·         actual title (not "persuasive essay")

·         12-point Times New Roman font (or something similar)

·         at least one supporting quote, accurately cited

·         one-inch margins (and no space padding)

Suggested topics:

1.      Is killing a tyrant ever justified?

2.    Is killing ever justifiable?

3.     Is ______________ a hero?

4.     Does studying the tragedy of others help us learn from their mistakes?

5.     Does pride cause a great fall?

6.     Should the laws of the land always be followed?

7.     Is loyalty to family more important than loyalty to country?

8.     Do people ever learn from the past, or do they make the same mistake                                                 repeatedly?

9.    Do people need rules to avoid chaos?

10.  Are heroes born or made?

11.  Can one person make a difference in the world?

12.  Are Americans prejudiced?

13.  Is God to blame for our problems?

14.  Is genetic engineering playing God?

15.  Are genetically modified foods safe?

16.  Is cloning ethical?

17.  Would cloning humans cause us to lose our individuality?

18.  Should DNA testing results be privacy-protected?

19.  Should individuals' religious belief affect society as a whole?

20.  How should religious beliefs affect an individual's actions and choices?

21.  Why did the Roman Empire collapse?

22.  Is the United States the Roman Empire of today?

23.  Choose a quotation and attack or defend it, e.g.,

·         "Knowledge is more precious than gold."--Indiana Jones

·         "It is not our abilities that determine what we truly are--it is our choices."--Albus Dumbledore

·         "If you save the life of one person, it is as if you saved the world entire."--Jewish proverb