and more.

How to order

Help us improve!

Tell us how the curriculum is working in your classroom and send us corrections or suggestions for improving it.

Leave feedback

In this unit, students apply what they have learned about the American Revolution and colonial perspectives on the war to create broadsides persuading someone to be a Patriot or a Loyalist. This prepares students for the performance task, a text-based discussion in which they discuss whether they would have supported the war if they had lived during colonial times. In the first half of the unit, students read and analyze opinion writing to understand characteristics of the format and how authors support their opinions with reasons and evidence. For the mid-unit assessment, students read a new broadside from the Quaker perspective and analyze the author's opinion, reasons, and evidence.

In the second half of the unit, students use the Quaker broadside read for the mid-unit assessment as a model, analyzing the structure and using the Painted Essay format to write and revise their own broadside persuading someone to be a Patriot. Students write and revise a new broadside from the Loyalist perspective for the end of unit assessment. Students then select a broadside to publish and prepare for and participate in a text-based discussion.

Big Ideas & Guiding Questions

• How did the American Revolution and the events leading up to it affect the people in the colonies?
• The American Revolution resulted in the United States of America becoming a new country with independence from Britain.
• The American Revolution, like many wars, divided people: brother against brother, mother against daughter, neighbor against neighbor.
• American colonists had different perspectives on fighting for independence from Britain.
• How does a person's perspective influence her or his opinion?
• Topic : perspectives on the American Revolution
• Task: Students read and analyze an opinion text (mid-unit assessment). Students plan, write, and revise an opinion piece (end of unit assessment).
• Targets (standards explicitly taught and assessed): RI.4.8, RI.4.9, RI.4.10, W.4.1, W.4.5, W.4.9b, W.4.10, SL.4.1, L.4.1e, L.4.1g
• Texts: William Barton's letter, Robert Barton's letter, Model Broadside: Quaker Perspective (all written by EL Education for instructional purposes)

Each unit in the 3-5 Language Arts Curriculum has two standards-based assessments built in, one mid-unit assessment and one end of unit assessment. The module concludes with a performance task at the end of Unit 3 to synthesize their understanding of what they accomplished through supported, standards-based writing.

This module is designed to address English Language Arts standards and to be taught during the literacy block of the school day. However, the module intentionally incorporates social studies content that many teachers may be teaching during other parts of the day. These intentional connections are described below.

College, Career, and Civic Life C3 Framework for Social Studies State Standards:

• D2.Civ.3.3-5
• D2.Civ.4.3-5
• D2.Civ.12.3-5
• D2.His.2.3-5
• D2.His.4.3-5
• D2.His.5.3-5
• D2.His.12.3-5

Habits of Character/Social-Emotional Learning Focus

Central to EL Education's curriculum is a focus on "habits of character" and social-emotional learning. Students work to become effective learners, developing mindsets and skills for success in college, career, and life (e.g., initiative, responsibility, perseverance, collaboration); work to become ethical people, treating others well and standing up for what is right (e.g., empathy, integrity, respect, compassion); and work to contribute to a better world, putting their learning to use to improve communities (e.g., citizenship, service).

In this unit, students work to become effective learners , developing the mindsets and skills for success in college, career, and life (e.g., initiative, responsibility, perseverance, collaboration). They collaborate and persevere as they analyze and write opinion texts.

Students also work to become ethical people , treating others well and standing up for what is right (e.g., empathy, integrity, respect, compassion). They show respect and integrity as they engage in the peer critique protocol throughout the unit and use their peers' feedback to revise their work.

Each unit is made up of a sequence of between 5-20 lessons. The “unit at a glance” chart in the curriculum map breaks down each unit into its lessons, to show how the curriculum is organized in terms of standards address, supporting targets, ongoing assessment, and protocols. It also indicates which lessons include the mid-unit and end-of-unit assessments.

View the unit-at-a-glance chart

The ability to read and comprehend texts is the heart of literacy instruction. Comprehension is taught, reinforced, and assessed across both components of this curriculum: module lessons and the Additional Language and Literacy block. Refer to the 4M3 Module Overview for additional information.

In this unit, students continue to read research texts independently for homework, and engage in frequent research reading shares during the module lesson for accountability.

The Meeting Students' Needs column in each lesson contains support for both ELLs and Universal Design for Learning (UDL), and some supports can serve a wide range of student needs. However, ELLs have unique needs that cannot always be met with UDL support. According to federal guidelines, ELLs must be given access to the curriculum with appropriate supports, such as those that are specifically identified as "For ELLs" in the Meeting Students' Needs column.

• Prioritizing lessons for classrooms with many ELLs: To prepare for Unit 3 assessments, consider prioritizing and expanding instruction in Lessons 1-2, which introduce the analysis of opinion texts; Lesson 5, which contains a Language Dive including prepositional phrases; and Lessons 7-10, which focus on writing broadsides one paragraph at a time. If necessary, consider placing less focus on and condensing instruction in Lessons 3 and 14-15, which provide helpful background, practice, and repetition but don't introduce as many new concepts.
• Language Dives: All students participate in a Language Dive in Lesson 5. Many lessons also include optional Mini Language Dives for ELLs. These Language Dives support ELLs and all students in deconstructing, reconstructing, and practicing the meaning and structures of sentences from various opinion texts. The Language Dive goals remain the same as in previous modules; however, the new format goes beyond those goals by encouraging students to take more of a lead in the conversations and to build greater independence by taking an inquiry-based approach to language in general, and the selected sentence in particular. See the Tools page  for additional information.
• Conversation Cues: Encourage productive and equitable conversation with Goals 1-4 Conversation Cues, which are questions teachers can ask students to help achieve four goals: (Goal 1) encourage all students to talk and be understood; (Goal 2) listen carefully to one another and seek to understand; (Goal 3) deepen thinking; and (Goal 4) think with others to expand the conversation (adapted from Michaels, Sarah and O'Connor, Cathy. Talk Science Primer . Cambridge, MA: TERC, 2012. Based on Chapin, S., O'Connor, C., and Anderson, N. [2009]. Classroom Discussions: Using Math Talk to Help Students Learn, Grades K-6. Second Edition. Sausalito, CA: Math Solutions Publications). See the Tools page  for the complete set of cues.
• Diversity and inclusion: Investigate the routines, practices, rituals, beliefs, norms, and experiences that are important to ELLs and their families. Integrate this background into the classroom as students consider the impact of the Revolutionary War on people living in the colonies, discuss opinion texts about the war, and write their own. Be sensitive to students' own perspectives, backgrounds, and experiences, particularly with such issues as war and slavery, and foster inclusive action by creating space for students to express their feelings about the issues embedded in the texts, while being aware that these discussions may unearth trauma or social stigma. Consult with a guidance counselor, school social worker, or ESL teacher for further investigation of diversity and inclusion.
• Writing opinion essays: Students receive explicit instruction in how to craft an opinion essay: introductory paragraph, focus statement with Points 1 and 2, proof paragraphs, and concluding paragraph. Students use the Painted Essay(r) format. Students who are still trying to comprehend the language itself may also need additional support grasping this organizational structure. Use color-coding and manipulatives inspired by the Painted Essay(r) routines, such as paragraph strips, to support this skill. Also, this essay structure may be different from the text structure students may be familiar with in their home languages. Compare and contrast home language text structure whenever possible.
• Prepositional phrases and linking words: In the second half of the unit, students receive explicit instruction in identifying and using prepositional phrases, as well as linking words and phrases. This instruction will benefit ELLs by preparing them for the work they will do in revising their broadside during the module lessons, as well as preparing them for their revisions in the end of unit assessment. Support students by providing additional practice with prepositional phrases and linking words and phrases, including playing a prepositional phrase practice game suggested in the Meeting Students' Needs column of Work Time A in Lesson 7. Additionally, encourage students to use varying linking words and phrases throughout the unit in their speaking, as well as in their writing.
• Celebration: Celebrate the courage, enthusiasm, diversity, and bilingual assets that ELLs bring to the classroom.

Texts to Buy

Texts that need to be procured. Please download the Trade Book List for procurement guidance.

See full list of texts, including recommended texts

• Gather the following materials from previous modules for use in this unit:
• Academic Word Wall (begun in Module 1)
• Working to Become Ethical People anchor chart (begun in Module 1)
• Working to Become Effective Learners anchor chart (begun in Module 1)
• Working to Contribute to a Better World anchor chart (begun in Module 1)
• Vocabulary logs (from Module 1)
• Close Readers Do These Things anchor chart (begun in Module 1)
• Strategies to Answer Selected Response Questions anchor chart (begun in Module 1)
• Tracking Progress folders (from Module 1)
• The Painted Essay(r) template (from Module 1)
• Painting an Essay Plan (from Module 1)
• Peer Critique anchor chart (begun in Module 1)
• Writing Complete Sentences handout (from Module 1)
• Parts of Speech anchor chart (begun in Module 1)
• Discussion Norms anchor chart (begun in Module 1)
• The Exploring Opinions as Readers and Writers handout is introduced in this unit and referred to in Module 4.

Technology and Multimedia

• American Revolution  - Additional reading and research: Students read additional texts and look at resources about the American Revolution. Note: Please preview before sharing with students and determine which are appropriate for this age.
• The American Revolution, 1763-1783  - Additional reading and research: Students read additional texts and look at resources about the American Revolution. Note: Please preview before sharing with students and determine which are appropriate for this age.
• A Guide to the American Revolution  - Additional reading and research: Students read additional texts and look at resources about the American Revolution. Note: Please preview before sharing with students and determine which are appropriate for this age.
• American Revolution  - Additional reading and research: Students watch videos about the American Revolution. Note: Please preview before sharing with students and determine which are appropriate for this age.
• Liberty! The American Revolution  - Additional reading and research: Students read additional texts and look at resources about the American Revolution. 
• American Revolution  - Additional reading and research: Students read additional texts and look at resources about the American Revolution

The Additional Language and Literacy (ALL) Block is 1 hour of instruction per day. It is designed to work in concert with and in addition to the 1-hour Grades 3-5 ELA "module lessons." Taken together, these 2 hours of instruction comprehensively address all the Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts.

The ALL Block has five components: Additional Work with Complex Text; Reading and Speaking Fluency/GUM (Grammar, Usage, and Mechanics); Writing Practice; Word Study and Vocabulary; and Independent Reading.

The ALL Block has three 2-week units which parallel to the three units of the module.

ELA G4:M3:U3:L1

Reading opinion texts: determining an author’s opinion, ela g4:m3:u3:l2, ela g4:m3:u3:l3, preparing to write: determining characteristics of the format, ela g4:m3:u3:l4, mid-unit 3 assessment: reading and answering questions about an opinion text, ela g4:m3:u3:l5, writing opinion texts: analyzing a model, ela g4:m3:u3:l6, writing opinion texts: planning a broadside, ela g4:m3:u3:l7, writing opinion texts: drafting the introduction of a broadside, ela g4:m3:u3:l8, writing opinion texts: drafting proof paragraph 1 of a broadside, ela g4:m3:u3:l9, writing opinion texts: drafting proof paragraph 2 of a broadside, ela g4:m3:u3:l10, writing opinion texts: drafting the conclusion paragraph of a broadside, ela g4:m3:u3:l11, writing opinion texts: revising a broadside, ela g4:m3:u3:l12, end of unit 3 assessment, part i: opinion writing; loyalist broadside, ela g4:m3:u3:l13, end of unit 3 assessment, part ii: opinion writing: loyalist broadside, ela g4:m3:u3:l14, writing opinion texts: publishing a broadside, ela g4:m3:u3:l15, performance task: participating in a text-based discussion, optional: community, experts, fieldwork, service, and extensions.

Invite members of the community, family members, or teachers to come into the classroom to share their personal family histories pertaining to the American Revolution.

• Invite a historian with expertise on the American Revolution to come into the classroom to talk to the students about it.
• Invite a collector of American Revolution memorabilia to bring in artifacts to the classroom to share with students.
• Visit an American Revolution exhibition at a museum.
• Depending on your location, visit an American Revolution historical site.
• Share student broadsides with a local museum.
• Create a class museum of student work products created throughout this module and invite other classes and members of the community in to visit and learn from the students.

Extension opportunities for students seeking more challenge:

Invite students to research local history relevant to the American Revolution.

Copyright © 2013-2024 by EL Education, New York, NY.

Get updates about our new K-5 curriculum as new materials and tools debut.

Help us improve our curriculum..

Tell us what’s going well, share your concerns and feedback.

Terms of use . To learn more about EL Education, visit  eleducation.org

Numbers, Facts and Trends Shaping Your World

Read our research on:

Full Topic List

Regions & Countries

• Publications
• Our Methods
• Short Reads
• Tools & Resources

Read Our Research On:

Key things to know about U.S. election polling in 2024

Confidence in U.S. public opinion polling was shaken by errors in 2016 and 2020. In both years’ general elections, many polls underestimated the strength of Republican candidates, including Donald Trump. These errors laid bare some real limitations of polling.

In the midterms that followed those elections, polling performed better . But many Americans remain skeptical that it can paint an accurate portrait of the public’s political preferences.

Restoring people’s confidence in polling is an important goal, because robust and independent public polling has a critical role to play in a democratic society. It gathers and publishes information about the well-being of the public and about citizens’ views on major issues. And it provides an important counterweight to people in power, or those seeking power, when they make claims about “what the people want.”

The challenges facing polling are undeniable. In addition to the longstanding issues of rising nonresponse and cost, summer 2024 brought extraordinary events that transformed the presidential race . The good news is that people with deep knowledge of polling are working hard to fix the problems exposed in 2016 and 2020, experimenting with more data sources and interview approaches than ever before. Still, polls are more useful to the public if people have realistic expectations about what surveys can do well – and what they cannot.

With that in mind, here are some key points to know about polling heading into this year’s presidential election.

Probability sampling (or “random sampling”). This refers to a polling method in which survey participants are recruited using random sampling from a database or list that includes nearly everyone in the population. The pollster selects the sample. The survey is not open for anyone who wants to sign up.

Online opt-in polling (or “nonprobability sampling”). These polls are recruited using a variety of methods that are sometimes referred to as “convenience sampling.” Respondents come from a variety of online sources such as ads on social media or search engines, websites offering rewards in exchange for survey participation, or self-enrollment. Unlike surveys with probability samples, people can volunteer to participate in opt-in surveys.

Nonresponse and nonresponse bias. Nonresponse is when someone sampled for a survey does not participate. Nonresponse bias occurs when the pattern of nonresponse leads to error in a poll estimate. For example, college graduates are more likely than those without a degree to participate in surveys, leading to the potential that the share of college graduates in the resulting sample will be too high.

Mode of interview. This refers to the format in which respondents are presented with and respond to survey questions. The most common modes are online, live telephone, text message and paper. Some polls use more than one mode.

Weighting. This is a statistical procedure pollsters perform to make their survey align with the broader population on key characteristics like age, race, etc. For example, if a survey has too many college graduates compared with their share in the population, people without a college degree are “weighted up” to match the proper share.

How are election polls being conducted?

Pollsters are making changes in response to the problems in previous elections. As a result, polling is different today than in 2016. Most U.S. polling organizations that conducted and publicly released national surveys in both 2016 and 2022 (61%) used methods in 2022 that differed from what they used in 2016 . And change has continued since 2022.

One change is that the number of active polling organizations has grown significantly, indicating that there are fewer barriers to entry into the polling field. The number of organizations that conduct national election polls more than doubled between 2000 and 2022.

This growth has been driven largely by pollsters using inexpensive opt-in sampling methods. But previous Pew Research Center analyses have demonstrated how surveys that use nonprobability sampling may have errors twice as large , on average, as those that use probability sampling.

The second change is that many of the more prominent polling organizations that use probability sampling – including Pew Research Center – have shifted from conducting polls primarily by telephone to using online methods, or some combination of online, mail and telephone. The result is that polling methodologies are far more diverse now than in the past.

(For more about how public opinion polling works, including a chapter on election polls, read our short online course on public opinion polling basics .)

All good polling relies on statistical adjustment called “weighting,” which makes sure that the survey sample aligns with the broader population on key characteristics. Historically, public opinion researchers have adjusted their data using a core set of demographic variables to correct imbalances between the survey sample and the population.

But there is a growing realization among survey researchers that weighting a poll on just a few variables like age, race and gender is insufficient for getting accurate results. Some groups of people – such as older adults and college graduates – are more likely to take surveys, which can lead to errors that are too sizable for a simple three- or four-variable adjustment to work well. Adjusting on more variables produces more accurate results, according to Center studies in 2016 and 2018 .

A number of pollsters have taken this lesson to heart. For example, recent high-quality polls by Gallup and The New York Times/Siena College adjusted on eight and 12 variables, respectively. Our own polls typically adjust on 12 variables . In a perfect world, it wouldn’t be necessary to have that much intervention by the pollster. But the real world of survey research is not perfect.

Predicting who will vote is critical – and difficult. Preelection polls face one crucial challenge that routine opinion polls do not: determining who of the people surveyed will actually cast a ballot.

Roughly a third of eligible Americans do not vote in presidential elections , despite the enormous attention paid to these contests. Determining who will abstain is difficult because people can’t perfectly predict their future behavior – and because many people feel social pressure to say they’ll vote even if it’s unlikely.

No one knows the profile of voters ahead of Election Day. We can’t know for sure whether young people will turn out in greater numbers than usual, or whether key racial or ethnic groups will do so. This means pollsters are left to make educated guesses about turnout, often using a mix of historical data and current measures of voting enthusiasm. This is very different from routine opinion polls, which mostly do not ask about people’s future intentions.

When major news breaks, a poll’s timing can matter. Public opinion on most issues is remarkably stable, so you don’t necessarily need a recent poll about an issue to get a sense of what people think about it. But dramatic events can and do change public opinion , especially when people are first learning about a new topic. For example, polls this summer saw notable changes in voter attitudes following Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the presidential race. Polls taken immediately after a major event may pick up a shift in public opinion, but those shifts are sometimes short-lived. Polls fielded weeks or months later are what allow us to see whether an event has had a long-term impact on the public’s psyche.

How accurate are polls?

The answer to this question depends on what you want polls to do. Polls are used for all kinds of purposes in addition to showing who’s ahead and who’s behind in a campaign. Fair or not, however, the accuracy of election polling is usually judged by how closely the polls matched the outcome of the election.

By this standard, polling in 2016 and 2020 performed poorly. In both years, state polling was characterized by serious errors. National polling did reasonably well in 2016 but faltered in 2020.

In 2020, a post-election review of polling by the American Association for Public Opinion Research (AAPOR) found that “the 2020 polls featured polling error of an unusual magnitude: It was the highest in 40 years for the national popular vote and the highest in at least 20 years for state-level estimates of the vote in presidential, senatorial, and gubernatorial contests.”

How big were the errors? Polls conducted in the last two weeks before the election suggested that Biden’s margin over Trump was nearly twice as large as it ended up being in the final national vote tally.

Errors of this size make it difficult to be confident about who is leading if the election is closely contested, as many U.S. elections are .

Pollsters are rightly working to improve the accuracy of their polls. But even an error of 4 or 5 percentage points isn’t too concerning if the purpose of the poll is to describe whether the public has favorable or unfavorable opinions about candidates , or to show which issues matter to which voters. And on questions that gauge where people stand on issues, we usually want to know broadly where the public stands. We don’t necessarily need to know the precise share of Americans who say, for example, that climate change is mostly caused by human activity. Even judged by its performance in recent elections, polling can still provide a faithful picture of public sentiment on the important issues of the day.

The 2022 midterms saw generally accurate polling, despite a wave of partisan polls predicting a broad Republican victory. In fact, FiveThirtyEight found that “polls were more accurate in 2022 than in any cycle since at least 1998, with almost no bias toward either party.” Moreover, a handful of contrarian polls that predicted a 2022 “red wave” largely washed out when the votes were tallied. In sum, if we focus on polling in the most recent national election, there’s plenty of reason to be encouraged.

Compared with other elections in the past 20 years, polls have been less accurate when Donald Trump is on the ballot. Preelection surveys suffered from large errors – especially at the state level – in 2016 and 2020, when Trump was standing for election. But they performed reasonably well in the 2018 and 2022 midterms, when he was not.

During the 2016 campaign, observers speculated about the possibility that Trump supporters might be less willing to express their support to a pollster – a phenomenon sometimes described as the “shy Trump effect.” But a committee of polling experts evaluated five different tests of the “shy Trump” theory and turned up little to no evidence for each one . Later, Pew Research Center and, in a separate test, a researcher from Yale also found little to no evidence in support of the claim.

Instead, two other explanations are more likely. One is about the difficulty of estimating who will turn out to vote. Research has found that Trump is popular among people who tend to sit out midterms but turn out for him in presidential election years. Since pollsters often use past turnout to predict who will vote, it can be difficult to anticipate when irregular voters will actually show up.

The other explanation is that Republicans in the Trump era have become a little less likely than Democrats to participate in polls . Pollsters call this “partisan nonresponse bias.” Surprisingly, polls historically have not shown any particular pattern of favoring one side or the other. The errors that favored Democratic candidates in the past eight years may be a result of the growth of political polarization, along with declining trust among conservatives in news organizations and other institutions that conduct polls.

Whatever the cause, the fact that Trump is again the nominee of the Republican Party means that pollsters must be especially careful to make sure all segments of the population are properly represented in surveys.

The real margin of error is often about double the one reported. A typical election poll sample of about 1,000 people has a margin of sampling error that’s about plus or minus 3 percentage points. That number expresses the uncertainty that results from taking a sample of the population rather than interviewing everyone . Random samples are likely to differ a little from the population just by chance, in the same way that the quality of your hand in a card game varies from one deal to the next.

The problem is that sampling error is not the only kind of error that affects a poll. Those other kinds of error, in fact, can be as large or larger than sampling error. Consequently, the reported margin of error can lead people to think that polls are more accurate than they really are.

There are three other, equally important sources of error in polling: noncoverage error , where not all the target population has a chance of being sampled; nonresponse error, where certain groups of people may be less likely to participate; and measurement error, where people may not properly understand the questions or misreport their opinions. Not only does the margin of error fail to account for those other sources of potential error, putting a number only on sampling error implies to the public that other kinds of error do not exist.

Several recent studies show that the average total error in a poll estimate may be closer to twice as large as that implied by a typical margin of sampling error. This hidden error underscores the fact that polls may not be precise enough to call the winner in a close election.

Other important things to remember

Transparency in how a poll was conducted is associated with better accuracy . The polling industry has several platforms and initiatives aimed at promoting transparency in survey methodology. These include AAPOR’s transparency initiative and the Roper Center archive . Polling organizations that participate in these organizations have less error, on average, than those that don’t participate, an analysis by FiveThirtyEight found .

Participation in these transparency efforts does not guarantee that a poll is rigorous, but it is undoubtedly a positive signal. Transparency in polling means disclosing essential information, including the poll’s sponsor, the data collection firm, where and how participants were selected, modes of interview, field dates, sample size, question wording, and weighting procedures.

There is evidence that when the public is told that a candidate is extremely likely to win, some people may be less likely to vote . Following the 2016 election, many people wondered whether the pervasive forecasts that seemed to all but guarantee a Hillary Clinton victory – two modelers put her chances at 99% – led some would-be voters to conclude that the race was effectively over and that their vote would not make a difference. There is scientific research to back up that claim: A team of researchers found experimental evidence that when people have high confidence that one candidate will win, they are less likely to vote. This helps explain why some polling analysts say elections should be covered using traditional polling estimates and margins of error rather than speculative win probabilities (also known as “probabilistic forecasts”).

National polls tell us what the entire public thinks about the presidential candidates, but the outcome of the election is determined state by state in the Electoral College . The 2000 and 2016 presidential elections demonstrated a difficult truth: The candidate with the largest share of support among all voters in the United States sometimes loses the election. In those two elections, the national popular vote winners (Al Gore and Hillary Clinton) lost the election in the Electoral College (to George W. Bush and Donald Trump). In recent years, analysts have shown that Republican candidates do somewhat better in the Electoral College than in the popular vote because every state gets three electoral votes regardless of population – and many less-populated states are rural and more Republican.

For some, this raises the question: What is the use of national polls if they don’t tell us who is likely to win the presidency? In fact, national polls try to gauge the opinions of all Americans, regardless of whether they live in a battleground state like Pennsylvania, a reliably red state like Idaho or a reliably blue state like Rhode Island. In short, national polls tell us what the entire citizenry is thinking. Polls that focus only on the competitive states run the risk of giving too little attention to the needs and views of the vast majority of Americans who live in uncompetitive states – about 80%.

Fortunately, this is not how most pollsters view the world . As the noted political scientist Sidney Verba explained, “Surveys produce just what democracy is supposed to produce – equal representation of all citizens.”

• Survey Methods
• Trust, Facts & Democracy
• Voter Files

Scott Keeter is a senior survey advisor at Pew Research Center .

Courtney Kennedy is Vice President of Methods and Innovation at Pew Research Center .

How do people in the U.S. take Pew Research Center surveys, anyway?

How public polling has changed in the 21st century, what 2020’s election poll errors tell us about the accuracy of issue polling, a field guide to polling: election 2020 edition, methods 101: how is polling done around the world, most popular.

901 E St. NW, Suite 300 Washington, DC 20004 USA (+1) 202-419-4300 | Main (+1) 202-857-8562 | Fax (+1) 202-419-4372 |  Media Inquiries

Research Topics

• Email Newsletters

ABOUT PEW RESEARCH CENTER  Pew Research Center is a nonpartisan, nonadvocacy fact tank that informs the public about the issues, attitudes and trends shaping the world. It does not take policy positions. The Center conducts public opinion polling, demographic research, computational social science research and other data-driven research. Pew Research Center is a subsidiary of The Pew Charitable Trusts , its primary funder.

© 2024 Pew Research Center