essay ideas grade 12

451 Essay Topics for Grade 8 to Grade 12: Simple & Interesting Ideas

Are you tired of the same old essay topics? Well, buckle up because we’ll take your writing assignments to a new level! Whether you’re in grade 8 or grade 12, we’ve got exciting and engaging essay topics that will make your writing stand out.

A good essay topic sets the foundation for your paper, sparks your curiosity, and allows for creativity. In this article, you’ll find excellent ideas for different types of essays and school grades. So, pick a theme that excites you and watch your paper come to life!

🔝 Top 10 School Essay Topics

📝 types of essays, 🎒 essay topics for grade 8, 🚌 9th grade essay topics, 🏫 essay topics for grade 10, 🧑‍🏫 11th grade essay topics, 📓 essay topics for grade 12, ✏️ how to write an essay: 8th grade to 12th grade, ❓ school essay faq, 🔗 references.

The impact of social media on teenagers.
The significance of raising mental health awareness in schools.
The benefits of exercise for human well-being.
The role of technology in modern education.
The effects of climate change on our planet.
The significance of cultural diversity in society.
The pros and cons of online learning.
The influence of music on human emotions.
The challenges faced by today’s youth.
The power of literature in shaping students’ worldviews.

When it comes to writing essays, there are various types that you can encounter throughout your academic journey. Each type serves a different purpose and requires a distinct approach.

Let’s discuss the most common essay types before moving on to the topics.

In 8th grade, students start writing their first large academic papers. We made a list of essay topics for 8th graders to help boost their writing skills and inspire them. Check it out!

8th Grade Writing Prompts

Writing an essay is an excellent opportunity to share your views on a controversial topic . If you want your paper to make a difference, consider our opinion essay topics for grade 8.

The impact of cyberbullying on young people’s mental health . Write an essay discussing the potential consequences of cyberbullying on teenagers’ mental health. Enrich your paper with examples and research findings.
The influence of advertising on teenagers’ consumer behavior. What are the potential effects of advertising on teenagers’ buying habits and decision-making? Discuss the strategies advertisers use to target adolescents and how these marketing tactics contribute to excessive consumerism.
The benefits and challenges of online learning. Online learning has both benefits and drawbacks for students. In your essay, investigate how online learning can provide flexibility, access to resources, and personalized education. Additionally, refer to potential concerns, such as limited social interaction and technological barriers.
What is the role of social media influencers in shaping teenagers’ behavior? You can write an essay describing the impact of social media influencers on teenagers’ attitudes, values, and behaviors. Analyze the strategies used by influencers to gain followers and promote specific products or ideologies.
Emotional intelligence and teenagers’ well-being. Why is developing emotional intelligence essential for teenagers’ health? Discuss the benefits of emotional intelligence, such as improved self-awareness, empathy, and conflict-resolution skills. Provide strategies for teens to enhance their emotional intelligence and navigate challenging emotions effectively.

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 8

Check out our argumentative essay topics for 8th graders that will spark your and your reader’s curiosity!

Should school uniforms be mandatory?
Why Vocabulary Lessons Should Be Taught?
Should animal testing be banned?
The importance of arts education in schools.
Why Immigrants Should Receive Social Services?
The impact of fast food on public health.
Is homework necessary for academic success?
Higher Education Should Be Free for Everyone .
Should the sale of sugary drinks be restricted?
The impact of technology addiction on mental health.
Should plastic bags be banned?
Evaluation Essay: How To Achieve High Grade .
Should the driving age be raised or lowered?
Should zoos exist for conservation purposes?
Cell Phone Use While Driving Must Be Banned .
Should genetically modified organisms be banned?
The influence of media violence on youth behavior.
Some Reasons Why Reading Is Important .
Do emojis enhance or hinder communication skills?
Should recreational hunting and fishing be prohibited?
Why Electronic Book Is Better Than Print Book .
Should vaccines be mandatory for everyone?

Expository Essay Topics for Grade 8

Here are some more ideas for compare-and-contrast, cause-and-effect , and process essays.

Apple vs. Android: a comparison of smartphones.
Michael Jackson Vs Elvis Presley .
Effects of technology on human communication.
Fiction vs. non-fiction: analyzing different literary genres.
Communication: People-to-People vs. People-to-Devices .
Causes and effects of obesity in modern society.
Solutions to the problem of traffic congestion in cities.
“The Da Vinci Code”: Book vs Movie .
Traditional education vs. online learning.
The art of making homemade pizza: from dough to toppings.
House Activities vs. Personal Happiness .
Facebook vs. Twitter: comparing social media platforms.
Controlling air pollution: innovative solutions for cleaner cities.
Indian Wedding Vs. American Wedding .
How to plan and execute a successful event?
Cats vs. dogs: choosing the perfect pet companion.
Starbucks vs. Dunkin’ Donuts: Menu and Performance .
Cyberbullying : prevention and intervention strategies.
How to overcome procrastination and boost productivity?
Language and Identity: What Is the Connection?
City life vs. country life: contrasting lifestyles and environments.
Traditional books vs. e-books: exploring reading preferences.
Water Recycling: Why Is It Important?

This image shows the characteristics of an expository essay.

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 8

Narrative essays are one of the most exciting types of written assignments. Check out our creative essay topics for 8th grade.

A memorable childhood event that shaped my personality.
Brief Description of the Tesla Company .
My first day of school: nervousness and excitement collide.
Overcoming a fear : how I conquered my phobia.
Impact of the Internet on Students’ Life .
The day I met my best friend: the beginning of a lifelong bond.
A family vacation I’ll never forget: adventures and mishaps.
When Learning Is Easy: My Experience in English .
My experience participating in a sports competition.
A personal achievement that filled me with pride.
My Experiences as a Walmart Employee .
The joy of becoming a sibling for the first time.
A hiking trip that showed me the beauty of nature.
Five Lessons From My First Semester .
The day I received unexpected news that changed my life.
A life-changing mentorship or guidance I received.
YouTube as My Favorite Media Platform .
A trip to a historical landmark that deepened my knowledge.
Discovering a hidden talent within myself.
A Person I Would Like to Be.
The time I got lost and found my way back.
The day I overcame stage fright and performed on stage.

Creative Writing Topics for Grade 8

Here are some ideas for creative writing in 8th grade.

Write a short story from the perspective of an inanimate object.
Imagine you wake up one morning with the ability to speak to animals . Describe your interactions throughout the day.
How to Groom Your Pet?
Create a diary entry in the form of a poem expressing the emotions of a historical figure.
Write a letter to your future self , exploring your hopes, dreams, and fears.
How the Beatles Influenced Music .
Imagine you discover a hidden door in your house that leads to a parallel universe. Describe your adventures in this new world.
Write a screenplay for a short film about a conflict between two best friends.
How Do Neurons Communicate?
Rewrite a fairy tale from the villain’s perspective, exploring their motivations and emotions.
Why Do Monsters Matter in Our Lives?
Create an alternate ending for a famous novel, explaining how it changes the story’s overall message.
Write a series of letters between two fictional characters who are in love but cannot be together.
Why Do Dogs Make the Best Pets?
Imagine you’re a time traveler who accidentally changes a historical event. Describe the consequences and how you attempt to fix them.
Write a poem capturing the essence of a favorite song or piece of music.
Why Do Good People Do Bad Things?
Create a character who can control the weather. Describe their experiences and struggles with this power.
Write a personal essay about a challenging experience that taught you an important life lesson.
”Doctor Strange”: Description and Interpretation .
Imagine you wake up one day with the ability to fly. Describe how this newfound power impacts your daily life.
My First Day at College .
Write a short story inspired by a painting or photograph, describing the scene and the emotions it evokes.

9th grade is one of the most memorable life chapters because students enter high school. To help you complete the written assignments and enjoy your free time, we made a list of essay ideas for 9th graders.

9th Grade Writing Prompts

Here are some excellent 9th-grade writing prompts you can use as inspiration for your paper.

Climate change and its impact on the environment. In this essay, you can analyze the causes and consequences of climate change. Explore the role of human activities, such as deforestation, pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions.
The power of literature: exploring themes and messages in a novel. Choose a book that you have read recently and analyze its themes and underlying ideas. Discuss how the author uses literary elements such as characterization, plot, setting, and symbolism to convey these concepts.
What is the role of cultural exchange in building bridges? Write an essay exploring the importance of cultural diversity and its impact on society. Discuss how multiculturalism contributes to a more prosperous and inclusive world. Highlight the benefits of cultural exchange.
The future of AI technology : opportunities and challenges. Reflect on the rapid advancement of AI technology and its potential implications for our future. Discuss how emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and biotechnology affect our lives.
Human rights and social justice. Assess the importance of human rights and social justice in today’s world. Discuss critical human rights issues, for example, inequality, discrimination, access to education, or freedom of expression. How do activism, advocacy, and grassroots movements promote and protect human rights?

9th Grade Argumentative Essay Topics

School start times: Should they be adjusted?
The pros and cons of standardized testing .
Should Smoking Be Illegal?
Should the voting age be lowered?
Should College Education Be Free for All US Citizens?
Can nuclear waste be safely stored long-term?
Is censorship justified in the arts and media?
The effects of air pollution on human health.
Is society becoming overly reliant on technology?
Smartphone Addiction Among American Youth .
Should the United States allocate more funding to space exploration?
Does the school dress code perpetuate gender inequality?
Should single-use plastics be eliminated from society?
Best Missing Homework Excuse Ever .
Is it morally right to keep exotic animals as pets?
Should the minimum wage be increased or remain the same?
Physical Activity Education Among Young People .
How should the United States address the ongoing refugee crisis?
Is homework essential for academic success?
Benefits of Healthy Lifestyle .
Is technological advancement harmful or beneficial to humanity?

This image shows the argumentative essay structure.

Essay Topics for Grade 9 Students: Expository Writing

Friendship vs. romantic relationships: the dynamics of human connections.
Causes and consequences of bullying in schools .
Effects of smoking on health and well-being.
The Concept of Close Reading .
High school vs. college: differences in educational experiences.
Rural living vs. urban living : examining residential lifestyles.
The influence of parental divorce on children’s emotional development.
Solutions to the rising costs of college education.
The impact of technology on work-life balance.
Role-Playing Games as a Learning Tool .
The consequences of sleep deprivation on cognitive functions.
Negative Effects of Human Cloning .
Solutions for combating youth unemployment.
Student-Teacher Interaction in Inclusive Education .
Mastering the skill of time management: effective strategies.
Causes and effects of poverty in developing countries .
Paris as the Fashion Centre .
The problem of substance abuse and addiction: prevention and recovery.
Solutions for reducing gun violence in society.
The process of learning a foreign language successfully.

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 9

A journey to a foreign country: cultural exploration and understanding.
Experience of the Worst Job .
The day I moved to a new city: challenges and adaptation.
My brush with danger: how I overcame a scary situation.
Life-Changing Events: Personal Experience .
The time I failed and learned the importance of resilience.
An encounter with a cultural tradition that broadened my perspective.
My experience volunteering for a worthy cause.
Most Memorable Childhood Christmas .
The day I overcame a personal prejudice or bias.
An adventure in the great outdoors: embracing nature’s beauty.
Personal Hobby Analysis .
A lesson I learned from a younger sibling or relative.
The impact of a remarkable teacher or mentor on my life.
Homer’s Odysseus as a Favorite Hero .
Exploring a different culture through food and cuisine.
My encounter with a famous personality : moments of inspiration.
The day I faced a moral dilemma and made a difficult choice.
Mindful Walking: Journey to Self-Discovery .
The bond between humans and animals: a touching connection.
Preserving family traditions: passing on values and heritage.
Educational Experiences And Significant Career Goals .

Creative Writing Topics for Grade 9

Design a dystopian society and write a story set within it, exploring the lives of its inhabitants.
Create a world where dreams come to life. Describe how dreaming and reality intersect in this unique universe.
The Purpose of Dreaming and Personal Sleep Habits .
Write a dialogue between two characters who are complete opposites in terms of personality and interests.
Write a poem using only colors, exploring their meanings and symbolism.
The Functions of Film Music: Essay Example .
Create a character who can communicate with plants. Explore the connections formed and the wisdom gained by this person.
Write a short story set in a post-apocalyptic world, focusing on the survival and resilience of the protagonist.
My Dream Car: Personal View .
Imagine you can time-travel but can only observe, not interfere. Write about the historical events you witness.
Create a character who is haunted by their past. Describe their journey toward healing and redemption.
Why Is Christmas the Best Holiday?
Compose a letter to your favorite fictional character, seeking advice or reflecting on their impact on your life.
Imagine you’re a detective solving a mysterious crime . Write the story from the detective’s perspective, including their deductions and discoveries.
Online Learning and Education Course Reflections .
Write a monologue for a character who is about to embark on a great adventure, expressing their hopes and fears.
Create a world where everyone has a unique superpower. Describe how society functions and how these powers affect individual lives.
Human Species Uniqueness Compared to Other Species .
Write a poem that embodies the spirit of a specific season, evoking the sensations and emotions associated with it.
Chinese New Year Celebration History .
Imagine you have the power to bring fictional characters to life. Write about the joys and challenges that come with this ability.
Write a short story exploring the theme of identity and self-discovery .

To write an outstanding essay in 10th grade, choose a topic that will motivate you throughout the writing process . We listed great topic ideas, including the thought-provoking 10th-grade argumentative essay topics.

10th Grade Writing Prompts

The causes and effects of bullying in schools. What is the long-term impact on both victims and bullies? Additionally, suggest practical strategies that can be implemented to prevent and address bullying within educational institutions.
The impact of social media on personal relationships and communication . Analyze how platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter have altered how people connect with others.
The significance of climate change issues for future generations . What are the main contributors to climate change? Highlight the importance of sustainable practices and suggest ways individuals, communities, and governments can work together to combat climate change.
The portrayal of women in the media and its influence on gender roles and stereotypes. Analyze how media representations can affect the perception of self-worth, body image, and societal expectations. Additionally, discuss the role media plays in promoting inclusivity and empowering women.
The advantages and disadvantages of GMOs in agriculture. Examine the potential benefits, such as increased crop yields and resistance to pests, as well as possible concerns surrounding health, the environment, and biodiversity. Consider various perspectives and propose informed opinions on the topic.

Argumentative Essay Topics for 10th Grade

The benefits and challenges of online friendships and relationships.
Should Public Servants Have the Right to Strike?
The ethical implications of genetic modification in agriculture.
Should high schools require mandatory community service hours ?
Why Pitbulls Should Not Be Banned?
The consequences of the excessive use of technology in teenagers’ lives.
The importance of teaching consent in high schools.
The Right to Abortion Must Be Protected .
Should schools increase the focus on teaching critical thinking skills?
The impact of arts and music programs on students’ academic performance.
Animal Welfare: Why Animals Should Be Treated With Kindness and Respect .
Should schools teach coding and computer programming as core subjects?
The benefits and drawbacks of social media influencers in shaping consumer behavior.
Should People Under 18 Get a Tattoo?
Should school lunches be healthier and more nutritious?
The role of censorship in protecting children from harmful content in the media.
Should Schools Distribute Condoms?
The consequences of increasing dependence on technology in the classroom .
The impact of climate change denial on environmental policies and actions.
Solar Power as a Solution to Environmental Problems .
The role of school dress codes in promoting a respectful and inclusive environment.
The benefits and drawbacks of single-sex education.

10th Grade Essay Topics: Expository Writing

The problem of food insecurity : sustainable approaches for hunger relief.
A step-by-step guide to creating a budget and saving money.
Plato’s “Republic” – What Is Democracy?
Introverts vs. extroverts: contrasting personality traits.
Effects of climate change on biodiversity.
Criminality as a Result of Social Structure .
The impact of social media on political movements.
Causes and consequences of cybersecurity breaches .
Online shopping vs. in-store shopping: a comparison of retail experiences.
E-Commerce: The Change in Consumer Shopping .
Different generations: comparing baby boomers and millennials.
Causes and effects of teenage substance abuse.
Critical Thinking in Education .
Public school vs. homeschooling: comparing different approaches to education.
Friends vs. family: contrasting relationships in one’s life.
Education Impact on Life Quality .
The relationship between educational attainment and job opportunities.
Combating gender inequality: empowering women worldwide.
Characteristics of Students With Disabilities .
Addressing the challenges of an aging population: elderly care solutions.
The process of creating a podcast: from concept to publishing.

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 10

The moment I learned an important life lesson.
My First Experience in Riding a Bicycle .
An unexpected act of kindness that touched my heart.
The time I took a risk and stepped out of my comfort zone.
Paris: Beautiful and Breathtaking .
An unforgettable concert experience: music and emotion intertwined.
How I discovered my passion and pursued it.
My Personal Development Plan as a Future Teacher .
Exploring my cultural heritage: connecting with ancestral roots.
Overcoming a personal obstacle: finding inner strength.
High School Challenges in Personal Experience .
The day I learned the value of gratitude and appreciation.
The day I witnessed an act of injustice and stood up for what’s right.
The Most Embarrassing Moment In my Life .
A humbling experience that taught me to embrace humility.
The time I found strength through vulnerability and opening up.
How Can a Person Change the World?
A life-altering trip abroad: immersion in a different culture.
The day I overcame a longstanding personal fear.
Losing a Loved One and Learning to Live Without Them .
An inspiring encounter with a role model or hero.
A childhood memory that brings joy to my life.
Personal Financial Goals for the Next Five Years .

This image shows tips for writing a narrative essay.

In this section, you will find top 11th-grade essay topics to make your papers memorable.

11th Grade Writing Prompts

The impact of AI and automation on employment. Examine how technological advancements may lead to job displacement, and analyze the potential for new job creation. Consider both the economic and social implications of these changes.
The long-term consequences of plastic pollution on ecosystems. What are the sources and impacts of plastic waste on marine life, biodiversity, and the food chain? Propose sustainable solutions to mitigate this global issue.
The impact of globalization on cultural diversity. Analyze how increased interconnectedness affects local traditions, languages, and cultural heritage. What measures can be taken to preserve and celebrate diverse cultures in a globalized world?
What are the ethical considerations of animal testing for scientific research? Analyze the arguments for and against using animals in experiments. Explore alternative methods to replace or reduce the reliance on animal testing.
The significance of media in forming public opinion during elections. Examine the impact of television, newspapers, and social media platforms on voters’ political choices. Which ethical considerations guide responsible journalism and unbiased reporting in democratic societies?

Persuasive Essay Topics for Grade 11

Should schools incorporate comprehensive sex education into their curriculum?
Are Marxist Criminologists Right to See Crime Control as Class Control?
Should performance-enhancing drugs in sports be allowed?
Does the death penalty effectively deter crime?
Gender Stereotypes: Should Real Men Wear Pink?
Should high schools teach financial literacy?
Is the use of surveillance cameras in public places justified?
Should COVID-19 Vaccines Be Mandatory?
Is climate change primarily caused by human activities?
Is online activism an effective means of bringing about social change?
Money as a Means Rather Than a Result of Achieving Happiness .
Is music censorship necessary?
Is graffiti a form of art or vandalism ?
Is it fair for college admissions to consider race as a factor?
Is there a need for comprehensive LGBTQ+ education in high schools?
The Solution to the Increasing Incidence of Criminals Reverting .
Should the government provide free college tuition for all students?
Is virtual reality a beneficial tool for education?
The Benefits of Taking Online Classes .
Is technology making people more or less socially connected?
Should there be stricter gun control laws?

Essay Topics for 11th Grade: Expository Writing

Natural beauty vs. makeup: comparing concepts of beauty standards .
The influence of advertising on consumer behavior.
The effects of technology on human productivity.
The relationship between excessive screen time and sleep disorders.
Solving the problem of bullying in online spaces.
Preventing substance abuse among adolescents: education and support.
Tackling environmental pollution: innovative solutions for cleaner air and water.
History of Batteries, What Is a Battery, Recycling of Batteries .
Addressing the issue of food deserts: access to nutritious food.
A step-by-step guide to mastering soft skills .
How to start a YouTube channel: a process guide.
Art Definition: Modern vs. Traditional .
Traditional art vs. digital art: contrasting artistic mediums.
Introverted leaders vs. extroverted leaders: comparing leadership styles.
Google Search Explained: Search for Beginners .
Deforestation in the Amazon rainforest: causes and effects.
The influence of technology on communication skills.
What Is Digital Literacy?
Combating digital addiction: promoting healthy technology use.

Working on your writing skills in 12th grade is essential so that you can later successfully deal with college assignments. We hope our list of 12th-grade essay topics will spark your creativity and catch readers’ attention.

12th Grade Writing Prompts

The impact of globalization on the economy of your country. Discuss how global trade, outsourcing, and foreign investment have influenced domestic industries, job markets, and income inequality. Additionally, you can evaluate the government’s role in managing these effects and promoting economic growth.
The origins and effects of income inequality in society . What are the leading factors contributing to wealth disparities? Refer to education, social mobility, and public policy. Discuss the potential consequences of income inequality and propose measures to address this issue.
The role of education in fostering gender equality . What are the challenges and barriers girls and women face in accessing quality education? Discuss the potential benefits of gender-inclusive policies and programs to empower girls and women and promote gender equity.
The impact of immigration on cultural diversity and social cohesion. For this essay topic, study how migration patterns contribute to multicultural societies and the enrichment of cultural traditions. Consider the social, economic, and political implications of immigration and explore strategies for fostering inclusive communities.
The role of artificial intelligence in healthcare. Assess AI’s potential benefits and ethical considerations in diagnosing diseases, personalized medicine, and health data management. Discuss the opportunities and challenges presented by AI in improving healthcare outcomes.

Persuasive Essay Topics for 12th Grade

Is online dating a reliable way to find true love?
Should professional athletes be role models for children?
Smoking Should Be Banned in Public Places .
Is it essential for high schools to offer courses in personal finance?
Should the use of corporal punishment be allowed in schools?
Is multiculturalism beneficial to society?
Should Canada Provide Free Tuition for University Students?
Is it ethical to use animals in circuses and entertainment shows?
Should the government provide free healthcare for all citizens?
Government Must Control TV Show Contents .
Is age discrimination prevalent in the workplace?
Is it necessary to have strict gun control laws to reduce gun violence?
Should college education be free for all students?
Why Must We Protect Crocodiles?
Should the government regulate the use of artificial intelligence in industries?
Is it important to have stricter regulations on the food industry to combat obesity?
What Qualities Should a Leader Have?
Is technological advancement leading to job loss and unemployment?
Is homeschooling a viable option for students with special needs?
Is digital privacy becoming a thing of the past?

12th Grade Essay Topics: Expository Writing

The process of writing a compelling research paper.
The influence of advertising on children’s behavior and perception.
The process of building a website from scratch.
Smart House System Technology Explained .
The steps involved in starting a small business.
The effects of globalization on cultural identity.
Mars and Earth Comparison .
Coffee vs. tea: contrasting popular beverages and their effects.
Causes of water pollution and its effects on marine life.
What Is Meant By Social Science Paradigms?
The issue of air pollution: solutions for cleaner air quality.
Causes and consequences of income inequality in developing countries.
How to Achieve a Goal?
Solving the challenges of affordable housing.
Tackling the problem of plastic waste : promoting recycling and sustainability.
Addressing mental health stigma in society: creating supportive communities.
The Problem of Global Warming and Ways of Its Solution .
A step-by-step guide to writing a winning scholarship essay.
The process of developing an effective study routine: tips for academic success.
Evaluating the Solution to the Nurse Shortage Issue .
The issue of traffic congestion: strategies for improving transportation systems.

Creative Writing Topics for Grade 12

Write a personal essay about an influential person in your life and how they have shaped your worldview.
Personal Experience: How Being Bullied Shaped Me .
Imagine you find a portal that leads to a mythical realm. Write about your encounters with mythical creatures and the lessons you learn.
Create a character who can hear the thoughts of others. Explore the ethical dilemmas and challenges they face.
Personal Responsibility and Its Limits .
Write a dialogue between two historical figures from different periods, discussing their views on a specific topic.
Compose a poem that captures the beauty and complexity of the natural world.
Etihad Airways’ Passenger Self-Service Project .
Write a short story set in a future where books are banned. Tackle the issues of the power of literature and the fight for intellectual freedom.
Imagine you find a magical object that grants you three wishes. Write about your desires and how they change your life.
John Lennon’s “Imagine” as a Secular Hymn .
Write a personal essay about a difficult decision you had to make and the lessons you learned from it.
Claude Monet’s “Impression, Sunrise.”
Create a character who can communicate with ghosts. Describe this character’s experiences and the insights they gain from the afterlife.
Write a poem about the power of love, exploring its different dimensions and forms.
Cinderella Fairy Tale in Narratology and Feminism .
Imagine you wake up one day with the ability to speak every language. Write about how this talent affects your interactions with others.
Analysis of the Images Created in Painting Arts .
Create a character who can manipulate emotions. Explore the consequences of this power and the moral implications.
Write a short story set in a world where technology has taken over, and humans are losing their ability to connect.
Image of a Zombie: Researching of Zombie Behavior .
Imagine you are stranded on a deserted island. Write a diary entry describing your daily struggles and your journey toward survival.
Write a personal essay about a significant turning point in your life and how it has shaped you.

This image shows the three-act structure of creating writing.

Of course, an essay in 8th Grade will differ from more complex writing in high school. However, some general rules will help you write an outstanding paper in any grade. Check out our essay-writing guide!

What is Porter’s five forces example?

There are ten main types of essays : narrative, descriptive, expository, persuasive, argumentative, process, definition, critical, cause-and-effect, and compare-and-contrast. It is worth noting that these categories are not mutually exclusive, and a paper may often combine elements from multiple types.

How Long Is an Essay in 8th Grade?

The length of an essay in 8th grade can vary depending on the specific assignment or teacher’s instructions. However, it is typical for essays in 8th grade to be around 300-500 words or about 1-2 pages , considering a standard double-spaced format with 12-point font.

How Long is an Essay in High School?

The length of an essay in high school can vary based on the assignment, subject, and teacher’s guidelines. High school essays usually take 500 to 1500 words (3-5 pages) or more, depending on the complexity of the topic. The final papers can be 1250-1750 words (5-7 pages).

How to Write a Personal Narrative Essay for High School?

To write a personal narrative essay for high school, follow these steps:

Choose a meaningful experience from your life.
Craft a catchy introduction to engage readers.
Develop the storyline with vivid descriptions and dialogue.
Reflect on the significance of the experience in the conclusion.
Edit and revise for clarity, coherence, and grammar.
The Big List of Essay Topics for High School (100+ Ideas!) | We Are Teachers
9th Grade Writing Prompts | Study.com
61 General Expository Essay Topic Ideas to Practice Academic Writing | ThoughtCo
60 Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids and Teens | We Are Teachers
8th Grade Persuasive Writing Prompts | Study.com
Expository Writing: Types and How to Write in This Style | Indeed
Essay Writing | Purdue Online Writing Lab
Five Steps to Writing an Essay | University of Pittsburgh
50 Writing Prompts for All Grade Levels | Edutopia
Journal Writing Prompts for High School | Love to Know
50+ Uncommon Expository Essay Topics | YourDictionary
43 Dynamic Writing Prompts for High School | YourDictionary
Personal Narrative Essays | San José State University Writing Center
10 Types of Essays: Examples and Purposes of Each | Indeed
Over 1,000 Writing Prompts for Students | The New York Times
Personal Essay Topics | ThoughtCo
500 Prompts for Narrative and Personal Writing | Oregon State University
10 Ideas for Narrative Essay Writing | Lehigh University Scalar
Narrative Essay | Nova Southeastern University
37 Creative Writing Prompts for High School | Love to Know
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Tips to study faster: a guide for struggling learners, how to make a powerful student vision board, how to stop overthinking: 11 tips & 3 simple exercises.

205 Essay Topics for Grade 8, 9, 10, 12 + Writing Tips [2024]

We came up with this guide to make school essay writing easy for you. Need some creative writing topics for grade 8? Or recommendations for the 11th-grade expository paper? We’ve got you!

Our specialists will write a custom essay specially for you!

Helpful tips and essay topics for grades 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12— our Custom-writing.org team has advice for everyone. Here, you’ll find:

205 great essay ideas;
tips on how to write argumentative and persuasive papers.

In fact, our recommendations will be perfectly suitable for both middle and high school students. Still, there will be some grade-specific information. So, start with the 8th-grade essay topics and tips and read till the end!

✏️ 8th Grade Essay
📜 9th Grade Essay
📚 10th Grade Essay
🧑‍🎓 11th Grade Essay
🎓 12th Grade Essay

🔗 References

✏️ essay or class 8: topics & tips, top 10 essay topics for grade 8.

The future of print books
Aliens in science fiction
Why do people need art?
What’s the point of fashion?
Why homework is useless
A book that changed the world
Should all education be free?
Should people learn foreign languages?
The world’s biggest secret
The next scientific breakthrough

8th Grade Essay: How to Write

You already know how to write short, simple essays. In an 8th grade, however, you need to make a point , collect evidence , and present it in your paper. This is when learners start experiencing difficulties with their essay writing.

The picture enumerates the ways to approach research of an essay's subject.

We want to present to you some helpful tips that will help you write excellent papers. Check them out:

Do your research. It’s especially important with argumentative, persuasive, and analytical papers. So, before you start writing, you should go to a library or at least search for information online.
Make outlines. 8th grade is the right time to start making outlines for your essays if you haven’t made them before. It’s best to write an outline after researching the topic since you need to organize all the information.
Be positive. Thinking of your essay as a burden won’t do you any good. You can make things easier by being more positive. Try to pretend your essay is a story you want to tell your friends. It has a main storyline ( thesis statement ), plot twists (arguments), and you wrap everything up in the end.
Make it interesting for yourself. Find the things that excite you the most about your topic. For example, you can try to think of surprising facts you’ve learned while researching it.
Start with 5 sentences. Feeling overwhelmed is another factor that makes it hard to write an excellent essay. The thing to remember is that at the core of any essay there are just 5 sentences. The rest is just additional information to back them up. So, what are these sentences?
Thesis statement. This is where you describe the whole idea of your paper.
Topic sentence 1. The first sentence develops your thesis a bit more.
Topic sentence 2. You add a counterargument here.
Topic sentence 3. Here, you explain how that counterargument helps the case and introduce ways to solve the issue.
Conclusion. Summarize and wrap everything up.
Write the body paragraphs first. After they’re done, it will be easier for you to write the conclusion and introduction since they both basically summarize your whole paper.
Always proofread and edit your essays. 8th-grade teachers are strict when it comes to mistakes and inaccuracies.

Essay Topics for Class 8 in Various Subjects

The deadline is approaching, and you’re out of ideas? This section is for you. Topics provided below can prompt you to write an excellent paper:

Just in 1 hour! We will write you a plagiarism-free paper in hardly more than 1 hour

Noise pollution , or Let me hear nature. Noise pollution refers to exposure to high sound levels. In your paper, examine the level of noise pollution in modern cities. Alternatively, you may concentrate on the impact it has on people or domestic animals.
Can robots replace people? Robots perform many tasks faster and better than people do. You can think of professions that may disappear in the near future because of it. You may also think about the spheres that robots can never dominate.
Do children need handwriting skills? Many children (and adults) hate writing by hand. Some even say that people don’t need such skills anymore. Messages are mainly typed now. What do you think about the value of handwriting skills? Should students still be taught them?
Can people live in isolation ? The COVID-19 pandemic made countries launch strict lockdowns . People had to be isolated for many weeks. Such isolation leads to health problems, such as depression and anxiety. What does it tell us about the importance of communication?
Age-based film ratings . Do you agree that age restrictions should exist? Can some movies be excessively violent and inappropriate for some age groups? Is it a kind of discrimination ? What aspects should be considered to impose age restrictions?
Should people go to Mars or the Moon? Why or why not?
What can make a person truly happy?
Who is the mightiest hero among fictional characters?
Write about the bad habits you have and how you can get rid of them
What is the most essential discipline at school?
Describe humanity’s best and worst qualities
Explain how society benefits from using the Internet
If you could change one part of your life , what would you change, and why?
Is it possible to fall in love with someone you’ve never met?
If you had a time machine, what time would you travel to?
Can you judge people without knowing them and how they live their lives?
How would humanity change if we knew the world would end in 10 years?
What would it be like if you couldn’t use your smartphone for a month?
What consequences may occur if artificial intelligence keeps developing?

📜 Essay for Class 9: Topics & Tips

9th-Grade Essay: How to Write

Writing grade 9 essays amounts to improving your skills, gaining more knowledge, and developing your position on various issues. If you need more details about grade 9 essays, keep reading!

First, we want to talk about different types of written assignments that you may receive:

Essays are the most common academic paper assignment that you can master with our free tips:

Use quotes. Sometimes, when researching for your essay, you may stumble across a source that perfectly describes your thesis or some other thought you wanted to use in your paper. Why not quote it, then? Just make sure to include your own ideas as well.
Use Wikipedia the right way. If you’ve got a topic you know nothing about, Wikipedia will quickly help you familiarize yourself with it. Another way to use it is for finding sources. Read an article on your topic and then check its reference section to select some trustworthy ones.
You’re not the only one writing a paper. Your teacher will probably read several more works like yours. This fact makes it even more important to make your text unique and exciting.
Your teacher won’t have enough time to reread if something’s unclear. The clarity of information will definitely influence the result, so make sure that your writing is flawless.

Essay Topics for Class 9 in Various Subjects

Below you will find unique topics for argumentative or persuasive essays:

What is the future of music ? Many people don’t like modern pop music and believe that it was better back in the day. What’s your opinion on it? Discuss what’s in store for pop music . What directions of music development can you predict?
What makes people come up with conspiracy theories ? Some people believe in the secret world government or Americas’ fake Moon mission. You can describe a particularly interesting conspiracy theory . You may also explore the reasons for the existence of such ideas.
Can humans prevent or at least slow down global warming ? Scientists are sure that human negative impact on the environment is significant. What do they think of our ability to address the problem? To what extent can we affect life on the planet?
How much should parents control their children? Rearing children is difficult, and it’s hard to set the balance between restrictions and freedom. Should children and adolescents be allowed to behave the way they want? How can it affect children’s self-esteem in the future?
Do best friends exist? This essay can start with the definition or description of a good friend. Can two people really be best friends ? In what situations is it impossible? Are all people able to be good friends? How can you detect fake friends?
What extracurricular activities should be available in all schools (a specific kind of sport or art)?
Is it a threat to people’s privacy to use cameras as a security measure?
When is the right time to allow children to make their own life decisions?
How does a feeling of importance influence a person’s ego?

The picture shows the 5 stages of writing an essay.

📚 10th-Grade Essay Topics & Tips

Grade 10 Essay: How to Write

Like any typical sophomore, you want to get good grades and write excellent essays. But what if your written assignments never grade higher than a B? Don’t give up! We can help you with it.

Receive a plagiarism-free paper tailored to your instructions. Cut 20% off your first order!

What follows next are the necessary attributes of an A+ essay. Pay attention to them while writing and you will surely succeed:

Read the tips below and learn about the essentials of writing excellent essays.

Resort to advanced storytelling. Even if you’re not working on a narrative essay, you can try applying the following 3-act structure to your writing. According to Indiana University, the structure consists of 3 parts: setup, confrontation, and resolution . The acts set an uninterrupted narrative flow. As a result, the reader doesn’t even notice the transition from one part of the work to another. Here’s how to use this technique:
Don’t let go of your ideas . The thing is always to be prepared for writing, just in case you suddenly find inspiration or a brilliant idea pops into your head. Don’t risk trying to remember it and write it down later—you’ll likely end up forgetting it. To avoid such regrettable situations, make sure to always have a notebook with you.
Check out other people’s essays. Apart from getting ideas for the content of your essay, you’ll also be able to consider the writing style and format of the paper. The more samples you can look through, the better. You’ll see all the possible options and variations of how this type of assignment can be done.

10th-Grade Essay Topics in Various Subjects

Need creative essay ideas? Check out this list:

Censorship and social media. Answer these questions: What is censorship related to social media content? Should any topics be considered taboo? What are the adverse outcomes of such a practice? Where is the line between censorship and fundamental rights violation?
Music and student productivity . The essay can examine the latest findings regarding the effects of different music genres on people’s cognitive abilities. What have neuroscientists discovered? Why does music influence people in such a way? You can describe your personal attitudes and anecdotes.
Why do people have holidays? All nations have their unique holidays . Why is that so? Do people just need more days to rest from work? Do Americans need more national holidays? You may explore the role different holidays play in the development of a nation.
Should individuals, nations, or international bodies interfere in other people’s affairs? Thousands of messages regarding people’s suffering appear every minute. Individuals, charities , governments, and international institutions try to help people across the globe. Is this involvement always justified? Can such interference be regarded as a form of cultural expansion ?
What can national cuisine tell about a nation? Compare the national food of several countries in your essay. Think about whether the environment plays a role in developing cuisines.
Would societies develop without the use of fossil fuels ?
Does science fiction influence the development of technology or vice versa?
How has school life changed throughout the last 20 years?
What’s the best way to choose which school to go to?
How vital is a personal understanding of people’s lives ?
What are the consequences of having too much money?
Do teens need to follow all of their parents’ guidelines?
Does doing less homework make you a better student?
How do celebrities influence the way teenagers look and behave?

Grade 10 English Essay Topics

If you’re a 10-grader, you probably write many essays for your English classes. Can’t choose a topic? Have a look at these ideas:

The role fairy tales play in people’s lives. This essay can be concerned with the way fairy tales contribute to the norms as well as prejudice . Why do people create fairy tales? What is their place in world literature? Can children develop properly without reading them?
The history and significance of comic books . Some people think comic books are inferior to literary works. Do you agree with this viewpoint? What role do comic books play in American society? Why did this art form appear?
The role the setting plays in literary works. You can analyze a specific genre or a text. For example, explore how the setting reflects Emily’s character in A Rose for Emily by William Faulkner.
Should all plastic be banned? Writing an argumentative essay is always a good idea. Students may try to decide whether plastic should be prohibited. Can people (especially in developing countries) live without plastic? What can be a cost-effective replacement?
Oscar Wilde: a master of epigrams. Focus on his plays or The Picture of Dorian Gray . What characteristic features can be found in Wilde’s epigrams? What is the purpose of their use?
What makes Macbeth one of the greatest literary works in English (and world) literature?
Should students read ancient literature, such as The Epic of Gilgamesh ?
What can we learn from books written by politicians?
What distinguishes the epistolary genre?
How the image of the vampire evolved: from folklore to pop culture
Female writers in antiquity and Middle Ages
What is the future of world literature ?

Grade 10 Essay Topics for Creative Writing

The following list of topics will inspire an outstanding composition or even a short story:

Get an originally-written paper according to your instructions!

A detective story of a failed assignment/meeting/ exam. Students become genuinely creative when they try to explain the reasons for not doing their homework . Why not make it an essay topic? Describe a force majeure that made doing something impossible.
A dystopia or a utopia. You can create your own world based on an optimistic or pessimistic view. How perfect can a society be? What atrocities can become accepted in the future? What hierarchies, political orders, or economic models can emerge?
A letter from a historical leader. Imagine you are a ruler of Medieval France or any other monarch . You can write a letter to your royal relative or enemy. A letter from Elizabeth I to future generations can make an excellent essay!
Creative description . Come up with a detailed description of an interesting thing, person, or event. For example, describe a charm on your bracelet and its meaning. Describing someone’s personality traits can be another option.
Writing memoirs . Create a biography of a historical person, fictional character, or modern celebrity. Or, imagine you became famous and write about your way to glory.
A narrative about the most remarkable or tiresome waiting experience
A poem about first love
A parody of A Song of Ice and Fire
Pretend to be a future historian analyzing a current popular song or movie (or any other artifact)
Ponder on the nature and relevance of creativity
Your stream of consciousness (the road to school, a minute in a class, enjoying the sunrise, and so on)
Elaborate on the theory regarding the nature of Agent Smith of The Matrix
Write down the associations connected with your favorite song
Description of the dream you had last night

🧑‍🎓 Grade 11 Essay Topics & Tips

11th Grade Essay: How to Write

You can consider 11th-grade essay writing to be a combination of everything you’ve learned in the previous 3 years. One of its main goals is to demonstrate that you have a clear understanding of all essential writing elements.

You’re going to have the chance to practice various forms of writing. The following tips will help you excel at it.

Try practicing ACT Writing. ACT Writing is a test that requires you to create an essay in just 40 minutes. There are several limitations and requirements associated with it (if you want to learn more, you can check out this article by Southern Utah University on ACT tests and their characteristics ). Practicing this kind of writing with a timer can be highly beneficial for developing your skills. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
Ideas and analysis. Answer the question given in the prompt as clearly as possible. You also need to demonstrate your perspective and analyze how it relates to other aspects under discussion.
Development and support. Explain all the points you make. The trick here is to make each explanation fit into 2 or 3 sentences—not because of word count requirements, but due to the time limit.
Language use. While writing your essay, make your sentences clear and easy to understand. You should also avoid repetition. You may use some terms or fancy words, but if you do, make sure you know what they mean.
Organization. Even though there are no strict rules for formatting your paper, it doesn’t mean you can turn it into a chaotic mess. The easiest thing to do is to separate each of your ideas into a paragraph. Make sure that the overall structure is logical, and take care of smooth transitions.
Try the Elevator Pitch. It’s a technique salespeople use when developing a short, catchy product summary. When using this technique to write an essay for high school, you boil your ideas down to the essentials. Even though it’s a challenging task, it leaves you with a perfect summary . And you can use it to write an introduction that will undoubtedly grab your reader’s attention.
Know the limits. It’s important to know when to stop. This statement is especially true when you’re selecting a position to take or choosing the main point you want to prove in your essay. Your argument needs to be compelling enough to capture your reader’s attention. But at the same time, you don’t want to overdo it.

Here are some other things that are better to avoid:

An overly broad or poorly written thesis statement.
Topic sentences without a proper focus.
Off-topic writing.
Inadequate conclusion.
Inability to foresee and refute objections.
Talking about things that are too obvious to discuss.

Essay Topics for Grade 11 in Various Subjects

Senior students are required to write about serious subjects. Here we’ve compiled a list of great thought-provoking topics to kickstart your writing:

Pros and cons of criminalizing the sales of alcohol. Alternatively, you can think about the consequences of banning cigarettes .
Nature vs. nurture. Researchers are still unsure whether the environment or inborn traits play a key role in people’s personal development . You may try to provide an answer to this challenging question. You can concentrate on the notorious case of Three Identical Strangers . The examination of the ethical issues related to this kind of research is also a good idea.
Career path plans. Naturally, eleventh-graders need to consider their future careers. It can be a good idea to write a professional development plan . What kind of higher education or skills do you need? How can you acquire them?
Autocratic and democratic regimes in the times of pandemics. You may try to compare the effectiveness of authoritarian or democratic countries when addressing the COVID-19 crisis. How do different regimes address the problem? What role does access to information play in the process? Compare the outcomes of the measures undertaken in the US and China.
Identity in the cyber world. Adolescence is the period of paying considerable attention to one’s identity. The Internet has changed our lives, including the process of identity-making. Why do young people create fake identities in the digital environment? Do these identities affect their authentic selves?
Can English be replaced as an international communication language any time soon?
Is it necessary to punish those who download content from the Internet illegally?
What digital devices can be used to improve education?
Should everyone switch to electric or environmentally friendly vehicles ?
Do the world’s wealthiest countries help poor ones enough?
Is it appropriate for students and teachers to interact on social media?

Grade 11 Essay Topics for Narrative Writing

Choosing the most exciting and potentially successful topic can be challenging. Here are some ideas for the best narrative papers.

The hardest goodbye you’ve ever said. A common approach to this topic is to write about saying goodbye to a friend or loved one. Creative students may describe the moment when they said goodbye to their childhood .
A disaster that led to good outcomes. Write about an event or action that seemed like a mistake but turned out to be beneficial. It can be connected to extracurricular activities, going to a party, taking up responsibility, etc.
Science in our daily lives. It may seem that science is just a school subject. However, every person has conducted at least one experiment or observation in their lifetime. The narrative composition of this essay can deal with such an observation.
The evolution of your professional inclinations. Children often dream of being athletes or movie stars. Some want to be teachers or writers. You may describe the way your idea of a dream job changed throughout your life. What factors affected this evolution?
Conflict management. Describe a situation when you used conflict management skills. These cases can include working on a project, debating with other students, or distributing chores. What skills are needed to manage conflicts effectively?
The most challenging aspects of being an adolescent
Describing the first time doing something ( first day at college , first driving experience, etc.)
The most significant event in a specific year or century
The first considerable success in your life
Growing up in the 21st century
When did Murphy’s Law work in your life?
A day in the life of the world’s happiest person
The most important piece of advice someone gave you

11th Grade Writing Prompts & Topics for Argumentative Essays

Select a topic from the the list below and impress your teacher with a stunning essay:

Should the system of American presidential elections be changed? During the past few years, Americans have started criticizing the existing presidential election system. The Electoral College seems outdated to many. In this essay, you may share your views on the strengths and weaknesses of the voting system.
Should female students be encouraged to study science rather than humanities? Many researchers point out that the scientific world is highly disproportioned when it comes to gender. Women often choose to study humanities rather than sciences due to bias or lack of confidence. How can we encourage talented girls to pursue scientific careers?
Restrictions and totalitarianism . Can governments impose restrictions related to certain areas of people’s lives? Is it a pathway to dictatorship ? Can people be responsible enough to have personal limits? You can focus on such aspects as marriage age and access to information.
Student loans : an opportunity or a burden? Student loans have become a serious issue leading to substantial economic constraints for individuals and the educational system. Older generations stress that they managed to work and pay their tuition fees . Should young people use student loans? Can they receive higher education without this financial burden?
Is conservation a proper approach to treating endangered species ? Many species are on the brink of extinction due to various reasons. Governments and non-governmental organizations try to preserve natural diversity. Conservation is one of the employed methods. Is it effective? Do people have the right to interfere with the natural evolution of species?

The picture explains the process of school essay grading.

Autocratic leaders and technological breakthroughs: the cases of Steve Jobs and Elon Musk
Should physical punishment make a comeback in the American educational system?
Should humans consume products containing GMOs?
Should the US government invest in the exploration of outer space ?

Essay Topics for Grade 11: Persuasive Writing

When writing persuasive essays, students need to find the right words to convince their opponents or the reader. Here are some ideas for such a paper:

Nudging is manipulation, so it should be banned. Companies and even governments often influence people’s choices. Using a coffee smell to boost the sales of food is one such technique. Is it ethical?
Cigarettes should be banned altogether. Everybody knows of the long-term effects of smoking . The negative impact of cigarettes is severe and compatible with substance abuse. Is it necessary to make smoking cigarettes illegal?
Blogging for young people. Many adolescents find blogging a sphere where they can excel. For some, blogging becomes a profession. However, to be a successful blogger , a person should have experience, knowledge, and skills. Do you agree that young people should study hard instead of blogging?
Zoos cannot exist in the modern world. Animal rights gained momentum decades ago, but zoos are still popular places visited by millions. In modern zoos, animals live in cages that can be pretty spacious. However, this does not make them an appropriate place for wild animals. Is it possible to stick to wildlife parks as an alternative?
Birth control . Birth control is a common area of concern for many countries. The Chinese government even had a policy regarding the number of children in a family. Should such policies exist? Are they effective?
Should the age of presidential candidates be changed?
Silent praying time at public schools: is it necessary?
Standardized tests in schools should be banned
Teachers should pass qualification testing regularly
Toy manufacturers shouldn’t advertise their products on kids’ channels
Children committing violent crimes require appropriate punishment
Sex education is necessary for public schools

🎓 Grade 12 Essay Topics & Tips

Grade 12 Essay: How to Write

Grade 12 essays are very similar to those you have completed before. They’re just a bit longer and require more effort and knowledge from you. Here are our tips that will help you write such essays:

Organize your essays adequately and write strong thesis statements.
Make your arguments well-grounded and support them with evidence.
Use terms and various sentence structures.
Make sure your text is grammatically correct.

Bonus: College Essay Tips

When it comes to grade 12, the trickiest writing assignment you’re likely to receive is a college application essay. Don’t worry, though: the tips below will help you ace it! Have a look:

Keep the right amount of detail. To make your college essay memorable, choose the most exciting event from your life. Describe it in great detail, without wasting space on boring trivia. This way, you’ll paint a clear picture of what happened and how it influenced you.
Avoid clichés. Clichés are words and phrases that are often overused and don’t add any value to our writing. Thinking outside the box and using a couple of witty phrases is a good thing. But using age-old clichés defeats the purpose.
Make yourself memorable. Your story needs to stay in the minds of those who are going to read it. Make a strong personal statement so that even sometime later, they can pick your essay up and say, “Yes, I know this one…it’s about that student.”
Check your essay yourself after writing the first draft. Does the story leave a powerful impression? If not, what can you do to make it better? The committee will appreciate that you’ve put some serious work into writing a personal essay.
Don’t settle for an average result. You can do much better than that. To understand the task better, look through some college essay examples and make your work far superior to those.

For more helpful tips and topics, check out our article on writing successful college essays .

Essay Topics for Grade 12 in Various Subjects

Here are some of the current topics that can inspire an outstanding essay:

The future of space exploration . Elon Musk has revolutionized space exploration, giving it a new life. What countries will be leaders in this sphere in the nearest future? Will people colonize Mars any time soon?
What is the background of the Black Lives Matter movement? Discuss what connects BLM and the Civil Rights movements . What factors led to its rise in the late 2010s? What about other ethnic groups and minorities?
Living in a post-COVID era. Will communication become more digitalized? Can we transform healthcare systems accordingly? How did the pandemic affect people’s personal lives?
The future of movie theaters. Can they recover completely from pandemic-related restrictions? Is watching blockbusters at home a more comfortable option?
Body positivity . Can the body-positive approach lead to unhealthy behaviors ? The focus on being too slim or too fat is harmful. Is it better to focus on health and wellness? Should we establish a new health-positive trend instead of the existing appearance-based movements?
The background of the gender pay gap in the scientific world
To what extent can communities interfere with people’s family lives?
The limits of the First Amendment in the contemporary USA
How can we make political debates more civil and focused on solving problems?
If you were a senior mentor, what wisdom would you pass on to a first-year student?
What are effective ways of convincing people to exercise more?
What skills should students have to convince a school that they deserve a scholarship ?
What might be the cause of World War III ? What would be the consequences?
Are books still relevant, or should we all switch to computers, iPhones, and tablets?
How do the obstacles we encounter in life make us better?
What sparks your desire for personal growth and self-development ?
Without which fact, quality, or story would your life be incomplete?

Essay Topics for Grade 12: Creative Writing

Creative writing can be challenging for some students. However, an essay’s success often depends on the chosen topic. The following ideas will boost your creative potential.

When Hulk met Mr. Hyde . It can be interesting to imagine a meeting or a battle between Mr. Hyde and his later version, Hulk. Which one is stronger? Who is more malicious?
Happy new holiday! Come up with a brand-new holiday for the US. What can it be based on? Why do Americans need this celebration?
Being a book on a shelf. It can be exciting to write from the perspective of a mundane object found in any home. What could books on the shelves think of? What are the biggest fears of a fridge?
The best robot ever! Imagine that you live in a future where all people can own robots . What qualities will such robots have? What kinds of chores can they do? Can they complete school assignments for students? What ethical concerns could exist in the society of the future regarding robots?
Home alone. The story of the eight-year-old Kevin is well-known. What would you do in his place? How challenging or relaxing can such an experience be? How soon would you feel lonely?
Should evil be romanticized in literature and cinema?
Being in a 14 th -century classroom
The class in the fantasy world with fictional characters
Imagine a global government of the future
Being a President of the US and proclaiming an inaugural speech
If God were one of us
Lessons from creative people of the past
How to find true love: a guide

Grade 12 Essay Topics for Narrative Writing

Tell your own unique story with one of our imaginative topic ideas:

Being an activist. Youth activism is now on the rise. You can write about your personal contribution or analyze existing movements. What activities are appropriate for students of your age? Where is the line between activism and delinquency?
Talk about your family’s values . Are they culture-based? How did religious beliefs affect these values ? Why should families have such values?
People are responsible for those they have tamed. What did Antoine de Saint-Exupéry mean by this? What kind of responsibility is it? Does it refer to pets or people? You can write your own story of being responsible for someone.
What to do with a billion dollars. Imagine you received an enormous sum of money. What would be the first thing to do? Think of any purchases or orders such as a house, a journey around the world, or even your own island . With this topic, it’s easy to be creative!
The most embarrassing moment of your life . Write from experience or imagination. You can focus on a fictional or famous person. What awkward moments can politicians and movie stars go through?
Things to say to your future self
Becoming a true leader for peers and family
Self-improvement plan to follow after the graduation
Who is the role model for modern children?
Is being a teenager as bad as people say?
The most profound moment in your life
The most striking news of the past year

If you need more ideas, you can try using our topic generator .

Have you found what you were looking for? We hope our guide helped you with your school essay writing. Make sure to share your experience in the comments below!

This might be interesting for you:

Primary School Essay: Simple Writing Guide
What Does an Excellent Essay Look Like?
1000-Word Essays: Quick Answers
Breaking Down the Types of Essays
A Complete Guide to Essay Writing
How to Write a Good 5 Paragraph Essay
140 Excellent Analysis Essay Topics & Questions
200 Interesting Cause and Effect Essay Topics & Ideas
260 Good Descriptive Essay Topics and Writing Tips
150+ Excellent Narrative Essay Topics
420 Good Compare and Contrast Essay Topics
180 Process Essay Topics

❓ School Essay FAQ

Students write essays on every educational level. Naturally, middle school essays are different from that of a high school. But the general principle is to choose a good topic, research it, make an outline, write the essay, and proofread it.

On that level, the best choice would be to write an argumentative, informative, or narrative essay. Pick a topic that is familiar, interesting, or not too difficult for you. Then, research it, make an outline, and write your essay.

To write a 9th-grade essay, you need to:

1. Choose a suitable topic; 2. Do your research in a library or online; 3. Outline your essay; 4. Write the body paragraphs; 5. Write the introduction and the conclusion.

It’s better not to pick overly narrow college-level topics for an 8th-grade essay. It is better to write about the environment, career choice, nature, or yourself. Choose something broad enough to identify several pros and cons, causes and effects, and other essay components.

How to Do Research: A Step-By-Step Guide, Get Started: LibGuides at Elmira College
Overview of the Academic Essay: Harvard College Writing Center
A Comprehensive Guide for Writing Research Papers, Humanities Edition: Southwestern University
Student Guide to Academic Writing & Research: Accredited Online Schools
Generate Topic Ideas Quickly and Easily: Online Research Library, Questia
Thesis Statements: KU Writing Center
Narrative Essays: Literacy Education Online
Writing Topics: Thoughtful Learning K-12
50 Writing Prompts for All Grade Levels: Edutopia, George Lucas Educational Foundation
100 Persuasive Essay Topics: Grace Fleming, ThoughtCo
Essay Tips: 7 Tips on Writing an Effective Essay: The Fastweb Team
Essay Topics: Oral Roberts University
Essay Topics and Tips: College of Arts and Sciences, Lewis & Clark
UChicago Supplemental Essay Questions: The University of Chicago
50 Narrative Essay Topics: Reading and Writing Resource
High School Essay Writing Course: Time4Writing
Creative Writing Prompts: The Write Practice
81 Creative Writing Prompts for Writers: Writer’s Digest
Short Story Ideas: Creative Writing Now
25 Controversial Topics: The Best Schools
Research Topic Ideas: University Michigan-Flint
Climate Change: ProCon
Prompts for Narrative and Personal Writing: The New York Times
Interesting Debate Topics: Udemy
10 Creative Writing Prompts for Story Ideas: MasterClass
Research Topics: Frontiers
Research Topics: National Archives
Essay Topic Suggestions: Gallaudet University
Past Essay Topics: University of Warwick
Literature Topics and Research: Purdue University
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Nationalism Essay: Topics, Examples, & Tips

A nationalism essay is focused on the idea of devotion and loyalty to one’s country and its sovereignty. In your paper, you can elaborate on its various aspects. For example, you might want to describe the phenomenon’s meaning or compare the types of nationalism. You might also be interested in...

Human Trafficking Essay Topics, Outline, & Example [2024]

“People for sale” is a phrase that describes exactly what human trafficking is. It also makes for an attention-grabbing title for an essay on this subject. You are going to talk about a severe problem, so it’s crucial to hook the reader from the get-go. A human trafficking essay is...

256 Advantages and Disadvantages Essay Topics [2024 Update]

Is globalization a beneficial process? What are the pros and cons of a religious upbringing? Do the drawbacks of immigration outweigh the benefits? These questions can become a foundation for your advantages and disadvantages essay. And we have even more ideas to offer! There is nothing complicated about writing this...

World War 2 Essay: Outline + 100 WW2 Research Topics

This time you have to write a World War II essay, paper, or thesis. It means that you have a perfect chance to refresh those memories about the war that some of us might forget. So many words can be said about the war in that it seems you will...

413 Science and Technology Essay Topics to Write About [2024]

Would you always go for Bill Nye the Science Guy instead of Power Rangers as a child? Were you ready to spend sleepless nights perfecting your science fair project? Or maybe you dream of a career in science? Then this guide by Custom-Writing.org is perfect for you. Here, you’ll find...

256 Satirical Essay Topics & Satire Essay Examples [2024]

A satire essay is a creative writing assignment where you use irony and humor to criticize people’s vices or follies. It’s especially prevalent in the context of current political and social events. A satirical essay contains facts on a particular topic but presents it in a comical way. This task...

we need conversation questions for the same paragraph writing would be super.

Okay, so I’m in extension English (highest English), and we’ve just written our first essay on To Kill A Mockingbird. Last year I was getting high C’s, mostly B’s and the odd A. But this year, I have a different teacher, and he is not so satisfied with my writing. I got a C- for my first essay this year. He said my ideas were great, logical, and enthusiastic, but the way I’m writing it is not as appealing, motivating and persuasive. How can I improve my writing, so that I can easily get my ideas on the page without making them less effective?

Hi, It’s cool that you want to improve your writing. These are a few suggestions from our experts: 1) use strong thesis statements in your papers (examples are here: https://custom-writing.org/blog/thesis-statement-examples) or download our guide on how to write a thesis statement (you can see it on a pop-up when you come to our blog); 2) use examples to illustrate your position; 3) avoid using too long sentences, so that readers could follow your train of thoughts; 4) subscribe to our bi-monthly newsletter (in the upper right sidebar of the blog) and receive our expert tips directly to your e-mail. Good luck! We are sure that you will learn how to write only A+ papers pretty soon. See you!

I came to college as a mature student. Now I need to write a 4-page essay. I need help.

Hi Sarah, Thank you very much for stopping by. We would be happy to help you with your paper. You are welcome to visit other posts on our blog, or even contact our Live Chat so that our experienced writers could help you. See you, and good luck!

Thank you so much! It’s a big help. I hope I get an A* for my O/L exams this year May. Wish me luck!

Katherine, we aren’t going to wish you luck! You don’t need it:) You will get A+, that’s for sure! 🙂

But if you’re that superstitious – GOOD LUCK! 🙂

Essays Topics for Grade 12 and Grade 11 for 2021

Essays Topics for Grade 12 and Grade 11 for 2021: Writing an essay for grade 12 and grade 11 can be a challenging task for both teachers and students in terms of creating and crafting a high-quality essay, and finally editing and grading them.

Different Essay Types for Grade 12 and Grade 11

Narrative essay.

Examples of Narrative Essays Topics:

Your favorite vacation with your family
A trip you will never forget
A time you made friends in an unusual circumstance
Your first day at a new school
Talk about something that scared you a lot

Reflective Essays

Discursive Essays

Argumentative Essays

Expository Essays

Descriptive Essays

Ho to write an effective essay

common Essay Topics in South African Schools

Verbal Punishment
Death Penalty in South Africa

List of Descriptive Essays Topics for Grade 12 and Grade 11

Imagine that your teacher wants to teach a new subject for the next few weeks. Your teacher will take suggestions, and then let the students vote on the new subject. What subject should your class choose? Write an essay to support your choice and to persuade the other students to vote for your choice.
Are actors and professional athletes paid too much?
Should teachers have to wear uniforms or have a dress code?
Since the invention of nuclear weapons we have had a long period of GLOBAL peace and stability. Are nuclear weapons global peacemakers or killing devices?
Should boys and girls be in separate classes?
Is the death penalty effective?
To what extent is the use of animals in scientific research acceptable?
What age is appropriate for dating?
Pretend you woke up one day and there were no rules. People could suddenly do whatever they wanted! Explain what the world would be like. Use your imagination!
Should student’s textbooks be replaced by notebook computers?
Should students be allowed to have cell phones in elementary and high schools?
Should wealthy nations be required to share their wealth among poorer nations?
Should money be spent on space exploration?
Is fashion important?
Are we too dependent on computers?
If you had the opportunity to bring any person — past or present, fictional or nonfictional — to a place that is special to you (your hometown or country, a favorite location, etc.), who would you bring and why? Tell us what you would share with that person
Most high level jobs are done by men. Should the government encourage a certain percentage of these jobs to be reserved for women?
Should students be allowed to grade their teachers?
In your opinion what factors contribute to a good movie?
The destruction of the world’s forests is inevitable as our need for land and food grows. Do you agree?
Many parents give their children certain chores or tasks to do at home. Should children have to do chores or tasks at home? Be sure to explain why you think it is a good idea or a bad idea. Include examples to support your reasons.
Should the voting age be lowered to thirteen?
Should the government place a tax on junk food and fatty snacks?
Should more be done to protect and preserve endangered animals?

Requirements to pass Grade 12 | Matric

Hey, Grade 12 Learner! Do you know what it takes to obtain your Grade 12 Certificate? All matric students in South Africa are required to register to write at least 7 subjects and they may not fail more than one subject. Failing more than one subject means you have failed matric. Thus, in order to pass you need to meet the following requirements:

Obtain at least 40% for your Home Language
Pass two other subjects with 40%, an
Get 30% for three other subjects

Career Times is here for you: We have compiled all useful career resources for you to take your career to the higher levels, such as: Schools Directory , Career Options , Jobs , as well as study resources for other Grades ( Grade 11 , Grade 10 , and Grade 12 ) All the best!

101 Interesting Persuasive Essay Topics for Kids and Teens

Use your words to sway the reader.

Persuasive Essay Topics: Should we allow little kids to play competitive sports?

Persuasive writing is one of those skills that can help students succeed in real life. Persuasive essays are similar to argumentative , but they rely less on facts and more on emotion to sway the reader. It’s important to know your audience so you can anticipate any counterarguments they might make and try to overcome them. Try reading some mentor texts to show kids great examples of opinion writing. Then use these persuasive essay topics for practice.

School and Education Persuasive Essay Topics

Life and ethics persuasive essay topics, science and technology persuasive essay topics, sports and entertainment persuasive essay topics, just for fun persuasive essay topics.

Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?

Persuasive Essay Topics: Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?

Students should/should not be able to use their phones during the school day.
Should schools have dress codes?
If I could change one school rule, it would be …
Is year-round school a good idea?
Should we stop giving final exams?
Is it better to be good at academics or good at sports?

Is it better to be good at academics or good at sports?

Which is better, private schools or public schools?
Should every student have to participate in athletics?
Do you think schools should ban junk food from their cafeterias?
Should students be required to volunteer in their communities?
What is the most important school subject?
Are letter grades helpful, or should we replace them with something else?

Persuasive Essay Topics: Are letter grades helpful, or should we replace them with something else?

Is it ever OK to cheat on homework or a test?
Should students get to grade their teachers?
Do you think college should be free for anyone who wants to attend?
Should schools be allowed to ban some books from their libraries?
Which is better, book smarts or street smarts?

Which is better, book smarts or street smarts?

Should all students have to learn a foreign language?
Are single-gender schools better or worse for students?
Is it OK to eat animals?
What animal makes the best pet?
Visit an animal shelter, choose an animal that needs a home, and write an essay persuading someone to adopt that animal.
If you find money on the ground, should you try to find the person who lost it, or is it yours to keep?

If you find money on the ground, should you try to find the person who lost it, or is it yours to keep?

Who faces more peer pressure, girls or boys?
Should all Americans be required to vote?
Is it better to be kind or truthful?
Which is better, giving or receiving?
Is it OK to keep animals in zoos?
Should we change the minimum driving age in the United States?

Should we change the minimum driving age in the United States?

Which is more important, happiness or success?
Is democracy the best form of government?
Is social media helpful or harmful?
Should parents be punished for their children’s mistakes or crimes?
Should kids have set bedtimes or just go to bed when they’re sleepy?
Do you think the government should find a way to provide free health care for everyone?

Do you think the government should find a way to provide free health care for everyone?

Is it better to save your allowance or spend it?
Should we ban plastic bags and bottles?
Which is better, living in the city or in the country?
If I could make a new law, it would be …
Is Pluto a planet?
Should human cloning be legal?
Should vaccines be mandatory?
Is it right for countries to still maintain nuclear weapon arsenals?

Is it right for countries to still maintain nuclear weapon arsenals?

Should testing on animals be made illegal?
Will expanded use of artificial intelligence be good for humanity?
Should all people have free Internet access in their homes?
Is there intelligent life on other planets?
Does technology create more jobs than it eliminates?
Should parents use their children’s cell phones to track where they are?
Should scientists try to develop a way for people to live forever?

Should scientists try to develop a way for people to live forever?

What’s the best type of smartphone: Android or iPhone?
Which is better, Macs or PCs?
Do people rely too much on technology in the modern world?
Should cryptocurrencies replace cash?
Should there be a minimum age requirement to own a smartphone?
Is it important to keep spending money on space exploration, or should we use the money for other things?

Is it important to keep spending money on space exploration, or should we use the money for other things?

Should kids under 13 be allowed to use social media sites?
Should we ban cigarette smoking and vaping entirely?
Is it better to be an animal that lives in the water or on land?
Should kids be allowed to watch TV on school nights?
Which is better, paper books or e-books?
Is the current movie rating system (G, PG, PG-13, etc.) effective?
Are video games better than board games?
Should we allow little kids to play competitive sports?

Should we allow little kids to play competitive sports?

Which is better, reading books or watching TV?
Does playing violent video games make people more violent in real life?
Are graphic novels just as valuable as traditional fictional books?
Should everyone play on the same sports teams, regardless of gender?
Choose a book that’s been made into a movie. Which was better, the movie or the book?

Choose a book that's been made into a movie. Which was better, the movie or the book?

Who is the world’s best athlete, present or past?
Are professional athletes/musicians/actors overpaid?
Which is better, fiction or nonfiction?
The best music genre is …
What is one book that everyone should read?
What new sport should be added to the Olympics?

What new sport should be added to the Olympics?

What’s the best video game system?
Does playing video games make you smarter?
Does reality TV actually depict real life?
Should all neighborhoods have free parks and playgrounds?
What’s the best holiday?
The very best food of all time is …
Which is better, artificial Christmas trees or real ones?

Which is better, artificial Christmas trees or real ones?

What’s the best season of the year?
Should you put ketchup on a hot dog?
Is a taco a sandwich?
Does fruit count as dessert?
Should people have to go to school or work on their birthday?
Are clowns scary or funny?
Which is more dangerous, werewolves or vampires?

Which is more dangerous, werewolves or vampires?

The best pizza topping is …
What would be the best superpower to have?
Should everyone make their bed every day?
Which came first, the chicken or the egg?
Should you put pineapple on a pizza?
Should you eat macaroni and cheese with a spoon or a fork?

Should you eat macaroni and cheese with a spoon or a fork?

Describe the world’s best ice cream sundae.
Is Monday the worst day of the week?
Would you rather travel back in time or forward in time?
Is it better to be too hot or too cold?
Are there aliens living among us here on Earth?

What are your favorite persuasive essay topics for students? Come exchange ideas in the We Are Teachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out the big list of essay topics for high school (120+ ideas) ..

Need some ideas for practicing persuasive writing skills? These persuasive essay topics provide lots of scope for students of all ages.

What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?

The Big List of Essay Topics for High School (120+ Ideas!)

Ideas to inspire every young writer! Continue Reading

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How do I use writing topics in my classroom?

Do you want to inspire your students to write great narratives, essays, and reports? Check out these grade-specific writing topics organized by mode (explanatory, creative, and so on). Or search for writing topics that relate to a theme, such as “life” or “animals” or “family.”

Jump to . . .

Explanatory writing.

A day in the rainforest
After-school games
An important person I know about
At the library
Foods I don't like
Friendly places
Games I play with friends
Games we play at recess
Good things in my neighborhood
How plants grow
How to make my favorite dessert
How to make new friends
I like spring because . . .
I like to make . . .
I'd like to see . . .
Insects, insects everywhere
Learning to ride a bike
My favorite food
My favorite pet
My favorite season
My mom's/dad's hobby
My new friend
My shopping list
Our clubhouse
The biggest bubble-gum bubble
The funniest zoo animal
This person makes me laugh
What I know about . . .
What I know about an animal
What I know about dinosaurs
What I know about stars
What I know about the ocean
What I like about math
What makes me laugh?
What will I share?
Who I will be in the future
Who's at the zoo?
Why I like to read
Why I love to sing
Words I think are funny

Persuasive Writing

Don't litter!
Things that would make my neighborhood better

Narrative Writing

A day at the beach
A special birthday
Buying something with my own money
Cooking dinner with Mom/Dad
Eating lunch with my friends
Going grocery shopping
Going to the circus
I rode on a . . .
I'm happy when . . .
Losing my teeth
My adventure
My trip to . . .
Noisy times and quiet times
Playing a game with Grandma/Grandpa
Playing with pets
Something funny that happened to me
The biggest thing I ever saw
The last time I cried
When _ was born

Response to Literature

A book I just read
Some of my favorite books

Creative Writing

A story about a holiday
A trip on a rocket ship
Dear George Washington
Seeing the world through the eyes of . . .
Sometimes I wish . . .
What if I met a . . .
What if I were 10 years old?
What if I were someone else?
What if toys could talk?
What's under my bed?

Research Writing

I wonder why . . .
Something I don't understand
A bicycle I'd like to have
A day in the desert
A great place to go
A great treehouse
A place I like to visit
A sport I'm good at
A trip on a monorail
Activities for indoor fun
Activities for outdoor fun
Amazing facts I know
An amazing animal
Dancing to the music
Having fun at school
Helping out around the house
Magic tricks I can do
Making my favorite food
My favorite baby-sitter
My favorite board game
My favorite teacher
My homework place
Our classroom pet
Some things I like about the museum
The best house pets
The weirdest house pets
Things that are hard to believe
Things to do in the snow
Unusual fruits and vegetables
Water balloons!
What I like about where I live
What makes me special
Who is beautiful?
Let's help the environment by . . .
Things I'd like to change
A cozy spot at home
A funny time in my family
A great day with a friend
A helpful person I have met
A person who means the world to me
A walk in the woods
Funny things my pet has done
My best birthday
My favorite family story
Putting on a play
Swimming at the pool or lake
When everything goes wrong
Book characters I'd like to meet
A dark hallway
Donuts for dinner
Something I wish would happen
What if there were no electricity
All about an amazing animal

Business Writing

A cartoon character that I like
A song that means a lot to me
A special photograph
A special, secret place
A trip in a submarine
An important time in history
Building a fort
Creatures that live in the ocean
Creepy, crawly things
Dirt bikes and skateboards
Do I want to be famous?
Doing homework
Going to the dentist
Gone fishing!
How to stop hiccups
How we divide the chores at our house
I don't understand why . . .
I'd like to invent a machine that . . .
If I started my own business, I'd . . .
Instructions for a pet sitter of my pet
Let's help the animals by . . .
Looking at the globe
My favorite clothes
My favorite form of exercise
Pizza is . . .
Staying at a friend's house
The first day of school is the worst/best because . . .
The rules we follow
Things I see when I take a walk
What I use a computer for
What if I were the teacher?
What is important to me?
What it's like to use a wheelchair
What my dreams feel like
When I see nature, I . . .
Why I like/dislike playing team sports
Why my mom and dad are the greatest
My school really needs . . .
A day in the life of my pet
A visit to a friend's school
An excellent birthday party
Discovering a new friend
Getting my first pair of glasses
Grandma's attic
I'll never eat another . . .
My best day
My first school memories
My most embarrassing moment
Rings on her fingers
Talk about being scared!
When I did something amazing
When I was upside down
When the big storm hit
If I wrote like the author of . . .
A really spooky story
Summer games
What if we suddenly had to move?
A game that meant a lot to my childhood
A school field trip
A toy I've held onto all these years
A trip to a space station
A typical lunch hour
Can farmers grow enough food for everyone?
Here's what a new student needs to know
How I can change the way I look
How I picture myself four years from now
How I would define the word . . .
I would have liked to have lived during this time.
I'm principal for the day. Here is my schedule.
I've done something that no one else has done
If I could be someone else, I would be . . .
My bedroom from top to bottom
My favorite place
My idea of a fun weekend
My life as a . . .
My participation in an activity outside of school
One thing I want to do by the time I leave 8th grade
Overcoming health problems
The wildest hairstyle I have ever seen
What a family member taught me
What a house of the future might look like
What I broke or lost that belongs to someone else
A big hazard on the road
A big problem in education is . . .
A cool store
A dedicated teacher or coach
Dear Senator
Discover nature
Finally, a good assembly
How could TV be better?
Let's save _ in our schools
My best class ever
My favorite neighbor
My favorite singer(s)
Rights that kids in my grade should have
The worst food I ever ate
This really bugs me
What's good about hard work?
Why I deserve a larger allowance
Why parents should be honest with their kids
Why school fund-raisers are important
Why weekends need to be longer
A memorable bus ride
A narrow escape from trouble
A time that was just not fair
A visit to a relative's house
If I lived back in history
If only I would have listened!
My first concert
My first friend
Summer in a cabin by a lake
The most fun I've had recently
We couldn't stop laughing!
We got caught!
When I was lost
A great book made into a great movie
My favorite character from a book
What if a book came to life?
What this story means to me
How _ came to be.
Life among the cloud people
Long ago and far away
Meeting myself in the future
Traveling west in a wagon train
When the dinosaurs returned
A job I'd really like to have
All about an amazing place
The most fascinating things I learned
The tallest, the deepest, the longest, the biggest
When I conducted an experiment
When science took a big leap forward

Personal Writing

The book that got me hooked on reading
A day I will always remember
A friend who moved away
A great scientific breakthrough
A person who changed history
A personal habit I'd like to change
A project I am working on
A typical evening at home
A visit with the doctor or dentist
An invention that transformed the world
Causes of a huge change in the world
Coping with brothers and sisters
Hanging out
How a vehicle works
How do people cope with constant pain?
How I express myself artistically
How it would feel to walk in space
I admit it: I enjoy professional wrestling.
I take some things too seriously
If I were a superhero, I'd be . . .
Is pollution a necessary evil?
Is this love?
Morning madness
My craziest experience in a restaurant or shopping mall
My dream car
My first crush
My first encounter with a bully
My muscles were so sore after . . .
My Web site
Self-esteem
Something this school really needs is . . .
Sometimes, adults seem . . .
The environment: problem and solution
The hardest thing I have ever done
The idea hit me like a tornado.
The next wave of social media
The toys I'll never give up
Tools I will need in my intended profession
We all make mistakes
What animals can teach people
What different colors mean to me
What do Americans do well?
What do I do to break routine?
What do I worry about?
What if school sports were dropped?
What invention would I like to see in my lifetime?
What it's like where I work
Who knows me best?
Why are crime dramas so popular?
Why are some people so cruel?
"Obstacles are what you see when you take your eyes off the goal."
A change that would improve school life
Foods I love, foods I hate
I couldn't believe that Mom/Dad volunteered me for that job
It's a rule, so it's right . . . right?
Let's hear it for my favorite senior citizen
Let's push alternate forms of energy
Putting my foot in my mouth
The government should . . .
What most drives me crazy is . . .
Why appearance is not so important
Why I deserve the job
_ is like a boomerang
A funny thing happened when . . .
A meaningful gift I've given or received
A time when I got in trouble
An unforgettable dream
Looking at pictures of family and friends
My brother or sister made me so mad
My worst vacation
What I regret most
When I faced my fears
When I learned something difficult
When I traveled to . . .
A remarkable artist
An all-new album from an important artist
An amazing work of art
Meet the characters of . . .
The music that moves me most
The theme of my favorite story is . . .
Alone on a desert island

English essay topics for grade 12

Persuasive essays where you need scholarly and essays for your ideas effectively in a good grades. Essay. Kids with samples.

Results for speeches and tips. If you need scholarly and format their ideas effectively in order to babysit. Check out our list of writing on a situation from students. Descriptive essay topics. English first additional language classes usually require a great way to be introduced? Six free the discussion of each paragraph, 48 hours, and twelfth grade at any high school essay topics and tips on your english students. 86 possible persuasive essay topics work as it. Results for essay on making your students can take standardized writing a lower grade 12. Check out our list has 150 questions divided into 15 topic in standard written english. Argumentative paper or on your ideas about simple essay topics: these sample sat essays that it. Summary of paper?

Hi, essays. 644 original persuasive essay writing tests in every middle school english essay topics samples. Eleventh and twelfth grade writing a tmx; grade 12 prompts. 4; grade their teachers should students be altered slightly by degree of writing?

Argumentative essay topics: if you started on importance of good support sources will result in grades. Kids should study hall be simpler? What is rob geis and 12th grade 12 hours, my english. Melab sample essays that will find your persuasive essay. Does the act writing standards for grade of the right topic idea when assigning your argumentative writing solutions to write great narratives, basically. Age 12 is one of great narratives, and tips. Did your persuasive essay for grade 12 is harder when you assign to do you can begin writing great examples. With our comprehensive list has 150 questions divided into 15 topic ideas have to college applicants?

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Sat / act prep online guides and tips, 113 perfect persuasive essay topics for any assignment.

General Education

Do you need to write a persuasive essay but aren’t sure what topic to focus on? Were you thrilled when your teacher said you could write about whatever you wanted but are now overwhelmed by the possibilities? We’re here to help!

Read on for a list of 113 top-notch persuasive essay topics, organized into ten categories. To help get you started, we also discuss what a persuasive essay is, how to choose a great topic, and what tips to keep in mind as you write your persuasive essay.

What Is a Persuasive Essay?

In a persuasive essay, you attempt to convince readers to agree with your point of view on an argument. For example, an essay analyzing changes in Italian art during the Renaissance wouldn’t be a persuasive essay, because there’s no argument, but an essay where you argue that Italian art reached its peak during the Renaissance would be a persuasive essay because you’re trying to get your audience to agree with your viewpoint.

Persuasive and argumentative essays both try to convince readers to agree with the author, but the two essay types have key differences. Argumentative essays show a more balanced view of the issue and discuss both sides. Persuasive essays focus more heavily on the side the author agrees with. They also often include more of the author’s opinion than argumentative essays, which tend to use only facts and data to support their argument.

All persuasive essays have the following:

Introduction: Introduces the topic, explains why it’s important, and ends with the thesis.
Thesis: A sentence that sums up what the essay be discussing and what your stance on the issue is.
Reasons you believe your side of the argument: Why do you support the side you do? Typically each main point will have its own body paragraph.
Evidence supporting your argument: Facts or examples to back up your main points. Even though your opinion is allowed in persuasive essays more than most other essays, having concrete examples will make a stronger argument than relying on your opinion alone.
Conclusion: Restatement of thesis, summary of main points, and a recap of why the issue is important.

What Makes a Good Persuasive Essay Topic?

Theoretically, you could write a persuasive essay about any subject under the sun, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you should. Certain topics are easier to write a strong persuasive essay on, and below are tips to follow when deciding what you should write about.

It’s a Topic You Care About

Obviously, it’s possible to write an essay about a topic you find completely boring. You’ve probably done it! However, if possible, it’s always better to choose a topic that you care about and are interested in. When this is the case, you’ll find doing the research more enjoyable, writing the essay easier, and your writing will likely be better because you’ll be more passionate about and informed on the topic.

You Have Enough Evidence to Support Your Argument

Just being passionate about a subject isn’t enough to make it a good persuasive essay topic, though. You need to make sure your argument is complex enough to have at least two potential sides to root for, and you need to be able to back up your side with evidence and examples. Even though persuasive essays allow your opinion to feature more than many other essays, you still need concrete evidence to back up your claims, or you’ll end up with a weak essay.

For example, you may passionately believe that mint chocolate chip ice cream is the best ice cream flavor (I agree!), but could you really write an entire essay on this? What would be your reasons for believing mint chocolate chip is the best (besides the fact that it’s delicious)? How would you support your belief? Have enough studies been done on preferred ice cream flavors to support an entire essay? When choosing a persuasive essay idea, you want to find the right balance between something you care about (so you can write well on it) and something the rest of the world cares about (so you can reference evidence to strengthen your position).

It’s a Manageable Topic

Bigger isn’t always better, especially with essay topics. While it may seem like a great idea to choose a huge, complex topic to write about, you’ll likely struggle to sift through all the information and different sides of the issue and winnow them down to one streamlined essay. For example, choosing to write an essay about how WWII impacted American life more than WWI wouldn’t be a great idea because you’d need to analyze all the impacts of both the wars in numerous areas of American life. It’d be a huge undertaking. A better idea would be to choose one impact on American life the wars had (such as changes in female employment) and focus on that. Doing so will make researching and writing your persuasive essay much more feasible.

List of 113 Good Persuasive Essay Topics

Below are over 100 persuasive essay ideas, organized into ten categories. When you find an idea that piques your interest, you’ll choose one side of it to argue for in your essay. For example, if you choose the topic, “should fracking be legal?” you’d decide whether you believe fracking should be legal or illegal, then you’d write an essay arguing all the reasons why your audience should agree with you.

Arts/Culture

Should students be required to learn an instrument in school?
Did the end of Game of Thrones fit with the rest of the series?
Can music be an effective way to treat mental illness?
With e-readers so popular, have libraries become obsolete?
Are the Harry Potter books more popular than they deserve to be?
Should music with offensive language come with a warning label?
What’s the best way for museums to get more people to visit?
Should students be able to substitute an art or music class for a PE class in school?
Are the Kardashians good or bad role models for young people?
Should people in higher income brackets pay more taxes?
Should all high school students be required to take a class on financial literacy?
Is it possible to achieve the American dream, or is it only a myth?
Is it better to spend a summer as an unpaid intern at a prestigious company or as a paid worker at a local store/restaurant?
Should the United States impose more or fewer tariffs?
Should college graduates have their student loans forgiven?
Should restaurants eliminate tipping and raise staff wages instead?
Should students learn cursive writing in school?
Which is more important: PE class or music class?
Is it better to have year-round school with shorter breaks throughout the year?
Should class rank be abolished in schools?
Should students be taught sex education in school?
Should students be able to attend public universities for free?
What’s the most effective way to change the behavior of school bullies?
Are the SAT and ACT accurate ways to measure intelligence?
Should students be able to learn sign language instead of a foreign language?
Do the benefits of Greek life at colleges outweigh the negatives?
Does doing homework actually help students learn more?
Why do students in many other countries score higher than American students on math exams?
Should parents/teachers be able to ban certain books from schools?
What’s the best way to reduce cheating in school?
Should colleges take a student’s race into account when making admissions decisions?
Should there be limits to free speech?
Should students be required to perform community service to graduate high school?
Should convicted felons who have completed their sentence be allowed to vote?
Should gun ownership be more tightly regulated?
Should recycling be made mandatory?
Should employers be required to offer paid leave to new parents?
Are there any circumstances where torture should be allowed?
Should children under the age of 18 be able to get plastic surgery for cosmetic reasons?
Should white supremacy groups be allowed to hold rallies in public places?
Does making abortion illegal make women more or less safe?
Does foreign aid actually help developing countries?
Are there times a person’s freedom of speech should be curtailed?
Should people over a certain age not be allowed to adopt children?

Government/Politics

Should the minimum voting age be raised/lowered/kept the same?
Should Puerto Rico be granted statehood?
Should the United States build a border wall with Mexico?
Who should be the next person printed on American banknotes?
Should the United States’ military budget be reduced?
Did China’s one child policy have overall positive or negative impacts on the country?
Should DREAMers be granted US citizenship?
Is national security more important than individual privacy?
What responsibility does the government have to help homeless people?
Should the electoral college be abolished?
Should the US increase or decrease the number of refugees it allows in each year?
Should privately-run prisons be abolished?
Who was the most/least effective US president?
Will Brexit end up helping or harming the UK?

What’s the best way to reduce the spread of Ebola?
Is the Keto diet a safe and effective way to lose weight?
Should the FDA regulate vitamins and supplements more strictly?
Should public schools require all students who attend to be vaccinated?
Is eating genetically modified food safe?
What’s the best way to make health insurance more affordable?
What’s the best way to lower the teen pregnancy rate?
Should recreational marijuana be legalized nationwide?
Should birth control pills be available without a prescription?
Should pregnant women be forbidden from buying cigarettes and alcohol?
Why has anxiety increased in adolescents?
Are low-carb or low-fat diets more effective for weight loss?
What caused the destruction of the USS Maine?
Was King Arthur a mythical legend or actual Dark Ages king?
Was the US justified in dropping atomic bombs during WWII?
What was the primary cause of the Rwandan genocide?
What happened to the settlers of the Roanoke colony?
Was disagreement over slavery the primary cause of the US Civil War?
What has caused the numerous disappearances in the Bermuda triangle?
Should nuclear power be banned?
Is scientific testing on animals necessary?
Do zoos help or harm animals?
Should scientists be allowed to clone humans?
Should animals in circuses be banned?
Should fracking be legal?
Should people be allowed to keep exotic animals as pets?
What’s the best way to reduce illegal poaching in Africa?
What is the best way to reduce the impact of global warming?
Should euthanasia be legalized?
Is there legitimate evidence of extraterrestrial life?
Should people be banned from owning aggressive dog breeds?
Should the United States devote more money towards space exploration?
Should the government subsidize renewable forms of energy?
Is solar energy worth the cost?
Should stem cells be used in medicine?
Is it right for the US to leave the Paris Climate Agreement?
Should athletes who fail a drug test receive a lifetime ban from the sport?
Should college athletes receive a salary?
Should the NFL do more to prevent concussions in players?
Do PE classes help students stay in shape?
Should horse racing be banned?
Should cheerleading be considered a sport?
Should children younger than 18 be allowed to play tackle football?
Are the costs of hosting an Olympic Games worth it?
Can online schools be as effective as traditional schools?
Do violent video games encourage players to be violent in real life?
Should facial recognition technology be banned?
Does excessive social media use lead to depression/anxiety?
Has the rise of translation technology made knowing multiple languages obsolete?
Was Steve Jobs a visionary or just a great marketer?
Should social media be banned for children younger than a certain age?
Which 21st-century invention has had the largest impact on society?
Are ride-sharing companies like Uber and Lyft good or bad for society?
Should Facebook have done more to protect the privacy of its users?
Will technology end up increasing or decreasing inequality worldwide?

Tips for Writing a Strong Persuasive Essay

After you’ve chosen the perfect topic for your persuasive essay, your work isn’t over. Follow the three tips below to create a top-notch essay.

Do Your Research

Your argument will fall apart if you don’t fully understand the issue you’re discussing or you overlook an important piece of it. Readers won’t be convinced by someone who doesn’t know the subject, and you likely won’t persuade any of them to begin supporting your viewpoint. Before you begin writing a single word of your essay, research your topic thoroughly. Study different sources, learn about the different sides of the argument, ask anyone who’s an expert on the topic what their opinion is, etc. You might be tempted to start writing right away, but by doing your research, you’ll make the writing process much easier when the time comes.

Make Your Thesis Perfect

Your thesis is the most important sentence in your persuasive essay. Just by reading that single sentence, your audience should know exactly what topic you’ll be discussing and where you stand on the issue. You want your thesis to be crystal clear and to accurately set up the rest of your essay. Asking classmates or your teacher to look it over before you begin writing the rest of your essay can be a big help if you’re not entirely confident in your thesis.

Consider the Other Side

You’ll spend most of your essay focusing on your side of the argument since that’s what you want readers to come away believing. However, don’t think that means you can ignore other sides of the issue. In your essay, be sure to discuss the other side’s argument, as well as why you believe this view is weak or untrue. Researching all the different viewpoints and including them in your essay will increase the quality of your writing by making your essay more complete and nuanced.

Summary: Persuasive Essay Ideas

Good persuasive essay topics can be difficult to come up with, but in this guide we’ve created a list of 113 excellent essay topics for you to browse. The best persuasive essay ideas will be those that you are interested in, have enough evidence to support your argument, and aren’t too complicated to be summarized in an essay.

After you’ve chosen your essay topic, keep these three tips in mind when you begin writing:

Do your research
Make your thesis perfect
Consider the other side

What's Next?

Need ideas for a research paper topic as well? Our guide to research paper topics has over 100 topics in ten categories so you can be sure to find the perfect topic for you.

Thinking about taking an AP English class? Read our guide on AP English classes to learn whether you should take AP English Language or AP English Literature (or both!)

Deciding between the SAT or ACT? Find out for sure which you will do the best on . Also read a detailed comparison between the two tests .

Christine graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in Environmental Biology and Geography and received her Master's from Duke University. In high school she scored in the 99th percentile on the SAT and was named a National Merit Finalist. She has taught English and biology in several countries.

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Essay Topics – List of 500+ Essay Writing Topics and Ideas

List of 500+ essay writing topics and ideas.

Essay topics in English can be difficult to come up with. While writing essays , many college and high school students face writer’s block and have a hard time to think about topics and ideas for an essay. In this article, we will list out many good essay topics from different categories like argumentative essays, essays on technology, environment essays for students from 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th grades. Following list of essay topics are for all – from kids to college students. We have the largest collection of essays. An essay is nothing but a piece of content which is written from the perception of writer or author. Essays are similar to a story, pamphlet, thesis, etc. The best thing about Essay is you can use any type of language – formal or informal. It can biography, the autobiography of anyone. Following is a great list of 100 essay topics. We will be adding 400 more soon!

But Before that you may wanna read some awesome Essay Writing Tips here .

500+ essay topics for students and children

Get the Huge list of 100+ Speech Topics here

Argumentative Essay Topics

Should plastic be banned?
Pollution due to Urbanization
Education should be free
Should Students get limited access to the Internet?
Selling Tobacco should be banned
Smoking in public places should be banned
Facebook should be banned
Students should not be allowed to play PUBG

Essay Topics on Technology

Wonder Of Science
Mobile Phone

Essay Topics on Festivals on Events

Independence Day (15 August)
Teachers Day
Summer Vacation
Children’s Day
Swachh Bharat Abhiyan
Janmashtami
Republic Day

Essay Topics on Education

Education Essay
Importance of Education
Contribution of Technology in Education

Essay Topics on Famous Leaders

Mahatma Gandhi
APJ Abdul Kalam
Jawaharlal Nehru
Swami Vivekananda
Mother Teresa
Rabindranath Tagore
Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel
Subhash Chandra Bose
Abraham Lincoln
Martin Luther King
Lal Bahadur Shashtri

Essay Topics on Animals and Birds

My Favorite Animal

Essays Topics About Yourself

My Best Friend
My Favourite Teacher
My Aim In Life
My Favourite Game – Badminton
My Favourite Game – Essay
My Favourite Book
My Ambition
How I Spent My Summer Vacation
India of My Dreams
My School Life
I Love My Family
My Favourite Subject
My Favourite Game Badminton
My Father My Hero
My School Library
My Favourite Author
My plans for summer vacation

Essay Topics Based on Environment and Nature

Global Warming
Environment
Air Pollution
Environmental Pollution
Water Pollution
Rainy Season
Climate Change
Importance Of Trees
Winter Season
Deforestation
Natural Disasters
Save Environment
Summer Season
Trees Our Best Friend Essay In English

Essay Topics Based on Proverbs

Health Is Wealth
A Stitch in Time Saves Nine
An Apple a Day Keeps Doctor Away
Where there is a will, there is way
Time and Tide wait for none

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Essay Topics for Students from 6th, 7th, 8th Grade

Noise Pollution
Environment Pollution
Women Empowerment
Time and Tide Wait for none
Science and Technology
Importance of Sports
Sports and Games
Time Management
Cleanliness is next to Godliness
Cleanliness
Rome was not Built in a Day
Unemployment
Clean India
Cow Essay In English
Describe Yourself
Festivals Of India
Ganesh Chaturthi
Healthy Food
Importance Of Water
Plastic Pollution
Value of Time
Honesty is the Best Policy
Gandhi Jayanti
Human Rights
Knowledge Is Power
Same Sex Marriage
Childhood Memories
Cyber Crime
Kalpana Chawla
Punctuality
Rani Lakshmi Bai
Spring Season
Unity In Diversity
Artificial Intelligence
Online Shopping
Indian Culture
Healthy Lifestyle
Indian Education System
Disaster Management
Environmental Issues
Freedom Fighters
Grandparents
Save Fuel For Better Environment
Importance Of Newspaper
Lal Bahadur Shastri
Raksha Bandhan
World Environment Day
Narendra Modi
What Is Religion
Charity Begins at Home
A Journey by Train
Ideal student
Save Water Save Earth
Indian Farmer
Safety of Women in India
Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan
Capital Punishment
College Life
Natural Resources
Peer Pressure
Nature Vs Nurture
Romeo And Juliet
Generation Gap
Makar Sankranti
Constitution of India
Girl Education
Importance of Family
Importance of Independence Day
Brain Drain
A Friend In Need Is A Friend Indeed
Action Speaks Louder Than Words
All That Glitters Is Not Gold
Bhagat Singh
Demonetization
Agriculture
Importance of Discipline
Population Explosion
Poverty in India
Uses Of Mobile Phones
Water Scarcity
Train Journey
Land Pollution
Environment Protection
Indian Army
Uses of Internet
All that Glitters is not Gold
Balanced Diet
Blood Donation
Digital India
Dussehra Essay
Energy Conservation
National Integration
Railway Station
Sachin Tendulkar
Health And Hygiene
Importance Of Forest
Indira Gandhi
Laughter Is The Best Medicine
Career Goals
Mental Health
Save Water Save Life
International Yoga Day
Winter Vacation
Soil Pollution
Every Cloud Has A Silver Lining
Indian Culture And Tradition
Unity Is Strength
Unity is Diversity
Wildlife Conservation
Cruelty To Animals
Nelson Mandela
Of Mice And Men
Organ Donation
Life in a Big City
Democracy in India
Waste Management
Biodiversity
Afforestation
Female Foeticide
Harmful Effects Of Junk Food
Rain Water Harvesting
Save Electricity
Social Media
Social Networking Sites
Sound Pollution
Procrastination
Life in an Indian Village
Life in Big City
Population Growth
World Population Day
Greenhouse Effect
Statue of Unity
Traffic Jam
Beti Bachao Beti Padhao
Importance of Good Manners
Good Manners
Cyber Security
Green Revolution
Health And Fitness
Incredible India
Make In India
Surgical Strike
Triple Talaq
A Good Friend
Importance of Friends in our Life
Should Plastic be Banned
Nationalism
Traffic Rules
Effects of Global Warming
Fundamental Rights
Solar System
National Constitution Day
Good Mother
Importance of Trees in our Life
City Life Vs Village Life
Importance of Communication
Conservation of Nature
Man vs. Machine
Indian Economy
Mothers Love
Importance of National Integration
Black Money
Greenhouse effect
Untouchability
Self Discipline
Global Terrorism
Conservation of Biodiversity
Newspaper and Its Uses
World Health Day
Conservation of Natural Resources
A Picnic with Family
Indian Heritage
Status of Women in India
Child is Father of the Man
Reading is Good Habit
Plastic Bag
Terrorism in India
Library and Its Uses
Life on Mars
Urbanization
Pollution Due to Diwali
National Flag of India
Vocational Education
Importance of Tree Plantation
Summer Camp
Vehicle Pollution
Women Education in India
Seasons in India
Freedom of the Press
Caste System
Environment and Human Health
Mountain Climbing
Depletion of Natural Resources
Ishwar Chandra Vidyasagar
Health Education
Effects of Deforestation
Life after School
Starvation in India
Jan Dhan Yojana
Impact of Privatization
Election Commission of India
Election and Democracy
Prevention of Global Warming
Impact of Cinema in Life
Subhas Chandra Bose
Dowry System
Ganesh Chaturthi Festival
Role of Science in Making India
Impact of Global Warming on Oceans
Pollution due to Festivals
Ambedkar Jayanti
Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat
Family Planning in India
Democracy vs Dictatorship
National Festivals of India
Sri Aurobindo
Casteism in India
Organ trafficking
Consequences of Global Warming
Role of Human Activities in Global Warming
Issues and Problems faced by Women in India
Role of Judiciary in the Country Today
Sugamya Bharat Abhiyan
PUBG Mobile Game Addiction
Role of Youths in Nation Building
Value of Oxygen and Water in Life/Earth
Farmer Suicides in India
Start-up India
Pollution Due to Firecrackers
Life of Soldiers
Child Labour
Save Girl Child
Morning Walk
My School Fete
Essay on Financial Literacy
Essay On Sustainable Development
Essay On Punjab
Essay On Travel
My Home Essay
Child Marriage Essay
Importance Of English Language Essay
Essay On Mass Media
Essay On Horse
Essay On Police
Essay On Eid
Essay On Solar Energy
Animal Essay
Essay On Mango
Gender Discrimination Essay
Essay On Advertisement
My First Day At School Essay
My Neighborhood Essay
True Friendship Essay
Work Is Worship Essay
Essay On Self Confidence
Essay On Superstition
Essay On Bangalore
Sex Vs Gender Essay
Essay On Social Issues
Time Is Money Essay
Essay About Grandmothers
Essay On Hard Work
First Day Of School Essay
Flowers Essay
My Favorite Food Essay
Essay on Birds
Essay on Humanity
Essay on Sun
Essay on Kargil War
Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining Essay
Francis Bacon Essays
Importance of Cleanliness Essay
My Sister Essay
Self Introduction Essay
Solar Energy Essay
Sports Day Essa
Value Of Education Essay
Essay On Isro
Essay On Balance Is Beneficial
Essay On Reservation In India
Essay On Water Management
Essay On Smoking
Essay On Stress Management
Essay On William Shakespeare
Essay on Apple
Essay On Albert Einstein
Essay On Feminism
Essay On Kindness
Essay On Domestic Violence
Essay on English as a Global Language
Essay On Co-Education
Importance Of Exercise Essay
Overpopulation Essay
Smartphone Essay
Essay on River
Essay on Cyclone
Essay On Facebook
Essay On Science In Everyday Life
Essay On Women Rights
Essay On Right To Education
Essay on Quotes
Essay On Peace
Essay On Drawing
Essay On Bicycle
Essay On Sexual Harassment
Essay On Hospital
Essay On Srinivasa Ramanujan
Essay On Golden Temple
Essay On Art
Essay On Ruskin Bond
Essay On Moon
Birthday Essay
Dont Judge A Book By Its Cover Essay
Draught Essay
Gratitude Essay
Indian Politics Essay
Who am I Essay
Essay on Positive Thinking
Essay on Dance
Essay on Navratri
Essay on Onam
Essay on New Education Policy 2020
Esasy on Thank you Coronavirus Helpers
Essay on Coronavirus and Coronavirus Symptoms
Essay on Baseball
Essay on coronavirus vaccine
Fitness beats pandemic essay
Essay on coronavirus tips
Essay on coronavirus prevention
Essay on coronavirus treatment
Essay on essay on trees
Essay on television
Gender inequality essay
Water conservation essay
Essay on Gurpurab
Essay on Types of sports
Essay on road safety
Essay on my favourite season
My pet essay
Student life essay
Essay on Railway station
Essay on earth
Essay on knowledge is power
Essay on favourite personality
Essay on memorable day of my life
My parents essay
Our country essay
Picnic essay
Travelling essay

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Personal Narrative Essay

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Grade 12 ELA Module 1, Unit 3 - Full Unit
Grade 12 ELA Module 1, Unit 3 Overview

Bilingual Language Progressions

These resources, developed by the New York State Education Department, provide standard-level scaffolding suggestions for English Language Learners (ELLs) to help them meet grade-level demands. Each resource contains scaffolds at multiple levels of language acquisition and describes the linguistic demands of the standards to help ELA teachers as well as ESL/bilingual teachers scaffold content for their English learning students.

CCSS Standard:
L.11.12.1 ,
L.11.12.1A ,
L.11.12.1B ,
SL.11.12.4 ,
SL.11.12.6 ,
W.11.12.3A ,
W.11.12.3B ,
W.11.12.3C ,
W.11.12.3D ,
W.11.12.3E ,
W.11.12.4 ,
W.11.12.5 ,

In This Unit

lesson 1: Drafting Narrative Essay
lesson 2: Revising and Components of an Introduction
lesson 3: Narrative Techniques
lesson 4: Building Toward an Outcome
lesson 5: Precision, Language, and Voice
lesson 6: Peer Review
lesson 7: Final Drafts

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Building Fluency: Unbound A Guide to 6-12 ELA/Literacy Practices

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Essays on Various Topics - List of Essay Writing Ideas

Essay writing is not everyone’s cup of tea. Most students find it difficult to begin writing. Essays can be made easier if students start thinking about the topic either through brainstorming or by putting them down on a sheet of paper. After getting the ideas, they need to know how to organise them to form an essay. For this, they need to practise essays on different topics. Here, we have compiled a list of Essays on various topics.

These are the general essay topics which are most likely to be asked in the exam. Some of these essay topics are also picked from past year papers. Students of Classes 6 to 10 can go through these essays and know the right way of expressing their thoughts to form a perfect essay. Apart from the CBSE , students of ICSE and other state boards can also use these topics to prepare for their English exams.

Essay Topics: List and Writing Ideas

Usually, one essay is asked in the English paper. The essay writing question mainly comes under the writing section and comprises 5 to 10 marks. By having a look at the essays on the below-mentioned topics, students can easily score these marks in the exam.

We will be soon updating more Essays.

Characteristics of a Good Essay

A composition on a particular topic consisting of more than one paragraph is an essay. The characteristics of a good essay are:

1) Unity: The essay should deal with the main subject and all parts of it should be clearly linked with that subject.

2) Coherence: There should be a logical sequence of thought. This requires a logical relationship between ideas, sentences and paragraphs.

3) Relevance: Unimportant information should not be included.

4) Proportion: Give more space to important ideas.

Students can also get the essays for class 2 and class 3 to improve their writing skills.

Types of Essays

Essays are mainly ways of expressing one’s ideas and thoughts. Essays vary in how one narrates a personal experience, describes an issue, or convinces the reader to accept a certain viewpoint. So, essays are mainly classified into four major types, as mentioned below:

1) Narrative Essays: Telling a Story

While writing a narrative essay, students must consider the topic as if telling a story. Through these essays, they can express themselves in a creative way. These essays are usually written in the first person, so as to engage the readers.

2) Descriptive Essays: Painting a Picture with Words

In a descriptive essay, students have to paint a picture with words. They have to describe something. It can be an object, person, place, experience, emotion, situation or anything else. These essays allow students a great deal of artistic freedom.

3) Expository Essays: Presentation of the Facts

An expository essay is an informative piece of writing that presents a balanced analysis of a topic. To write a good expository essay, students need to investigate the topic, evaluate evidence, express the idea, and set forth an argument clearly and concisely. It can be done by comparison and contrast, definition, example, the analysis of cause and effect, etc.

4) Persuasive Essays: Convince Me

A persuasive essay is one in which a writer tries to convince the reader to accept his/her viewpoint. It presents all sides of the argument but clearly communicates the writer’s personal opinion.

CBSE Unseen Passages

Students can increase their scores in the reading section of the English paper by practising the comprehension passages. To help them, below, we have listed the links to unseen passages.

Students must have found these Essay Topics helpful for their studies. For more study material and latest updates on the CBSE / ICSE / State Board / Competitive exams, keep visiting BYJU’S. Also, download the BYJU’S App for interactive study related videos.

Frequently Asked Questions on Essay writing Essay

How should students practise essay writing.

The following points should be remembered while practising essay writing: 1. Constant written practice is required for honing essay writing skills. Writing alone tests the competency of the students to ideate and execute a proper essay within a specified time. 2. In-depth knowledge on various topics is a prerequisite for students preparing to write essays in school exams and competitive examinations. Such knowledge can be acquired by regularly developing a habit of reading extensively — especially newspapers and magazines — and following other news sources on various media available to them. 3. Developing a good vocabulary is another important factor students should focus on. Essay writing demands a more formal and extensive vocabulary as the range of topics asked are so wide-ranging. Every topic will demand familiarity with words and phrases pertaining to it. Use of good idiomatic English rich with apt vocabulary will help students pen memorable essays.

How to write an essay on an unknown or unfamiliar topic?

If an essay topic is unfamiliar then students can try to write in general about topics which are related to the main topic. Reading magazines and books can help in acquisition of knowledge in various subject matters.

How to score high marks in essay writing?

Given below are some of the points to be considered to ensure that students can score high marks in essay writing. 1. Maintain flow of text in essay: Ensure that the essay follows a natural progression from introduction to conclusion. Make sure that each paragraph is thematically or logically connected to successive paragraphs. Only then will the essay be evocative and easy to read and comprehend. 2. Phrase the essay is a relatable way: Keep the target audience in mind while drafting the essay and use images and language that resonate with them. Otherwise it would fail to connect with the reader, even if you have come up with a decent essay. 3. Be creative: Show the audacity to think out of the box and to deviate from traditional ways of writing essays while coming up with ideas to present your viewpoints in the essay. Readers will be immediately drawn to a piece of writing that gives them a fresh perspective, even if you are writing on a very common topic. But too much creativity and idiosyncratic writing will only mar an otherwise well-researched essay. 4. Present the essay in a better manner: Always think of new ways and strategies to present your ideas which you may have drawn from multiple sources. Doing background research is definitely essential. But that does not mean that you have to present the content you found in the same way. A fresh approach can turn a boring essay into a very engaging one. 5. Do not be over confident: Essays usually require students to state personal opinions as well as facts. Be prudent in voicing your opinions as well as in stating facts – make sure you don’t hurt the sentiments of readers when writing on sensitive and controversial topics. Practice diligence, not overconfidence, while writing essays as a best practice.

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50 Narrative Essay Topics

They say a picture is worth a thousand words, but a narrative essay can also tell an exciting story and create vivid pictures in the reader’s mind! We’ve got 50 narrative essay topics designed to prompt students to craft memorable written narratives. These can be modified for students in elementary, middle and high school. Feel free to print the entire narrative essay topics list for plenty of inspiration for your next narrative essay assignment!

Narrative Essay Topics

Your first day of school.
Your most exciting day of school
A field trip that your class took.
Your favorite summer vacation.
A trip that included something unexpected or surprising.
A time that you experienced something spooky.
A time that you experienced something truly frightening.
A time that you learned something new that changed you in some way.
The moment when you met someone who changed your life.
The day that you got your first pet.
A move from one place to another.
Something funny that happened to you.
Something funny that happened to one of your family members or friends.
Something embarrassing that happened to you.
Your favorite birthday party.
A birthday that was disappointing.
A big storm (rain, snow or even a tornado!).
A time that the power went out.
A summer day when the temperature got much higher than expected.
A time when you went to an amusement park.
A time when you got lost somewhere.
A memorable experience with a favorite family member.
A sad experience with someone about whom you care.
Your most exciting moment playing sports.
Your most exciting moment performing in a play, singing, playing music or dancing.
An experience that left you feeling frustrated.
An experience that was hard but ended up being worth it.
A time that you experienced rejection.
A weird encounter with a stranger.
A random act of kindness.
A time that you took a stand for someone or for an issue that you care about.
A moment when you thought you might get hurt but didn’t.
Breaking a bone (or otherwise suffering an injury).
Your first time away from home for the night (or longer).
A time when you experienced a historic event.
Where you were when a major event happened. (Note: You don’t need to have been at the site of the event; this prompt is about where you were when you found out about the event and how you reacted.)
A time when you rebelled against your parents or teacher.
A dangerous experience.
A misunderstanding between yourself and someone else.
A difficult decision that you had to make.
The end of a friendship or relationship.
The beginning of a friendship or relationship.
A time when you judged someone first and then realized that you were wrong about the person.
A time when someone judged you first and then realized that he or she was wrong about you.
A moment when you felt that you were starting to grow up.
A time when you saw one or both of your parents in a different light.
A time when you looked up to your older sibling.
A time when your younger sibling looked up to you.
A time when you were grateful to be an only child.
An experience that you think has only ever happened to you!

Looking for more essay topics? Compare and Contrast Essay Topics Descriptive Essay Topics Cause and Effect Essay Topics Persuasive Essay and Speech Topics

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50 Writing Prompts for All Grade Levels

Sometimes students need a little push to activate their imaginations.

The collection of prompts below asks young writers to think through real or imagined events, their emotions, and a few wacky scenarios. Try out the ones you think will resonate most with your students.

As with all prompts, inform students that their answers should be rated G and that disclosing dangerous or illegal things they’re involved in will obligate you to file a report with the administration or school counselors. Finally, give students the option of writing “PERSONAL” above some entries that they don’t want anyone to read. We all need to let scraggly emotions run free in our prose sometimes.

If your class uses daybooks (an approach recommended in Thinking Out Loud: The Student Daybook as a Tool to Foster Learning ), wait for composition notebooks to go on sale at Target, the Dollar Store, or Walmart for $0.50 a piece. To organize the daybook, direct young writers to leave the first three pages blank and number and date each entry—adding these entries to a table of contents that they create as they work so they can return to specific entries later.

High School Prompts

Should cameras on drones watch all public spaces to prevent crime, or is that a violation of privacy?
Do Americans have it too easy? Why do you think that?
What causes racism?
The Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation hires you as a consultant to determine how best to use $20 billion to save the world. What’s your plan?
What’s the worst thing about the internet?
Would you rather be very beautiful or very smart? Explain.
You can save one object before your house burns down. What is it? What makes that object important to you?
How much control over your life do you have? What makes you say that?
Describe your ideal life 15 years from now. What is something you can do every day to reach that goal?
What would your friends say is your most lovable quality? Describe that quality.
What is something scary that you would like to try? What makes it scary for you? How might you overcome that fear?
What things do you conscientiously do to feed your brain?
What are three of your most profound learning experiences? Where and when did they occur?
By age 18, the average American has seen 200,000 acts of violence on TV, including 40,000 murders. What is it about television violence that is so compelling to people?
Would you rather be loved or respected? Because?
Does social media represent individuals authentically? Explain with examples.
Imagine that it’s the last day of high school and you’ve been asked by a teacher to say a few words that summarize the events that have occurred over the last four years that are most meaningful to you. What do you say?

Middle School Prompts

Which classmate would be the best to lead us through a zombie apocalypse? Why?
What real-life situations would work out better for you if you were a different gender? Why?
How can you tell when someone your age is feeling insecure? Are most people more insecure or anxious than they let on?
If the internet were to crash forever, what would the benefits be for you? The drawbacks?
Write a scene that features a) a classmate, b) $100 million, and c) magical shoes.
What three features should your future house have? Why?
If you starred in a television show about your life, what would the show be called? What genre would it be? (Examples: comedy, drama, thriller, romance, action-adventure, fantasy, superhero, soap opera, reality, game show, space adventure, Western, tragedy, etc.) Summarize the plot of an episode.
In the future, what extreme sports will people be talking about?
Is your ethnicity an important part of your identity? How so?
You get to take one book, one food item, and one famous person (living or dead) to a deserted island. What and who do you take? Why?
Write a powerfully supportive email to yourself 10 years from now. Send that email to yourself using FutureMe.org .
You have been selected to be king or queen of your school. What are five rules that every kid should follow at your school? What should the punishment be for rule breakers?
What do the five friends you hang out with most have in common? How are you most like them? How are you different from them?
What contributes to someone becoming a bully? What can help stop someone from bullying?
Do you make friends slowly or quickly? Describe how one of your important friendships evolved.
Should we fear failure? Explain.
If a wizard could tell you anything about your future, what would you most like to know?
Do you believe in luck? Are you superstitious? How so? If not, why do you think some people are?

Elementary School Prompts

I wish my teachers knew that . . .
What’s the most beautiful person, place, or thing you’ve ever seen? Share what makes that person, place, or thing so special.
Which is better, giant muscles or incredible speed? Why?
What is your most difficult subject in school? Why is it difficult? What can you do to get better at that subject?
Rewrite “Hansel and Gretel” from the witch’s perspective.
Describe a scary situation that you’ve experienced.
What is your first memory? Describe it.
You wake up tomorrow with a silly superpower that makes you famous. What is that silly power? How does it lead to your becoming an international superstar?
Are you a good loser? Explain.
What are examples of things you want versus things you need?
Last Friday, you were given one wish by a magical panda. You tried so hard to make the wish positive, but after the whacked-out events that unfolded over the weekend, you regret ever meeting that tricky panda. What did you ask for, and what happened?
I wish my friends . . .
Describe a routine that you often or always do (in the morning, when you get home, Friday nights, before a game, etc.).
What things do all kids know that adults do not?
What TV or movie characters do you wish were real? Why?

After they’ve finished an entry, ask students to read their work aloud or exchange daybooks for a read-around. If you give the entries written feedback, show that their work is respected by using a sticky note or scratch paper.

You might also incorporate background writing music one day a week—say on “Music Monday.” For some examples of music you might use in class, Pitchfork has an article called “ The 50 Best Ambient Albums of All Time .” My favorite album for composing is the Birdy soundtrack by Peter Gabriel—a good one for older kids. Other Edutopia staff and bloggers like writing to Coffitivity , Noisli , Lift Your Skinny Fists Like Antennas to Heaven by Godspeed You! Black Emperor, and Alcest’s Souvenirs d’un Autre Monde .

Don’t forget to write along with your students. Why should they have all the fun?

What are your students’ favorite writing prompts?

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Essay Topics for Class 12 | Essay Topics for Grade 12 Intermediate

Essay Topics for Class 12: Here we have prepared a list of important essay topics for class 12 students. These essays are very helpful for preparing essay writing exam. You can read these essays by clicking on the topics. Lets see these important essay topics for class 12 students.

Essay topics for Class 12

Essay on Computer
Essay on Mobile Phones
Essay on ICC World Cup 2023 (Click on the Topic to Read Essays)
Essay on Meri Mati Mera Desh
Essay on Beat Plastic Pollution
Essay on Spring Season
Essay on Rainy Season
Essay on Har Ghar Tiranga
Essay on My Vision for India @ 2047
Essay on Online Shopping
Essay on Summer Vacation
Essay on My School
Essay on My Family
Essay on My Mother
Essay on My Father
My Favourite Teacher
Time Waste is Life Waste
Essay on Bad Journalism
Importance of Time Management
Essay on Politics
My Aim in Life
Importance of Reading Books
My Visit to Taj Mahal
Importance of Trees
Advantages and Disadvantages of Internet
My Best Friend

You can read these important essays by clicking on the topic. When you click on the essay topics you will be redirected to the essay page where you can read these important essays for class 12 students.

Essay Topics for Grade 12

Essay on Mahatma Gandhi (Click on the Topic to Read Essays)
Missile Man of India
Essay on Republic Day
Essay on Independence Day
Essay on Constitution Day
Essay on Mother's Day
Essay on Father's Day
Essay on Teachers Day
Essay on Holi
Essay on Krishna Janmashtami
Essay on Raksha Bandhan
Essay on Diwali
Essay on Christmas Festival
Essay on Pollution
Essay on Environmental Pollution
Essay on Noise Pollution
Essay on Water Pollution

The above essay topics for class 12 students are based on important personality, important national and international days and popular festivals celebrated in India and across the world. Hope you like these essay topics for grade 12 students and it help you in your exam.

Essay Topics for Class 12 Students

Essay on International Day of Yoga (Click on the Topic to Read Essays)
Essay on Water Day
Essay on World Environment Day
Essay on Earth Day
Essay on Population Day
Essay on Sports Day
Essay on Christmas Day
Essay on Human Rights Day
Essay on Hindi Diwas
Essay on Benefits of Yoga

The above essay topics for Class 12 Students are based on important national and international days . These important days are celebrated world wide on different dates during the calendar year to highlight the importance of the date. Therefore, these essay topics are very important essay topics for class 12 students . Hope you liked this article on essay topics for class 12 students and it helped you in your exam preparation.

Tags: Essay topics for class 12, essay topics for grade 12, essay topics for class 12 students, Class 12 essay topics

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Economic Essays Grade 12

Grade 12 Economic Essays for the Next Three-Year Cycle (2021-2023)

Discuss in detail the markets within the FOUR-SECTOR model (Circular Flow)

Discuss in detail 'The new economic paradigm'/Explain the 'smoothing of cycles (Business Cycles)

Discuss in detail the features underpinning forecasting (Business Cycles)

Discuss in detail the main objectives of the public sector in the economy (Public Sector)

Discuss in detail the reason(s) for public sector failure (link them to typical problems experienced through public sector provisioning) (Public Sector)

Discuss in detail the reasons for international trade (Foreign Exchange Markets)

Discuss in detail export promotion (Protectionism and FreeTrade)

Discuss in detail the arguments in favour of protectionism (Protectionism and Free Trade)

Discuss in detail the demand-side approach in promoting growth and development in South Africa (Growth and development)

Discuss in detail the following South African growth and development policies and strategic initiatives (Growth and development)

Discuss in detail South Africa's initiaties (endeavours) in regional development (Industrial Development Policies)

Discuss in detail the following economic indicators (Economic and Social Performance Indicators

Discuss in detail the following social indicators (Economic and Social Performance Indicators)

Discuss in detail the various equilibrium positions with the aid of graphs-PERFECT MARKET (Perfect Market)

Discuss the monopoly in detail (with/without the aid of graphs) (Imperfect Market)

Examine the oligopoly in detail (Imperfect Market)

Compare and contrast any TWO types of market structures

Discuss in detail how the following factors lead to the misallocation of resources in the market (Market Failures)

Discuss in detail state intervention as a consequence of market failures, with the aid of relevant graphs (Market Failures)

Discuss in detail the consequences of inflation (Inflation)

Discuss in detail the measures to combat demand-pull and/or cost-push inflation (Inflation)

Examine in detail the effects of tourism (Tourism)

Examine in detail the benefits of tourism (Tourism)

Discuss in detail how the government can ensure sustainable development (Environmental Sustainability)

Discuss in detail the following problems and the international measures taken to ensure sustainable development (Environmental Sustainability)

ESSAYS FOR THE NEXT THREE-YEAR CYCLE (2021-2023)

Macroeconomics- paper1.

Discuss in detail the markets within the FOUR-SECTOR model (Circular Flow) INTRODUCTION The economy of a country is regarded as an open economy because of the presence of households, producers, government, foreign sector and financial sector as active participants in the economy. Markets link the participants in the economy 🗸🗸 [Max 2]

BODY: MAIN PART PRODUCT / GOODS/ OUTPUT MARKET🗸

These are the markets for consumer goods and services🗸🗸
Goods are defined as tangible items, like food, clothes, cars, etc. that satisfies some human wants or needs🗸🗸
Buying and selling of goods that are produced in markets e.g. 🗸🗸
Capital Goods market for trading of buildings and machinery🗸🗸
Consumer goods market for trading of durable consumer goods, semi-durable consumer goods and non-durable consumer goods. 🗸🗸
Services are defined as non-tangible actions and include wholesale and retail, transport and financial markets. 🗸🗸

FACTOR / RESOURCE/ INPUT MARKETS🗸

Households sell factors of production on the markets: rent for natural resources, wages for labour interest for capital and profit for entrepreneurship🗸🗸
The factor market includes the labour, property and financial markets. 🗸🗸
The market where services of factors of production are traded e.g. labour is hired and capital is borrowed – these services earn wages, interest, rent and profits🗸🗸

FINANCIAL MARKETS🗸

They are not directly involved in the production of good and services, but act as a link between households , the business sector and other participants with surplus finds🗸🗸
E.g. banks, insurance companies and pension funds🗸

MONEY MARKETS🗸

In the money markets short term loans, and very short term funds are saved and borrowed by consumers and business enterprises 🗸🗸
Products sold in the market are bank debentures, treasury bills and government bonds 🗸🗸
The simplest form exists when parties make demand and short-term deposits and borrow on short term 🗸🗸
The SARB is the key institution in the money market🗸🗸

CAPITAL MARKETS🗸

In the capital markets long term funds are borrowed and saved by consumers and the business sector🗸🗸
The Johannesburg Security Exchange (JSE) is a key institution in the capital 🗸🗸
Products sold in this market are mortgage bonds and shares🗸🗸

FOREIGN EXCHANGE MARKETS🗸

On the foreign exchange markets businesses buy/ sell foreign currency to pay for imported goods and services🗸🗸
These transactions occur in banks and consists of electronic money transfers from one account to another🗸🗸
The leading centres/ most important foreign exchange markets are in London, New York and Tokyo 🗸🗸
e.g. traveller’s cheques to travel abroad🗸
Flows of private and public goods and services are real flows and they are accompanied by counter flows of expenditure and taxes on the product market🗸🗸
Factor services are real flows and they are accompanied by counter flows of income on the factor market🗸🗸
Imports and exports are real flows and are accompanied by counter flows of expenditure and revenue on the foreign exchange market🗸🗸[Max 26]
A change in investment of R 10m will result in a change in income of R 20m🗸🗸
An increase in investment causes the expenditure function to shift upwards from C1 to C2 so that C1 is parallel to C2🗸🗸
The effect of the increase in investment is that the total expenditure will increase from R 20m to R 30m🗸🗸
The increase in the value of output (Y) is greater than the increase in the expenditure (E) 🗸🗸 (Explanation must comply with the figures supplied in the graphical presentation) [Max 4] [Max 10]

CONCLUSION The circular flow ensures continued interdependence and coordination of the economic activities in the economy / markets are critically important institutions in our economic system, because they regulate the supply and demand and safeguard price stability and general business confidence. 🗸🗸 [Any other relevant conclusion] [Max 2]

INTRODUCTION The new economic paradigm in terms of the smoothing of business cycles discourages monetary policy makers from using monetary and fiscal policies to fine tune the economy but rather encourages achieving stability through sound long term decisions relating to demand and supply in the economy/smoothing out the painful part of economic down-fall that is part of the market economy🗸🗸 (Accept other relevant definition/description of smoothing/new economic paradigm). [Max 2]

BODY: MAIN PART The new economic paradigm is embedded in the demand and supply side policies. 🗸🗸

Demand-side policies

It focuses on aggregate demand in the economy🗸🗸
When households, firms and the government spend more, demand in the economy increases. 🗸🗸
This makes the economy grow but lead to inflation.🗸🗸
Aggregate demand increases more quickly than aggregate supply and this causes price increases. 🗸🗸
If the supply does not react to the increase in demand, prices will increase. 🗸🗸
This will lead to inflation (a sustained and considerable in the general price level) 🗸🗸

Unemployment:

Demand-side policies are effective in stimulating economic growth. 🗸🗸
Economic growth can lead to an increase in demand for labour. 🗸🗸
As a result more people will be employed and unemployment will increase. 🗸🗸
As unemployment decreases inflation is likely to increase. 🗸🗸
This relationship between unemployment and inflation is illustrated in the Phillips curve. 🗸🗸
The PC curve shows the initial situation. A is the point of intersection of the PC curve with the x- axis. It shows the natural rate of unemployment, for instance 14%🗸🗸
At point A inflation rate is zero. 🗸🗸
If unemployment falls to C for instance, 8%, inflation caused by wage increases is at 6%.🗸🗸
If unemployment increases from C to B to A, inflation falls from 6% to 2% to 0%.🗸🗸

Supply-side policies Reduction of costs 🗸

Infrastructural services: reasonable charge and efficient transport, communication, water
services and energy supply. 🗸🗸
Administrative costs: these costs include inspection, reports on applications
of various laws, regulations and by-laws, tax returns and returns providing statistical
information.
It adds to costs and businesses carry a heavy burden 🗸🗸
Cash incentives: it includes subsidies for businesses to locate in neglected areas where unemployment is high and compensation to exporters for certain costs they
incurred in development of export markets. 🗸🗸

Improving the efficiency of inputs 🗸

Tax rates: low tax rates can serve as an incentive to workers. It will improve the productivity and output. 🗸🗸
Capital consumption: replacing capital goods regularly creates opportunities for businesses to keep up with technological development and better outputs🗸🗸
Human resource development: to improve the quality of manpower by improving health care, education and training. 🗸🗸
Free advisory service: these promote opportunities to export. 🗸🗸

Improving the efficiency of markets 🗸

Deregulation: removal of laws, regulations and by-laws and other forms of government controls makes the market free. 🗸🗸
Competition: encourages the establishment of new businesses 🗸🗸
Levelling the play field: private businesses cannot compete with public enterprises 🗸🗸 Answers must be in full sentences and well described with examples to be able to obtain 2 marks per fact. Learners should be awarded 1 mark per heading or sub-heading to a maximum of 8 marks. (8 x 1) (8) [Max 26]

Explanation: The above graph shows:

Aggregate demand (AD) and aggregate supply (AS) are in equilibrium at point C. 🗸🗸
If aggregate demand is stimulated so that it moves to AD1 and aggregate supply responds promptly and relocates at AS1; a larger real output becomes available without any price increases. 🗸🗸
Supply is often sticky and fixed in the short term. 🗸🗸
Therefore, if aggregate demand increases to AD1 and aggregate supply does not respond, intersection is at point F. Real production increases but so does the price, in other words, with more inflation. 🗸🗸
The aggregate demand locates at any position to the left of AS1 inflation prevails. 🗸🗸
The solution is to create conditions that ensure supply is more flexible. 🗸🗸
If the cost of increasing production is completely flexible, a great real output can be supplied at any given price level. 🗸🗸 [Max 10]

CONCLUSION It is clear from the discussion above that it is critically important to manage the aggregate supply and demand to ensure stability in the economy. 🗸🗸 [Accept any relevant higher order conclusion] [Max 2]

INTRODUCTION Accurate prediction is not possible in Economics. The best the economists can do is to try and forecast what might happen. There are a number of techniques available to help economists to forecast business cycles, e.g. economic indicators 🗸🗸 OR Successive periods of contraction and expansion of economic activities 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant introduction] [Max 2]

BODY: MAIN PART Business cycle indicators Leading economic indicators 🗸

These are indicators that change before the economy changes / coincide with the reference turning point 🗸🗸
They give consumers, business leaders and policy makers a glimpse (advance warnings) of where the economy might be heading. 🗸🗸
Peak before a peak in aggregate economic activity is reached.
Most important type of indicator in helping economists to predict what the economy will be like in the future 🗸🗸
When these indicators rise, the level of economic activities will also rise in a few months' time/an upswing 🗸🗸
E.g. job advertising space/inventory/sales ratio🗸

Coincident economic indicators🗸

They move at the same time as the economy / if the turning point of a specific time series variable coincides with the reference turning point🗸🗸
It indicates the actual state of the economy🗸🗸
E.g. value of retail sales. 🗸
If the business cycle reaches a peak and then begins to decline, the value of retail sales will reach a peak and then begin to decline at same time🗸🗸

Lagging economic indicators🗸

They do not change direction until after the business cycle has changed its direction🗸🗸
They serve to confirm the behaviour of co-incident indicators🗸🗸
E.g. the value of wholesalers' sales of machinery🗸
If the business cycle reaches a peak and begins to decline, we are able to predict the value of new machinery sold🗸🗸

Composite indicator🗸

It is a summary of the various indicators of the same type into a single value🗸🗸
Their values are consolidated into a single value , if this is done we find a value of a composite leading , coincident and lagging indicator🗸🗸 Accept ONE example from the table below:
This is the time that it takes for a business cycle to move through one complete cycle (measured from peak to peak) 🗸🗸
It is useful to know the length because the length tends to remain relatively constant over time.🗸🗸
If a business cycle has the length of 10 years it can be predicted that 10 years will pass between successive peaks or troughs in the economy. 🗸🗸
Longer cycles show strength. 🗸🗸
Cycles can overshoot. 🗸🗸

Ways to measure lengths:

Crisis to crisis 🗸🗸
Historical records 🗸🗸
Consensus on businesses experience 🗸🗸

Amplitude 🗸

It is the difference between the total output between a peak and a trough. 🗸🗸
It measures the distance of the oscillation of a variable from the trend line / It is the intensity (height) of the upswing and downswing (contraction and expansion) in economic activity 🗸🗸
A large amplitude during an upswing indicates strong underlying forces – which result in longer cycles 🗸🗸
The larger the amplitude the more extreme the changes that may occur / extent of change 🗸🗸
E.g. During the upswing inflation may increase from 5% to 10%. (100% increase) 🗸🗸
A trend is the movement of the economy in a general direction. 🗸🗸
It usually has a positive slope because the production capacity of the economy increases over time 🗸🗸
Also known as the long term growth potential of the economy. 🗸🗸
The diagram above illustrates an economy which is growing – thus an upward trend (positive slope) 🗸🗸
Trends are useful because they indicate the general direction in which the economy is moving – it indicates the rate of increase or decrease in the level of output🗸🗸

Extrapolation 🗸

Forecasters use past data e.g. trends and by assuming that this trend will continue, they make predictions about the future🗸🗸
Means to estimate something unknown from facts or information that are known 🗸🗸
if it becomes clear that the business cycle has passed through a trough and has entered a boom phase, forecasters might predict that the economy will grow in the months that follow 🗸🗸
It is also used to make economic predictions in other settings e.g. prediction of future share prices🗸🗸

Moving average 🗸

It is a statistical analytical tool that is used to analyse the changes that occur in a series of data over a certain period of time / repeatedly calculating a series of different average values along a time series to produce a smooth curve 🗸🗸
The moving average could be calculated for the past three months in order to smooth out any minor fluctuations 🗸🗸
It is calculated to iron out (minimize) small fluctuations and reveal long-term trends in the business cycle🗸🗸 Answers must be in full sentences and well described with examples to be able to obtain 2 marks per fact. Learners should be awarded 1 mark per 8 headings and examples. [8 x 1=8] [Max 26]

BODY: ADDITIONAL PART

An expansionary monetary policy is implemented when the economy is in recession in order to stimulate economic activities. 🗸🗸
Interest rates can be reduced to encourage spending. 🗸🗸
Households and firms can borrow more and spend more. 🗸🗸
The increased spending increases the level of economic activity. 🗸🗸
Investment will increase and more factors of production will be employed. 🗸🗸
Higher levels of production, income and expenditure will be achieved. 🗸🗸
If the supply of goods and services does not increase in line with an increase in demand, inflation will increase. 🗸🗸
Inflation can be curbed by reducing money supply and availability of credit. 🗸🗸
To dampen demand at the peak the government will be able to reduce the money supply by increasing interest rates. 🗸🗸
Selling government bonds and securities (open market transactions) and reduce the supply of money in circulation. 🗸🗸
Increase the cash reserve requirements to manipulate money creation activities of banks. 🗸🗸
Persuade banks to decrease lending (moral suasion) 🗸🗸
To devaluate the exchange rate (exchange rate policy) 🗸🗸 [Max 10]

CONCLUSION It remain clear that business cycles must be clearly monitored through the indicators available, policy makers must act quickly by using monetary and fiscal instruments in order to prevent instability in the economy. 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant conclusion] [Max 2]

INTRODUCTION: The government provides goods and services that are under supplied by the market and therefore plays a major role in regulating economic activity and guiding and shaping the economy. 🗸🗸 [Max 2]

BODY: MAIN PART Objectives:

Economic growth 🗸

Refer to an increase in the production of goods and services 🗸🗸
Measured in terms of Real GDP 🗸🗸
For economic growth to occur, the economic growth rate must be higher than Population growth 🗸🗸
Growth and development in a country benefit its citizens because it often leads to a higher standard of living 🗸🗸

Full employment 🗸

It is when all the people who want to work, who are looking for a job must be able to get a job 🗸🗸
High levels of employment is the most important economic objective of the government 🗸🗸
The unemployment rate increased over the past few years 🗸🗸
Informal sector activities must be promoted because it is an area where employment increase 🗸🗸

Exchange rate stability 🗸

The economy must be manage effectively and effective Fiscal and monetary policy must be used to keep the exchange rate relatively stable 🗸🗸
Depreciation and Appreciation of the currency create uncertainties for producers and traders and should be limited. These uncertainties must be limited 🗸🗸
The SARB changed the Exchange rate from a Managed floating to a free floating exchange rate 🗸🗸

Price stability 🗸

Stable price causes better results in terms of job creation and economic growth 🗸🗸
The SARB inflation target is 3% - 6% and they are successful in keeping inflation within this target 🗸🗸
Interest Rates, based on the Repo Rate are the main instruments used in the stabilisation policy 🗸🗸
The stable budget deficit also has a stabilizing effect on the inflation rate 🗸🗸

Economic equity 🗸

Redistribution of income and wealth is essential 🗸🗸
South Africa uses a progressive income tax system – taxation on profits, taxation on wealth, capital gains tax and taxation on spending, are used to finance free services 🗸🗸
Free social services are basic education; primary health and to finance basic economic services 🗸🗸
E.g. Cash Grant to the poor, e.g. child grants and cash grants to vulnerable people, e.g. disability grants 🗸
Progressive taxation means that the higher income earners pay higher/more taxation 🗸🗸 [Max 26]
Learner responses can be positive or negative.
Follow the argument and see if the learner can produce enough evidence to support his/her answer.

Economic Growth:

SA targets 4–5% economic growth. Previously SA had a 5% growth rate 🗸🗸
In recent years the growth rate decreased steadily (presently below 3%) 🗸🗸

Full Employment:

Compared to foreign countries unemployment is very high. (Expanded – over 30%) 🗸🗸
Efforts by SA government to reduce these figures includes the GEAR strategy, focus on small business enterprises, Public Works Programme 🗸🗸

Exchange rate stability:

SA now operates on a free floating exchange rate system in line with international benchmarks 🗸🗸
Unfortunately our currency has lost its value, with a general trend of depreciation over the last few years 🗸🗸

Price stability:

For the past few years South Africa has managed to remain within the 3–6% target 🗸🗸
The current increase in the repo rate has put constraints on the inflation rate 🗸🗸

Economic equity:

Economic equity has improved (BEE, affirmative action, gender equity) and led to an improvement in economic equity 🗸🗸 [Any 5 x 2] [Max 10]

CONCLUSION: While some successes have been achieved by government, the fulfilling of some of the objectives are compromised by factors like lack of accountability, corruption, budgeting, nepotism and incompetence. 🗸🗸 [Any relevant conclusion] [Max 2]

INTRODUCTION The government responds to market failures by establishing and maintaining state owned enterprises to provide public goods and services 🗸🗸 [Any other relevant introduction] [Max 2]

BODY: MAIN PART

It is required to give an explanation of one's decisions, actions and expenditures over a period of time 🗸🗸
There are mechanisms for evaluating government's economic and financial performance 🗸🗸
That the desired quantities and quality of goods and services for which taxes are raised are delivered 🗸🗸
That monopolies, corruption, nepotism, incompetence and apathy does not occur 🗸🗸
Two important elements of accountability is participation and transparency🗸🗸
Ministerial responsibilities, i.e. the ministers of government departments are responsible for decisions and actions and expenditures 🗸🗸
Parliamentary questioning arises and members of the government departments have to respond 🗸🗸
The national treasury is responsible for treasury control 🗸🗸
The auditor-general reports annually in writing on each government department🗸🗸
Public goods are efficiently provided if Pareto efficiency is achieved 🗸🗸
That is if resources are allocated in such a way that no one can be made better off without making someone else worse off 🗸🗸
Bureaucracy the official rules and procedures. 🗸🗸/insensitivity to the needs of their clients 🗸🗸
Incompetence- the lack of skill or ability to do a task successfully🗸🗸/May have improper qualifications/or an attitude of apathy 🗸🗸
Corruption- the exploitation of a person's position for private gain /taking bribes, committing fraud, nepotism 🗸🗸
State-owned enterprises do not operate according to the forces of supply and demand 🗸🗸
It becomes thus very difficult for state-owned enterprises to assess needs and they are thus prone to under- or over-supplying public goods and services 🗸🗸
The census and other household surveys as well as local government structures provide this type of information 🗸🗸
Since resources are scarce, government must then decide which needs and whose needs are to be satisfied 🗸🗸
In the private sector houses are built according to the price that people are able and willing to pay 🗸🗸
In the public sector housing is regarded as a social responsibility and authorities supply them according to the needs of people 🗸🗸
In a market economy prices are determined by supply and demand 🗸🗸
The objectives of firms are to maximise their profits and they usually set prices to achieve this objective 🗸🗸
Government does not pursue the profit maximisation objective 🗸🗸
Government takes into account certain social, economic, political and environmental conditions as well as public opinion 🗸🗸
Free-of-charge services- this is met from taxes 🗸🗸 and applies to most community goods and collective goods 🗸🗸 (e.g.) defence, police whereby charges and toll fees are levied 🗸
User-charges 🗸 option to charge depends on technical reasons 🗸🗸 (e.g.) cost of providing a double lane road could be recovered by toll charges 🗸 Economic reasons 🗸 such as services like water and electricity 🗸 that have a zero price 🗸 political reasons 🗸 where income distribution is significantly unequal, administrative rationing according to need takes place 🗸🗸 (e.g.) public health and education 🗸
Direct and indirect subsidies direct subsidies are used to cover part of the costs 🗸🗸 (e.g.) urban bus service 🗸 and an indirect subsidy is used to write off accumulated losses or deficits 🗸🗸
Standing charges -called availability charges 🗸🗸 (e.g.) water and electricity 🗸 standing charges goes to meet fixed costs and the price per unit consumed covers variable costs 🗸🗸
Price discrimination - different users have different elastic ties of demand for a good 🗸🗸 (e.g.) commercial and manufacturing businesses pay higher rates than households and they pay on a sliding scale🗸🗸
State-owned enterprises that either render a service or when an existing enterprise is nationalised 🗸🗸
They focus on making a profit and maximizing cost at the expense of the needs of some groups 🗸🗸 (e.g.) Iscor 🗸 SABC, 🗸SAA, Spoornet 🗸
refers to the process whereby state-owned enterprises and state-owned assets are handed over or sold to private individuals 🗸🗸
cost of maintaining and managing state-owned enterprises are high which can lead to higher taxes and larger public debt 🗸🗸
State-owned enterprises are not run as efficiently as private enterprises 🗸🗸
Nationalisation is the process whereby the state takes control and ownership of privately owned assets and private enterprises 🗸🗸
It includes contracting of services, public-private partnerships, increasing competitiveness🗸🗸 [Max 26]

ADDITIONAL PART Possible problems in your community or elsewhere

Lack of drinking water due to burst pipes 🗸🗸
Lack of electricity due to lack of infrastructure (load shedding) 🗸🗸
Lack of schooling – no buildings available – lack of maintenance 🗸🗸
Lack of health services due to lack of staff, infrastructure, strikes 🗸🗸
Lack of adequate housing (RDP) 🗸🗸 [Max 10 marks - List of examples max 5 marks] [Accept any other relevant answer]

CONCLUSION If the above problems are not dealt with timeously by government, government will continue to fail its people in terms of service delivery, seeing many protests occurring regularly 🗸🗸 [Any other relevant higher order conclusion] [Max 2]

INTRODUCTION International trade can be defined as the exchange of goods and services between countries globally. 🗸🗸 These trade agreements are negotiated by protocols and agreement due to the uneven distribution of natural resources globally. 🗸🗸

BODY-MAIN PART The main reasons for international trade.

Demand reasons The size of the population impacts demand.

If there is an increase in population growth, it causes an increase in demand, as more people’s needs must be satisfied. 🗸🗸
Local suppliers may not be able to satisfy this demand. 🗸🗸

The population’s income levels effect demand.

Changes in income cause a change in the demand for goods and services. 🗸🗸 • An increase in the per capita income of people in more disposable income that can be spent on local goods and services, some of which may then have to be imported. 🗸🗸

An increase in the wealth of the population leads to greater demand for goods.

People have access to loans and can spend more on luxury goods, many of which are produced in other countries. 🗸🗸

Preferences and tastes can play a part in the determining of prices,

E.g. customers in Australia have a preference for a specific product which they do not produce and need to import and it will have a higher value than in other countries. 🗸🗸

The difference in consumption patterns is determined

By the level of economic development in the country, e.g. a poorly developed country will have a high demand for basic goods and services but a lower demand for luxury goods. 🗸🗸

Supply reasons Natural resources are not evenly distributed

Across all countries of the world. 🗸🗸
They vary from country to country and can only be exploited in places where these resources exist. 🗸🗸

Climatic conditions

Make it possible for some countries to produce certain goods at a lower price than other countries, e.g. Brazil is the biggest producer of coffee. 🗸🗸

Labour resources

Differ in quantity, quality and cost between countries. 🗸🗸
Some countries have highly skilled, well-paid workers with high productivity levels, e.g. Switzerland. 🗸🗸

Technological resources

Are available in some countries that enable them to produce certain goods and services at a low unit cost, e.g. Japan. 🗸🗸

Specialisation in the production

Certain goods and services allows some countries to produce them at a lower cost than others, e.g. Japan produces electronic goods and sells these at a lower price. 🗸🗸

Capital allows developed countries

Enjoy an advantage over underdeveloped countries. 🗸🗸
Due to a lack of capital, some countries cannot produce all the goods they require themselves. 🗸🗸

ADDITIONAL PART

Buying and selling goods and services from other countries: 🗸🗸
The purchase of goods and services from abroad that leads to an outflow of currency from SA- Imports (M). 🗸🗸
The of goods and services to buyers from other countries leading to an inflow of currency to SA – Exports (X) 🗸🗸
Different factor endowments mean some countries can produce goods and services more efficiently than others- specialisation is therefore possible: 🗸🗸

Absolute Advantage:

Where one country can produce goods with fewer resources than other. 🗸🗸

Comparative Advantage:

Where one country can produce goods at a lower opportunity cost it sacrifices less resources in production. 🗸🗸

CONCLUSION International trade is important of countries to survive economically, as barriers to trade would disadvantage all countries, due to their interdependency globally. 🗸🗸 [Any other relevant higher order conclusion] [Max 2]

ECONOMIC PURSUITS-PAPER 1

Discuss in detail export promotion (Protectionism and Free Trade)

INTRODUCTION Export promotion refers to measures taken by governments increase production of goods and services that can be exported. The government provides incentives to encourage production 🗸🗸 [Max 2]

BODY: MAIN PART REASONS:

Export promotion measures lower cost of production which makes it easier to compete on the international market 🗸🗸
Achieve significant export-led economic growth🗸🗸
Export enlarges production capacity of country because more and larger manufacturing industries are established. 🗸🗸
The first step to export-led economic growth is to implement policies that encourage the establishment of industries to produce goods and services for export markets🗸🗸

METHODS: Exports are promoted through: Incentives🗸

Export incentives include information on export markets, research with regard to new markets, concessions on transport charges, export credit and export credit guarantees and publicity commending successful exporters🗸🗸
This will encourage manufacturers to export an increased volume of their production🗸🗸
Trade missions help to market SA products abroad🗸🗸and supply SA companies with information about potential markets 🗸🗸

Direct Subsidies🗸

Described as direct because it involves government expenditure. 🗸🗸
Include cash payments to exporters, refunds on import tariffs and employment subsidies.
The aim is to increase the competitiveness of exporting company🗸🗸 reduce cost of production🗸🗸and explore and establish overseas markets🗸🗸

Indirect subsidies

Regarded as indirect because it results in the government receiving less revenue🗸🗸 e.g. general tax rebates,
Tax concessions on profits earned from exports or on capital invested to produce export goods, refunding
Of certain taxes e.g. custom duties on imported goods used in the manufacturing process🗸🗸
Allows companies to lower their prices and enables them to compete in international markets🗸🗸
Challenge for governments to design incentives and subsidies in such a way that prices of export goods can't be viewed as dumping prices🗸🗸

Trade neutrality 🗸

Can be achieved if incentives in favour of export production are introduced
Up to point that neutralises the impact of protectionist measures in place🗸🗸
E.g. subsidies equal to magnitude of import duties can be paid🗸

Export processing zones (EPZs) 🗸

Is free-trade enclave within a protected area –
Is fenced and controlled industrial park that falls outside
Domestic customs area, and usually located near harbour or airport 🗸🗸 NOTE : For the response with regard to the effectiveness of export promotion methods, a maximum of 5 marks can be allocated.
No limitations on size and scale since world market is very large🗸🗸
Cost and efficiency of production based on this and organised along lines of comparative advantage🗸🗸
Increased domestic production will expand exports to permit more imports and may result in backward linkage effects that stimulate domestic production in related industries🗸🗸
Exchange rates are realistic and there is no need for exchange control and quantitative restrictions🗸🗸
Value can be added to natural resources of the country 🗸🗸
Creates employment opportunities 🗸🗸
Increase in exports has positive effect on balance of payments 🗸🗸
Increase in production leads to lower domestic prices, which benefit local consumers🗸🗸

DISADVANTAGES

Real cost of production 🗸 subsidies and incentives reduce total cost of production which must be met from sales🗸🗸 real cost is thus concealed by subsidies🗸🗸products cannot compete in open market 🗸🗸
Lack of competition 🗸 businesses charge prices that are so low that they force competitors out of the market 🗸🗸
Increased tariffs and quotas 🗸can be against spirit of provisions of WTO🗸🗸overseas competitors retaliate with tariffs and quotas🗸🗸 goods are sold domestically below their real cost of production (export subsidies and dumping) 🗸🗸
Protection of labour-intensive industries 🗸 developed countries maintain high levels of effective protection for their industries that produce labour-intensive goods in which developing countries already have or can achieve comparative advantage 🗸🗸
Withdrawal of incentives often leads to closure of effected companies. 🗸🗸
Incentives often lead to inefficiencies in the production process, since companies don't have to do their best to compete🗸🗸
Can be seen as dumping 🗸🗸 [Max 26]

BODY: ADDITIONAL PART How successful is South Africa in protecting the local textile industry against foreign competition?

Not successful: 🗸 Many domestic textile manufacturers closed down due to unfair international competition 🗸🗸 Many wholesalers make use of suppliers from abroad 🗸🗸 e.g. Woolworths/Walmart🗸
Dumping still occurs – European manufacturers still dump clothing in Africa out of season at prices below cost 🗸🗸 Job losses due to a lack of protection in this industry 🗸🗸 [Accept any motivation relating to success indicators] [Max 10]

CONCLUSION South Africa's international trade policy facilitates globalisation thereby impacting positively on the balance of payment. 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant conclusion] [Max 2]

INTRODUCTION Protectionism refers to a deliberate policy on the part of the government to erect trade barriers, such as tariffs and quotas, in order to protect domestic industries against international competition. 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant definition] [Max 2]

BODY-MAIN PART Raising revenue for the government

Import tariffs raise revenue for the government. 🗸🗸
In smaller countries the tax base is often small due to low incomes of individuals and businesses. 🗸🗸
Low incomes do not provide much in the form of income taxes and therefore custom duties on imports is a significant source of income or revenue. 🗸🗸

Protecting the whole industrial base

Maintaining domestic employment. 🗸🗸
Countries with high unemployment are continuously pressured to stimulate employment creation and therefore resort to protectionism in order to stimulate industrialisation. 🗸🗸
It is thought that using protectionism the country’s citizens would purchase more domestic products and raise domestic employment. 🗸🗸
These measures on domestic employment creation at the expense of other countries, led to such measures as “beggar-my-neighbour” policies. 🗸🗸
Applying import policies is likely to reduce other countries ability to buy country’s exports and may provoke retaliation. 🗸🗸

Protecting workers

It is argued that imports from other countries with relatively low wages represent unfair competition and threaten the standard of living of the more highly paid workers of the local industries. 🗸🗸
Local industries would therefore be unable to compete because of higher wages pushing up the price levels of goods. 🗸🗸
Protection is thus necessary to prevent local wage levels from falling or even to prevent local businesses from closing down due to becoming unprofitable. 🗸🗸
Competition from low-wage countries may also reflect the fact that those countries have a comparative advantage in low-skilled labour-intensive industries. 🗸🗸

Diversifying the industrial base

Overtime countries need to develop diversified industries to prevent overspecialisation. 🗸🗸
A country relying too heavily on the export of one or a few products is very vulnerable. 🗸🗸
If a developing country’s employment and income is dependent on only one or two industries, there is the risk that world fluctuations in prices and demand and supply-side problems could results in significant fluctuations in domestic economic activity. 🗸🗸
Import restrictions may be imposed on a range of products in order to ensure that a number of domestic industries develop. 🗸🗸

Develop strategic industries

Some industries such as the iron-ore and steel, agriculture, (basic foodstuffs, such as maize), energy (fuels) and electronics (communication) among others, are regarded as strategic industries. 🗸🗸
Developing countries may feel that they need to develop these industries in order to become self-sufficient . 🗸🗸

Protecting specific industries Dumping

Foreign industries may engage in dumping because government subsidies permit them to sell at very low prices or because they are seeking to raise profits through price discrimination. 🗸🗸
The reason for selling products at lower prices may be to dispose of accumulate stocks Of the goods and as a result consumers in the importing country stand to benefit however,
Their long term objective may be to drive out domestic producers and gain control of the market and consumers
Are likely to lose out in the reduction in choice and higher prices that the exporters will be able to charge. 🗸🗸

Infant industries

Usually newly established and find it difficult to survive due to their average costs being higher than that of their well-established foreign competitors. 🗸🗸
However, if they are given protection in their early years they may be able to grow and Thereby take advantage lower their average costs and become competitive and at this point protection can be removed. 🗸🗸

Declining industries/sunset industries

Structural changes in the demand and supply of a good may severely hit an industry such industries should be permitted to go out of business gradually declining industries
Are likely to be industries that no longer have a comparative advantage and however, if they go out of business quickly there may be a sudden and large increase in unemployment. 🗸🗸
Protection may enable an industry to decline gradually thereby allowing time for resources including labour to move to other industries. 🗸🗸
Protecting domestic standards domestic regulations of food safety human rights and environmental standards have been increasingly acting as trade restrictions. 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant fact] [Max 26]

ADDITIONAL PART South Africa promotes exports through subsidies

Direct Subsidies

Strict screening measures should be put in place when companies apply for financial assistance. Government expenditure can provide direct financial support to domestic producers for their exports e.g. 🗸🗸
Cash grants offered to South African exhibitors to exhibit their products at exhibitions overseas. To explore new markets. 🗸🗸
Foreign trade missions to explore new markets imposition of tariffs on imports. 🗸🗸
Funds for the formation of formal export councils. 🗸🗸
Subsidies for training or employing personnel. 🗸🗸
Funds for the export market research. 🗸🗸
Product registration and foreign patent registrations. 🗸🗸
Government can refund companies certain taxes to promote exports.
These types of indirect subsidies are:
General tax rebates (Part of the cost of production can be subtracted from the tax that has been paid) 🗸🗸
Tax concessions on profits earned from exports or on capital invested to produce export goods. 🗸🗸
Refunds on import tariffs in the manufacturing process of exported goods companies often use custom duties are paid on these goods and the government refunds them. 🗸🗸 [Max 10]

CONCLUSION Most countries agree that protectionism is harmful to the economy if not well managed. Protectionism is needed especially where industries are young and need expansion or development. 🗸🗸 [Any other relevant higher order conclusion] [Max 2]

INTRODUCTION Economic growth is responsible for the overall growth of the economy, in order to enhance the well being of the economy as a whole. Whereas economic development would focus on the individual well being of the citizens of a country. [Any other relevant higher order conclusion] [Max 2]

BODY-MAIN PART Growth and Development A demand-side approach includes discretionary changes in monetary and fiscal policies with the aim of changing the level of aggregate demand. 🗸🗸

Monetary policy

Is driven by the South African Reserve Bank (SARB). 🗸🗸
It aims to stabilise prices by managing inflation. 🗸🗸

Fiscal policy

Is driven by the Department of Finance. 🗸🗸
It aims to facilitate government, political and economic objectives. 🗸🗸
A demand-side approach to economic growth and development does not only depend on fiscal and monetary policy. 🗸🗸
It is dependent on all components of aggregate demand, that is, C, I, X and G. 🗸🗸

South African approach

The South African approach uses both monetary and fiscal measures to influence aggregate demand in the economy. 🗸🗸
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) as the central bank in South Africa formulates the monetary policy. 🗸🗸
They use the following instruments:

Interest rate changes

It is used to influence credit creation by making credit more expensive or cheaper. 🗸🗸
The exchange rate is stabilised by encouraging inflow or outflows. 🗸🗸

Open market transactions

To restrict credit the SARB sells securities. When banks buy these securities money flows from banks to the SARB. 🗸🗸
The banks have less money to lend and cannot extend as much credit as before. 🗸🗸
To encourage credit creation the SARB buys securities. Money flows into the banking system.🗸🗸

Moral suasion

The SARB consults with banks to act in a responsible manner based on the prevailing economic conditions. 🗸🗸

Cash Reserve Requirements

Banks are required to hold a certain minimum cash reserve in the central bank. 🗸🗸
Banks have a limited amount to give out as credit. 🗸🗸
South Africa’s fiscal policy is put into practice through the budgetary process. 🗸🗸
The main purpose of fiscal policy is to stimulate macroeconomic growth and employment, and ensure redistribution of wealth. 🗸🗸
The following instruments are used:

Progressive personal income tax

Higher income earners are taxed at higher tax rates. 🗸🗸
These taxes are used to finance social development. 🗸🗸
The poor benefit more than those with higher incomes. 🗸🗸

Wealth taxes

Properties are levied (taxed) according to their market values. 🗸🗸
Transfer duties are paid when properties are bought. 🗸🗸
Securities (shares and bonds) are taxed when traded. 🗸🗸
Capital gains tax is levied on gains on the sale of capital goods (e.g. properties, shares). 🗸🗸
Estate duties are paid on the estates of the deceased. 🗸🗸
These taxes are used to finance development expenditures which benefit the poor more often. 🗸🗸

Cash benefits

Old age pensions, disability grants, child support and unemployment insurance are cash grants. These are also known as social security payments. 🗸🗸
Benefits in kind (natura benefits) 🗸🗸
These include the provision of healthcare, education, school meals, protection etc. 🗸🗸
When user fees are charged, poor or low income earners pay less or nothing. 🗸🗸
Limited quantities of free electricity and water are provided. 🗸🗸

Other redistribution

Public works programmes, e.g. the Strategic Integrated Projects (SIP) provides employment subsidies and other cash and financial benefits such as training, financing and export incentives.🗸🗸

Land restitution and land redistribution

Land restitution is the return of land to those that have lost it due to discriminatory laws in the past. 🗸🗸
Land redistribution focuses on land for residential (town) and production (farm) for previously disadvantaged groups. 🗸🗸
The money for these programmes is provided in the main budget. 🗸🗸

Subsidies on properties

It helps people to acquire ownership of fixed residential properties. 🗸🗸
E.g. government’s housing subsidy scheme provides funding to all people earning less than R3 500 per month🗸🗸

CONCLUSION The demand-side approach focuses on the expansion of the demand for goods and services produced in the economy. 🗸🗸 OR To ensure economic growth, there should be an adequate and growing demand for goods and services produced in the economy. 🗸🗸

[Any other relevant higher order conclusion] [Max 2]

INTRODUCTION Different growth and development strategies have been implemented in South Africa since 1994, each aimed at addressing particular needs at the time of introduction. 🗸🗸 [Any other relevant introduction] [Max 2]

BODY-MAIN PART The Reconstruction and Development Programme (RDP)

The RDP was an integrated, coherent socio-economic policy framework that was implemented directly after our first democratic elections in 1994. 🗸🗸
It seeked to mobilise all our people and our country’s resources toward the final eradication of apartheid and the building of a democratic, non-racial and non-sexist future. 🗸🗸

The RDP was based on six principles.

an integrated and sustainable programme. 🗸🗸
a people-driven process focusing on the needs of the population. 🗸🗸
peace and security for all, aimed at a non-violent society that respects all human rights. 🗸🗸
nation-building, focusing on the needs of all members of society. 🗸🗸
linking reconstruction and development. 🗸🗸
The RDP consisted of many proposals, strategies and policy programmes.
All of these could, however be grouped into five major policy programmes that were linked to each other.

The five key programmes were:

meeting basic needs. 🗸🗸
developing our human resources. 🗸🗸
building the economy. 🗸🗸
democratising the state and society. 🗸🗸
implementing the RDP. 🗸🗸

The Growth, Employment and Redistribution Programme (GEAR)

The GEAR built upon the strategic vision set out in the RDP, i.e. 🗸🗸
The importance of all the objectives of the RDP was reaffirmed but it recognized the implementation and macroeconomic problems that the government had been experiencing in implementing the RDP. 🗸🗸
The RDP placed much more emphasis on disciplined economic policy. 🗸🗸
While still recognizing that there were very serious needs that had to be addressed. 🗸🗸

The Accelerated and Shared Growth Initiative for South Africa Programme (AsgiSA).

AsgiSA resulted from government’s commitment to halve unemployment and poverty by 2014. 🗸🗸
The Joint Initiative on Priority Skills Acquisition (Jipsa) was established to address the scarce and critical skills needed to meet AsgiSA’s objectives. 🗸🗸

AsgiSA identified six important factors that prevented growth:

the relative volatility of the currency. 🗸🗸
the cost, efficiency and capacity of the national logistics system. 🗸🗸
shortages of suitably skilled labour, and the spatial distortions of apartheid affecting low-skilled labour costs. 🗸🗸
barriers to entry, limits to competition and limited new investment opportunities. 🗸🗸
the regulatory environment and the burden on small and medium enterprises (SME’s). 🗸🗸
AsgiSA was not intended to be a government programme. 🗸🗸
But rather a national initiative supported by all the key groups in the economy. 🗸🗸
Namely business, labour, entrepreneurs and government and semi-government departments and institutions. 🗸🗸

Joint Initiative on Priority Skills Acquisitions (JIPSA)

It is the skills development arm of ASGISA. Focus is on skills development, especially through the SETAS. 🗸🗸

Expanded Public Works Programme (EPWP)

It is a nationwide government intervention to create employment using labour-intensive methods, and to give people skills they can use to find jobs when their work in the EPWP is done. 🗸🗸

The New Growth Path (NGP)

The New Growth Path (NGP) was released in November 2011. 🗸🗸
This plan is designed to serve as a framework for economic policy, and to be the driver of the country’s job strategy. 🗸🗸

The New Growth Path therefore proposes certain strategies to ensure adequate demand:

Deepening the domestic and regional market by growing employment. 🗸🗸
Increasing incomes and undertaking other measures to equity and income distribution. 🗸🗸
Widening the market for South African goods and services through a stronger focus on exports to the region and other rapidly growing economies. 🗸🗸
On a macroeconomic level the NGP entails accommodating or looser monetary policy combined with stricter fiscal policy to limit inflationary pressures and enhance competitiveness. 🗸🗸
Government spending will be prioritised with the objective of long-term sustainable employment opportunities. 🗸🗸

The microeconomic measures to control inflationary pressures include the following:

A competition policy to supervise monopoly pricing on products and services. 🗸🗸
A review of administered prices to ensure that they do not increase above inflation without compelling reasons. 🗸🗸
Interventions in the case of rapidly rising prices of essential products and services such as private🗸🗸
Healthcare and basic food items. 🗸🗸
Active industrial policy. 🗸🗸
Rural development policy. 🗸🗸
Competition policy. 🗸🗸
Stepping up education and skills development. 🗸🗸
Enterprise development: promoting small business and entrepreneurship; eliminating unnecessary red tape. 🗸🗸
Broad-based Black Economic Empowerment (BBBEE). 🗸🗸
Labour practices. 🗸🗸
Technology policy. 🗸🗸
Developmental trade policies. 🗸🗸
Policies for African development. 🗸🗸
The different growth and development strategies that have been implemented in South Africa since 1994. 🗸🗸
Have all contributed to making our country more prosperous and to address problems created by inequalities of the past. 🗸🗸
However, problems such as a low level of education, unemployment and unequal distribution of income persist. 🗸🗸
The current NGP is a comprehensive policy that is focused on addressing all of these problems. [Any other relevant higher order conclusion] [Max 2]

INTRODUCTION South Africa’s overall objective of Industrial Development Policy is to ensure international competitiveness in its nine provinces. OR Regional development is aimed at increasing the economic livelihood of specific areas or regions. OR Regional development attempts to limit the negative effects of economic activities in only a few areas. OR It attempts to promote the advantages of a more even regional development by using labour and other natural resources and infrastructure in neglected areas. [Accept any relevant introduction] [Max 2]

BODY-MAIN PART SPATIAL DEVELOPMENT INITIATIVES

SDI Programme attracts infrastructure and business investments to underdeveloped areas to create employment. 🗸🗸
Department of Trade and Industry is driving force behind industrial and spatial development. 🗸🗸
DTI plans together with central, provincial and local government, IDC, parastatals and research institutions. 🗸🗸
Industrial Development Policy Programme (Spatial Development) has 2 focus points spatial development initiative (SDI) and financial incentives. 🗸🗸
SDI refers to government’s initiative and economic development potential of certain specific spatial locations in SA. 🗸🗸

Key Objectives:

Stimulate economic activity in selected strategic locations. 🗸🗸
Generate economic growth and foster sustainable industrial development. 🗸🗸
Develop projects of infrastructure in certain areas and finance them through lending and private sector investment. 🗸🗸
Establish private-public partnerships (PPP’s). 🗸🗸

In areas with high poverty and unemployment, SDI focuses on:

High level support in areas where socio-economic conditions require concentrated government assistance. 🗸🗸
Where inherent economic potential exists. 🗸🗸
The approach is towards international competitiveness, regional cooperation and a more diversified ownership base. 🗸🗸

Some of the main focus points of the SDI Programme are:

Lubombo Corridor (agro-tourism, education, craft, commercial and agricultural sectors); 🗸🗸
KwaZulu-Natal (Ports of Durban and Richards Bay); 🗸🗸
West Coast SDI (fishing and industrial ports); 🗸🗸
Coast-2-Coast Corridor with agro-tourism. 🗸🗸
It also makes it possible for private sector businesses to take advantage of the economic potential of underdeveloped areas in private-public partnerships (PPP’s) 🗸🗸
In PPP a private business may provide the capital to build the factory and to buy raw materials and employ labour, while the government provides the capital for the infrastructure such as roads and water and electricity. 🗸🗸
The business benefits from profits and the government benefits from taxes, levies and employment opportunities. 🗸🗸

There are TWO types of PPP’s which are compensated differently: Unitary payments:

Private sector builds and runs a project (it performs the function on behalf of the public sector); the payment provides an acceptable return on the total investment (building cost, maintenance, operational expenses). 🗸🗸
Private sector constructs the project and then is given the right to change a toll fee (e.g. public road); 🗸🗸
The toll covers costs of construction, maintenance, operation. 🗸🗸
The above options can be combined: E.g. hospital (cost of building is an annual payment and a user fee is also charged). 🗸🗸
A track of land that forms a passageway allowing access from one area to another and particular advantages to mining, manufacturing and other businesses. 🗸🗸
Domestic Corridor: e.g. Lubombo, West Coast, Fish River. 🗸🗸
Corridors beyond the South African Borders (SADC) e.g. Maputo Development Corridor Mozambique. 🗸🗸
Reasons in support of South Africa’s regional integration in Southern Africa: have political and stable neighbours have important export markets and a future source of water and energy supplies integration may be a precondition for support from foreign investors, donors and multilateral institutions. 🗸🗸
A robust regional transport system and a solid infrastructure base hold the key to attracting investment into the SADC region – improving competitiveness and promoting trade. 🗸🗸

Advantages from Corridor development:

Greater levels of economic efficiency and productivity compact urban form corridor urban form. 🗸🗸
Corridor developments will often occur due to private investment. 🗸🗸
Intergration of land use and transport planning will lead to generally efficient integration. 🗸🗸
Efficient urbanisation leads to efficient use of land and promotion of an efficient transport system. 🗸🗸

INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT ZONES (IDZ’s)

Geographically designed, purpose-built industrial sites providing services tailored for export- orientated industries. 🗸🗸
Physically enclosed and linked to an international port or airport. 🗸🗸
Specifically designed to attract new investment in export-driven industries. 🗸🗸
Falls outside domestic customs zones and able to import items free of customs and trade restrictions, add value and then export their goods. 🗸🗸
Development and management done by private sector. 🗸🗸
Government IDZ policy designed to boost exports and jobs. 🗸🗸
IDZ’s aim to encourage economic growth –attract foreign investment in industrial development – facilitate international competitiveness regarding manufacturing. 🗸🗸 [Max 26]

ADDITIONAL PART FINANCIAL INCENTIVES Small and Medium Enterprise Development Programme (SMEDP) • This incentive has provided a tax-free cash grant for investment in industries in

South Africa. 🗸🗸
E.g. manufacturing, agricultural, processing, aquaculture and tourism. 🗸🗸

Critical Infrastructure Fund Programme (CIF)

A tax-free cash grant incentive for projects has improved critical infrastructure in South Africa. 🗸🗸
E.g. for installation, construction of infrastructure, payment of employees, materials directly consumed during installation. 🗸🗸

Duty Free Incentives (for businesses operating in the IDZ’s)

This has encouraged export-orientated manufacturing to increase their competitiveness 🗸🗸
And helped to promote foreign and local direct investment. 🗸🗸

Foreign Investment Grant (FIG)

This has assisted foreign investors to invest in new manufacturing businesses in SA. 🗸🗸
Benefited in terms of the cost of relocating new machinery and equipment from abroad. 🗸🗸

Strategic Investment Projects (SIP)

This has attracted investment from local and foreign entrepreneurs in manufacturing, computer, research and engineering sectors. 🗸🗸

Skills Support Programme (SIP)

This cash grant for skills development has encouraged greater investment 🗸🗸
In training in general and stimulated the development of new advanced skills. 🗸🗸

Black Businesses Supplier Development Programme (BBSDP)

This 80 % cash grant has provided black-owned enterprises with access to 🗸🗸
Training which has improved management of their enterprises. 🗸🗸

Special Economic Zones (SEZ)

It is an extention to the current financial incetives to further promoted regional development. 🗸🗸
The major incentive is a tax reduction of 15 % for businesses settling in this area. 🗸🗸
This does not mean that existing businesses in the IDZ can relocate to take advantage of this incentive. 🗸🗸
If a current business in the IDZ wants to expand they are allowed. 🗸🗸 [Max 10]

CONCLUSION From the above discussion it is clear that different initiatives form part of South Africa’s Regional Industrial Development Programme. [Max 2]

INTRODUCTION Economic indicators are used to evaluate the economic performance of an economic unit. This unit can be a company, an industry, a country or a region. Macro-economic indicators, measures the economic performance of a country as a whole. 🗸🗸

BODY-MAIN PART Such indicators can provide an indication of:

Changes taking place in a country. 🗸🗸
How a country compares to other countries. 🗸🗸

Inflation Rate

This is the general increase in the price level of goods and services in the economy over a certain period in time. E.g. one year. 🗸🗸
This is therefore an indicator of the health of the economy and it is monitored in two ways that is at the production wholesale level producer price level (PPI) and at the retail or consumer level consumer price index (CPI) 🗸🗸

The Consumer Price Index (CPI)

Shows the price increases of a representative (weighted) basket of goods and services that consumers buy. 🗸🗸
It is abbreviated as CPI this cover all the urban areas. 🗸🗸
It is an overall index and weights are obtained from expenditures of different income categories of households. 🗸🗸
It is the most comprehensive indicator measuring consumer inflation in the country. 🗸🗸
It shows changes in the general purchasing power of the rand and it is used for inflation targeting 🗸🗸
Is compiled by Stats SA and measures the change in the price level of a basket of consumer goods and services. 🗸🗸
The goods and services included in the basket are chosen to represent the goods and services purchased by an average household. 🗸🗸
This basket is adjusted from time to time as consumption patterns change. 🗸🗸
The inflation rate is the percentage change in the CPI from the previous year and can be calculated as follows:
Change in CPI x 100 🗸🗸 CPI

The Production Price Index (PPI)

Used to measure the price of goods that are produced domestically when they leave the factory year. 🗸🗸
The goods that are imported when they enter the country (at a port) and both of these are before consumers become involved. 🗸🗸
PPI consists of three baskets that are domestically manufactured outputs, e.g. changes in the PPI can be made monthly or quarterly or yearly. 🗸🗸
While changes in the imported products and exported commodities are given separately in the same report. 🗸🗸
PPI includes capital and intermediate goods but not services. 🗸🗸
It is based on a completely different type of a basket of items in the CPI. 🗸🗸
It measures the cost of production rather than the cost of living. 🗸🗸
It is used to predict consumer goods inflation (CPI) 🗸🗸
Which is also estimated and published on a monthly basis by Stats SA, is similar to the CPI, 🗸🗸
Except that it also includes the prices of raw materials and intermediary goods 🗸🗸 (i.e. goods that will be finished in the production process), excludes VAT and excludes services. 🗸🗸
Manufactured goods included in the PPI are priced when they leave the factory, not when they are sold to consumers. 🗸🗸
Unlike the CPI, the PPI therefore cannot be related directly to consumers’ living standards. 🗸🗸
The PPI is nevertheless very useful in the analysis of inflation because it measures the cost of production. 🗸🗸
A significant change in the rate of increase in the PPI is usually an indication that the rate of increase in the CPI will also change a few months later. 🗸🗸

The GDP Deflator Is a ratio that indicates the relationship of the GDP at nominal prices to the GDP at real prices. GDP deflator = Normal GDP x 100 🗸🗸 Real GDP

Nominal GDP

Is the value of total gross domestic product measured at current prices. 🗸🗸
While the real GDP is the value of total gross domestic product measured at constant prices.🗸🗸
So, the GDP deflator includes changes in the prices of exports but not of imports. 🗸🗸
In a small open economy, like that of South Africa where both, imports and exports are significant in relation to the total size of the economy. 🗸🗸
The exclusion of import prices is an important shortcoming. 🗸🗸

Unemployment rate

In terms of economic development, employment is a very important indicator. 🗸🗸
Employment is, however, not very easy to measure as so many people are employed in the informal sector which is not recorded. 🗸🗸
The concept of underemployment is also important. 🗸🗸
This is when someone is employed in a position that requires less skill than their ability. 🗸🗸
For example when a qualified accountant works as a delivery person because he or she cannot find employment as an accountant. 🗸🗸
Someone may also be employed on a part-time basis but would prefer to work full time. 🗸🗸
A labour force survey is published quarterly by Stats SA. 🗸🗸
This publication contains information and statistics concerning a variety of issues related to the labour market, including the official unemployment rate. 🗸🗸
It is a comprehensive survey and provides information on changes in employment in different provinces and industries. 🗸🗸
Employment in the informal sector, and even reasons for changes in employment figures. 🗸🗸
The unemployment rate is a percentage of the total labour force. 🗸🗸
The total labour force includes all employed people and unemployed people who are looking for work. 🗸🗸
The unemployment rate is a lagging indicator, which means that it will only change a few periods after the trend in the economy has changed. 🗸🗸
For example if the economy starts growing at a faster pace. 🗸🗸
The unemployment rate will only react to the growth after two or three quarters. 🗸🗸

Interest rates

Interest rates are important indicators of future economic activity, as the interest rate level is usually an important determinant when economic decisions are being taken. 🗸🗸
Both the general interest rate level and the structure of interest rates are important indicators.🗸🗸
There are many interest rates in the economy. 🗸🗸
Some are short term rates, such as the repo rate, which is the interest rates at which South Africa banks borrow from the Reserve Bank to finance their liquidity deficit. 🗸🗸
The difference between the short term interest rates and long term interest rates: 🗸🗸
Is called the interest rate spread and the term structure of interest rates provides an indication of the interest rates levels on loans or investments of different maturities. 🗸🗸
Usually we can expect the interest rates level in a developing country to be higher than the interest rate in a developed economy. 🗸🗸
This is due to the higher risk attached to the developing economy. 🗸🗸
Factors such as political and economic uncertainty cause this higher risk. 🗸🗸
Developing economies also need to attract foreign investment to their country to finance growth. 🗸🗸
Investors’ funds will move towards the highest yield and thereof. 🗸🗸
Developing countries cannot allow interest rates in their countries to become too low. 🗸🗸

Money Supply

The increase in the M3 money supply is an important economic indicator. 🗸🗸
If M, the money supply increases, this means that either (P) prices or Y (output) has to respond to the increase in M. 🗸🗸
Therefore, an increase in the money supply is an important indicator showing that output will increase. 🗸🗸
Whether this will translate to an increase in real production or the price level will depend on factors like production within the economy. 🗸🗸
In addition to economic growth the employment of people of working age (15 -64 years) is a majot economic objective. 🗸🗸
We need to know more than this; we need to know who the people are that need to be employed. 🗸🗸
The numbers are determined, not only by age, but also by people’s willingness to work. 🗸🗸

The Economically Active Population (EAP)

The EAP is also known as the labour force. 🗸🗸
It consists of people between the age of 15 and 64 who are willing to work for income in cash or in kind and includes: 🗸🗸
Workers in the formal sector- workers in the informal sector. 🗸🗸
Employers any one 🗸🗸
Self employed persons. 🗸🗸

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Unemployed Persons

The 2021 estimate of the South African population was million people. 🗸🗸
The EAP numbered million ( % of the population). 🗸🗸

The Employment Rate

The number of employed persons expressed as a percentage of the EAP gives the employment rate. 🗸🗸
The employment rate can also be converted into an index. 🗸🗸
The SA employment rate was % in 2011. 🗸🗸
This is low, compared to rates in developed and even some developing countries such as Argentina and Pakistan. 🗸🗸
In SA the growth in the economy is not accompanied by the similar growth in employment numbers. 🗸🗸

Employment indicators are used for:

To calculate trends in employment in different sectors or industries. 🗸🗸
This indicates structural changes in the economy. 🗸🗸
To calculate productivity. 🗸🗸
To show the success of the economy in utilizing its full potential. 🗸🗸

Unemployment Rate

Statistics SA (SSA) obtains its labour data each year from Quarterly Labour Surveys (QLFS). 🗸🗸
It uses the standard definition of the International Labour Office (ILO) to calculate unemployment. 🗸🗸
The strict definition of unemployment is used to calculate the unemployment rate. 🗸🗸
Did not work during the seven days prior to the interview. 🗸🗸
Want to work and are available to start work within a week of the week of the interview. 🗸🗸
Have taken active steps to look for work or to start some form of self-employment in four week prior to the interview. 🗸🗸
In SA the official unemployment rate was % in 2021. 🗸🗸
In developed countries, change in the unemployment rate trigger responses. 🗸🗸
From governments to fine-tune the economy. 🗸🗸
Increases require more funds for unemployment insurance (UIF) drawings. 🗸🗸
In developing countries, unemployment is the most important cause of poverty. 🗸🗸 [Accept current statistical data] [Max 16]
To give a policy direction in the country. 🗸🗸
To develop mechanism to caution the most affected sectors of the economy promptly
e.g.during the 2019-2020 recession/pandemic some companies required a bail out from the government. 🗸🗸
Develop some economic stabilisers to defuse the huge impact that may result from the unexpected economic downturn. 🗸🗸
Open some other alternative markets for their goods and services. 🗸🗸
To do research and advice the business community before the actual moment hits. 🗸🗸
It can be used to stimulate thinking and growth in a number of sectors in the Economy. 🗸🗸 [Accept any relevant consideration] [Max 10]

CONCLUSION Countries cannot survive and grow their economies if they do not pay attention to economic indicators for their planning processes. [Accept any relevant consideration] [Max 2]

INTRODUCTION Social indicators also called human development indicators as they promote improvement in the standard of living. 🗸🗸 [Any other relevant definition] [Max 2]

BODY-MAIN PART Demographics

This is the description of the physical population and its composition.
To get this a census is done regularly to obtain this information. 🗸🗸

Human development Index (HDI)

This is a measure of people’s ability to live long and healthy lives, to communicate, 🗸🗸
To participate in the community and to have sufficient income to experience a decent lifestyle. 🗸🗸

Human poverty index (HPI)

It measures life expectancy is measured by the percentage of newborns not expected to survive to age 40. 🗸🗸
Lack of education is measured by the percentage of adults who are ill- educated. 🗸🗸

Health and nutrition

Life expectancy birth. 🗸🗸
Infant mortality rate. 🗸🗸

Nutrition indicators

Daily calorie intake per person. 🗸🗸
The number of children who go hungry. 🗸🗸
These measures are important to government as they are supplying healthcare and sometime have to include legislation such as adding vitamin A to basic foodstuffs such as bread. 🗸🗸
The standard of living of people is directly connected to their education. 🗸🗸
Educated people are employable and can earn an income and provide for their own wants and needs. 🗸🗸

Two important measures are:

Secondary enrolment percemtage-how many children that start Grade 1 get to Grade 8 and finish Grade 12. 🗸🗸
Adult literacy- People over the age of 15 that can read and write. 🗸🗸
A large percentage of the annual budget is allocated to education. 🗸🗸
Because of our constitution certain basic services must be supplied by the government. 🗸🗸
These services have a direct effect on people’s living standards. 🗸🗸
Electricity 🗸🗸
Refuse disposal🗸🗸
Water supply🗸🗸
Sanitation🗸🗸

Housing and urbanisation

Urbanisation the process by which an increasing proportion of a country’s population is concentrated in its urban areas as a result of natural increase and migration from rural areas. 🗸🗸
This measures is important as more people come to live in urban areas the greater the demand for housing, services, education, health care etc. 🗸🗸
Housing the percentage of the population living in a permanent dwelling or house. 🗸🗸
The government issue housing subsidies to help poor people to own a house South African citizens or permanent residents earning R3 500 or less a month could apply for this subsidy. 🗸🗸

International comparisons

Figures collected by the World Bank, International Monetary Fund (IMF) and United Nations provide the best data for comparison purpose. 🗸🗸

Other measures used:

Purchasing power parity (PPP) The number of units of one country’s currency that give the holder the same purchasing power as one unit of another country’s currency. 🗸🗸
The Big Mac Index, The index is based on the price of the Big Mac around the world as compared to its price in the United States. 🗸🗸 [Max 40]

CONCLUSION From the above discussion it is clear that social indicators play a significant role in South Africa. It is, therefore, of the utmost importance that we should study their uses in depth. [Max 2]

MICROECONOMICS-PAPER 2

INTRODUCTION A perfect market is a market structure which has a large number of buyers and sellers. OR The market price is determined by the industry (demand and supply curves). OR This means that individual businesses are price takers, i.e. they are not able to influence prices. OR Perfect competition is an imaginary situation, whereas monopolistic competition is a reality. 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant introduction] [Max 2]

BODY-MAIN PART

The indicating of the equilibrium positions on the perfect market structure is of utmost importance because from this point where MC = MR
The dotted lines will be drawn to show economic profit or economics loss.
Where the dotted lines intersect the AC and AR curves either normal profit or economic profit or economic loss will be indicated and shadowed.

Mark allocation for graph:

Position / shape of MC curve = 1 mark
MR curve = 1 mark
Position / shape of AC curve = 2 marks
Equilibrium point = 1 mark
Indication of price / quantity = 1 mark
Shading of economic loss = 2 marks MAX MARKS = (8)

Allocate marks on the graph according to the rubric provided and if facts are duplicated again in writing, do not allocate marks. Max of 8 marks.

Equilibrium is at E 1 i.e. where MC = MR
At this point Q 1 goods are produced at a price of P 1
The averages cost for Q 1 units is point R on the AC curve
Price / AR is greater than AC ( TR > TC)
Therefore economic profit is represented by the area P 1 SRE 1
Equilibrium is at E 1 i.e. where MC = MR
At equilibrium (point E 1 ) average cost is equal to price
The AC curve is tangent to the demand curve which means that P/AR = AC (TR = TC)
The business makes normal profit which is the minimum earnings required to prevent the entrepreneur from leaving the industry.
Equilibrium is at E1, i.e. where MC = MR
At this point Q1 goods are produced at a price of P1
At equilibrium (point E1) price/AR is less than average cost/the AC curve is lies above the demand curve which means that P/AR < AC (TR < TC)
The business makes an economic loss A maximum of 24 marks will be allocated for graph illustration and analysis: 8 marks max per graph illustration - (Max 26 marks)

ADDITIONAL PART CONDITIONS For a market to successfully operate under perfect competition, the following conditions should prevail at the same time:

No firm can influence the market price (price takers) due to a large number of buyers and sellers
Products are identical (homogeneous)
There are no barriers of entry, meaning that there is freedom of entry and exit
Buyers and sellers act independently - no collusion between sellers
No government interference to influence the market – the market is unregulated
Free movement between markets - all factors of production are completely mobile
Both buyers and sellers have full knowledge of all the prevailing market conditions (perfect information)
If any of the above conditions are not met, the market is regarded as an imperfect market Any 5 x 2 = [Max 10 marks]

CONCLUSION Freedom of entry and exit into the perfect market alter the supply of goods on the market. This will result in changes in price which influences the profit or loss of a business. If price falls to a level where it is equal to the AVC then the firm will shut-down. [Max 2] Discuss the monopoly in detail (with/without the aid of graphs) (Imperfect Market)

INTRODUCTION A firm is regarded as a monopolist when it owns or controls the total supply of a scarce factor of production. Monopoly is a market structure where only one seller operates. 🗸🗸

BODY: MAIN PART The characteristics of a monopoly

Number of firms

The monopoly consists out of one single firm. 🗸🗸
The monopoly is also the industry. 🗸🗸
Example: Eskom or De Beers – diamond-selling 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant example]

Nature of product

The product is unique with no close substitute. 🗸🗸
Example: Diamonds are unique. 🗸🗸

Market entry

Refers to how easy or difficult it is for businesses to enter or to leave the market 🗸🗸
Is entirely/completely blocked. 🗸🗸
Economies of scale 🗸🗸
Limited size of the market 🗸🗸
Exclusive ownership of raw materials 🗸🗸
Licensing 🗸🗸
Sole rights 🗸🗸
Import restrictions 🗸🗸

They decide on their production level

The monopolist cannot set the level of output and the price independently of each other. 🗸🗸
If a monopolist wants to charge a higher price, it has to sell fewer units of goods. 🗸🗸 Alternatively, a reduction in price will result in a higher output sold. 🗸🗸
A monopolist is confronted with a normal market demand curve 🗸🗸
The demand curve slopes downwards from left to right 🗸🗸
Any point on the monopolist’s demand curve (D) is an indication of the quantity of the product that can be sold and the price at which it will trade. 🗸🗸

They are exposed to market forces

Consumers have limited budgets and a monopoly can therefore not demand excessive prices for its product. 🗸🗸
The monopolist’s product has to compete for the consumer’s favour and money with all other products available in the economy. 🗸🗸

They face substitutes

There are few products that have no close substitutes. 🗸🗸
For example, cell phones can compete with telephone services. 🗸🗸

They may enjoy favourable circumstances

Sometimes an entrepreneur may enjoy favourable circumstances in a certain geographical area. 🗸🗸
For example, there may be only one supplier of milk in a particular town. 🗸🗸

They may exploit consumers

Because a monopolist is the only supplier of a product, there is always the possibility of consumer exploitation. 🗸🗸
However, most governments continually take steps to guard against such practices. 🗸🗸

Market Information

All information on market conditions is available to both buyers and sellers. 🗸🗸
This means that there are no uncertainties. 🗸🗸

Control over price

In the case of a monopoly there are considerable price control, but limited by market demand and the goal of profit maximisation. 🗸🗸

Long-run economic profit Can be positive

Because new entries are blocked and short-run economic profit therefore cannot be reduced by new competing firms entering the industry 🗸🗸
The monopoly can thus continue to earn economic profit as long as the demand for its product remains intact 🗸🗸

Heading = 1 mark AC = 1 mark DD/AR = 1 mark MC = 1 mark Profit maximisation point =1 mark Labelling of the axis = 1 mark Labelling on the axis = 1 mark

Long run equilibrium of a perfect competitor

CONCLUSION A monopoly does not always make economic profit in the short run; it can also make economic loss in the short run if the total cost exceeds total revenue. 🗸🗸

INTRODUCTION

The oligopoly is a type of imperfect market in which only a few large producers dominate the market. 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant and correct response]

MAIN PART Nature of product

The product may be homogeneous in a pure oligopoly. 🗸🗸
If the product is differentiated, it is known as a differentiated oligopoly. 🗸🗸

Market information

There is incomplete information on the product and the prices. 🗸🗸
Market entry is not easy, it is limited in the sense that huge capital outlay might be necessary. 🗸🗸
Oligopolists have considerable control over price, it can influence price, but not as much as the monopolist. 🗸🗸
Oligopolies can frequently change their prices in order to increase their market share and this result in price wars. 🗸🗸

Mutual dependence

The decision of one firm will influence and be influenced by the decisions of the other competitors. 🗸🗸
Mutual dependence (interdependence) exists amongst these businesses.
A change in the price or change in the market share by one firm is reflected in the sales of the others. 🗸🗸

Non-price competition

Non - price competition can be through advertising, packaging, after-sales services. 🗸🗸
Since price competition can result in destructive price wars, oligopolies prefer to compete on a different basis. 🗸🗸
Participants observe one another carefully- when one oligopolist launches an advertising campaign, its competitors soon follow suite. 🗸🗸
If oligopolies operate as a cartel, firms have an absolute cost advantage over the rest of the other competitors in the industry. 🗸🗸
Collusion is a strategy used by firms to eliminate competition amongst each other. 🗸🗸
It can be in a form of overt collusion where firms can work together to form a cartel and tacit collusion where a dominating business controls the price. 🗸🗸

Limited competition

There are only a few suppliers manufacturing the same product. 🗸🗸

Economic profit

Oligopolies can make an economic profit over the long term. 🗸🗸
Abnormal profits may result to joint decision-making in an oligopoly. 🗸🗸

Demand curve

Slope from left down to the right. 🗸🗸
It is known as the kinked demand since it contains the upper relatively elastic slope and the lower relatively inelastic slope. 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant and correct response] [Max. 26]

ADDITIONAL PART Oligopolist may increase their market share using non-price competition strategies by:

branding their product to create an impression that its product is for a particular age group or income group. 🗸🗸
aggressive advertising which inform customers about the business or product it provides.🗸🗸
Using appealing packaging to bring out important features of their product.
improving their customer service in order to ensure that they return to their businesses.🗸🗸
providing relevant and precise information, which is crucial to the customers, since there are competitors in the market, customers will patronize the businesses that provides relevant information. 🗸🗸
extending shopping hours to the convenience of customers.
Offering loyalty rewards to customers which will encourage their return to spend accumulated rewards. 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant response] [Max.10]
In South Africa, oligopolists have been found to be illegally manipulating prices to their benefit, yet to the detriment of consumers and have been penalized for such action. 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant response]

Compare and contrast any TWO types of market structures (perfect to imperfect/imperfect to imperfect) in detail in terms of the following. - Number of businesses - Nature of product - Entrance - Control over prices - Information - Examples - Demand curve - Economic profit/loss - Decision-making - Collusion - Productive/Technical efficiency - Allocative efficiency (Perfect Market and Imperfect Market)

‘’Market structures are classified under Perfect Competition, Monopolistic Competition, Oligopoly and Monopoly’’ Compare all FOUR market structures in a tabular form. NB: Learners should write in full sentences even if the comparison is done in a tabular format). (Marks depend on the combination of market structures to be examined)

PLEASE NOTE: THE ABOVE TABLE SHOULD BE VERBALLY WRITTEN AS PER ESSAY INSTRUCTION

INTRODUCTION Market failure is when the forces of supply and demand fail to allocate resources efficiently / when markets fail to allocate goods and services efficiently. 🗸🗸 [Accept any other correct introduction] [Max 2]

BODY: MAIN PART

1. Missing Markets

Markets are often incomplete in the sense that they cannot meet the demand for certain goods. 🗸🗸
Public goods:
They are not provided by the price mechanism because producers cannot withhold the goods from non-payment and there is often no way of measuring how much a person consumes. 🗸🗸

Public goods have the following features: Non-rivalry:

The consumption by one person does not reduce the consumption of another person e.g. a lighthouse. 🗸🗸

Non-excludability:

Consumption cannot be confined to those who have paid, so there are free riders e.g. radio and TV in South Africa. 🗸🗸

Merit goods

These are goods/services that are deemed necessary or beneficial to the society, e.g. education, health care etc. 🗸🗸
These goods are highly desirable for general welfare but not highly rated by the market, therefore provide inadequate output/supply. 🗸🗸
If people had to pay market prices for them relatively too little would be consumed – the market will fail. 🗸🗸
The reason for undersupply of merit goods is that the market only takes the private costs and benefits into account and not the social costs and benefits. 🗸🗸

Demerit goods

These are goods/services that are regarded as bad or harmful for consumption hence we should use less of these e.g. alcohol, cigarettes, etc. 🗸🗸
Demerit goods lead to a lot of social costs, therefore, the government charges sin tax / excise duties to discourage the consumption of such goods. 🗸🗸
While the market is willing to supply demerit goods, it tends to oversupply demerit goods. 🗸🗸
Some consumers may be unaware of the true cost of consuming them. 🗸🗸

2 Lack of information

Technical and allocative efficiency require that both producers and consumers have complete and accurate information about the costs and benefits of the goods and services produced and consumed in the market. Producers and consumers make production and consumption decisions based on the information they have. 🗸🗸
When information is incomplete or inaccurate, it leads to wrong decisions about what to produce, how to produce and for whom to produce, and a waste of resources occurs. 🗸🗸
Producers might not know all the different technologies and production techniques that are available and the different resources that can best be used to produce goods/services more efficiently. 🗸🗸
Consumers might not know that the price of a product is lower from some other suppliers or about the harmful effects of a product since they might just base their decisions to consume on the information from a misleading suppliers. 🗸🗸

3. Immobility of factors of production

Markets do not respond to changes in consumer demand if resources cannot be easily reallocated or due to a lack of information🗸🗸
Labour takes time to move to into new occupations and geographically to meet the changes in consumer demand. 🗸🗸
Physical capital e.g. equipment, buildings, land and raw materials can only move from one place to another at a high cost, but cannot be moved to fit a change in demand. 🗸🗸
Technological applications change production methods e.g. use of robots rather than physical labour. It takes time for most industries to adapt. 🗸🗸
With greater technological change there is an increasing need for workers to become flexible, to update skills, change employment, occupations and work patterns. 🗸🗸 [Max 26]
Motivate why government has implemented a national minimum wage in the labour market. 🗸🗸
Pressure was put on the South African government to introduce labour laws which require employers to pay minimum wages. 🗸🗸
The application of minimum wage laws is needed to improve a redistribution of income. 🗸🗸

The main objectives were:

To redress inequality (Gap between wealthy and poor) 🗸🗸
To improve the standard of living. 🗸🗸
Government tried to protect domestic workers and farm workers — thus preventing exploitation. 🗸🗸 [Max 10] [Accept any other correct relevant response]

CONCLUSION Governments intervene in the market when market forces cannot achieve the desired output. [Max 2] [Accept any other relevant conclusion]

INTRODUCTION The purpose of government intervention is to ensure that the right quantity of resources is allocated to the production of output so that society as a whole [Accept any other relevant introduction] [Max 2] maximizes its benefits. 🗸🗸

Sometimes government will set the price of a good or service at a maximum level that is below the market price 🗸🗸
The government intervene and passes a law that suppliers may not charge more than the maximum price 🗸🗸
The immediate effect is that quantity supply will drop 🗸🗸
The original market equilibrium price and quantity is P and Q respectively 🗸🗸
The price set by the government is P1, at this price the demand will increase to Q1 and the supply will decrease to Q2 🗸🗸
The difference between Q1 and Q2 is the shortfall that will be created on the market 🗸🗸
The shortage caused by the price ceiling creates a problem of how to allocate the good since the demand has increased 🗸🗸
Black markets start to develop [Mark allocation: Graph 6 and discussion max. 10 marks]
The appropriate way to intervene in the market by government is by levying taxes as a method to recover external cost 🗸🗸
The original market equilibrium at e, with P as the equilibrium price and Q as the equilibrium quantity 🗸🗸
The tax increase will shift the supply curve to the left 🗸🗸
New equilibrium at E1 🗸🗸
A tax would raise the price from P to P1 🗸🗸
The production will decrease from Q to Q1 🗸🗸 [Mark allocation: Graph total 6 marks and discussion max 10 marks]
Explain the supply of undesirable goods in South Africa and how the government can deal with it. 🗸🗸
Items such as cigarettes, alcohol and non-prescription drugs are examples of demerit or undesirable goods. 🗸🗸
These goods are often over supplied in the market, due to the fact that the external cost is not added to the market price. 🗸🗸
Some consumers may be unaware of the true cost of consuming them, their negative externalities. 🗸🗸
Government can ban their consumption or reduce it by means of taxation. 🗸🗸
Taxation on these products will increase the market price and hopefully the demand for these products will drop. 🗸🗸 [10 marks] [Accept any other correct relevant response]

CONCLUSION The intervention of government ensures that inefficiencies is eliminated and that the market is operating effectively 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant conclusion] [Max 2]

CONTEMPORARY ECONOMIC ISSUES-PAPER 2

This is a constant and significant increase in the general price level of goods and services in the country over a certain period of time, e.g. a year. 🗸🗸 [Max 2] [Accept any relevant introduction]

BODY-MAIN PART Creditors and Debtors

Whereas borrowers (debtors) benefit from price increases, lenders (creditors) suffer due to price increases. 🗸🗸
This is because borrowers receive money with a relatively high purchasing power and they repay their loans with money with low purchasing power, unless interest rates are sufficient to prevent this occurrence. 🗸🗸

Salary and Wage Earners

Price increases affect people whose incomes are relatively fixed (in other words, people whose incomes remains constant or do not increase at the same rate as prices do. 🗸🗸
This group includes retired people, pensioners and the poor. 🗸🗸
As prices increase, their almost fixed incomes purchase less and less. 🗸🗸
However there are individuals and entrepreneurs whose incomes often increase at a rate that is higher than the inflation rate and they do not suffer but gain from inflation. 🗸🗸
Globalization results in increased employment opportunities in the economy due to increased productivity, the need to produce more goods both for local and international markets rises in globalised economies. 🗸🗸
The demand for increased skilled labour becomes a need as a result, this demand for labour benefits the local labour market in increased employment opportunities and growth. 🗸🗸

Investors and Savers

Different types of investments are affected by inflation: Assets with fixed nominal values. 🗸🗸
These assets have a fixed nominal value and give a return if they are held until maturity. 🗸🗸
When they are paid, because their nominal values remain constant, the purchasing power of the nominal values decreases as prices increase (that is, their real value decreases). 🗸🗸

Assets with Flexible Market Values

The holders of shares and fixed property usually gain by price increases because the nominal values of these assets tend to increase at least proportionately to the rate of inflation (that is, their market values are flexible). 🗸🗸
Often the prices of these assets increase more rapidly than increases in the general price level.🗸🗸
In this case, inflation creates wealth to the advantage of those holding such assets. 🗸🗸
South Africa has a progressive personal income tax system. 🗸🗸
This means that marginal and average tax rates increase in harmony with the income level. 🗸🗸
The higher level an individual’s income, the greater the percentage of income he or she has to pay tax. 🗸🗸
With inflation, taxpayers’ nominal income (wages and salaries) rise even when their real income remain unchanged. 🗸🗸

Taxes are levied on nominal income and not on real income.

Therefore if the income tax schedule remains unchanged inflation increases the average rate of personal income tax. 🗸🗸
Individuals will have to pay higher taxes even if they are actually no better off than before. 🗸🗸
This phenomenon known as bracket creep, lads to a redistribution of income from taxpayers to the government. 🗸🗸
Bracket deep results from a combination of inflation and progressive income tax. 🗸🗸
It has the same effect as an increase in the tax rate. 🗸🗸

Industrial Peace

Wage bargaining is often accompanied by strikes and mass action. 🗸🗸
These actions can sometimes spill over into violence, which affects society at large. 🗸🗸
In extreme situations in the presence of exceptionally high inflation together with a government that is determined not to yield to wage increase demands (which can push inflation to even higher levels), widespread civil unrest follows. 🗸🗸

Inflation has a negative effect on economic growth

Inflation leads to increased uncertainty in the economy. 🗸🗸
This uncertainty discourages savings and investments especially in the long term. 🗸🗸
Which are necessary for economic growth –result reduced economic growth. 🗸🗸

Inflation affects the real money value and savings

Because inflation reduces the real value of money, it affects the real value of money saved in particular. 🗸🗸
This means that inflation, the rand buys fewer goods and services than before. 🗸🗸
It also means that the real money value saved is worth less at the end of the savings period than when the money was saved. 🗸🗸
e.g. if a consumer receives 5 % interest on his/her savings account while the inflation rate is 8%, then the real rate of interest on the consumer’s savings is -3%.🗸🗸

Inflation has an adverse effect on a country’s balance of payments (BOP).

If a country’s rate of inflation is higher than that of its trading partners the prices of exported goods increase while the prices of imported goods decrease. 🗸🗸
This leads to loss of competitiveness in the export market, which in turn leads to decreased exports. 🗸🗸

This has a negative effect on the country’s balance of payments (BOP).

The loss of export competiveness can also increase unemployment inflation affects the redistribution of income in a country. 🗸🗸

The effects of inflation are uneven.

While it does not clearly benefit anyone and certainly harms most, it also harms some less than others. 🗸🗸
Inflation also tends to redistribute income from low-income groups to higher income groups. 🗸🗸
This is because people in the low income groups do not have assets than can rise in value faster than the rate of inflation to help them overcome the effects of inflation. 🗸🗸
Powerful groups such as trade unions large companies and the wealthy people, are able to increase their share of national income at the expense of disadvantaged people such as pensioners the unemployed and the welfare recipients. 🗸🗸

Inflation has social and political costs

When inflation continually causes rising prices it makes people unhappy and can disturb relations between employers and the employees and between customers and traders or service providers. 🗸🗸
People in lower-income brackets feel severe effects of increases in the price of essential items such as bread, maize meal rental and transport costs. 🗸🗸
This can lead to social unrest and political unrest. 🗸🗸

Inflation feeds on itself and causes further inflation

This is called the inflation spiral. 🗸🗸 e.g. higher wage demands cause producers to increase their prices to maintain their profits.
This happens again and again pushing prices further every time. 🗸🗸
If the government does not keep this wage price spiral in check, inflation may get out of control and become hyperinflation. 🗸🗸 [Max 26]

ADDITIONAL PART Debate the merits (benefits) of administered prices by the government

These are prices regulated by the government e.g. home owner’s costs on water/household fuel (paraffin and electricity) medical care (public hospitals) communication (telephone calls, telephone rentals and installations/postage cell communications /transport (petrol). 🗸🗸
Most of the administered prices are adjusted once a year which brings price stability. 🗸🗸
Regulated prices are restricted as to the extent to which prices may vary, depending on the government’s objectives. 🗸🗸
Administered prices provide additional revenue to national treasury. 🗸🗸
It appears that some of these prices remain extremely robust over the short term. 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant response] [Max 10]
If inflation is not controlled by the proper and effective instruments, it can have challenging problems to the economy in general. 🗸🗸

INTRODUCTION COST PUSH Inflation is a sustained and significant increase in general price level over a period of time and a simultaneous decrease in the purchasing power of money. Accept any other relevant introduction. 🗸🗸 [Max 2]

BODY: MAIN PART Causes of cost-push inflation

Increase in Wages:

In South Africa, increase in wages constitute more than 50% of Gross Value Added at basic prices 🗸🗸
If the increase in wages is not accompanied by an increase in production, the cost of production will rise 🗸🗸
Producers will increase the prices of their products to offset the high cost of production strikes and stay-aways / labour union activities 🗸🗸

Key inputs/ increase in prices of imported capital goods

When the prices of key inputs that are imported increase, domestic cost of production 🗸🗸
increases especially in the manufacturing sector 🗸🗸
Supply shocks e.g. sudden increase of oil causes a knock-off effect 🗸🗸

Exchange rate depreciation

A decrease in the value of the rand will result in an increase in prices of imports 🗸🗸

Profit margins

When firms increase profit margins, the prices that consumers pay also increase 🗸🗸
Sometimes firms use their market power to push up prices 🗸🗸

Productivity

Less productive factors of production will lead to increased cost per unit 🗸🗸
Strikes and stay-aways often reduce production output and can result in price increases 🗸🗸

Natural disasters

Natural disasters such as drought, flood and global warming can impact on the cost of production 🗸🗸
This is often the case in relation to food prices 🗸🗸
An increase in interest rates results businesses paying more money for capital loaned firms recover these costs by increasing the prices of their products 🗸🗸

Increase in taxation

Increase in direct tax like company income tax may lead to businesses increasing their prices to offset the extra burden 🗸🗸
Increase in indirect tax such as custom duty will lead to increase in costs of supplying a particular product, therefore the price will increase 🗸🗸
Administered prices increase e.g. fuel prices
Shoplifting and losses caused by employees are added to the prices of products 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant fact. Maximum 8 marks for headings] [Max. 26]

DEMAND PULL INFLATION Total spending on domestic goods and services in the economy consists of the spending by households, firms, the government and the foreign sector.

Total spending = C + I + G + (X-M). 🗸🗸

Causes of demand inflation Increase in consumption [C] – consumers expenditure will increase mainly for three reasons:

a. If consumers save less & spend more🗸🗸
b. Decrease in personal income tax. 🗸🗸
c. A greater availability of consumer credit, because of decrease in interest rate. 🗸🗸

Investment [I] –When business invest this increase demand for labour, cement, sand and bricks. 🗸🗸

Supply cannot keep up with the increase in demand and this will increase prices. 🗸🗸
Lower interest rates may result in an improvement in the sentiment and profit expectations of businesses. 🗸🗸
Businesses invest more and this may lead to an increase in the demand of goods and services that are part of the investment (for example, a new building requires cement bricks and labour).🗸🗸
If aggregate demand increases at a faster rate than aggregate supply, price increases will follow.🗸🗸

Government Spending [G] – Three main reasons.

a. New capital projects🗸🗸
b. Consumption expenditure on education, health, and protection. 🗸🗸
c. Social expenditure on public work programme to create jobs and increase in social allowances. 🗸🗸

Export earnings [X]

a. When economy of trading country improve. 🗸🗸
b. When global economy expands. 🗸🗸

Access to credit

There is greater availability of consumer credit (by means of credit cards) of the availability of cheaper credit as a result of decreases in lending rates. As new credit is extended the credit multiplier kicks in and more credit is created. 🗸🗸

Consumption spending

Most governments will at times increase expenditures on education, health, protection and safety (for example, military equipment such as bomber jets and submarines). 🗸🗸

Social spending

Governments sometimes feel they have to do something substantive about unemployment and poverty. 🗸🗸
They borrow money and spend it on public works programmes or raise the level of social grants year after year at a higher rate than the inflation rate. 🗸🗸
Such expenditures invariably lead to inflation because they add to aggregate demand without adding anything to aggregate supply. 🗸🗸

Commodities demand

The world’s demand for commodities expands and contracts like business cycles do. During an expansionary period, foreign demand increases and this leads to greater volumes of exports. The income earned from these exports adds to aggregate demand and prices increase. 🗸🗸

BODY: ADDITIONAL PART YES / NO

Inflation targeting is when a particular percentage is set as an acceptable level for an increase in general price levels 🗸🗸
The SARB's inflation target is a range of 3% and 6% 🗸🗸
The aim of inflation targeting policy is to achieve and maintain price stability 🗸🗸
The implementation of the inflation target is easy to understand – expressed in numbers which makes it very clear and transparent 🗸🗸
It reduces uncertainty and promotes sound planning in the public and private sectors 🗸🗸
It provides an explicit yardstick that serves to discipline monetary policy and improves the accountability of the central banks 🗸🗸
The SARB make use of monetary policy, specifically the repo rate to keep the inflation within the target range 🗸🗸
The government make use of fiscal policy regarding public sector revenue and expenditure 🗸🗸

Positive effects

Where demand is higher than supply an increase in interest rates help to bring the demand down 🗸🗸
The policy can helps businesses to make economic plans without worrying about the effects of high inflation 🗸🗸
South Africa's price level has been fairly stable since the introduction of the inflation targeting policy in 2000 🗸🗸

Negative effects

Inflation targeting can cause a reduction in economic growth 🗸🗸
This is because the raising of interest rates, result in a decrease in total spending which is needed for production to increase 🗸🗸
Decreased economic growth can increase unemployment 🗸🗸
South Africa has been experiencing an increase in unemployment since the implementation of the policy in 2000 🗸🗸
Inflation targeting is difficult to implement when the cause of inflation is supply shocks 🗸🗸 [Max. 10]
A summary of what has been discussed without repeating facts already mentioned in the body. 🗸🗸
An opinion or valued judgement on the facts discussed. 🗸🗸
Additional support information to strengthen the discussion. 🗸🗸
A contradictory viewpoint with motivation. 🗸🗸
Recommendations. 🗸🗸
E.g. Inflation can be a threat to the normal functioning of the economy; therefore, measures like monetary and fiscal are vital to keep the phenomenon under control. 🗸🗸
This is the activities of people travelling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for a period not longer than one consecutive year for leisure, business and other purposes and not related to a remunerative activity from within the place visited 🗸🗸 [Max 2]

BODY - MAIN PART Gross domestic product (GDP)

Tourism impacts mostly on the services industry than on agriculture or manufacturing although there are upstream effects when agriculture provides foodstuffs to restaurants and manufacturing provides vehicles for transport 🗸🗸

Direct contribution on GDP

Statistics South Africa (SSA) shows that in 2020 inbound tourists contributed R69 billion and domestic tourists R billion, amounting to R billion - about % of South Africa's GDP 🗸🗸

Indirect contribution on GDP

If the indirect contribution is added, tourism add about % to GDP 🗸🗸
The WTTC estimated that tourism contributed % to the GDP of the world economy in 2020🗸🗸
In developing economies the service sector is responsible for around % of GDP, while it is responsible for more than % of GDP in developed economies 🗸🗸
South Africa is similar to that of developed economies and services contributed more than % of GDP in 2020. 🗸🗸
Tourism has a major effect on employment and this amounted to million workers in 2020🗸🗸
Tourism is the world’s largest generator of jobs 🗸🗸
Tourism is labour intensive 🗸🗸
More jobs can be created with every unit of capital invested in tourism than elsewhere
Tourism employs many skills 🗸🗸
It ranges from accountants and hairdressers to tour guides and trackers, 🗸🗸
the tourism industry draws upon numerous skills 🗸🗸
Tourism can provide immediate employment 🗸🗸
If one quarter of tourists’ accommodation establishment in South Africa starts to offer live entertainment to quests, thousands of entertainers could be employed within days 🗸🗸
Tourism provides entrepreneurship opportunities 🗸🗸
The tourism industry accommodates informal sector enterprises, from craft and fruit vendors to pavement vendors, chair rentals 🗸🗸
Tourism is widely recognized as one of the fastest and more effective redistribution mechanisms in development 🗸🗸
It brings development to the poor in rural areas 🗸🗸
Tourism provides an alternative to urbanisation, permitting women and youth to continue a rural family lifestyle while giving them business opportunities 🗸🗸
E.g. to start and operate small-scale tourism businesses around community asserts (forests, parks and rivers) 🗸🗸

Externalities

The rapidly expanding tourism industry could have both positive and negative impacts that extend well into the future 🗸🗸
While tourism attracts large amount of revenue, it can also cause undue environmental damage that can harm the very foundation on which it depends 🗸🗸
All other economic resources, tourism uses resources and produces wastes and also creates environmental costs (pollution) and benefits in the process 🗸🗸
Rapid growth in tourism aiming at short-term benefits usually results in more negative effects and these includes the degeneration of traditions and cultural values and environmental damage to sites and setting 🗸🗸

Environment Tourism activities create environmental stress:

Permanent environmental restructuring which includes major infrastructure 🗸🗸
Waste product generation such as biological and non-biological waste that damages fish production 🗸🗸
Direct environmental stress caused by tourist activities, e.g. the destruction of vegetation and dunes 🗸🗸
Effects on population dynamics such as migration and increased urban densities 🗸🗸
Transport infrastructure, e.g. roads, airports 🗸🗸
Communication and infrastructure including telephone lines, electronic signal stations and radio, TVs’ 🗸🗸
Energy infrastructure such electricity and liquid fuel 🗸🗸
Basic service infrastructure such as clean water and sewerage systems 🗸🗸 [Max. 26]

ADDITIONAL PART How can Indigenous Knowledge Systems be used to promote tourism in South Africa?

More cultural villages can be improved to facilitate and promote tourism e.g. Shangana in Mpumalanga, Basotho in the Free State and Simunye Zulu Lodge in Kwazulu-Natal. 🗸🗸
Where guides explain and demonstrate storytelling and indigenous knowledge practices. 🗸🗸
Advertising campaigns domestically and internationally by travel agencies, hotels and B & B, lodges and SA Tourism can focus on promoting these heritage sites in brochures and fliers, social media. 🗸🗸
These actions will make tourists more aware of these attractions 🗸🗸
Encourage tourists to experience different cultures and townships - experience life at home with a household and eat at a shebeen or township restaurant 🗸🗸
World Heritage Sites of South Africa can be promoted for their cultural significance e.g. the Fossil Hominid Sites of Sterkfontein, Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape, Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape, Vredefort Dome and Robben Island 🗸🗸
Environmental World Heritage Sites of South Africa selected for their natural importance namely the Cape Floral Region Protected Areas, Isimangaliso Wetlands Park as well as uKhahlamba/Drakensberg Park which has been selected for its mixed significance 🗸🗸
Arts and culture festivals e.g. the National Arts Festival, the Hermanus Festival, Awesome Africa Music Festival and Macufe African Cultural Festival should more widely be advertised to encourage tourists to attend 🗸🗸
According to the World Health Organisation, a large majority of the African population make use of traditional medicines for health, social-cultural and economic reasons and forms part of the unique experience tourists experience when visiting local villages 🗸🗸
In South Africa tourists are made more aware of the important role traditional medicine plays in poverty reduction and employment creation 🗸🗸
Relaxation of restrictive tourist visa laws to facilitate easier entry into South Africa 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant answers] [Max. 10]
South Africa attracted over million tourists in 2020 /For every 8.1 additional tourist to South Africa, one new job is created/one per cent increase in tourism adds R million annually to the SA economy. 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant higher order conclusion] [Max. 2]
Tourism is the activities of people travelling to and staying in places outside their usual environment for no more than one consecutive year for leisure, business or other purposes PP 🗸🗸 [Accept any other correct relevant response] [Max 2]

MAIN PART Business sector

Tourism stimulates business in areas such as accommodation and entertainment 🗸🗸
The construction industry, in private-public partnership with the government to provide the infrastructure, manufacturing sector and recreation sector all benefits from increased demand due to tourism 🗸🗸
The previously disadvantaged communities get entrepreneurial opportunities through the black economic empowerment schemes 🗸🗸
A large number of people get business opportunities in the informal sector e.g. selling of artefacts 🗸🗸
Local retailers may have an increase in sales (and profits) because of increased demand from tourists 🗸🗸
Private businesses and government work in partnership to provide the infrastructure needed for tourism 🗸🗸
This increases the market share of and income of the these businesses 🗸🗸
Allow existing businesses to improve the quality and variety of their products PP 🗸🗸
Allow natural monopolies e.g. Table Mountain Cableway to achieve abnormal profits PP 🗸🗸
The public sector also provides a range of financial incentives for private sector tourism investment (grants, subsidies, loans, tax rebates) PP 🗸🗸 [Max 10]

Infrastructure development

Adequate and well-maintained infrastructure is essential for tourist destinations PP. 🗸🗸
Locals share this infrastructure with tourists 🗸🗸
Government often prioritises economic infrastructure such as ports and beaches 🗸🗸
In addition to physical and basic infrastructure, social infrastructure is also important for the growth of tourism🗸🗸
Most of the SDIs and development corridors also have tourism as an important focus PP 🗸🗸 [Max 8]
Members of households earn income from the tourism sector as tour operators, travel agents etc. 🗸🗸
Many households are indirectly involved in tourism as employees e.g. in hotels, transport sector. 🗸🗸
Entrepreneurs from households that operate as curio producers or musicians can earn income from tourism . 🗸🗸
A large number of households acquire skills in the tourism industry. 🗸🗸
School curriculum and learnership offer opportunities to acquire these skills . 🗸🗸
Encourages rural development because many tourist attractions are located in rural areas PP 🗸🗸 [Accept any other correct relevant response] [Max. 26]

ADDITIONAL PART Tourism can be successfully marketed in less popular destinations by:

advertising the firms' attractions in a variety of media including social media and internet which may reach both local and international potential tourists. 🗸🗸
focusing on a clear message that concentrates on the strength of the attraction/ uniqueness of the destination. 🗸🗸
using the indigenous knowledge systems of that particular area where possible PP. 🗸🗸
describing the service offered in the best possible way to catch the interest of the likely tourist PP E.g. the use of slogans. 🗸🗸
charging a price that is competitive and money well spent for the service offered. 🗸🗸
helping the tourist to view the entire service as value for money – deliver a worldclass visitor experience 🗸🗸
highlighting other places of interest in the vicinity of the attraction as part of a package 🗸🗸
focusing on proudly South African products/services / Sho’t Left campaign PP 🗸🗸
help disadvantaged South Africans to benefit from tourist attractions in the less popular destinations PP 🗸🗸 [Accept any other correct relevant response] [Max. 10]

CONCLUSION A weaker exchange rate has been a major contributing factor to South Africa's tourism industry growth over many years. 🗸🗸 [Accept any correct relevant response] [Max 2]

INTRODUCTION Environmental sustainability can be defined as development that meets the need of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. 🗸🗸

BODY: MAIN PART Public sector intervention Because it is difficult to enforce measures to ensure sustainability the government has to intervene. 🗸🗸

Environmental taxes Environmental taxes (green taxes) can be added to the cost of goods and services for the negative impact they have on the environment. 🗸🗸 The government uses the income generated through these taxes to protect the environment. 🗸🗸 Taxes can be imposed on petrol, paper, emission gases etc. 🗸🗸 In 2003 the government has legislated the use of biodegradable plastic bags which consumers had to pay for🗸🗸 The hope is that they will use fewer bags and ensure a litter free environment. 🗸🗸

Charging for dumping of waste A monthly fee as part of municipal accounts is charged for collection of waste, sewage and garbage. 🗸🗸 Households already pay for the collection of rubbish. 🗸🗸 The factory owner might clean up his waste if it cost him to dump it. 🗸🗸 Industries might also pay for emitting gases that can be harmful to people and the environment. 🗸🗸 Subsidies Subsidies can be awarded to businesses that are willing to reduce pollution and waste. 🗸🗸 Waste can also be reduced by using new techniques or equipment such as solar energy. 🗸🗸 Emission gases from factories can be reduced using new technology. 🗸🗸

Granting property rights Normally owners of properties tend to be more protective over their resources than users who are only interested in the profits the resources offer. 🗸🗸 For this reason the government might grant property rights over a specific area. 🗸🗸 Property rights empowers owners to negotiate contracts with businesses who wish to exploit the area’s resources. 🗸🗸

Marketable permits A government can decide on the maximum desired level of pollution in an area. 🗸🗸 It then distribute pollution rights (marketable permits) to factories within that area. 🗸🗸 This means that each factory can pollute to a certain limit. 🗸🗸 It means that marketable permits are licenses that polluters can buy or sell to meet the control levels set by government. 🗸🗸

Education Incorporating topics into the curriculum of school fosters awareness. 🗸🗸 The public is gradually been made aware of this rising problem. 🗸🗸 Plastic, bottles and cartons can be recycled or made biodegradable. 🗸🗸

Public sector control If the government’s intervention does not attain the desired results, then it has to intervene more directly by setting and enforcing limits. 🗸🗸

Environmental Impact Assessment In SA every projected construction, mining or similar development has to undergo an assessment by qualified environmental professionals. 🗸🗸 To prove that it will not cause unwarranted environmental damage and that the damage can be repaired after construction. 🗸🗸 The cost if built into the project. 🗸🗸

Command and Control Regulations that are set and enforce environmental limits or standards. 🗸🗸 Quantity: e.g. set the limit to the amount of fish to catch, or limit the season catching certain species of fish. 🗸🗸 Quality: e.g. drinking water quality is carefully monitored and controlled. 🗸🗸 Air quality in workplace is subject to minimum standards. 🗸🗸 Social effect: e.g. noxious fumes from factories, dumping of medical waste near settlements, and noise pollution. 🗸🗸

Voluntary agreements Agreements between government and businesses voluntarily to address negative environmental impacts of industries. 🗸🗸 Businesses voluntary agree to decrease the emissions of pollutants. 🗸🗸 Most prefer negotiations so that they can tailor their specific needs and include it into their planning🗸🗸 Agreements can be formal, which is legally binding contract or informal. 🗸🗸 [Max 26]

ADDITIONAL PART Government does not exercise effective control over the continuous dumping of waste because of a lack of coordination between departments. 🗸🗸 The fines imposed on industries that dump waste are too lenient and they continue polluting the environment. 🗸🗸

The minimum standards set for hazardous gas and fuel emissions are not enforced or adjusted. 🗸🗸 The recycling of waste materials are not widely encouraged and promoted and landfill sites are overflowing. 🗸🗸 Government has various laws that is not really effectively implemented. 🗸🗸 Poor service delivery also adds to the problem in certain areas. 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant answer] [Max 10]

CONCLUSION Each and every individual, business and government needs to stand together to save our planet. [Accept any other relevant conclusion] [Max 2] Discuss in detail the following problems and the international measures taken to ensure sustainable development (Environmental Sustainability)

INTRODUCTION Environment refers to the physical surroundings and physical conditions that affect people’s lives. 🗸🗸 The ever-increasing pressure on our environment originates from increasing population numbers and excessive consumption🗸🗸 Our air, land, and water are under constant assault from the ever-growing ravages of man-made pollution generated chiefly by industrialized societies. 🗸🗸 [Accept any appropriate introduction] [Max 2]

BODY-MAIN PART Conservation

Conservation is necessary because human actions cause pollution and over-utilisation of resources. 🗸🗸
Conservation is a strategy aimed at achieving the sustainable use and management of natural resources. 🗸🗸
Conservation seeks a creative continuity of the environment while ensuring that change is sympathetic to the quality of life for both present and future generations. 🗸🗸
Certain aspects of conservation need to be taken into account.
Firstly, there is an opportunity cost. 🗸🗸
Secondly, externalities are often present. 🗸🗸
Lastly, self-interest has a short term horizon – meaning that decisions cannot be left entirely to market forces. 🗸🗸
Over utilization of resources causes a reduction in supply, increase in prices, contradiction of demand and a search for substitutes. 🗸🗸
This necessitates conservation of both renewable and non-renewable resources. 🗸🗸
Conservation has to be concerned with limiting what is harvested in order to maintain a stable stock at least at the minimum level. 🗸🗸
Government can use permits and quotas as two possible direct control methods in order to maintain the stock of resources at the minimum level. 🗸🗸

Preservation

Preservation involves any strategy undertaken to safeguard the environment, maintain its current condition and keep it as habitable as possible for people and animals. 🗸🗸
Heritage sites, indigenous forests, specifies of animals etc. that have special cultural or environmental significance, are often targeted preservation. 🗸🗸
Preservation is not likely to work as a private enterprise because the benefit to society is much bigger than the income of the producer. 🗸🗸
It may be possible to use cost-benefit analysis to calculate the social benefits of preservation of the environment.
The weaknesses in market solutions require the government to intervene in order to preserve environment assets. 🗸🗸
Government could do any of the following:
Buy or expropriate – Environmental assets are simply closed for human use. 🗸🗸
Subsidise-A subsidy would increase net benefits to the owner and raise the property’s present value. 🗸🗸
Controls – The government can compel the owner to apply control measures like restricting the quantities exploited or number of visitors allowed per day. 🗸🗸 [26 Max]

ADDITIONAL PART Stockholm Conference (1972)

The Stockholm Conference was the first major large scale international meeting on the environment convened with the support of the United Nations. 🗸🗸
The meeting agreed upon a declaration containing 26 principles concerning the environment and development, an action plan with 109 recommendations and a resolution. 🗸🗸
The meeting directly impacted on the environmental policies of many countries. 🗸🗸

Rio de Janeiro Earth Summit (1992)

This meeting acknowledged the importance of cooperation in addressing environmental concerns that threaten sustainability. 🗸🗸
The conference helped to make countries around the world aware of the dangers of unsustainable development. 🗸🗸
Unfortunately the principles outlined and accepted at the summit were not binding and subsequently many countries did not confirm to them. 🗸🗸

Rio + 5 (1997)

This conference noted that globalization made some countries poorer – 🗸🗸
In particular African countries and the least developed countries showed a low level of growth or even declined. 🗸🗸

Kyoto Protocol for Climate Change (1997)

Countries committed themselves to reducing their total emissions of greenhouse by 5 %.🗸🗸
Unfortunately, China was excluded from this agreement and the USA withdrew. 🗸🗸

World Summit on Sustainable Development (2002)

The objective of this summit held in Johannesburg was to conserve natural resources in a world that is growing in population. 🗸🗸
The meeting focused on issues like poverty eradication, water and sanitation, energy, health agriculture and biodiversity. 🗸🗸

COP 17 (2011)

The main goal of the conference held in Durban was to establish a treaty to limit carbon emissions and plan strategies to keep global temperature rise to less than 2 degree Celsius in the 21st Century. 🗸🗸
Although the framework for this treaty was established it was not finalised. 🗸🗸
The solution to our environmental problems will depend on our ability to make sound economic decisions that take account of the natural environment and to change our individual behaviour and attitudes. 🗸🗸 [Accept any other relevant conclusion] [Max 2]

98 English Speech Topics for Grade 12 to choose from (South Africa)

98 English attention-grabbing Speech Topics for Grade 12 to choose from: High School speech topics for Grade 12 are often not easy to discover. Also, giving a speech in front of the class may not be the easiest:

Table of Contents

English Speech Guide for Grade 12

List of 98 English Speech Topics for Grade 12 to choose from

Studying martial arts is good for mind and health.
Competitive sports can teach us about life.
Reality shows are exploiting people.
Community service should be required for teens.
These qualities make a hero.
It’s important to grow things in a garden.
Violent video games are dangerous.
Lyrics in a song can impact our lives.
Traveling and studying abroad is positive.
Journal writing is therapeutic.
You should spend time with grandparents.
The laptop is better than the tablet.
Religion and science can go hand in hand.
School uniforms are good.
All-girl colleges and all-boy colleges are bad.
Multiple choice tests are better than essay tests.
We should not spend money on space exploration.
Open-book tests are as effective as closed-book tests.
Security cameras keep us safer.
Parents should have access to students’ grades.
Small classes are better than big classes.
You need to start saving for retirement now.
Credit cards are harmful to college students.
We should have a royal family.
We should protect endangered animals.
Texting while driving should be illegal.
You can write a novel.
You can go to your college of choice.
State colleges are better than private colleges.
Private colleges are better than state colleges.
We should do away with penny coins.
Fast food containers hurt the environment.
Plastic straws hurt the environment.
You can eat and enjoy healthy snacks.
You can become a millionaire.
Dogs are better pets than cats.
You should own a bird.
It’s unethical to keep birds in cages.
Liberal arts degrees prepare better workers.
Hunting animals should be banned.
Football is dangerous.
School days should start later.
Night school is better than day school.
Technical training is better than a college degree.
Immigration laws should be more lenient.
Students should be able to pick their schools.
Everyone should learn to play a musical instrument.
Grass lawns should be prohibited.
Sharks should be protected.
We should do away with cars and go back to horse and carriage for transportation.
We should use more wind power.
We should pay more taxes.
We should do away with taxes.
Teachers should be tested like students.
We should not interfere in the affairs of other countries.
Every student should join a club.
Homeschooling is better than traditional schooling.
People should stay married for life.
Smoking in public should be illegal.
Students should live on campus.
Parents should let students fail.
Giving is good.
Education makes us happier people.
The death penalty is good for society.
Bigfoot is real.
We should increase train travel to save the environment.
We should read more classic books.
Fame is bad for children.
Athletes should stay loyal to teams.
We should reform our prisons.
Juvenile offenders should not go to boot camps.
Abraham Lincoln was the best president.
Abraham Lincoln gets too much credit.
Students should be allowed to have cell phones in elementary, middle, and high school.
College student-athletes should be paid for playing.
Elderly citizens on fixed incomes should receive free bus rides.
Colleges and universities should be free to attend.
All South African citizens should complete one year of community service.
Students should be required to take Spanish classes.
Every student should be required to learn at least one foreign language.
Marijuana should be legal for recreational use nationwide.
Commercial testing of products on animals should no longer be allowed.
Felons who have served their time in prison should be allowed to vote once they are free.
The drinking age should be bumped up past 21.
Replacing fossil fuels with cheaper alternative energy options should be mandated.
Churches need to contribute their share of taxes.
The Cuba embargo should be maintained by the U.S.
South Africa should replace income taxes with a nationwide flat tax.
The Bowl Championship Series, also known as the BCS, should be replaced with a true college football playoff system.
Doctor-assisted suicide should be legal.
Spammers—people who bombard the internet with unsolicited email—should be banned from sending their junk mail.
Every automobile driver should be required to take a new driver’s test every three years.
Electroshock treatment is not a humane form of therapy.
Global warming is not real.
Single-parent adoption should be encouraged and promoted.
Gun companies should be held accountable for gun crimes.
Human cloning is not moral.
Religion does not belong in public education.

Hello Grade 12 Learners. Modern Classroom has everything for you needed to pass your matric exams, tests, assessments, research tasks and assignments under CAPS Curriculum . Feel free to explore all resources for grade 12, such as Study Guides, DBE Past Exam Papers with Memos , and Speech Topics . That’s if you want to know how to pass grade 12 with distinctions in South Africa Modern Classroom

Why passing Grade 12 is very important

Grade 12 ultimately prepares you for the real world out there, and most importantly matric is your ultimate gateway for varsity. You really need good marks in Grade 12 in order to pass well and study what you like . Good Grade 12 marks means good APS Score.

The calculation of an Admission Point Score (APS) is based on a candidate’s achievement in any SIX recognised National Senior Certificate 20-credit subjects (including subjects from the non-designated subject list, e.g. CAT , Tourism , Hospitality Studies and Civil , Electrical & Mechanical Technology , etc.), by using the NSC seven-point rating scale. Life Orientation is a 10-credit subject and may not be used for calculating the APS. Life Orientation is also not a faculty-specific subject requirement.

Have you made your career choice yet?

Now that you are in your final year of studies, have you made up your mind about what career you want to pursue after matric? Have a look at below questions and click on the links for more information:

Do you know:

If you want to study at a University or College ?
What career do you plan to pursue after school ?
What subjects you will need to study for this career?
Which country do you want to study at, Canada maybe?
How will you pay for your studies?

5 Ways to Pass Matric with Distinction?

Teach your friends the subject you know the most. Teaching others makes you learn faster
Manage your time properly. Learn to focus at one task at a time.
Gather all learning material about a subject and try answering previous exam papers and tests
Ensure you do have 8 hrs of sleep every night so that you will always be productive.
Remove all destructions around you, such as: TV, CellPhone, Noisy people, etc. If you cant, go to the library or study at school.

Other Grade 12 Past Papers and Memos

Accounting Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Economics Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Mathematics Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Technical Mathematics Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Physical Science Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Life Sciences Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Technical Sciences Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Mathematics Literacy Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Biology Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Life Orientation Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Religion Studies Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Business Studies Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Consumer Studies Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Tshivenda Home Language Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
IsiXhosa Home Language Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
IsiZulu Home Language Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Sepedi Home Language Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Sesotho Home Language Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Setswana Home Language Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Seswati Home Language Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Afrikaans Home Language Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
English Home Language Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Xitsonga Home Language Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Tourism and Hospitality Studies Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Computer Applications Technology Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Civil Technology Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Electrical Technology Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Engineering Graphics and Designs Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Information Technology Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Mechanical Technology Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Agricultural Sciences Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Agricultural Technology Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Agricultural Management Practices Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Dance Studies Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Design Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Dramatic Arts Grade 12 past papers and revision notes
Music Visual Arts Grade 12 past papers and revision notes

View all Grade 12 Past Papers here

Did You See These?

English Grade 12 Study Guides Free Download
Language and Context – Mind the Gap Grade 12 Study Guide Download (South Africa)
Grade 12 Economics Exam Paper 1 and 2 May-June 2019 and Memo English
English Language Grade 12 November 2022 Exam Question Papers with Memos for Revision
English SAL Grade 12 Annual Teaching Plan (ATP) for 2023
Grade 12 Business Studies Paper 1 and 2 2019 Exam Papers and Memos
What is Hydrochloric acid (South Africa)
Life Sciences Grade 12 September and November 2019 Past Exam Papers and Memorandum

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44 Unique English Speech Topics for Grade 12 Students

44 Unique English Oral Speech Topics for Grade 12 Students

Unique English Oral Speech Topics for Grade 12 Students:

Welcome to our curated collection of Unique English Oral Speech Topics for Grade 12 Students . As you stand on the threshold of adulthood, it becomes increasingly important to voice your thoughts, opinions, and insights on a variety of subjects. The ability to articulate your ideas eloquently in a speech can not only enhance your academic skills but also prepare you for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead in both personal and professional realms.

On this page, we present you with 44 of the best and most unique speech topics specifically designed for your next presentation. These topics span a wide range of areas including social and ethical issues , personal development , cultural and global perspectives , technological advancements , health and wellness , social justice , and economic futures . Each one has been carefully selected to challenge your thinking, provoke debate, and allow you to express your unique viewpoint to an audience.

Whether you’re passionate about advocating for climate change, exploring the implications of digital privacy, delving into the challenges of mental health, or imagining the future of work in an automated world, these topics will provide a rich foundation for your speeches. They are not only relevant to your current academic and social interests but are also deeply interconnected with the global issues shaping our world today.

Embrace this opportunity to develop your public speaking skills , engage with pressing global concerns, and make your voice heard on matters that are important to you and your community. Let these topics inspire you to research, reflect, and present compelling arguments that captivate your audience and leave a lasting impression.

Table of Contents

45 Unique English Oral Speech Topics for Grade 12 Students

Social and ethical issues.

1. The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health and Self-Esteem This speech topic invites Grade 12 students to investigate how social media platforms significantly affect their mental health and self-esteem . It encourages a deep dive into the balance between online interaction and its influence on personal identity and self-worth, particularly relevant to teenagers.

2. Climate Change: Our Responsibility to the Next Generation A compelling topic, urging students to explore the grave responsibilities we bear towards mitigating climate change for the sake of future generations. It challenges them to think about sustainable solutions and individual actions that can make a global impact.

3. The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence in the Workplace Students are prompted to examine the ethical dilemmas presented by the integration of artificial intelligence in the workplace. This topic explores the balance between technological advancement and the preservation of human jobs, ethics, and decision-making processes.

4. Privacy in the Digital Age: How Much Do We Sacrifice? A critical look at the compromises made between personal privacy and the conveniences offered by the digital age. Students can delve into the implications of data sharing, surveillance, and how these practices affect individual freedoms.

5. The Role of Youth in Shaping Political Discourse Highlighting the influential power of the youth in political spheres, this topic encourages students to discuss the ways in which young people can effect change through engagement, activism, and social media.

Personal Development and Self-Reflection

6. Overcoming Failure: Lessons from Personal Experiences Focusing on resilience, this speech topic allows students to share and reflect on personal stories of overcoming failure, emphasizing the growth and lessons learned from these experiences.

7. The Importance of Self-Care for Mental and Physical Well-being A vital topic that stresses the significance of self-care routines in maintaining mental and physical health. It encourages students to explore various self-care practices and their positive effects on wellbeing.

8. Setting Goals for the Future: Dreams vs. Reality This subject invites students to contemplate the process of setting achievable goals, contrasting aspirational dreams with the reality of their attainments. It’s a conversation about ambition, practicality, and the steps needed to realize one’s aspirations.

9. The Journey of Finding One’s Passion and Purpose A reflective topic that encourages students to share their journeys toward discovering their passions and purposes in life. It’s an exploration of personal interests, motivations, and the quest for meaning.

10. The Power of Resilience: Stories of Bouncing Back An inspiring speech topic that showcases the power of resilience through personal anecdotes of overcoming adversity. Students are invited to share their stories of strength and recovery, providing motivation and encouragement to their peers.

Cultural and Global Perspectives

11. Understanding Cultural Diversity Through Travel Students are encouraged to explore how travel can broaden perspectives, foster understanding of cultural diversity, and break down barriers between people of different backgrounds.

12. The Global Impact of Local Environmental Conservation Efforts A call to recognize and act upon the global significance of local environmental conservation. This topic examines how grassroots initiatives contribute to broader environmental goals and the sustainability of the planet.

13. The Role of Young People in Preserving Indigenous Cultures Highlighting the importance of youth involvement in safeguarding indigenous cultures, this topic explores ways students can contribute to the preservation and celebration of cultural heritage.

14. The Effects of Globalization on Traditional Lifestyles Students are prompted to analyze how globalization influences traditional ways of life, examining both the positive and negative impacts on cultural practices, economies, and social structures.

15. Language as a Bridge to Understanding Different Cultures An examination of the role language plays in promoting cross-cultural understanding and communication. This topic celebrates linguistic diversity as a tool for bridging gaps between different cultural groups.

Technological Advancements and Challenges

16. The Future of Space Exploration: Possibilities and Ethical Dilemmas Invites an exploration of humanity’s next frontier, space, while pondering the ethical considerations of such exploration, including the environmental impact on celestial bodies and the moral implications of colonizing other planets.

17. The Role of Technology in Transforming Education Examines how technological innovations are reshaping the educational landscape, from digital classrooms to personalized learning, and discusses the potential benefits and pitfalls of relying heavily on technology for education.

18. Cybersecurity in the Modern World: Protecting Our Digital Lives Focuses on the critical importance of cybersecurity measures to protect personal information in an era where digital transactions and communications are ubiquitous, addressing both individual responsibilities and collective solutions.

19. The Ethical Implications of Gene Editing Challenges students to consider the moral questions raised by gene editing technologies like CRISPR, including the potential for curing diseases versus the ethical dilemmas posed by designer babies and genetic modification.

20. Renewable Energy Technologies: The Key to a Sustainable Future Encourages a discussion on how renewable energy technologies, such as solar and wind power, are essential for achieving a sustainable future, emphasizing the importance of transitioning away from fossil fuels.

Health and Wellness

21. The Importance of Mental Health Awareness Among Teenagers Highlights the necessity of mental health education and awareness in schools to combat stigma and provide support for teenagers dealing with mental health challenges.

22. The Impact of Diet and Exercise on Academic Performance Explores the connection between physical health and academic success, discussing how a balanced diet and regular exercise can improve concentration, memory, and overall well-being, leading to better academic outcomes.

23. Addressing the Stigma Surrounding Mental Health Disorders Calls for a compassionate and informed approach to mental health issues, promoting an understanding that seeks to dismantle the stigma and barriers to seeking help.

24. The Role of Technology in Promoting Health and Fitness Discusses the double-edged sword of technology in health and fitness, from fitness tracking apps and virtual workouts to the potential drawbacks of excessive screen time and dependency.

25. The Future of Healthcare: Innovations That Could Change Lives Envisions the future of healthcare, highlighting emerging technologies and innovations, such as telemedicine, AI in diagnostics, and personalized medicine, that have the potential to revolutionize patient care.

Social Justice and Equality

26. The Importance of Gender Equality in the 21st Century Addresses the ongoing struggle for gender equality, emphasizing its importance in achieving a just and equitable society for all genders, focusing on the barriers that still exist and the steps needed to dismantle them.

27. Addressing Racial Inequalities: Steps Towards a Fairer Society Invites a critical examination of racial inequalities present in various systems and discusses actionable steps that individuals and communities can take to promote racial justice and equality.

28. The Impact of Socioeconomic Status on Educational Opportunities Explores how socioeconomic disparities affect access to education and the quality of educational experiences, urging consideration of solutions to bridge this gap.

29. LGBTQ+ Rights: Progress and Challenges Reflects on the strides made towards LGBTQ+ rights and the challenges that remain in achieving full equality, inclusivity, and acceptance in society.

30. The Role of Activism in Shaping Societal Norms Highlights the pivotal role of activism in challenging and changing societal norms, laws, and behaviors, inspiring students to engage in activism as a tool for social change.

Economic and Career Futures

31. The Gig Economy: Pros and Cons for the Future Workforce Examines the rise of the gig economy, weighing its flexibility and opportunities against the challenges of job security, benefits, and long-term financial stability.

32. Entrepreneurship as a Pathway to Economic Independence Encourages exploring entrepreneurship as a viable route to economic independence and innovation, discussing the rewards and risks associated with starting a business.

33. The Impact of Automation on Future Job Markets Considers the implications of increasing automation and AI on the workforce, including potential job displacement, new job creation, and the need for re-skilling.

34. Financial Literacy: A Key Skill for Young Adults Stresses the importance of financial literacy for young adults, advocating for education on managing finances, investing, and understanding the economic forces that affect personal wealth.

35. The Changing Landscape of Higher Education and Career Opportunities Discusses the evolving nature of higher education and its impact on career paths, considering alternative education models, the value of traditional degrees, and the skills required for the future job market.

Advancements in Science and Technology

36. The Future of Human-Machine Interfaces

This topic invites Grade 12 students to delve into the cutting-edge advancements in human-machine interfaces, exploring how these technologies are shaping the future of communication, work, and entertainment. It’s a unique opportunity to reflect on the implications for society and individual privacy.

37. Biotechnology in Agriculture: Prospects and Concerns

This speech topic encourages students to investigate the role of biotechnology in transforming agriculture, including genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and its impact on food security and environmental sustainability. It’s a unique chance for Grade 12 students to debate the ethical considerations and global implications.

Art, Culture, and Society

38. The Influence of Pop Culture on Global Societal Values

This topic examines the powerful impact of pop culture on shaping societal values, identities, and norms. Grade 12 students are encouraged to explore examples from music, film, and social media to discuss how pop culture serves as a mirror and a moulder of contemporary society.

39. The Renaissance of Indigenous Art and Its Global Significance

This speech allows students to celebrate the resurgence of indigenous art forms and their contribution to preserving cultural heritage and influencing global art trends. It’s a unique platform for Grade 12 students to reflect on the importance of cultural diversity and expression.

Global Issues and Human Rights

40. The Crisis of Refugee Rights and International Response

This topic challenges students to explore the complex and urgent issue of refugee rights and the varying responses by the international community. It provides a unique angle for speeches on human rights, global empathy, and the responsibilities of nations in a globalized world.

41. Digital Divide: Bridging the Gap in Access to Technology

This speech topic addresses the growing concern over the digital divide and its impact on education, economic opportunities, and social inclusion. Grade 12 students are prompted to discuss innovative solutions to ensure equitable access to technology for all.

Personal and Professional Development

42. The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Professional Success

This topic highlights the role of emotional intelligence in achieving professional success and personal fulfillment. It offers a unique perspective for Grade 12 students on developing self-awareness, empathy, and interpersonal skills in their future careers.

43. Navigating the Challenges of Work-Life Balance in the Digital Era

This speech explores the challenges and strategies for achieving a healthy work-life balance in an era where technology blurs the lines between professional and personal life. It’s an opportunity for Grade 12 students to reflect on setting boundaries and prioritizing well-being.

44. The Role of Ethics in Artificial Intelligence Development

This topic delves into the critical importance of integrating ethical considerations into the development and deployment of artificial intelligence (AI). Grade 12 students are invited to explore the potential risks and benefits of AI, including issues of bias, privacy, and autonomy. This speech offers a unique opportunity for students to debate the balance between technological innovation and ethical responsibility, encouraging them to envision their role in shaping a future where technology serves humanity’s best interests.

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Give K-12 & College Grads a Sweet Send-Off with See’s Graduation Gifts & Party Treats

Caps off (and lots of candy) to your grad!

Graduation season is here, and we’re celebrating the hard work and achievements of the Class of 2024. From kindergarten to college, acknowledging milestones makes the journey all the sweeter. Whether you’re looking for delightful gift ideas for grads or planning a festive party spread, we’ve got you covered.

Graduation Gifts That Make the Grade: Kindergarten, High School or College

Finding the perfect gift for your graduating student may have you feeling stumped. Not to worry, we have the sweetest gifts — a delectable array of celebratory sweets in ready-to-gift festive packaging. Looking for college graduation gift ideas or a treat to celebrate your favorite high school senior? What better way to mark the occasion than with our classic Graduation Hat , brimming with two layers of creamy, crunchy deliciousness. This smart graduation gift captures the spirit of the day and does double duty as a keepsake. The clever box lets your student savor the graduation candy inside, then use the box to tuck away cherished school momentos. Have a younger one moving on and up? We have enchanting kindergarten graduation gifts too! Surprise them with our charming 4.8 oz Hats Off to You Box , featuring a congratulatory message and filled with a tempting array of scrumptious treats guaranteed to spark joy. Is a favorite student celebrating far from you? Send them a Gift Card (or eGift Card ) from See’s. They’ll be delighted by your thoughtfulness — and excited to pick out their favorite treats at their local See’s shop or online.

Get Grad Party Ready with Delectable Treats Gather together with family and friends to applaud your graduate! Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or a full-blown celebration, See’s beautifully packaged graduation candy is an easy way to add deliciousness and joy to all the festivities. Delight guests with graduation party treats like our cheerfully wrapped Congrats, Grad Assorted Chocolates or Congrats, Grad Nuts & Chews . Both outfitted in celebratory sleeves, these boxes of creamy milk and dark chocolates make for a tasty addition to any dessert spread. More fun ideas: set out our individually wrapped Lollypops and chocolate bars for tasty table decor or stick them into graduation party gift bags! Thank Teachers for Their Support

While we honor our graduates, let’s take a moment to thank their champions and mentors — the teachers who inspire and encourage our students. In addition to the best graduation gifts, See’s has a wonderful selection of teacher appreciation gifts . Filled with a delightful medley of chocolates, our Teachers Rule Box is a thoughtful gesture that will make any educator feel appreciated. Looking to take it up a notch? Our Teachers Rule Assorted Chocolates is filled with a pound of chocolate-covered gratitude.

Cheers to the Class of 2024

As graduation season approaches, let’s celebrate the accomplishments of our graduates and express our appreciation to all the teachers who’ve guided them along the way. Whether you’re giving a gift of chocolate, hosting a fun-filled party or simply sharing thanks, See’s Candies can make each moment more special. Explore our collection of gifts for graduates on Sees.com, and tag your grad (and their See’s graduation candy) on social @seescandies.

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In the U.S., 180 days of school is most common, but length of school day varies by state

A teacher works with students at Nevitt Elementary School in Phoenix, Arizona. Arizona, like a majority of states, mandates a 180-day school year for K-12 public schools. (Olivier Touron/AFP via Getty Images)

School has started in most of the United States. On average, K-12 public schools will be in session close to 180 days this year, according to a Pew Research Center analysis of data from the Education Commission of the States .

But as with many things involving public education, there is considerable state-by-state variation in how much schooling children will receive – and even how much time constitutes a day of school.

Every state sets rules for the minimum amount of time school must be in session. The minimum is usually some combination of days and hours per year and hours per day; state policies also establish how much, if any, non-instructional time – such as lunch, recess and class changes – can count toward those minimums. Individual districts set their own calendars based on those statewide rules, unless they obtain a waiver.

The most common way that states regulate instructional time is to set a minimum number of days for the school year; 38 states and the District of Columbia do so. The majority of those states (27 of 38), along with D.C., mandate 180 instructional days, making it the closest thing the country has to a national norm.

To better understand how school instructional time varies across the United States, Pew Research Center analyzed information on state laws and regulations compiled by the Education Commission of the States , a nonprofit research organization that serves education policymakers throughout the country. We double-checked the ECS data against the relevant state statutes, rules and policies, updating it as necessary.

Many states’ rules differ depending on grade level, so we chose to look at annual and daily instructional time requirements for four specific grade levels: kindergarten (half-day and full-day, when appropriate), fourth grade, eighth grade and 11th grade. The idea was to get a sense for how instructional time at standard, five-day-a-week public schools compares at each of the major levels of K-12 education – kindergarten, elementary school, middle school and high school. That said, states vary considerably in how much, if any, non-instructional time (such as lunch, recess and class changes) can count toward those minimums.

Some states set separate requirements for how many days or hours districts must schedule versus how many they must operate . (The difference often reflects built-in days for teacher training, weather-related closures and the like.) In such cases, we used the minimum number of days or hours districts must schedule to meet their state’s calendar requirements.

While most of this analysis is based on 2023 data, we also examined similar data for five earlier years. The 2013 and 2014 compilations were also published by the Education Commission on the States. Data for 1989, 2000 and 2018 came from the National Center for Education Statistics . While these earlier datasets provided some illuminating context, they proved too different from one another to permit direct year-over-year comparisons.

Which states require the fewest school days? The most?

A map showing that, in the U.S., a majority of states require 180 days of school per year.

Seven states set minimums less than 180 days, with Colorado having the lowest requirement at 160 days. Four states require more than 180 days, with Kansas as the leader. The Sunflower State mandates 186 days for kindergarten through 11th grade (and 181 days for 12th grade). Overall, the average requirement, among the states that have one, is 179 days.

A minimum school year of 180 days has been the norm for a long time. In August 1989, 33 states and D.C. had 180-day requirements, according to a 1992 report from the National Center for Education Statistics . Only one state required more school days that year (Ohio, with 182), while 12 required fewer. The remaining states either had no minimum day requirement or set a range of 175 to 180 days.

How many hours in a school day – or a school year?

Besides setting a minimum number of days, states can regulate school time by mandating a certain number of hours or minutes per school year. Thirty-nine states have these types of laws or policies, according to the Education Commission of the States. (Some states, in fact, give districts the option of meeting either type of minimum – by days or time per year. Oklahoma, for instance, allows school districts to schedule 180 standard school days or spread out 1,080 hours over 165 days.)

In a majority of those states (26 of 39), annual time minimums vary by grade level. For example, South Dakota sets an annual minimum of 875 hours per year for fourth graders but requires 962.5 hours of school for eighth graders.

Across all states that specify annual time minimums, the average for fourth graders is 997.8 hours per school year. For 11th graders, the number of hours required in a school year ranges from 720 hours (including lunch) in Arizona to 1,260 in Texas (though that state expresses its requirements in minutes, not hours). The average requirement for 11th graders, among the 39 states that have one, is 1,034.8 hours per year.

Another option is to require a certain number of hours or minutes per school day, which 29 states and D.C. do. In 16 of those states, the requirements vary by grade level. In Pennsylvania, for example, the minimum length for a school day is 2.5 hours for kindergarten, 5 hours for first through eighth grades, and 5.5 hours for ninth through 12th grades.

For eighth graders, the school day can contain as few as 3 hours in Maryland and Missouri, or as many as 6.5 in Tennessee. New Hampshire and Oregon, intriguingly, set maximums for the length of the school day – in the case of eighth graders, 6 hours in New Hampshire and 8 hours in Oregon. And as with annual time requirements, states vary on how and whether to count lunch, recess and other non-classroom time.

Texas is unique in that it only sets a minimum number of minutes in the school year – 75,600, or 1,260 hours, including intermissions and recess – which districts are free to distribute as they choose. In the past, however, Texas mandated 7 hours per school day, including intermissions, recesses and other non-instructional time. If Texas school districts continue to follow that older convention, that would work out to a school year of … 180 days.

Minimum number of hours in a school year, 2023

Minimum number of hours in a school day, 2023.

Drew DeSilver is a senior writer at Pew Research Center

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About 1 in 4 u.s. teachers say their school went into a gun-related lockdown in the last school year, about half of americans say public k-12 education is going in the wrong direction, what public k-12 teachers want americans to know about teaching, what’s it like to be a teacher in america today, most popular.

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