Speech Resources

Persuasive speech topics can include...

• Definitional claims (aruging for what something is or is not)
• Factual claims (arguing the truth or falsity of an assertion)
• Policy claims (aruging about the nature of a problem and its solution)
• Value claims (aruging judgment for or against something)

Having trouble finding a topic? Check out these options:

• 105 Interesting Persuasive Speech Topics

  Organized into ten categories, covering a variety of topics

• 125+ Persuasive Speech Topics

  Creative topics

• Pros and Cons

  Promoting critical thinking, education, and informed citizenship by presenting controversial issues in a straightforward, nonpartisan, primarily pro-con format

Find or narrow a topic for your speech using the resources below.

• Select the Browse Issues (light bulb) icon for a list of topic ideas. 
• The Topic Finder tool is located at the bottom of the Opposing Viewpoints homepage under Resources. 
• Watch the video below to understand how Topic Finder works. (1:02)

Check out these tips for public speaking:

• Informative Speech

  Tips and techniques for preparing an informative speech

• Persuasive Speech

  Tips for writing and delivering a persuasive speech

• Public Speaking Tips

  Tips from Toastmasters International

• Public Speaking Videos

  Video-based tips in the TED Talks series