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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

narrative essay topics grade 12

Narrative Essay Topics: TOP 200 Choices for Students

narrative essay topics grade 12

Imagine yourself facing a blank page, ready to fill it with your memories and imagination. What story will you tell today?

As students, you often have to write narratives that capture people's attention. But with so many stories to choose from, where do you start? How do you find the perfect topic that will grab our readers' interest and make them think?

Join our essay service experts as we explore 200 topics for college where stories are waiting to be told, and experiences are ready to be shared. From everyday events to unforgettable moments, each topic is a chance to connect with your readers and make them feel something.

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Ideas for Narrative Essay Topics

After exploring how students write narrative paragraphs, we've put together a list of narrative essay topics designed specifically for college and school students. This list covers a wide range of subjects, so pick one that speaks to you!

Literacy Narrative Essay Topics for College Students

How about delving into captivating literacy narrative essay topics designed specifically for college-level writing? Exciting, isn't it?

  • How did a childhood book shape your view of the world?
  • What challenges did you face when learning to read in a second language?
  • How has storytelling within your family influenced your literacy journey?
  • Can you recall a pivotal moment that ignited your love for reading?
  • How did a specific teacher inspire your passion for literature?
  • Have you ever encountered a character in a book who profoundly impacted your perspective on life?
  • What role did writing play in helping you navigate a difficult period in your life?
  • How has your relationship with technology affected your reading habits?
  • What cultural or historical event sparked your interest in a particular genre of literature?
  • How has poetry shaped your understanding of language and emotion?
  • Have you ever experienced a breakthrough moment in your writing process?
  • How has reading aloud impacted your comprehension and enjoyment of literature?
  • Can you recall a time when a book challenged your beliefs or worldview?
  • How has participating in a book club enriched your reading experience?
  • What strategies have you developed to overcome reading difficulties or distractions?

Personal Narrative Essay Topics on Relationships

Take a moment to reflect on your past experiences and craft compelling personal narratives with these essay ideas.

  • How did a specific friendship shape who you are today?
  • Can you recount a moment that strengthened your bond with a family member?
  • What challenges have you faced in maintaining a long-distance relationship?
  • How has a mentor influenced your personal and professional development?
  • Have you experienced a betrayal in a relationship? How did it impact you?
  • Can you describe a memorable conflict resolution process within a relationship?
  • How has your relationship with a pet affected your emotional well-being?
  • What lessons have you learned from navigating a romantic relationship?
  • How has your relationship with a sibling evolved over time?
  • Can you recall a time when you had to set boundaries in a friendship?
  • How has volunteering or community involvement enriched your relationships?
  • What cultural differences have influenced your relationships with others?
  • Can you share a moment when you felt truly understood by someone?
  • How has technology affected the dynamics of your relationships?
  • Have you ever experienced a reconciliation that transformed a strained relationship?

Best Narrative Essay Topics on Education and Learning

Consider the beauty of sharing your personal experiences and emotions in a captivating manner through these ideas for personal narrative essays.

  • What was the most valuable lesson you learned outside of the classroom?
  • Can you recount a moment when a teacher's unconventional method transformed your understanding of a subject?
  • How has a field trip or experiential learning opportunity impacted your education?
  • What challenges have you faced in balancing extracurricular activities with academics?
  • Have you ever had a "Eureka!" moment while studying? Describe it.
  • How has learning a new skill outside of school influenced your academic performance?
  • Can you recall a time when a peer's perspective challenged your own understanding of a topic?
  • How has technology enhanced or hindered your learning experience?
  • What role does creativity play in your approach to learning?
  • Have you ever experienced a setback that ultimately propelled you forward academically?
  • How has your cultural background influenced your learning style?
  • Can you describe a time when you had to advocate for yourself within an educational setting?
  • How has mentorship shaped your educational journey?
  • What strategies have you employed to overcome academic challenges or obstacles?
  • Can you reflect on a time when failure taught you a valuable lesson about learning?

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Personal Narrative Essay Ideas on Reflection on Life

Why not ignite your creativity with a range of narrative essay topics, from extraordinary moments to everyday experiences?

  • How has a moment of failure ultimately led to personal growth and resilience?
  • Can you recount a pivotal decision that significantly altered the course of your life?
  • What lessons have you learned from navigating a crossroads or major life transition?
  • How has your perspective on success evolved over time?
  • Can you reflect on a time when you had to confront and overcome a deeply held fear?
  • What role has gratitude played in shaping your outlook on life?
  • How have your values and beliefs been influenced by significant life experiences?
  • Can you describe a moment when you found clarity and purpose amidst chaos or uncertainty?
  • What impact has traveling to a new place had on your understanding of the world and yourself?
  • How has adversity strengthened your character and determination?
  • Can you recall a time when a random act of kindness profoundly impacted your life?
  • What lessons have you learned from embracing vulnerability and authenticity in relationships?
  • How has practicing mindfulness or self-reflection enhanced your well-being and happiness?
  • Can you reflect on a period of personal transformation or self-discovery?
  • How have you found meaning and fulfillment in pursuing your passions and interests?

Ideas for a Narrative Essay on Culture and Society

Engaging your readers with narrative essays on culture and society is a great way to spark interest, offering captivating ideas for exploration.

  • How has your family's unique culinary heritage influenced your cultural identity?
  • Can you reflect on a specific cultural artifact or heirloom that holds deep significance for your family?
  • What challenges have you faced in preserving traditional customs while adapting to modern societal expectations?
  • How has a local festival or celebration revealed the intricacies of your community's cultural tapestry?
  • Can you recount a moment when you navigated a cultural clash between your upbringing and the dominant culture?
  • How has your experience as a first-generation immigrant shaped your understanding of cultural assimilation?
  • What lessons have you learned from participating in intercultural exchange programs or initiatives?
  • Can you describe a unique cultural practice or tradition within your community that outsiders might find intriguing or misunderstood?
  • How has the revitalization of indigenous languages contributed to the preservation of cultural heritage in your region?
  • Can you reflect on a personal journey of reconnecting with your cultural roots after a period of assimilation or disconnection?
  • What role does storytelling play in passing down cultural wisdom and values within your family or community?
  • How has the portrayal of your culture in mainstream media affected your sense of belonging and self-perception?
  • Can you recount a moment when you challenged cultural stereotypes through creative expression or advocacy?
  • How has the migration of a specific cultural group enriched the social fabric and economic landscape of your community?
  • What initiatives or grassroots movements are currently underway to promote cross-cultural understanding and cooperation in your society?

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Narrative Writing Topics on Hobbies and Interests

Wow your readers by turning your passions and hobbies into compelling narrative essay topics that will get them thinking.

  • How has your passion for urban gardening transformed neglected spaces in your community?
  • Can you recount a thrilling adventure from your hobby of urban exploration?
  • What lessons have you learned from restoring vintage motorcycles in your spare time?
  • How has your fascination with birdwatching deepened your connection to nature and conservation efforts?
  • Can you describe a memorable moment from your hobby of foraging wild edibles in the wilderness?
  • What unique skills have you developed through your hobby of beekeeping, and how have they impacted your daily life?
  • How has your interest in historical reenactment brought the past to life in unexpected ways?
  • Can you reflect on a transformative experience from your hobby of landscape photography?
  • What insights have you gained from practicing the art of bonsai cultivation and nurturing miniature ecosystems?
  • How has your passion for stargazing inspired awe and wonder in the vastness of the universe?
  • Can you recount a challenging project from your hobby of woodworking and the satisfaction it brought upon completion?
  • What cultural connections have you discovered through your hobby of traditional folk dancing?
  • How has your interest in sustainable fashion influenced your consumer habits and environmental awareness?
  • Can you describe a moment of serenity and mindfulness experienced while practicing the art of tea ceremony?
  • How has your hobby of letterpress printing preserved the tactile beauty of handmade craftsmanship in a digital age?

Narrative Essay Titles on Life-Changing Moments

Life is full of unexpected twists that can lead to life-changing moments. Take a look at these narrative essay titles for stories that have had a lasting impact on your life.

  • How did surviving a natural disaster reshape your perspective on life?
  • Can you recall a single conversation that drastically altered the course of your life?
  • What was the pivotal moment that inspired you to pursue your dreams against all odds?
  • How did a chance encounter lead to a life-changing friendship or partnership?
  • Can you reflect on the decision that transformed your career trajectory?
  • What profound lesson did you learn from facing a life-threatening illness or injury?
  • How did traveling to a new country open your eyes to new possibilities and opportunities?
  • Can you recount the moment when you discovered your true passion or calling in life?
  • What was the turning point that allowed you to break free from a toxic relationship or environment?
  • How did experiencing failure or rejection ultimately lead to personal growth and resilience?
  • Can you describe the moment when you found the strength to overcome a deep-seated fear or insecurity?
  • What life-changing realization did you have while experiencing a period of solitude or introspection?
  • How did a profound act of kindness from a stranger restore your faith in humanity?
  • Can you reflect on the moment when you forgave someone who had deeply hurt you, and how it changed your perspective on forgiveness?
  • What pivotal decision did you make that allowed you to reclaim control over your own happiness and destiny?

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Good Narrative Topics on Travel and Adventure

Consider creating intriguing titles for your narrative essay ideas by exploring thrilling travel adventures.

  • Can you recount a memorable encounter with wildlife during your solo hiking adventure?
  • How did a spontaneous decision to explore an unfamiliar city lead to unexpected discoveries?
  • What lessons did you learn from navigating a foreign country with only a map and your instincts?
  • Can you describe the exhilaration of conquering a challenging mountain peak for the first time?
  • How did immersing yourself in a local culture during your travels broaden your perspective on the world?
  • What unexpected obstacles did you encounter while embarking on a backpacking journey through rugged terrain?
  • Can you reflect on the transformative experience of volunteering abroad in a community-driven project?
  • How did getting lost in a labyrinthine city alleyway lead to serendipitous encounters and newfound friendships?
  • What was the most memorable meal you had while sampling street food in a bustling market abroad?
  • Can you recount the adrenaline rush of participating in an extreme sports activity in a foreign land?
  • How did witnessing a breathtaking natural phenomenon during your travels leave a lasting impression on you?
  • What cultural traditions or rituals did you participate in during a homestay experience with a local family?
  • Can you describe the sense of wonder and awe you felt while exploring ancient ruins or historical sites?
  • How did navigating a language barrier challenge and ultimately enrich your travel experience?
  • What valuable life lessons did you learn from the mishaps and misadventures encountered during your journey off the beaten path?

Narrative Essay Topic Ideas on Career and Work Experience

College students can uncover captivating narrative essay ideas by exploring potential career paths or reminiscing about past job experiences.

  • How did a challenging project at work showcase your problem-solving skills and resilience?
  • Can you reflect on a pivotal mentorship experience that guided your career trajectory?
  • What valuable lessons did you learn from a career setback or failure, and how did it shape your future success?
  • How did a workplace conflict lead to personal growth and improved communication skills?
  • Can you recount a moment when taking a professional risk paid off in unexpected ways?
  • What insights did you gain from transitioning to a new industry or career path?
  • How did participating in a cross-functional team project enhance your collaboration and leadership abilities?
  • Can you describe the satisfaction of achieving a long-term career goal after years of hard work and perseverance?
  • What impact did a meaningful recognition or award have on your motivation and sense of accomplishment?
  • How did volunteering or pro bono work contribute to your professional development and sense of purpose?
  • Can you reflect on the decision to leave a stable job in pursuit of passion or fulfillment?
  • What strategies did you employ to navigate a toxic work environment and maintain your well-being?
  • How did a career setback lead to unexpected opportunities for personal and professional growth?
  • Can you describe a moment when mentorship or sponsorship played a crucial role in advancing your career?
  • What lessons did you learn from a challenging client or customer interaction, and how did it shape your approach to customer service and relationship-building?

Interesting Narrative Essay Topics about Challenges and Obstacles

If you're not sure what to write about for your narrative essay, think back to the tough times you've had and how you managed to get through them.

  • How did you conquer a once-paralyzing fear to chase your dreams?
  • What new strengths did you discover while adapting to a physical challenge?
  • Can you recall a creative solution you used during a tough financial period?
  • When did you bravely stand against injustice, despite opposition?
  • How did overcoming a language barrier broaden your horizons?
  • What key lessons did you learn from a major setback in your life?
  • How did you manage overwhelming stress and responsibilities?
  • What inner reserves of resilience did you draw upon after personal loss?
  • Describe a time when you defied societal norms to pursue your goals.
  • Reflect on a moment when failure fueled your determination for success.
  • When did you find the courage to leave your comfort zone behind?
  • How did community support bolster you through a challenging time?
  • Share a time when self-doubt led to newfound confidence.
  • Can you recount a tragedy that spurred your personal growth?
  • What insights did overcoming a monumental obstacle reveal about life?

Best Narrative Essay Topics: How to Choose the One That Resonates 

A narrative essay is a type of writing that tells a personal story, including characters, plot, setting, and the order of events. Its main goal is to connect with readers emotionally and share a specific message or insight through the retelling of a meaningful experience.

Students write narrative essays as part of their studies for several reasons. Firstly, it allows them to express themselves creatively by sharing their unique experiences, thoughts, and feelings. Secondly, it helps them develop important writing skills like organizing ideas and thoughts effectively.

Narrative Essay topics

Choosing good narrative essay ideas involves looking at personal experiences, interests, and the potential for engaging storytelling. Here's a simple guide to help you pick the right topic:

  • Think about significant moments in your life that had a lasting impact, such as personal growth or overcoming challenges.
  • Choose topics related to your hobbies, interests, or areas of expertise to make your story more engaging.
  • Consider what your audience would be interested in and choose topics that resonate with them.
  • Focus on a specific event or detail to make your narrative more focused and impactful.
  • Look for universal themes like love or personal transformation that connect with readers on a deeper level.
  • Brainstorm ideas and write freely to uncover compelling topics.
  • Decide on storytelling techniques like flashbacks or foreshadowing and choose a topic that fits.
  • Get feedback from friends, peers, or instructors to see if your topics are interesting and impactful.
  • Choose topics that evoke strong emotions for a more compelling narrative.
  • Select a topic that you personally connect with to make your story authentic.

Once you've chosen a topic, brainstorm ideas and create an outline for your essay. Follow your professor's instructions carefully and consider seeking help from our narrative essay writing service if needed.

Bring your stories to life with EssayPro. Select from a vast array of narrative essay topics and let our professionals help you weave your tales into captivating essays. Whether it's adventure, reflection, or imagination, we're here to assist.

Final Remarks

As we wrap up, our list of 200 narrative essay topics is here to fuel your creativity for your next writing project! Whether you're sharing a memorable event, reliving a childhood memory, or expressing a profound insight, crafting a narrative essay can be an uplifting experience that resonates deeply with readers.

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Daniel Parker

Daniel Parker

is a seasoned educational writer focusing on scholarship guidance, research papers, and various forms of academic essays including reflective and narrative essays. His expertise also extends to detailed case studies. A scholar with a background in English Literature and Education, Daniel’s work on EssayPro blog aims to support students in achieving academic excellence and securing scholarships. His hobbies include reading classic literature and participating in academic forums.

narrative essay topics grade 12

is an expert in nursing and healthcare, with a strong background in history, law, and literature. Holding advanced degrees in nursing and public health, his analytical approach and comprehensive knowledge help students navigate complex topics. On EssayPro blog, Adam provides insightful articles on everything from historical analysis to the intricacies of healthcare policies. In his downtime, he enjoys historical documentaries and volunteering at local clinics.

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narrative essay topics grade 12

50 Engaging Narrative Essay Topics for High Schoolers

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What’s Covered:

Narrative essays vs. analytical essays, how to pick the right narrative essay topic, elements of a strong narrative essay, engaging narrative essay topics for high schoolers, where to get your narrative essay edited for free.

Narrative essays are an extensive form of writing that gives readers the opportunity to follow along as a person goes through a journey or sets of experiences. Rather than providing analytic insight, narrative essays simply share a story and offer a first-person account. These essays may seem easy to write at first, but it takes a certain finesse to write a narrative essay that is interesting, cohesive, and well-researched. Whether you’re looking for a unique topic to write about, or just want some new inspiration, CollegeVine is here to help! These 50 narrative essay topics are engaging, unique and will have you writing in no time.

A narrative essay is a great way to express your personal experiences and opinions, but it is important to remember that this type of essay is different from an analytical paper. In a narrative essay, you do not need to provide background information or explain your thoughts and feelings; instead, you simply tell a story. It’s important to avoid too much telling in your writing; instead, use creative details and vivid imagery to make readers feel as if they are actually right there with you.

Where You Will Encounter Narrative Essays

This type of essay is typically encountered in high school, where students may be required to write personal statements to prepare for their Common App essay . Narrative essays are also commonly seen in AP Language and Composition. Therefore, it’s important you are aware of the style because you are bound to have a narrative essay assignment.  

Of course, before you start writing, it is important to pick the right essay topic. There are many factors involved in the process of picking the perfect narrative essay topic for your story.

You should always choose a topic that you are passionate about, since writing on something you care about will make the process much easier. Not only will it be more interesting to create your paper around something that truly interests you, but it will also allow you to fully express yourself in your essay. You also want to be sure that the topic has enough material to work with. If your chosen topic is too short, you will not have enough content to write a complete paper. For example, if you are writing about your experience getting lost at the mall, make sure that you have enough information to work with to craft an engaging narrative. 

The best topic for an engaging narrative essay is one that focuses on showing versus telling, has a clear structure, and provides a dialogue. These elements come together to form an engaging narrative essay. Regardless of what subject you pick, any topic may be turned into a fascinating, A+ worthy narrative using the tips below.

Show, Don’t Tell

To write a good narrative essay, it’s important to show, not tell. Instead of simply informing your audience, show them what you mean. For example, instead of saying “I was nervous,” you could say “My heart began to race and my stomach filled with butterflies.” Also make sure to use sensory details, such as sights, sounds and tastes, and include a personal reflection at the end of your narrative. 

Begin with a Strong Opening Line

A good narrative essay will begin with an attention-grabbing opening line. But make sure to avoid common clichés, such as “It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.” Instead, come up with something original and specific to you and your situation. For example: “My pre-calc teacher was obsessed with circles. I mean, he even used circular note cards.” Or, “It all started the day my mom brought home a guinea pig.”

Follows a Three-Act Structure

A strong narrative essay follows the same three-act structure as other essays. But in order to make it interesting, you’ll need to come up with a creative way to break things down into sections. For example, using the guinea pig example from above, you could write the following:

  • Act 1 – Introduction: The day my mom brought home a guinea pig.
  • Act 2 – Conflict: The day I had to say goodbye to my beloved pet.
  • Act 3 – Conclusion: Looking back at how much I miss him now that he’s gone.

Conclude with Personal Reflection

To conclude your narrative essay, you’ll want to explain what this specific experience taught you or how you’ve changed. For example, upon realizing that her pre-calc teacher was obsessed with circles, the writer of the previous example begins to notice circular shapes everywhere. Another way to conclude your narrative essay is by touching on how this experience impacted you emotionally. For example, after losing his guinea pig, the writer explains how much he missed it.

Use Dialogue

Include a conversation in your essay to make it come alive. For example, instead of simply saying that you met a new friend, talk about how you introduced yourselves or what they were wearing when you met them.

narrative essay topics grade 12

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The following list of 50 narrative essay topics is divided into categories. This will make it easier to find a topic that fits your writing style.

1. What is a childhood song that still sticks with you today?

2. Your first day of Kindergarten

3. Talk about a time when you’re siblings looked up to you

4. Describe the best birthday party you’ve ever had

5. Talk about the best day you ever spent with a childhood friend

6. Explain your first childhood hobby

7. Describe your first halloween costume

8. A family vacation gone wrong

9. Your first family reunion

10. Describe a tradition that is unique to your family

11. Describe your family to a person who’s never met them before

12. What frustrates you most about your family

13. If you could only keep one memory of your family, what would it be and why?

14. Describe a time your family embarrassed you in public

15. The most beautiful place in the world

16. Your favorite season and why

17. If you were a part of nature, what element would you be? Why?

18. When you go outside, which of your senses are you most thankful to have?

19. Describe the first time you witnessed a tornado 

20. Write a poem about your favorite season

21. Describe yourself as one of the four seasons

22. Describe a time in which you felt connected with nature

23. Describe the first time you played an instrument and how you felt

24. What major event would be much worse if music was removed, and why?

25. If you could only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?

26. What would a life without music look like?

27. If you could master one instrument, what would it be and why?

Relationships

28. What if you had never met your best friend?

29. Describe a time when you fixed a broken relationship

30. Talk about a movie that defined a relationship for you

31. Describe your first date

32. Describe the first time you made a friend

33. Describe your relationship with your parents

Self Reflection

34. Have you ever fooled someone? If so, describe what happened and how you felt about it

35. What is the worst thing you’ve done to someone else?

36. Write about the difference between how things seem and how they really are. 

37. Have you ever been embarrassed in some way? If so, describe the situation and how it affected you as well as those around you

38. Have you ever witnessed something really beautiful? Describe it

39. Is your glass half empty or half full?

Overcoming Adversity 

40. Have you ever been very afraid of something but tried your hardest to appear fearless? If so, describe that experience

41. When have you ever succeeded when you thought you might fail

42. What are your secret survival strategies?

43. Describe the last time you were stressed and why?

44. Describe a time when you were discriminated against

45. The most memorable class you’ve had and why

46. Your favorite study abroad memory

47. Describe your kindergarten classroom

48. Describe your first teacher

49. The first time you experienced detention

50. Your first field trip

Hopefully these topics will get you thinking about a personal experience that could make for a thoughtful and engaging narrative essay. Remember, a strong narrative essay must contain relatable details and a clear flow that keeps the reader entertained and engaged to read all the way to the end.

If you need some additional guidance on your narrative essay, use CollegeVine’s free peer review essay tool to get feedback for free!

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narrative essay topics grade 12

Narrative Essay Topics Featured

  • Scriptwriting

Narrative Essay Topics — Prompts & Ideas For All Grade Levels

N arrative essays can present a serious challenge for even the most seasoned of writers, but fear not, we’ve compiled some great narrative essay topics to inspire your next paper! Follow along as we explore prompts relating to life, school, and more. By the end, you’ll be prepared to tackle narrative essays from a variety of different angles.

Good Narrative Topics

What is a narrative essay.

Before we jump into our narrative essay topics, we have to first answer the question: what is a narrative essay ? A narrative essay is a prose-written story that’s focused on the commentary of a central theme.

Narrative essays are generally written in the first-person POV , and are usually about a topic that’s personal to the writer.

Everything in a narrative essay should take place in an established timeline, with a clear beginning, middle, and end. 

For more on narrative essays, check out this video on literacy narrative topics and structure:

Narrative Essay Topic Ideas  •  Narrative Essay Titles

In the world of literature, narrative essays are held to a rigorous structure. We’re not going to enforce that rigor here! So, follow along as we (hopefully) inspire you with a variety of narrative essay topics and argument essay ideas. 

Narrative Ideas

Narrative essay ideas for kids.

Narrative essay topics for kids usually focus on family, school, and friends.

Here are some easy narrative essay topics that work well for kids:

  • Describe your most recent birthday party.
  • Tell the story of your first day of school.
  • Who is your best friend?
  • Have you ever helped others?
  • Describe your favorite animal(s)
  • What is your dream for the future?

This next video from “Teaching Without Frills” explores narrative essay topics for kids in further detail. 

Narrative Essay Ideas  •  Titles of narrative essays

Sometimes it can help to visualize narrative essay topics with pictures, especially for younger kids. If you’re a teacher, consider using pictures to inspire your students!

Narrative essay ideas for teens

Middle school and high school students are often asked to write narrative essays too. But whereas narrative essay topics for elementary school students are usually structured around simple, positive topics, narrative essay topics for teens are generally more contemplative.

Here are some personal narrative essay topics that work well for teens:

  • Describe a moment of loss.
  • Describe a moment of serenity.
  • Recount the story of a lost friend.
  • Detail your greatest creation.
  • Tell the story of your favorite teacher.
  • How would you change the world?

Remember: not every person has the same circumstances as others. That's why they're called personal narrative essay topics.

It’s important to frame narrative essay topics for kids in a way that every kid can relate. For example: the prompt “a lost friend” could mean a friend who moved away or a dead pet. Make sure to word your prompts in such a way that participants can glean their own interpretation.

Related Posts

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Narrative Essay Ideas

Narrative essay ideas for young adults.

Young adults are sometimes asked to write narrative essays for school and or job applications. Narrative essay reviewers typically want to see writers demonstrate maturity and growth in their work. As such, their questions are generally structured around challenges and problem management.

Here are some narrative argument essay topics for young adults:

  • Have you ever failed at your job?
  • If you could change one thing from your past, what would it be?
  • What is something you take pride in?
  • Describe your childhood.
  • How will you grow this year?
  • What is the most important element of success?

Of course, the topics above are mostly focused on success and failure. Young adults can certainly respond to the other prompts too!

Narrative essay ideas for adults

Adults aren’t generally tasked with writing narrative essays unless they’re writers. But that doesn’t have to be the case! There are a lot of positives to writing narrative essays, whether you’re a literary professor or a wrestler looking to articulate your thoughts.

So, here are some things to write a narrative essay about for adults:

  • What was your worst job?
  • What (or who) was your first love?
  • Who do you take care of?
  • What is your most prized possession?
  • If you could tell somebody who’s now gone from your life one thing, what would it be?
  • Paint a picture of where you find peace.

Narrative essay titles Easy narrative essay topics

Narrative essay titles  •  Easy narrative essay topics

In recent years, companies have been selling books with narrative essay prompts for adults (particularly elderly adults) to reflect on their lives.

Creative Writing Prompts & Exercises

Now that you're brainstorming good titles for personal narrative, time to learn about other forms of creating writing. A narrative essay is just one type of essay – there are dozens more! In our next article, we break down more creative writing prompts and exercises, including those suited to fantasy, romance, horror, and more. By the end, you’ll know a ton of different ways to approach your next story.

Up Next: Creative Writing Exercises →

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  • Everybody gets afraid sometimes. If there were no fear, there would be no opportunity for bravery. Write about the scariest moment in your life.
  • Some people avoid challenges. Others see them as opportunities to grow. Write about a time when you overcame a great challenge.
  • One person’s trash is another person’s treasure. Write about a time when you discovered something valuable that others had discarded or ignored.
  • The golden rule states that you should treat others as you’d like to be treated. It’d be nice if everyone followed this rule, but its been broken more than once. Write about a time when you felt disrespected. How did you handle it and what did you learn?
  • Everybody has a special talent. Write about the time when you discovered one of your talents.
  • It’s no fun to be in pain, but it can be worse to watch someone you love suffer. Write about a time when one of your loved ones was hurt.
  • The world can be a cold place, but a little bit of kindness can make it a lot warmer. Write about a time when you made the world a better place for someone by being kind.
  • It’s a good thing that nobody’s perfect. Some of life’s greatest lessons are learned on accident. Write about a time when you learned an important lesson by making a mistake.
  • It can be hard to see ourselves for who we really are at times. Write about a time when someone else taught you something about yourself.
  • Doing the right thing isn’t always easy. Write about a time when you got in trouble or made someone angry by doing what you thought was right.
  • You don’t have to learn everything the hard way. Write about a time when you avoided trouble by taking someone’s advice.
  • You shouldn’t judge a book by its cover. Write about a time when you were underestimated or when you underestimated someone else.
  • Practice makes perfect. Write about a time when you got better at doing something by practicing.
  • Can’t we all just get along? Write about a time when you got into a disagreement with someone. How did you resolve it?
  • There’s a time for work and a time for play, but it’s a lot more fun to play. Write about a time when you put off doing something important to have fun. How did it work out for you in the end and what did you learn?
  • You never know until you try. Write about a time when you learned something about yourself by trying something new.
  • Hard work doesn’t always payoff. Write about a time when you worked hard on something but felt like your efforts weren’t appreciated.
  • You can’t trust everyone. Write about a time when someone betrayed your trust. How did you react? Did you ever forgive them?
  • You can’t make everybody happy. Write about a time when you made a decision that disappointed or hurt someone.
  • Nobody said that life would be fair. Write about a time when you witnessed someone taking advantage of a weaker person. How did it make you feel?
  • Sometimes two people just click. Write about a time when you formed a genuine connection with someone.
  • So much in life is about the choices that you make. Write about a time when you had to choose between two things that were important to you.
  • It’s the people we love that can hurt us the most. Write about a time when you had to confront a loved one over their decisions.
  • Accomplishments mean so much more when work for them. Write about a time when you worked hard to earn something. How did it make you feel to meet your goal?
  • Even the best of friends have the occasional argument. Write about a time when you got into a dispute with a friend. How did the situation get resolved?
  • Appearances are important. Sometimes your appearance can work for you. Other times it can work against. Write about a time when someone treated you differently because of your appearance. You can share a negative or positive experience.
  • You can’t always get what you want and sometimes that’s for the best. Write about a time when you were denied something that you wanted and it worked out alright in the end.
  • Once in a while everything just goes your way. Write about a time when you felt on top of the world.
  • Sometimes people drift apart. Other times they are torn apart. Write about a time when you were separated from someone with whom you were close.
  • It’s been said that every gray cloud has a silver lining. The hard part is looking for it. Write about a time when you made the best of a bad situation.
  • Faith is believing in something that you cannot prove. Write about a time when you had faith in someone or something that others doubted.
  • There’s a time to be creative and there’s a time to follow directions. Write about a time when you benefitted from following directions.
  • Some people are just looking for a reason to not like you. Write about a time when you got on someone’s bad side just by being yourself.
  • No matter how badly someone messes up, they always have the potential to redeem themselves. Write about a time when you or someone you know made a mistake and found redemption.
  • It’s good to play it safe, but sometimes you have to take chances. Write about a time when you took a risk. Did it work out for you?
  • Most people agree that honesty is a virtue, but sometimes being too honest can get you into hot water. Write about a time when you got in trouble or on someone’s bad side just by telling the truth.
  • Nothing sours an accomplishment like jealousy. Write about a time when you or someone you know was affected by the jealousy of another.
  • The older that you get, the more responsponsibilities you gain. It can be too much at times. Write about a time when you felt overwhelmed by your responsibilities. How did you handle it?
  • Part of growing up is facing your fears. Write about a time when you did something that you were afraid to do.
  • It’s hard to think about anything else when danger is approaching. Write about a time when you felt unsafe.
  • You wouldn’t be where you are today without the countless sacrifices of others. Once in a while you have to give back too. Write about a time when you gave up something that was important to you to help somebody else.
  • It’s been said that forgiveness is divine. Write about a time when you forgave someone for hurting or disappointing you.
  • Our first impressions aren’t always accurate. Write about a time when your first impression of someone or something proved to be wrong.
  • Everybody makes mistakes, even teachers. Write about a time when you were affected by one of your teachers’ mistakes.
  • With so many awesome things to learn and do in the world, nobody should ever be bored. Write about a time when you turned a boring day into an exciting one.
  • People change. That’s a part of life. Write about a time when you or someone you know changed in an important way.
  • When opportunity knocks, it’s up to you to answer the door. Write about a time when you took advantage of an interesting or exciting opportunity.
  • A kind word can go a long way. Write about a time when someone affected you by saying something nice or encouraging.
  • The world needs heroes and anyone can be one. Write about a time when you did something heroic. It doesn’t have to be as dramatic as saving someone’s life. It can be as simple as helping someone out when they needed it.
  • Your reputation is important. People will treat you differently based on how you are reputed to be. Write about a time when you did something that affected your reputation for better or worse.
  • Anger can blind. Write about a time when anger caused you to behave in a way that you later regretted.
  • Authority is when someone has the power to make decisions for you. Write about a time when you wanted to challenge someone’s authority. What were they doing to cause you to feel this way? How did you handle the situation?
  • Everybody has had someone awkward moments in life. Write about a time when you felt embarrassed. How did you deal with your embarrassment?
  • The process of growing up is a slow one. It takes your whole childhood. But some events cause us to grow quicker than others. Write about an experience that caused you to grow up quickly.
  • You can’t give everyone everything that they want. That would leave nothing for you. You have to set limits. Write about a time when someone wanted more from you than you had to give.
  • Your conscience is that little voice in your head that tells you when you are doing something wrong. Write about a time when your conscience stopped you from doing something.
  • Friendship can be found in unexpected places. Write about a time when you became friends or partners with an unlikely person.
  • It’s important to be persistent, but you have to know when to let go too. Write about a time when you quit pursuing something or let go of a dream.
  • Anyone can talk. Followsing through is the hard part. Write about a time when you proved yourself with your actions.
  • We are all tempted to do things that we shouldn’t at times. It takes integrity to do the right thing against your baser desires. Write about a time when you resisted the temptation to do something wrong.
  • Tact is the ability to phrase criticism in a sensitive way. It’s hard to be tactful all of the time. Write about a time when you blurted out something that you immediately regretted saying.
  • It’d be nice if there were a sure fire way to tell if someone were lying, but there isn’t. Write about a time when someone deceived you. How did you find out that they were lying to you? What did you do?
  • You can’t win all of the time. Some of life’s greatest lessons are learned in defeat. Write about a time when you lost or failed at something and learned a lesson.
  • You can predict the future, but you’re not alway going to get it right. Write about a time when you were surprised by the outcome of an event.
  • William Shakespeare said that “Parting is such sweet sorrow.” Write about a time when you had to say goodbye to someone or something that was important to you. How did you get over the loss?
  • Money can’t buy everything. Write about a time when you gained something valuable that can’t be bought or sold. Some examples might include a special skill, an important understanding, or a good relationship with someone.
  • Presentation is everything. Write about a time when you or someone else made a strong impression based on manners. It can be a good impression or a bad one.
  • A little bit of gratitude goes a long way. Write about a time when you felt unappreciated.
  • Bad habits are hard to kick. Write about a time when you gave up something that was bad for you.
  • A hypocrite is a person who tells you not to do something that he or she does. Write about a time when a person acted hypocritically toward you. You may want to write about a teacher, parent, or friend.
  • Not knowing your limits can be dangerous. Write about a time when you or someone you know took things too far.
  • Laws were put in place for a reason. Still, not everyone follows them. Write about an experience that you shared with someone who broke a law.
  • Sometimes we make decisions without fully considering the consequences. Write about a decision that you made which you later regretted.
  • The only constant is change. People can change in ways that we find disappointing. Write about a time when someone you know turned out to be different than you thought they were.
  • You never know what you’re capable of until you try. Write about a time when you succeed at something despite your doubts.
  • Technology is supposed to solve our problems, but sometimes it just complicates them. Write about a time when technology made your life more difficult.
  • The person you are today might not be the one you are tomorrow. People always have the potential to change, to improve. Write about an experience that changed you for the better.
  • Our actions can have far reaching consequences that can be difficult to predict. Write about a time when you unintentionally hurt someone as a result of your actions. Did you make it up to them?
  • Misunderstandings are the source of many conflicts. Write about a time when you solved a problem by talking about it.
  • It can be hard to fit in when you feel awkward. Write about a time when you felt out of place. How did you adapt to the situation?
  • Staying cool and calm helps you perform better, but this isn’t always easy. Some situations push you to the edge. Write about at time when you lost your patience.
  • Sometimes the greatest conflicts come from within. Write about a time when you were challenged by an inner conflict. How did you resolve the problem?
  • The world can be an overwhelming place. Write about a time when you just wanted to get away from everything.
  • The best laid schemes of mice and men often go awry. Write about a time when things did not work out the way that you planned.
  • Not everyone is a good leader, and even good leaders can make bad decisions. Write about a time when you disagreed with someone who was in charge of you.
  • Sometimes we think that we need help when all we really need to do is to put forth a decent effort. Write about a time when you learned to rely on yourself.
  • Your national identity is complicated. Sometimes we are proud to be citizens of our country. Other times things are done in our country’s name that we dislike. Write about a time when you were either proud or ashamed of your nationality.
  • You can’t always get what you want, but that doesn’t mean that you should stop trying. Write about a time when you fought for what you wanted and got your way.
  • The world would be a better place if everyone treated each other with love and respect, but people don’t always act like that. The world can be unfair. Write about a time when you witnessed or were the victim of an injustice.
  • Opinions can make or break you. Write about a time when someone misjudged you.
  • Boys and girls are treated differently at times. It’s not fair, but it happens. Write about a time when you were treated differently because of your gender. It can be in a way that benefited you or worked against you.
  • It’s been said that no good deed goes unpunished. Write about a time when you were trying to help someone and it backfired.
  • Sometimes its best to keep your mouth shut. Write about a time when you got in trouble for sharing your opinion.
  • The sense of smell is closely tied to memory. Think about scents that you have linked to experiences in your mind. Write about a time when an aroma became part of your memory.
  • People are social by nature. Being alone can be torturesome. Write about a time when you felt lonely or abandoned.
  • You can’t run from your past. It will always find a way to catch up with you. Write about a time when something from your past came back to haunt you.
  • Many people are resistant to change, even when it is good for them. Write about a time when you grew to appreciate something that you once resisted.
  • Sometimes it’s better to be lucky than talented. Write about a time when you benefitted just by being in the right place at the right time.
  • Everybody has perfect vision when they look into the past. Write about a time when you learned something a bit too late to help.
  • It’s been said that the thrill is in the chase. Write about a time when you worked hard to get something, only to find out that you didn’t really want it after all.
  • It’s a lot easier to go with the flow, but sometimes our hearts won’t let us. Write about a time when you supported an unpopular position because of your feelings or ideals.

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150+ Great Narrative Essay Topics and Ideas

narrative essay topics

Often during the education process in school or university , we are asked to write an essay. Let’s talk about essays, in particular narrative ones. In a narrative essay, the author tells a story from real life. In this form of essay, the presentation of events in chronological order will not be enough. The authors’ thesis should interest the reader and make the story as vivid as possible so that the reader wants to become a part of the events described and can easily "transfer" to the story . More often such an essay is written in the 1st person in the present or past tense.

There are also other types of essays, such as:

  • Description essays. In such an essay, we describe an object.
  • Definition essays. Here we have one goal - to reveal this or that concept.
  • Illustration essays. Your goal is to prove a statement.
  • Argument essays. Here we give examples of persuasive facts that support your assertion.

Now let's look at the most popular narrative essay topics that we can board you with.

How to Know What Topic You Need?

If you were given a list of essay topics at schools or colleges , it would be logical if you choose a topic that is closer to you, on which you are not averse to reflecting.

If there is no list of topics, and you have only indicated the direction in which you should choose a problem for the essay, you will have to formulate the topic for narrative writing yourself.

Here are some tips on how to choose a topic for your essay:

  • Before defining a narrative essay topic, it is worth finding the author's position. This is the moral instruction of the author, which can be written directly or encrypted in the words or thoughts of the hero-narrator. To find it, one should single out the topic and all the micro-themes in the text, and then formulate moralizing within their framework, that is, the author's position.
  • From the author's position, it is worth asking a special question, that is, a question that requires a general answer, and not a short "yes" or "no". This question will be a problem.
  • It is necessary to find two examples in the text that illustrate the transition from the question to the author's position, that is, to help answer the question posed. This will prove that such a problem is indeed raised by the author.

Narrative Essay Topic Ideas

Now, let’s take a closer look at topics for narrative essay examples you can choose. 

Personal Narrative Essay Topics 

Personal narrative essay examples and ideas are needed when you describe something that you experienced in your life.

  • How To Be a Defensive Driver.
  • A Personal Narrative about Fear Of Heights.
  • My Fear of Failure.
  • The Narrative about Losing My Dad.
  • A Day I Lost My Best Friend.
  • Narrative on Precious Time.
  • What I Did This Summer.
  • Personal Narrative: I Am a Perfectionist.
  • Why Softball Is Important in My Life.
  • Narrative on Vocation.
  • My First Rock Concert.
  • How I Learned to Accept Myself the Way I am.
  • I Helped a Person in Need.
  • My Last Day at School.
  • The Character I Associate Myself with.

Cultural Narrative Essay Topics

Cultural topics for narratives allow you to highlight the topic of culture and at the same time present the story in an interesting way for the reader.

  • Narrative about Mexican Culture.
  • What traditions are unique in your family?
  • Which tradition surprised you the most?
  • How does the media influence our perception of culture?
  • How does culture define a person's personality?
  • What culture do you identify with?
  • What is your favorite holiday?
  • How does your family celebrate Christmas?
  • The Impact of Narrative in English Language and Culture.
  • What holiday has the most sacred meaning for you?
  • What traditions does your family observe on the Easter holidays?
  • Which of the cultural events you attended did you remember the most?
  • What foreign tradition do you like the most?
  • Holiday traditions in your family.
  • Which festival do you like the most?

Narrative Argument Essay Topics 

This type of narrative topics for an essay implies that you need to write about something that has had a big impact on you.

  • Conflict case from your life.
  • What disagreements did you have together with your friend?
  • The case when someone deceived you.
  • Has there been a choice in your life that you regret?
  • Have you been in conflict with other people?
  • A situation where you have to make a difficult decision between right and wrong.
  • Have you been caught doing something bad?
  • Have you ever had to win friends following the rules?
  • Have you ever blamed another person for what you did?
  • Have you helped someone for personal gain?
  • Have you ever played pranks on your friends?
  • What experience can you call the most difficult but important in life?
  • Have you ever been in a car accident?
  • Have you ever been humiliated?
  • Have you ever helped a friend solve his problem?

Interesting Narrative Essay Topics 

  • Have you had to make a difficult decision in life?
  • Have you ever flooded a neighbor's house?
  • Has there ever been a person in your life who has changed it drastically?
  • Would you like to relive any of those days again?
  • Have you ever failed an exam?
  • What was the scariest moment in your life?
  • Have you ever been really sick?
  • Have you ever saved another person's life?
  • Have you ever worked up the courage to visit a haunted house?
  • Have you ever won a prize?
  • What was your first job in life?
  • Have you ever participated in educational student exchange programs ?
  • What do you do when you are all alone?
  • What was your first meeting with the police?
  • Have you ever been to the emergency room?

Personal Experience Narrative Essay Topics 

Here you can describe people or events that influenced you in one way or another.

  • How have you met a special person in your life?
  • The person you enjoy the most.
  • The best place in the neighborhood.
  • The place you'd like to live your whole life.
  • A productive art, you enjoy.
  • What is your first job search ?
  • Your biggest disappointment.
  • Do you remember your first birthday?
  • Narrative on Earthquake: An Earth-Shattering Experience.
  • Have you ever encountered a wild animal?
  • Tell about the first time you got home alone.
  • How did you cook food for the first time?
  • Tell how you helped someone.
  • How did you overcome your fear?
  • Narrative about Video Games.

Relationship Narrative Essay Topics

Relationship narrative stories ideas help to describe our relationship and how our experience has influenced certain events in life.

  • Have you ever fallen in love?
  • What advice would you give to a couple who are just starting their relationship?
  • How would you define family?
  • If you have a best friend, how did you meet?
  • Do you think that your parents are more sensitive than others?
  • What is your attitude towards marriage?
  • Have you ever experienced gender bias?
  • How do you remember deceased family members?
  • What do you know about the origins of your family?
  • Narrative about Friendship.
  • How did you meet your best friend?
  • What can make you end a romantic relationship?
  • Is the community in your area important?
  • Do you think hatred can destroy a relationship?
  • Have you ever experienced intergenerational conflict?
  • What does honesty mean in a relationship?

Childhood Memories

In this type of essay, you need to describe the events and memories of childhood.

  • What was my first pet?
  • What are my first memories?
  • Whom did I look up to as a child?
  • How did I first go to the hospital?
  • My first meeting with my uncle/aunt.
  • The Impact of a Funeral.
  • My first terrible incident.
  • What are my childhood fears?
  • What was the happiest day of my childhood?
  • My first time at the stadium.

Growing Up in High School 

Here you need to recall the most vivid impressions from high school.

  • What lessons were my favorites?
  • Who was my favorite teacher?
  • What role in the school theater did I remember the most?
  • How I lost a sports match.
  • Topics forbidden to me.
  • How did I feel when I failed the exam?
  • How did I feel when I passed the exam with excellent marks?
  • Is commuting to school a routine for me?
  • My best adventure in school.
  • What kind of extracurricular activities do I enjoy the most?

Moral & Ethical Dilemmas

In this type of essay, you have to describe the ideas of the complexity of moral choice.

  • What is your attitude towards pro-life movement: argumentative essay on abortion ?
  • How can we influence the fight against racism?
  • How should a work ethic deal with sexism?
  • Do you think euthanasia should be legal?
  • Why can't war be ethical?
  • What moral issues does workplace automation cause?
  • The Missing Climate Change Narrative Analysis.
  • Is it ethical to have a lot of money?
  • If drugs were legal, would their use be ethical?
  • Is it possible to justify eating meat in the modern world?

College Student Life

Try to describe events and memories from your student's life.

  • Narrative about Reading.
  • My last day with my schoolmates.
  • My favorite course.
  • Meeting my better half.
  • The story of my split-up.
  • My brightest high school moment.
  • How I met my old friend.
  • My favorite professor.
  • Narrative on a Trip: The Wonders of Rome.
  • The most symbolic episode from my college life.
  • The day I moved.
  • Narrative on a Road Trip to Remember.
  • My first impressions of the college campus.
  • How I met my roommate.
  • My first friends at college.

Narrative Essay Topics for Different Grades 

Let’s look at the narrative speech topics for different grades.

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 5

  • My first bicycle ride.
  • My dad is my hero.
  • A day with my grandmother.
  • My first day at school.
  • My best friend.
  • My favorite teacher.
  • A school trip to the zoo.
  • My grandpa’s hands.
  • The most exciting day of school.
  • The best summer vacation.

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 6

  • A memorable teacher.
  • My first trip abroad.
  • A sad story from my childhood.
  • My favorite vacation with my family.
  • A fight with my best friend.
  • My best birthday party.
  • How we celebrate our parents’ wedding anniversary.
  • My first day at a new school.
  • Last Christmas was an interesting story.
  • How I lost my sister.

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 7

  • Something that scared me the most.
  • The best day of my life.
  • Helping a stranger.
  • How I met my best friend.
  • My brother’s wedding.
  • How I got my first pet.
  • Once I called the dean's office.
  • Conflict with my father.
  • Unique family tradition.

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 8

  • School trip to the museum.
  • My best day at school.
  • The most exciting day of summer vacation.
  • Worst day at school.
  • The day I got my first pet.
  • The hour we spent looking at our baby's album.
  • My first attempt at cooking.
  • My first Japanese pastry.
  • My first foreign friend.

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 9

  • A visit to the countryside.
  • How I lost my faith in humanity.
  • A car accident.
  • My friend had an accident.
  • A trip I will never forget.
  • The most enjoyable Christmas.
  • A bad experience that completely changed my behavior.
  • How I used to spend my summer vacations.
  • My experience with a tornado.
  • I got lost in the streets of venus.

Narrative Essay Topics for O Levels

  • A special moment when I got my first bike.
  • A disappointing birthday party.
  • The most embarrassing thing that happened to me.
  • A disastrous date.
  • The moment of success.
  • Growing up in New York.
  • A sporting experience.
  • A random act of kindness.
  • The first six months of COVID-19.
  • The end of my relationship.

Narrative Essay Topics for High School Students

Personal narrative ideas in high school include the classic moments that are stereotypical of the secondary school experience.

  • Special homecoming court moment.
  • A friendship that started long before high school.
  • Prom dress shopping and your self-esteem.
  • Anticipation for graduation.
  • An award or scholarship you received.
  • Participating in a school musical.
  • Coming to America: A Narrative of a Journey of Hope.
  • Your first love.
  • A moment you stood up for what you believed in.
  • How your relationship with your parents changed for the better.

Narrative Essay Topics for Middle School

Middle school is a great time of self-discovery that’s filled with firsts and memorable moments. Use these milestones as the topic for your narrative essay.

  • Making an unlikely friend.
  • How bad relationships help you become a better person.
  • The first time you opened your locker.
  • The teacher that makes you feel smart.
  • Moving from elementary school to middle school.
  • A social media post that inspired you.
  • A news story about a kid/teen that was uplifting.
  • A comment from a teacher that made you feel good.
  • A comment from someone you’re not friends with that made you feel good.
  • Being yourself.

Narrative Essay Topics for College Students

College is another time in your life that’s wrought with self-discovery and seeing the world as it truly is.

  • Frederick Douglass Narrative.
  • Frame Narrative in Mary Shelley’s Frankenstein.
  • Narrative on The Definition of Bravery in Beowulf.
  • A Critical Examination of Social Commentary and Narrative Execution.
  • Examples of community on campus.
  • A test experience that boosts your self-esteem.
  • The moment you realized you were going into the right field.
  • What does a college degree mean to you?
  • College is a microcosm of the world.
  • The feeling of independence.

Conclusion 

Teachers and students are very fond of narrative essay topics, as they are flexible enough that everyone can find a topic that is close to them. If you can’t decide on a topic yourself, then the list that we presented in our material will help you. We sincerely wish you good luck and inspiration for writing the best essay. And the topics we have suggested will help you with this!

extended essay topics

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narrative essay topics grade 12

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How do I use writing topics in my classroom?

narrative essay topics grade 12

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

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

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!

Top 10 Essay Topics for Grade 8

  • Benefits of reading for pleasure.
  • Pros and cons of school uniforms.
  • Environmental Changes: Negative and Positive Impacts.
  • The effects of bullying on mental health.
  • The significance of community service for students.
  • Making School Lunches Healthier and More Affordable .
  • Listening to music while studying: pros and cons.
  • The effects of video games on cognitive development.
  • Studying Abroad: The Benefits of the Opportunity .
  • The impact of poor sleep on academic performance.
  • The benefits of extracurricular activities for students.
  • Doctors and Teachers Comparison .
  • The effects of peer pressure on adolescent decision-making.
  • The role of parents in student academic success.
  • Fast Food Harmful Effects on Children .

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.

Top 10 Essay Topics for Grade 9

  • The importance of recycling for a sustainable future.
  • Cultural Diversity in the Workforce .
  • Bullying : causes, effects, and strategies for prevention.
  • The role of sports in promoting health and fitness.
  • Inclusion and Individual Differences in Classroom .
  • Exploring different cultures through traditional cuisine.
  • The benefits of volunteering in the community.
  • Online Shopping App Effects on Impulsive Buying Behaviour .
  • The importance of financial literacy for teens.
  • Animal testing : ethical dilemmas and alternative methods.
  • Social Media Effects on Consumer Behaviour .
  • Cybersecurity: protecting personal information online.
  • Exploring gender stereotypes and breaking barriers.
  • The role of art education in fostering creativity.

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.

Top 10 Essay Topics for Grade 10

  • Social media’s impact on self-esteem and body image.
  • Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare: Pros & Cons .
  • The importance of soft skills development at school.
  • The pros and cons of standardized testing.
  • Religion in Schools: Is There a Place for It? Pros and Cons .
  • The benefits of learning a second language.
  • Exploring different forms of renewable energy sources.
  • The ethics of genetic engineering and cloning.
  • Abortion: An Ethical Dilemma .
  • The influence of pop culture on society.
  • The necessity of comprehensive sex education in schools.
  • Fast Food and Obesity Link – Nutrition .
  • The consequences of cyberbullying and online harassment.
  • The role of government in promoting healthy eating habits.

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.

Top 10 Essay Topics for 11th Grade

  • The impact of social media on political activism .
  • The benefits of volunteering and community service.
  • The dangers of texting while driving .
  • Alternative methods of transportation to reduce pollution.
  • The Problem of Air Quality: Impact on Public Health .
  • The importance of financial literacy for high school students.
  • The benefits of playing video games.
  • Democratic Views on Pro-Immigration .
  • The role of digital media in shaping public opinion .
  • The benefits of learning about different cultures and diversity.
  • Decision-Making in Choosing a Career .
  • The implications of artificial intelligence in our daily lives .
  • The significance of teaching practical life skills in school.

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.

Top 10 Essay Topics for Grade 12

  • The effects of teenage pregnancy on individuals and society.
  • The role of censorship in artistic expression.
  • Importance of Nurses’ Professional Self-Development .
  • The impact of globalization on local economies and cultures.
  • Deforestation Causes and Barriers to Solution .
  • Exploring the history and consequences of colonization.
  • The importance of promoting gender equality in education .
  • French Revolution as a Turning Point to Democracy .
  • The impact of technology on privacy rights.
  • The benefits and challenges of homeschooling .
  • The role of media in perpetuating stereotypes.
  • Ethnic and Racial Diversity in the Caribbean Region .
  • The consequences of fast fashion for the environment.
  • Environmental Activism: Benefits and Threats .
  • The effects of video streaming platforms on the film industry.

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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Narrative Essay

Narrative Essay Topics

Caleb S.

Best Narrative Essay Topics 2023 for Students

Narrative Essay Topics

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Are you a student in 2023, looking for some awesome narrative essay topics that are easy to grasp and fun to write about? 

You're in luck! Narrative essays let you share your stories, making them a perfect choice for students. 

In this guide, we've put together a list of the best narrative essay topics for 2023. 

Whether you're an experienced writer searching for fresh ideas or a student hunting for an exciting topic for your next assignment, we've got your back. These topics will ignite your imagination and captivate your readers. 

So, let's dive in!

Arrow Down

  • 1. Narrative Essay Topics for Students
  • 2. Unique Narrative Essay Topics for Students
  • 3. How to Choose a Topic for a Narrative Essay?
  • 4. Tips for Writing Narrative Essays

Narrative Essay Topics for Students

If you're a student looking for a diverse range of topics, we've got you covered with a diverse selection of narrative essay topics. 

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 5

  • My First Day at a New School
  • The Time I Learned to Ride a Bike
  • A Visit to a Haunted House
  • The Day I Met a Real-Life Superhero
  • My Most Memorable Family Vacation
  • A Surprising Encounter with an Animal
  • The Mystery of the Missing Homework
  • The Best Birthday Party I Ever Had
  • When I Lost a Tooth
  • My Adventure in a Fantasy World

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 6

  • An Unforgettable Camping Trip
  • The Day I Discovered a Hidden Talent
  • A Mysterious Letter and Its Consequences
  • A Time I Had to Stand Up for What's Right
  • The Thrilling Mystery of a Forgotten Diary
  • A Memorable Encounter with a Famous Person
  • My Journey Through a Fantasy Land
  • The Day I Learned a Valuable Life Lesson
  • An Unexpected Act of Kindness
  • A Secret Adventure in an Abandoned Place

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 7

  • The Most Exciting Adventure of My Life
  • The Day I Overcame a Fear
  • A Memorable School Field Trip
  • The Strangest Mystery I Ever Encountered
  • An Unforgettable Encounter with Wildlife
  • A Life-Changing Decision I Had to Make
  • The Best Book I Ever Read and Why
  • A Day in the Life of a Time Traveler
  • The Importance of Friendship in My Life
  • A Valuable Lesson Learned from a Mistake

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 8 

  • A Time I Faced a Difficult Moral Dilemma
  • The Most Memorable Summer Vacation
  • The Impact of a Life-Altering Decision
  • An Unexpected Act of Kindness I Received
  • The Day I Stepped Out of My Comfort Zone
  • A Historical Event I Would Like to Witness
  • A Special Family Tradition and Its Significance
  • A Personal Achievement I'm Proud Of
  • A Challenging Obstacle I Overcame
  • A Journey Through My Creative Imagination

Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 9

  • The Transition to High School: Challenges and Triumphs
  • A Life-Changing Encounter with an Inspiring Mentor
  • My First Part-Time Job and What I Learned
  • The Day I Realized the Power of Empathy
  • The Impact of a Personal Passion or Hobby
  • An Unforgettable Travel Experience Abroad
  • A Meaningful Community Service Project I Participated In
  • The Role of Technology in My Life
  • A Defining Moment in My Cultural Identity
  • My Vision for the Future: Dreams and Aspirations

Narrative Essay Topics for O-Levels 

  • The Day I Took a Leap of Faith
  • An Unforgettable Journey into the Unknown
  • A Life-Altering Decision I Made in High School
  • An Encounter with a Stranger That Changed My Perspective
  • The Role of Resilience in Overcoming a Personal Challenge
  • The Impact of a Cultural Exchange Experience
  • A Lesson Learned from a Unique Life Experience
  • The Importance of Perseverance in Achieving a Goal
  • My Most Memorable Academic Achievement
  • A Glimpse into My Future: Aspirations and Ambitions

Narrative Essay Topics for Highschool

  • The Moment I Discovered My Passion
  • A Life-Changing Journey Abroad
  • A Challenging Decision That Shaped My Future
  • An Unexpected Act of Kindness That Touched My Heart
  • The Role of Resilience in Overcoming Adversity
  • A Personal Experience That Shaped My Values
  • The Impact of Technology on My Generation
  • A Time I Took a Stand for a Cause I Believe In
  • A Memorable Leadership Role I Assumed
  • A Glimpse into My Ideal Future: Aspirations and Goals

Narrative Essay Topics for College

  • The Journey to Finding My Academic Passion
  • A Life-Altering Study Abroad Experience
  • The Transformational Impact of a Challenging Decision
  • Navigating the Transition from College to the Professional World
  • An Unforgettable Encounter with a Mentor or Role Model
  • The Role of Adversity in Shaping My Personal Growth
  • A Significant Ethical Dilemma I Faced in College
  • How My College Experiences Have Shaped My Worldview
  • The Impact of Technology on My College Education
  • A Personal Reflection on My Career Aspirations and Goals

Narrative Essay Topics for University

  • The Evolution of My Academic and Career Goals at University
  • An Eye-Opening Internship Experience That Impacted My Future
  • A Transformative Study Abroad Journey
  • Navigating the Complexities of Balancing Work, Academics, and Social Life at University
  • The Role of a Unique Research Project in My Academic Growth
  • A Personal Account of Overcoming a Significant Academic Challenge
  • A Meaningful Leadership Role in a University Organization
  • The Journey of Self-Discovery Through Elective Courses at University
  • The Impact of Peer Relationships and Networking at University
  • How My University Education Has Shaped My Perspective on Global Issues

Unique Narrative Essay Topics for Students

We've gathered distinct narrative topic ideas to fuel your creativity. Let’s look at some personal narrative ideas to inspire your narrative writing.

Descriptive Narrative Essay Topics

  • A Peaceful Day by the Riverside
  • Exploring a Haunted House
  • My Favorite Childhood Memory
  • A Walk Through an Ancient Forest
  • The Perfect Winter Wonderland
  • An Evening at a Carnival
  • A Visit to a Vibrant Art Gallery
  • The Spectacular Colors of Autumn
  • A Day in the Life of a Beach
  • An Exciting Night in the City

Personal Narrative Essay Topics

  • A Life-Changing Decision I Made
  • A Moment of Personal Triumph
  • Overcoming My Greatest Fear
  • A Meaningful Lesson from a Personal Challenge
  • The Role of a Special Friend in My Life
  • A Time When I Broke a Personal Record
  • The Impact of a Mentor on My Life
  • My Journey to Self-Discovery

Literacy Narrative Essay Topics

  • My Earliest Memory of Learning to Read
  • The Book That Sparked My Love for Reading
  • A Life-Changing Experience in a Library
  • The Impact of a Special Teacher on My Writing Skills
  • How Technology Has Shaped My Writing Habits
  • A Personal Reflection on My Writing Journey
  • The Role of Literature in Shaping My Perspective
  • Writing as a Tool for Self-Expression and Healing
  • How I Overcame Writer's Block
  • The Significance of Storytelling in My Life

Engaging Narrative Essay Topics

  • The Mystery of a Lost Treasure Map
  • An Unlikely Friendship That Changed My Life
  • A Day in the Life of a Professional Athlete
  • The Journey of Starting My Own Business
  • A Haunting Experience in a Historic Place
  • A Memorable Road Trip with Friends
  • My Encounter with a Famous Celebrity
  • The Day I Conquered My Greatest Fear
  • An Adventure in a Foreign Land
  • A Life-Altering Decision at a Crossroads

How to Choose a Topic for a Narrative Essay?

Choosing the right topic for your narrative essay can be a daunting task. Before you start writing, it is important to invest some time in researching and brainstorming. 

Here are a few tips to help guide you in selecting an interesting and engaging narrative essay topic: 

  • Reflect on Your Personal Experiences: If you are writing about a personal narrative topic, consider the impactful moments in your life and think about experiences that have left a strong impression on you.
  • Identify a Clear Message or Theme: Determine the central idea or theme of your narrative. Decide what lesson, insight, or emotion you want to convey.
  • Engage Your Audience: Consider your target audience and what will resonate with them. Choose a topic that captures their interest and keeps them engaged.
  • Play with Different Perspectives: Explore the option of incorporating different viewpoints. Combining personal and external perspectives can add depth to your narrative.
  • Test Your Idea: Get feedback from a friend or classmate. Assess if your chosen topic is likely to resonate with your audience.
  • Stay True to Your Voice: Balance considering your audience with being authentic. Let your unique voice and storytelling style shine through in your writing

Tips for Writing Narrative Essays

Once you have selected a topic for your narrative essay, it is time to start writing. 

Here are a few tips to keep in mind as you write your story: 

  • Start with a Strong Hook: Begin your narrative essay with a captivating hook, such as an engaging anecdote, a thought-provoking question, or a vivid description. 
  • Follow a Clear Structure: Organize your narrative essay outline with a clear structure. Most narratives follow a chronological order, but you can also use flashbacks or nonlinear storytelling when it serves your narrative. 
  • Build Tension and Conflict:  Create tension and conflict in your narrative to add depth and maintain reader engagement. Whether it's a personal struggle, a moral dilemma, or an external challenge, these obstacles will keep readers eagerly anticipating what comes next.
  • Revise and Edit:  After completing your first draft, take the time to revise and edit your work. Review it for grammar and spelling errors, but also examine the overall structure and flow of your narrative.
  • Practice, Practice, Practice:  Like any form of writing, improving your narrative essay skills takes practice. Keep writing and experimenting with different topics, styles, and approaches to develop your storytelling abilities.

Before you start writing, make sure you read some narrative essay examples to learn how to organize your thoughts and structure your story.

In summary, no matter the type of essay you are writing about, you need a topic to start with. Our collection of narrative essay topics offers fresh, distinct ideas. 

These topics are crafted to ignite your creativity and captivate your audience. They cover a diverse range of experiences, making it easier for you to connect with your readers on a personal level.

Still, struggling to write a compelling narrative essay? MyPerfectWords.com  is here to help you out!

We stand as the most reliable narrative essay writing service with a specialized focus on crafting exceptional essays designed for high school and college students. Our customer support team is also available 24/7, request write my essays online whenever you need assistance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How are narrative essay topics different from other essay types.

FAQ Icon

Narrative essay topics are usually based on personal experiences, so they are more emotional and creative than other types of essays. Also, they are often more open-ended, so you have more freedom to choose what to write about. 

Where can I find good narrative essay topics?

There are a few ways to find good topics for your narrative essay. You can look through books or magazines for ideas, or search online for inspiration. You can also brainstorm with friends or family members to come up with ideas. 

What do I write a narrative essay about?

You can write a narrative essay about anything, but it is usually based on personal experience. Try to recall interesting incidents from your life to develop a narrative about. 

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Narrative essay

218 Narrative Essay Topics

218 narrative essay topics

When some high school students get a narrative essay for their homework, they believe they must air out their laundry, but that's rarely the case. Anyone can create a beautiful and captivating story that describes memorable events in fine detail.

Your narrative essay could also be about your role model. The first thing you must do to come up with a masterpiece is to take your time coming up with great narrative essay topics. You can find numerous ideas online but scroll on to find the best selection prepared by experts.

Before you rummage around old assignments for a topic idea, look at this list of interesting narrative essay topics. They will inspire you in unimaginable ways and get you on your way to writing that masterpiece. Without further ado, let's get to the best narrative essay topics for your assignment!

Woman holding up a light bulb drawing sign written narrative topics

Narrative Essay Topic Ideas • Narrative Essay Titles

The greatest responsibility you have when writing narrative essays is to make sure you are impressionable. This means writing great narrative essay topics. Let's get those juices flowing with some ideas for the essay.

  • The most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you
  • The most embarrassing experience in the Iraq war
  • An experience that gave you business acumen
  • Your most frightening experience as a child
  • An experience that showed you the value of trust
  • How you learnt to overcome fear
  • An unpleasant experience that showed you an important life lesson
  • A harrowing experience that taught you to appreciate life
  • One memorable day with a family member
  • A personal narrative concerning a success story

While some are pretty straightforward, others are a bit of a thinker. You have the liberty to experiment with these topics by conducting a bit of research. For example, you could come up with life lessons from a memorable trip with family members. Go try it out. We'll explore some more personalized essay topics in the next section.

Light bulb placed on blackboard written narrative essay topics

Best Narrative Essay Topics: Funny, Personal, Literacy, and Fictional Ideas

Are you looking for material for your research paper? Researching an engaging story is crucial to engaging high school students and faculty with your writing. Read this part for timely answers to questions on the best topic ideas for funny, literacy, personal, and fictional ideas.

  • My virgin flight to Asia
  • Best memories of my high school
  • My hopes upon completing college
  • A memorable trip to Mexico
  • A friend in disguise: sheep-in-wolf clothing
  • An accident I was involved in
  • The journey ahead: Living through end-stage capitalism
  • A life-changing event that happened in high school
  • An experience with cybercrime and its personal effects
  • Experiencing unequal employment opportunities as a teenager
  • My favorite meal: Barbequed meat with anything on top
  • Experiencing psychological torture as a teenage American
  • How I maintain an effective work-life balance
  • The most important life lesson I got from school
  • My realization of the existence of double-faced people
  • The most memorable people in my life
  • How I survived a shark attack
  • How do I keep my personal and professional lives separate?
  • My favorite teacher in grade school
  • My experience with Covid-19: physical, social, and economic issues
  • My most memorable punishment at home
  • My proudest moment in life

Woman hanging face masks next to a blackboard written personal narrative essay topics

Personal Narrative Essay Topics

Look at some of these personal narrative essay ideas that will hit home and spur up an idea or two about an experience you think would capture your audience.

  • The reason why I love my family
  • The toughest decision I ever made
  • My favorite meditation spot: outdoors
  • A complete day in the life of John Smith
  • The best moment of my entire life
  • The moment I will treasure in my life forever
  • The best decision I have ever made
  • How do I overcome my fears and turn them into strengths
  • Why I don't particularly appreciate going to college
  • My experience with racism as an international student
  • My neighborhood's experience with the 2009 market crash

That last one was a bit of a stretch. But you get the idea. The possibilities are endless; all you have to think about is an experience in your life, and personal narrative essay topics are all around us. You just need a hot cup of coffee, a notebook, and a pen. Brainstorm ideas from different experiences in your life, and you'll find tons of them if you dig a bit deeper.

Well, it's not an exact science, but it is a pretty good way to open your mind to ideas and develop different topics for your essay. If you're stuck, some help might, well, help. You can buy narrative essays online . You'll get a well written research paper on time. Now, let's see some fictional narrative essay topics and ideas to see further how you can create your unique one.

Woman holding Harry Potter book and text written, “writing a fictional narrative essay’ beside her

Fictional Narrative Essay Ideas

Now this is where things start to get interesting. You can come up with any number of these. A story you heard from your best friend? Or a narrative essay topic on the most embarrassing moment you can place a human being. Go nuts with this one. Let's give you some insights into what you can consider writing on.

  • Our worst "boys' trip" ever
  • Stuck in the middle of nowhere without gas
  • A terrible dream that morphed into reality
  • How your best friend turned into your enemy
  • How your friend was stuck in a foreign country
  • An exciting story about your day at the horse tracks
  • Personal stories from your grandpa
  • How your favorite teacher helped with your first job interview
  • A major turning point in your life
  • A significant challenge facing your community
  • Favorite childhood games that instilled adult character
  • A weird encounter with a stranger on a train
  • Dealing with a daunting task during the summer
  • A Christmas present you'll never forget
  • The first pet you owned
  • A random act that changed your perspective on life
  • The first person to start a community health center in your neighborhood

You could get a few tips from this list for your next fictional essay topics.

Concrete stairs next to text written, ‘good narrative essay topics for college students’

Good Narrative Essay Topics for College Students

Take a look at some narrative essay topic ideas that benefit university students.

  • My best memory when in college
  • My favorite unit in college
  • The most memorable incident in my life
  • My favorite professor in college
  • A reminder to my older self
  • My favorite author in business
  • A letter to future me
  • The best roommate I had in college
  • My best research project to date
  • The best team member I had for a research project
  • The best party I attended in college
  • A life-threatening escape during a summer trip
  • The best food I had in college
  • The best trip I had in college
  • How one event changed everything in my school
  • My final day in college

These are but a few of the many topics about college you could write a narrative essay on. Personal experiences are the best because you only have to rely on memory, but looking at it from an outsider's viewpoint helps relate to the reader. Now let's check out some narrative essay topics you can enjoy writing on as a high school student.

White paper written, 'once upon a time'

Narrative Essay Topics for High School Students

Use this guide as you come up with a narrative paper to generate essay ideas for your personal narrative topic. You are bound to come up with an interesting story if you immerse yourself in the experience. Here are some personal experiences to help you start writing narrative essay topics that'll guide you through high school.

  • My first day in junior high
  • A terrible experience with a movie character at my high school
  • How modern school environments almost gave me mental health issues
  • My favorite subject in high school
  • Interesting topics we learnt about in my literature unit
  • The most amazing farewell party
  • The best welcome party in high school
  • The best teacher in my high school
  • The two buddies in my high school
  • The best decision I made for college life in high school
  • The worst mistake I made in middle school
  • The best streets we visited in my high school days
  • The best teammate I met in high school
  • The most amazing thing I learnt in high school
  • The final exam in my high school
  • How my last day went at my high school

You can write tons of other topics on ideas, such as your best friend, or come up with narrative essay topics involving less personal narrative ideas that border more on fiction than reality. Let's now dive into some topics you could write about as a K-level student.

Image showing a child reading a story book with text written “narrative essay ideas for kids” at the top

Narrative Essay Ideas for Kids

As is the case with university students, writing narrative essays takes practice and depends on the level a student is on. Here's how we'll cover each of the narrative essay topics for each grade level.

Level: Grade 1

Level: grade 2, level: grade 3, level: grade 4, level: grade 5, level: grade 6, level: grade 7, level: grade 8, level: grade 9, level: grade 10, level: grade 11, level: grade 12.

Take a look at some essay writing topics for grade 1 kids.

  • A day at the beach
  • After-school games
  • An important person at school
  • A day in the library
  • Food I do not like at school
  • A day at the park with my family
  • Games we play at recess
  • My neighbor's dog, Butch
  • What makes plants grow
  • How to make my favorite snack
  • How to talk to new people
  • The reason I like summer
  • My favorite hobby for Saturdays
  • How I spend my weekend
  • How to ride a bike
  • My favorite toy in the world
  • A day in the summer heat
  • The best vacation last summer
  • A wonderful place to go
  • The best treehouse in our yard
  • A sport I'd like to continue playing
  • A trip on the train
  • Amazing facts about birds
  • The most amazing pony at the fair
  • A trip to the supermarket

Two children holding books on their heads

  • Activities resulting from outdoor fun
  • What you can do when you're indoors
  • Amazing facts about airplanes
  • An important person in the government
  • The tiger: an amazing animal
  • The best after-school games
  • A day at the public library
  • Dancing to music at home
  • Food I find odd and disgusting
  • How to make my favorite dinner
  • The best toy to own right now
  • A cartoon character that I like
  • A day in the Moroccan desert
  • A great place to visit in the summer
  • The best friend I never saw
  • The wooden treehouse in my backyard
  • The best place to visit in spring
  • A song that I like
  • A trip on an airship
  • An important time in history
  • A secret place I visit
  • A trip on a monorail
  • Why do I find spiders creepy?
  • Creatures that live in the desert
  • Why dumping plastic is bad for the environment
  • Going fishing with my father
  • Going to the dentist
  • Why I want to be famous
  • How to cure hiccups
  • I don't understand why we pollute the environment
  • What I use a computer to do
  • My best childhood games
  • A school trip to the zoo
  • A toy I have kept for many years
  • Is pollution reversible if we continue using coal?
  • What a new student to my school needs to know
  • The best dream I have ever had
  • The best trip I have ever taken
  • How I see myself five years from now
  • The impact of sharing with friends
  • What I would do if I were the principal for a day?
  • A big accident on the road
  • Can American farmers feed everyone?
  • How would I define the word honesty?
  • I am the president for the day. Here is what I would do
  • How can I change bad behaviors?
  • My favorite chores
  • My participation in tree planting outside the school
  • My bedroom, from the door to all four walls
  • The craziest hairstyle I have ever had
  • One thing I want to do after finishing the 8th grade
  • A big problem in the energy sector is...
  • A cool new store in our neighborhood
  • Dear governor
  • Discover nature in Singapore
  • My favorite teacher in gym class
  • My favorite band as a small child
  • Pet peeves that my best friend has
  • The worst meal I ever ate
  • The worst shave I ever had
  • The best picture day in my school
  • A day I will never forget
  • A friend I will always cherish
  • A project I am working on
  • A typical evening at my house
  • How Abraham Lincoln changed history
  • A great scientific breakthrough
  • An invention that transformed how we communicate
  • Causes of global warming in the world
  • Coping with many brothers and sisters
  • My Website on good etiquette
  • How a motorbike works
  • How a crankshaft works in an engine
  • A trip to the NASA space station
  • If I had superpowers, I would...
  • Is pollution a necessary evil?
  • My first encounter with a cyberbully
  • My dream car since I was a child
  • My dream house will have...
  • I admit it: I enjoy professional basketball
  • Overcoming health problems related to gymnastics
  • What did Americans make in Detroit?
  • What makes pollution a danger in Australia?
  • Environmentally-friendly ways to mine for petroleum
  • Is fracking bad for the environment?
  • What animals can teach people
  • Tools I will need for my future dream job
  • What if there were no school sports?
  • The best summer job in my existence
  • We all make mistakes
  • The hardest thing I have ever done
  • A funny thing that happened in 7th grade
  • Do not let obstacles keep you from your goal
  • The influence of greed in corporate America
  • Foods I love during a hot day
  • A change that would help you get better grades
  • The summer job that I regret most
  • Putting my foot in my mouth at the fair
  • The argument for alternative sources of energy
  • Something our community really needs is...
  • If it's a rule, it's right...right?

cartoon image of a man sited while pointing up at a light bulb and text written, ‘coming up with good topic ideas’ above him

Coming Up With Good Topic Ideas

The thought of writing sends a chill down many students' spines. Academic papers can be intimidating, but you only need to eliminate writer's block and unleash your writing potential. To this end, you may not have a clue about what you are writing about. You will likely have no problems flowing with a topic with which you have information ready. Use different strategies to come up with narrative essay topics that address your issues. Find what works best for you and which learning style suits you best.

Here are some steps you can follow to develop your narrative essay topics.

  • Understand your assignment
  • Determine the assignment's purpose
  • Use a provided list

1. Understand Your Assignment

You must understand the length of your narrative essay and what type is required for your assignment to score highly. You must also discern the research level needed to determine your research scope.

2. Determine the Assignment’s Purpose

Your assignment's purpose will help you determine the type of paper you are writing. For instance, writing an argumentative essay topic will differ from developing personal narrative essay topics. Learn to recognize terms like describe, contrast, analyze, compare, and synthesize to determine what your teacher wants.

3. Use a Provided List

Your instructor may provide you with a list. Occasionally, choose a topic from the given list that interests you. Your instructor will have checked the scope and breadth of the research and seen that such papers elicited great narrative essay topics in the past. When given a list, one good habit of writing narrative essay topics that appeal to your audience is to write the main argument and a thesis for the topics and compare them for scope and breadth.

Select a topic that comes naturally and where you have greater insight to develop a good narrative 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

Related Guides and Multimedia

Our professional learning resources include teaching guides, videos, and podcasts that build educators' knowledge of content related to the standards and their application in the classroom.

narrative essay topics grade 12

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

Ideas to inspire every young writer!

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

High school students generally do a lot of writing, learning to use language clearly, concisely, and persuasively. When it’s time to choose an essay topic, though, it’s easy to come up blank. If that’s the case, check out this huge round-up of essay topics for high school. You’ll find choices for every subject and writing style.

  • Argumentative Essay Topics
  • Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics
  • Compare-Contrast Essay Topics
  • Descriptive Essay Topics
  • Expository and Informative Essay Topics
  • Humorous Essay Topics

Literary Essay Topics

  • Narrative and Personal Essay Topics
  • Personal Essay Topics
  • Persuasive Essay Topics

Research Essay Topics

Argumentative essay topics for high school.

When writing an argumentative essay, remember to do the research and lay out the facts clearly. Your goal is not necessarily to persuade someone to agree with you, but to encourage your reader to accept your point of view as valid. Here are some possible argumentative topics to try. ( Here are 100 more compelling argumentative essay topics. )

  • The most important challenge our country is currently facing is … (e.g., immigration, gun control, economy)
  • The government should provide free internet access for every citizen.
  • All drugs should be legalized, regulated, and taxed.
  • Vaping is less harmful than smoking tobacco.
  • The best country in the world is …
  • Parents should be punished for their minor children’s crimes.
  • Should all students have the ability to attend college for free?
  • Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

Should physical education be part of the standard high school curriculum?

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  • Schools should require recommended vaccines for all students, with very limited exceptions.
  • Is it acceptable to use animals for experiments and research?
  • Does social media do more harm than good?
  • Capital punishment does/does not deter crime.
  • What one class should all high schools students be required to take and pass in order to graduate?
  • Do we really learn anything from history, or does it just repeat itself over and over?
  • Are men and women treated equally?

Cause-and-Effect Essay Topics for High School

A cause-and-effect essay is a type of argumentative essay. Your goal is to show how one specific thing directly influences another specific thing. You’ll likely need to do some research to make your point. Here are some ideas for cause-and-effect essays. ( Get a big list of 100 cause-and-effect essay topics here. )

  • Humans are causing accelerated climate change.
  • Fast-food restaurants have made human health worse over the decades.
  • What caused World War II? (Choose any conflict for this one.)
  • Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

Describe the effects social media has on young adults.

  • How does playing sports affect people?
  • What are the effects of loving to read?
  • Being an only/oldest/youngest/middle child makes you …
  • What effect does violence in movies or video games have on kids?
  • Traveling to new places opens people’s minds to new ideas.
  • Racism is caused by …

Compare-Contrast Essay Topics for High School

As the name indicates, in compare-and-contrast essays, writers show the similarities and differences between two things. They combine descriptive writing with analysis, making connections and showing dissimilarities. The following ideas work well for compare-contrast essays. ( Find 80+ compare-contrast essay topics for all ages here. )

  • Public and private schools
  • Capitalism vs. communism
  • Monarchy or democracy
  • Dogs vs. cats as pets

Dogs vs. cats as pets

  • Paper books or e-books
  • Two political candidates in a current race
  • Going to college vs. starting work full-time
  • Working your way through college as you go or taking out student loans
  • iPhone or Android
  • Instagram vs. Twitter (or choose any other two social media platforms)

Descriptive Essay Topics for High School

Bring on the adjectives! Descriptive writing is all about creating a rich picture for the reader. Take readers on a journey to far-off places, help them understand an experience, or introduce them to a new person. Remember: Show, don’t tell. These topics make excellent descriptive essays.

  • Who is the funniest person you know?
  • What is your happiest memory?
  • Tell about the most inspirational person in your life.
  • Write about your favorite place.
  • When you were little, what was your favorite thing to do?
  • Choose a piece of art or music and explain how it makes you feel.
  • What is your earliest memory?

What is your earliest memory?

  • What’s the best/worst vacation you’ve ever taken?
  • Describe your favorite pet.
  • What is the most important item in the world to you?
  • Give a tour of your bedroom (or another favorite room in your home).
  • Describe yourself to someone who has never met you.
  • Lay out your perfect day from start to finish.
  • Explain what it’s like to move to a new town or start a new school.
  • Tell what it would be like to live on the moon.

Expository and Informative Essay Topics for High School

Expository essays set out clear explanations of a particular topic. You might be defining a word or phrase or explaining how something works. Expository or informative essays are based on facts, and while you might explore different points of view, you won’t necessarily say which one is “better” or “right.” Remember: Expository essays educate the reader. Here are some expository and informative essay topics to explore. ( See 70+ expository and informative essay topics here. )

  • What makes a good leader?
  • Explain why a given school subject (math, history, science, etc.) is important for students to learn.
  • What is the “glass ceiling” and how does it affect society?
  • Describe how the internet changed the world.
  • What does it mean to be a good teacher?

What does it mean to be a good teacher?

  • Explain how we could colonize the moon or another planet.
  • Discuss why mental health is just as important as physical health.
  • Describe a healthy lifestyle for a teenager.
  • Choose an American president and explain how their time in office affected the country.
  • What does “financial responsibility” mean?

Humorous Essay Topics for High School

Humorous essays can take on any form, like narrative, persuasive, or expository. You might employ sarcasm or satire, or simply tell a story about a funny person or event. Even though these essay topics are lighthearted, they still take some skill to tackle well. Give these ideas a try.

  • What would happen if cats (or any other animal) ruled the world?
  • What do newborn babies wish their parents knew?
  • Explain the best ways to be annoying on social media.
  • Invent a wacky new sport, explain the rules, and describe a game or match.

Explain why it's important to eat dessert first.

  • Imagine a discussion between two historic figures from very different times, like Cleopatra and Queen Elizabeth I.
  • Retell a familiar story in tweets or other social media posts.
  • Describe present-day Earth from an alien’s point of view.
  • Choose a fictional character and explain why they should be the next president.
  • Describe a day when kids are in charge of everything, at school and at home.

Literary essays analyze a piece of writing, like a book or a play. In high school, students usually write literary essays about the works they study in class. These literary essay topic ideas focus on books students often read in high school, but many of them can be tweaked to fit other works as well.

  • Discuss the portrayal of women in Shakespeare’s Othello .
  • Explore the symbolism used in The Scarlet Letter .
  • Explain the importance of dreams in Of Mice and Men .
  • Compare and contrast the romantic relationships in Pride and Prejudice .

Analyze the role of the witches in Macbeth.

  • Dissect the allegory of Animal Farm and its relation to contemporary events.
  • Interpret the author’s take on society and class structure in The Great Gatsby .
  • Explore the relationship between Hamlet and Ophelia.
  • Discuss whether Shakespeare’s portrayal of young love in Romeo and Juliet is accurate.
  • Explain the imagery used in Beowulf .

Narrative and Personal Essay Topics for High School

Think of a narrative essay like telling a story. Use some of the same techniques that you would for a descriptive essay, but be sure you have a beginning, middle, and end. A narrative essay doesn’t necessarily need to be personal, but they often are. Take inspiration from these narrative and personal essay topics.

  • Describe a performance or sporting event you took part in.
  • Explain the process of cooking and eating your favorite meal.
  • Write about meeting your best friend for the first time and how your relationship developed.
  • Tell about learning to ride a bike or drive a car.
  • Describe a time in your life when you’ve been scared.

Write about a time when you or someone you know displayed courage.

  • Share the most embarrassing thing that ever happened to you.
  • Tell about a time when you overcame a big challenge.
  • Tell the story of how you learned an important life lesson.
  • Describe a time when you or someone you know experienced prejudice or oppression.
  • Explain a family tradition, how it developed, and its importance today.
  • What is your favorite holiday? How does your family celebrate it?
  • Retell a familiar story from the point of view of a different character.
  • Describe a time when you had to make a difficult decision.
  • Tell about your proudest moment.

Persuasive Essay Topics for High School

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 these topics to persuade someone to come around to your point of view. ( Discover 60 more intriguing persuasive essay topics here. )

  • Do you think homework should be required, optional, or not given at all?
  • Everyone should be vegetarian or vegan.
  • 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.
  • Who is the world’s best athlete, present or past?
  • Should little kids be allowed to play competitive sports?
  • Are professional athletes/musicians/actors overpaid?
  • The best music genre is …

What is one book that everyone should be required to read?

  • Is democracy the best form of government?
  • Is capitalism the best form of economy?
  • 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?

A research essay is a classic high school assignment. These papers require deep research into primary source documents, with lots of supporting facts and evidence that’s properly cited. Research essays can be in any of the styles shown above. Here are some possible topics, across a variety of subjects.

  • Which country’s style of government is best for the people who live there?
  • Choose a country and analyze its development from founding to present day.
  • Describe the causes and effects of a specific war.
  • Formulate an ideal economic plan for our country.
  • What scientific discovery has had the biggest impact on life today?

Tell the story of the development of artificial intelligence so far, and describe its impacts along the way.

  • Analyze the way mental health is viewed and treated in this country.
  • Explore the ways systemic racism impacts people in all walks of life.
  • Defend the importance of teaching music and the arts in public schools.
  • Choose one animal from the endangered species list, and propose a realistic plan to protect it.

What are some of your favorite essay topics for high school? Come share your prompts on the WeAreTeachers HELPLINE group on Facebook .

Plus, check out the ultimate guide to student writing contests .

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Narrative Essay Writing

Narrative Essay Topics

Cathy A.

Interesting Narrative Essay Topics and Ideas

16 min read

Published on: Mar 22, 2023

Last updated on: Mar 25, 2024

narrative essay topic ideas

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How to Write a Narrative Essay in Simple Steps

20+ Top Narrative Essay Examples by Experts

Personal Narrative Essay - Easy Guide & Examples

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Unlike other forms of academic writing, narrative essays focus on personal experiences, anecdotes, and reflections. They aim to engage readers through vivid storytelling, allowing them to connect emotionally with the narrative. 

However, finding the right topic can sometimes be challenging. 

In this guide, we'll look into the narrative essay topic examples, explore various themes, and provide valuable tips to help you choose the perfect topic for your narrative essay.

Let’s jump in!

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Narrative Essay Topics for Students

If you're a student, you probably have to write an essay at some point. Getting an interesting topic idea is not easy. We have gathered some essay topics for different academic levels to help you with the task.

Let's dive right into the narrative essay topics list without any delay.

Narrative Essay Topics For University Students

  • The worst interview of your life 
  • A time when you discovered something precious 
  • A time when you were insulted or disrespected
  • A time you discovered one of your skills
  • The moment when your loved one was hurt 
  • The moment when your best friend had an accident 
  • The day your father caught you smoking 
  • A mistake that taught you something significant 
  • An action you thought would help the person but got you in trouble.
  • The moment when someone else's experience saved your life 
  • The time when you underestimated a junior
  • How has practicing helped you become a professional?
  • The time when your beliefs were shaken
  • An event that made you feel sorry about a person
  • The time when you had to let go of one of your most important things

Narrative Essay Topics For College Students

  • First experience of living in a hostel
  • The worst roommate ever
  • Frightening memory of your childhood
  • Why you chose a specific major
  • What studying in a dream college feels like?
  • The most healthy part of your routine
  • The time you inspired someone
  • What should you tell your younger self?
  • Your favorite author and his work that you most relate to
  • A moment when your joke offended your friend

Narrative Essay Topics For Grade 12

  • Your favorite activities in your leisure time
  • How you overcome your fears
  • The hardest thing you did in life
  • What regrets do you have in life?
  • Your biggest motivation to score well in academics
  • Share a cherished family tradition and its impact on you.
  • Recall a moment where you stood up for your beliefs.
  • Discuss a tough decision and its impact on your character.
  • Explore a memory that highlights the value of friendship.
  • Reflect on a book, movie, or art that shaped your perspective.
  • Overcome a setback or failure and what you learned.

Narrative Essay Topics High School

  • The most interesting summer school memory 
  • The moment when you saw your favorite actor in real life 
  • The first time you helped a needy person
  • How you became friends with your best friend 
  • A person who left a deep influence on you 
  • The day when you became a class representative 
  • Your first speech on the stage
  • Your first term paper
  • Your favorite high school student’s profession 
  • The first time you stood up for something you believed in

Narrative Essay Topics For Grade 10

  • A time when you had to stand up for something you believed in
  • The most significant challenge you have faced in your life so far
  • A moment that changed your life forever
  • A decision that you regret making and what you learned from it
  • A person who has had a significant impact on your life
  • A time when you learned an important life lesson through a mistake you made
  • A trip that you will never forget
  • A time when you felt like you had to prove yourself to someone
  • A moment when you felt like giving up, but you pushed through anyway
  • An experience that helped you discover something new about yourself.

Narrative Essay Topics For Grade 9

  • A time when you overcame a fear
  • The most memorable day of your life
  • A difficult decision you had to make
  • The first time you tried something new
  • A moment when you learned an important life lesson
  • An experience that changed your perspective on something
  • A time when you made a mistake and what you learned from it
  • A memorable trip you went on
  • The first time you fell in love with a hobby or activity
  • A moment when you felt proud of yourself for overcoming a challenge.

Narrative Essay Topics For Class 7

  • My favorite sibling
  • Betrayal in friendship
  • Why is television so important in your life?
  • A hobby of yours that you recently adopted
  • The most memorable farewell
  • A memorable encounter with a new friend
  • The day when you became a class representative
  • Your dream college
  • Your favorite profession

Narrative Essay Topics For Class 6

  • The time when you underestimated a junior 
  • The time when your beliefs were shaken 
  • An event that made you feel sorry about a person 
  • The time when you had to let go of one of your most important things 
  • Your favorite activities in your leisure time 
  • The most adventurous thing you've ever done
  • Your biggest motivation to score well in academics 

Narrative Essay Topics For Grade 5

  • Your first day at school
  • Your favorite teacher 
  • Your best winter vacations
  • The happiest day of your life
  • Your best birthday ever
  • The moment when you got lost in a mall 
  • The most painful injury 
  • Your first pet
  • The feeling of losing loved ones
  • The hardest goodbye 

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Short Narrative Essay Topics

  • Exploring family traditions
  • Narrating standing up for beliefs
  • Recounting a tough decision
  • Reflecting on the value of friendship
  • Sharing shaping perspectives
  • Reflecting on overcoming failure
  • Revisiting meaningful places
  • Delving into a social passion
  • Narrating stepping out of comfort zones
  • Reflecting on influential role models

Best Narrative Essay Topics

  • An unexpected act of kindness
  • A transformative travel experience
  • The day everything changed
  • Lessons learned from failure
  • A secret that changed everything
  • Discovering my passion
  • The power of forgiveness
  • A moment of serendipity
  • Conquering my greatest fear
  • Lessons from a cultural exchange

Topics For Narrative Essays on Themes

Narrative essay themes contain a range of subjects and ideas that serve as the central focus or underlying message of the narrative. These themes often reflect aspects of human experience, emotions, relationships, and societal issues. 

Here are some common narrative essay themes and their topic ideas:

Childhood Memories Narrative Essay Topics

  • My favorite toy from childhood
  • Exploring my grandparents' house
  • Building forts and imaginary worlds
  • The day I lost my first tooth
  • Baking cookies with my mom
  • Playing hide and seek in the neighborhood
  • My first pet and our adventures together
  • Celebrating holidays with family traditions
  • Exploring nature in my backyard
  • The joy of making new friends in kindergarten

Life Lessons Narrative Essay Topics 

  • Overcoming stage fright during a school performance
  • Finding strength through a sports injury
  • Learning patience through gardening
  • Embracing change after moving to a new city
  • The value of empathy in understanding others
  • Discovering inner courage during a difficult decision
  • The power of forgiveness in healing relationships
  • Finding beauty in imperfection and embracing flaws
  • The rewards of volunteer work and helping others
  • Overcoming self-doubt through creative expression

Personal Growth Narrative Essay Topics 

  • Exploring my cultural heritage through food and traditions
  • Overcoming language barriers in a foreign country
  • Finding confidence through public speaking
  • Rediscovering creativity through art and music
  • Exploring new career paths and passions
  • Finding balance between work, family, and self-care
  • Embracing vulnerability and authenticity in relationships
  • The journey of self-discovery through traveling alone
  • Overcoming limiting beliefs and embracing personal power
  • Learning to set boundaries and prioritize self-respect

Relationships Narrative Essay Topics 

  • The bond between siblings: shared adventures and conflicts
  • Lessons learned from a long-distance friendship
  • Reconnecting with an estranged family member
  • The influence of a childhood teacher on personal development
  • Building trust and communication in romantic relationships
  • Exploring the dynamics of multigenerational relationships
  • Navigating friendships through life transitions
  • Overcoming misunderstandings and repairing relationships
  • The role of pets in family dynamics and emotional support
  • Exploring the meaning of unconditional love through relationships

Social Issues Narrative Essay Topics

  • Empowering youth through education and mentorship
  • Exploring access to healthcare in underserved communities
  • Addressing mental health stigma and promoting awareness
  • Bridging the digital divide: access to technology and information
  • The impact of climate change on local communities
  • Exploring racial justice and equity in society
  • Overcoming barriers to LGBTQ+ equality and acceptance
  • Supporting refugees and building inclusive communities
  • The importance of intersectional feminism in social justice movements
  • Promoting diversity and inclusion in educational settings

Personal Narrative Topics 

A personal narrative essay is a type of essay in which the writer shares a personal story, experience, or event from their own life. In this section, we will look into some different personal narrative ideas: 

Personal Experience Narrative Essay Topics

  • Overcoming a fear of public speaking
  • The day I conquered my greatest phobia
  • Learning to embrace vulnerability and authenticity
  • A life-changing encounter with a stranger
  • Navigating a crossroads: choosing between passion and stability
  • Finding resilience through adversity
  • The transformative power of self-reflection
  • Lessons learned from a failed business venture
  • Exploring the joys and challenges of parenthood
  • Overcoming cultural barriers in pursuit of personal growth

Personal Narrative Essay About Friendship

  • The unlikely friendship that changed my life
  • Weathering storms together: the strength of true friendship
  • Navigating the ups and downs of high school friendships
  • From strangers to soulmates: a journey of friendship
  • The power of empathy in strengthening friendships
  • Exploring cultural differences through friendship
  • The art of forgiveness: repairing broken friendships
  • Lessons learned from a childhood best friend
  • Finding support and laughter in friendships across generations
  • Celebrating diversity: embracing friendship beyond borders

Personal Narrative Stories Ideas on Traveling and Holidays

  • A solo journey to self-discovery
  • Living with locals in a foreign land
  • Traveling alone to remote destinations
  • Exploring culinary delights around the world
  • The joy of spontaneity
  • A holiday to remember
  • Traveling through time
  • From backpacker to business class
  • Discovering hidden gems off the beaten path
  • Family road trips

Fictional Narrative Essay Ideas

  • Lost in a parallel universe: A journey through time
  • The last survivors of a post-apocalyptic world
  • A magical creature's quest for home
  • The secret society of time travelers
  • Escaping from a dystopian society
  • Adventures in a virtual reality game
  • Discovering a hidden portal to another dimension
  • The mystery of the abandoned spaceship
  • Guardians of the enchanted forest
  • A quest for the legendary artifact of power

Literacy Narrative Essay Topics

  • How a childhood book shaped my imagination
  • Learning to read and write in a second language
  • Discovering the power of poetry through personal experience
  • The influence of storytelling in family traditions
  • Overcoming dyslexia: My journey to literacy
  • Exploring literary classics through different cultural lenses
  • The impact of technology on reading habits
  • The role of libraries in nurturing a love for reading
  • Finding my voice through creative writing workshops
  • Using literature to navigate life's challenges

First-Person Narrative Essay Ideas

  • My journey through a haunted house on Halloween night
  • A day in the life of a street performer in New York City
  • Surviving a wilderness adventure in the Rocky Mountains
  • Exploring the abandoned mansion at the edge of town
  • My experience as a volunteer in a refugee camp
  • Racing against time: My first marathon experience
  • Finding love in unexpected places: A summer romance
  • The night I spent stranded on a deserted island
  • Becoming a detective for a day: Solving a mystery in my neighborhood
  • My encounter with a UFO: An unforgettable extraterrestrial experience

Funny Narrative Essay Topics

  • The misadventures of my clumsy pet cat
  • Embarrassing moments during family gatherings
  • My hilarious attempt at learning a new dance
  • Surviving a disastrous cooking experiment in the kitchen
  • The comedy of errors: my unforgettable road trip
  • Accidentally sending a funny text to the wrong person
  • The day I accidentally wore mismatched shoes to school
  • My awkward encounter with a celebrity lookalike
  • The unintentional pranks I played on April Fools' Day
  • When auto-correct turns texting into a comedy show

Tips to Choose the Right Narrative Essay Topic

When selecting a narrative essay topic, consider the following tips:

  • Authenticity: Choose topics that align with your personal experiences and values.
  • Relevance: Select topics that are relevant and meaningful to your intended audience.
  • Engagement: Opt for topics that are engaging and thought-provoking, sparking curiosity and empathy in readers.
  • Scope: Ensure that the topic allows for sufficient depth and exploration within the confines of a narrative essay.

If you want to get an idea of writing a narrative essay, visit our narrative essay examples blog and get access to free PDF examples.

Summing it up!

Essays provide a unique opportunity to share personal experiences, insights, and reflections with readers. By choosing the right topic and crafting a compelling narrative, you can engage and inspire your audience. 

Remember to infuse your writing with authenticity, emotion, and vivid detail to create narratives that resonate long after they're read. 

If you find yourself short on time or unsure where to begin, seeking professional assistance is always an option. The custom essay writing service at CollegeEssay.org is here to help you with your writing needs. 

Additionally, don't forget to try our essay writer AI tool for further assistance!

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narrative essay topics grade 12

Career Times

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!

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  • ESSAYS GRADE 12 NOTES - LITERATURE STUDY GUIDE
  • The structure of an essay
  • Steps to writing an essay in the exams
  • Narrative essays
  • Descriptive essays
  • Reflective essays
  • Discursive essays
  • Argumentative essays
  • Writing an essay from a picture
  • Essay checklist
  • What is expected from you in the exam

To write a successful exam essay, you need to give yourself time to plan your ideas and write a draft. Once you have edited and corrected your draft, your final essay should be a well-structured and interesting piece of writing. In this section, you will learn how to express yourself using the rules that will earn you marks in the final Grade 12 exam.

1. All about essays

1.1 the structure of an essay.

An essay must have an introduction, a body and a conclusion.

Introduction The introduction is the first paragraph of an essay. It should catch the reader’s attention and suggest what the essay is about (the topic).

Body The longest part of an essay is the body of the essay. It is divided into paragraphs. Each paragraph usually contains one main idea about the essay topic.

Conclusion The last paragraph in an essay is the conclusion. It brings the essay to an end. No new information is given in the conclusion, but it often brings together some key points or ideas.

  • Coherent - expressed in a clear way that is easily understood
  • Logical order - Arranging information so that the points follow each other in an order that makes sense.

1.2 Steps for writing an essay in the exams

There are four main steps involved in writing an exam essay:

Step 1: Choose your topic and type of essay Step 2: Plan your essay Step 3: Write and edit your draft essay Step 4: Write your final essay

Step 1: Choose your topic and type of essay Topic In the essay section of the exam, there will be about eight topics. You need to choose one of these topics on which to write your essay. You only need to write one essay.

Essay type A particular topic may suit one type of essay better than another type of essay. For example, if a topic asks whether you agree or disagree, then use the argumentative essay type. The table below shows brief descriptions of the five essay types. See pages 9 to 38 for more information on each essay type.

Step 2: Plan your essay Decide which type of essay you think is most suitable for the essay topic. Remind yourself of the features of this type of essay. Plan your essay by writing down your ideas for the content of the essay. The content refers to the main ideas (points or details) in your essay – what it is mainly about. It must be relevant to the topic. Once you have written down a few ideas, you can organise them by numbering them. This will show the order of your paragraphs for the structure of your essay. There are many different ways to plan an essay. For example, you could use a mind map. Use the planning method that works best for you. There are examples of planning tools on pages 5 and 6.

Ways to plan an essay

A plan helps you think about what ideas you want to include in your essay. It also helps you put your ideas into a clear structure. You will earn marks for showing your planning. You can use a mind map or an ideas list to plan your essay.

  • An essay must be between 250 to 300 words long.
  • The way you write your essay creates a style of writing. The words you chose and the length of your sentences are two examples of how a writing style is created.
  • Think about your audience to help you chose the right register for your essay. Register can be formal. For example; if your audience is a teacher or informal if your andience is for example a friend.
  • The tone of the essay is the feling the write gives the writing. For example, the tone could be playful or serious.

Step 4: Write your final essay Write your final essay by rewriting your draft. Make sure that you make all the changes you marked in your draft so that your final essay has no mistakes and clearly expresses all your best ideas. When you have finished your final essay, cross out your planning and draft essay. If you do not do this, the examiner may mark your draft and not your final essay.

2. The five essay types

There are different types or genres of essays. Each type is written for a different purpose. To prepare for the exam, you need to revise how to write five types of essay:

The main features of each type of essay and guidelines for writing each type of essay are given in this section. To prepare for the exam, practice writing the different types of essays.

2.1 Narrative essays

A narrative essay tells a story or describes a sequence of events. It can be written from any perspective (first person or third person narrative). The first person narrator will use the pronouns “I” or “we”, while the third person narrator will use pronouns such as “he”, “she”, “they” and “them”. A narrative essay can include dialogue (speech between characters in the story) and often includes interesting descriptions. This helps the reader to imagine what is happening, so the story comes alive.

A learner’s example of a narrative essay using the four steps   Step 1: Choose the topic and type of essay

  • This learner chose this essay topic because it fitted a narrative essay type: I am an old desk in a classroom and this is my story…

Note: Write a narratiove if the word "story" is in the description. Always give your essay a title.

Step 4: Write the final essay Note:   By including her edits from her draft essay, the learner greatly improved her final essay.

word count: 262

Main features of a narrative essay that are shown in this learner’s story

Activity: Writing a narrative essay

Here are some narrative essay topics to help you to practice your writing skills:

  • Write a story that includes the following words: Suddenly there was absolute silence... NOTE: The words given in the topic MUST be included somewhere in your essay.
  • Write a story that begins with the following words: It was the greatest day of my life. NOTE: The words given in the topic MUST be used in the first sentence of your introduction.

2.2 Descriptive essays

In a descriptive essay, the writer describes an experience, an event, a situation, an object or a person. The purpose is to allow the reader to imagine what is being described as clearly as possible. Writing a descriptive essay is like creating a picture with words, rather than telling a story.

A learner’s example of a descriptive essay using the four steps

Step 1: Choose the topic and type of essay

This learner chose this essay topic because it fitted a descriptive essay type: The scene in the waiting area of a clinic OR a doctor’s surgery. Note; The word scene in the topic sentence suggests that a descriptive essay is appropriate for this topic

word count: 271

Main features of a descriptive essay that are shown in this learner’s essay

Activity: Writing a descriptive essay Here are some descriptive essay topics to help you to practise your writing skills:

  • Write an essay on the following topic: Life with my neighbors
  • Write an essay on the following topic : It was a dream come true! NOTE: The words given in the topic MUST be included somewhere in your essay.
  • Write an essay on the following topic : An amazing performance.

2.3 Reflective essays

A reflective essay is written to explain what the writer thinks, and/or feels, about an object, an idea, a situation or an experience. It is subjective (based on the writer’s personal experience) and uses first person pronouns (“I”, “we”, “us”). A reflective essay usually includes the writer’s emotional reactions or feelings. It could be about, for example, a dream, your hopes for the future or a past event.

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Subjective - Your own personal feelings and point of view

A learner’s example of a reflective essay using the four steps

Step 1: Choose the topic and type of essay This learner chose this essay topic because it fitted a reflective essay type: Things I would like to achieve by the time I am 30. A reflective essay will be about what you think and feel about a topic. It shows your emotions, hopes and dreams.

Step 4: Write the final essay

Note:  Leave a line between each paragraph to make your essay easy to read.

word count: 260

Main features of a reflective essay that are shown in this learner’s essay

Activity: writing a reflective essay.

Here are some reflective essay topics to help you to practise your writing skills:

  • Write an essay that includes the following words: ‘I wish I hadn’t ...’ NOTE: The words given in the topic MUST be included somewhere in your essay.
  • Write an essay that includes the following words: As I looked at that photograph ... NOTE: The words given in the topic MUST be included somewhere in your essay.
  • Write an essay that includes the following words: This experience has made me realise that ... NOTE: The words given in the topic MUST be included somewhere in your essay.

2.4 Discursive essays

The word “discursive” comes from the word “discourse” which means the sharing of thoughts and ideas. A discursive essay presents both sides of an argument. Its purpose is to tell the reader about various sides of a topic. This could be the advantages and disadvantages of something, or the reasons for or against a particular point of view. It must be objective (looking at both sides equally), and give a balanced view. In the conclusion, the writer usually gives a summary of the main points, and suggests, or recommends, some action or way forward. In the conclusion, the writer may state the opinion, or view, with which he or she personally agrees. However, the reasons for that decision must be clearly shown in the essay.

Objective - giving a general point of view

A learner’s example of a discursive essay using the four steps

Step 1: Choose the topic and type of essay This learner chose this essay topic because it fitted a discursive essay type: Freedom of choice has both advantages and disadvantages Discuss this statement.

  • In a discursive essay you must present BOTH sides of an issue. For example, the advantages AND disadvantages of a topic.

Word count: 300

Activity: Writing a discursive essay

Here are some descriptive essay topics to help you to practise your writing skills:

  • Sport can unite or divide people. Discuss your views.
  • Do subjects offered at school prepare you for life? Discuss your views.
  • Wearing school uniform is very important. Do you agree? Discuss your views on wearing school uniform.

2.5 Argumentative essays

In an argumentative essay, the writer expresses his or her opinion or viewpoint on a topic. The purpose of the essay is to try to convince, or persuade, the reader to agree with that opinion. The writer’s opinion about the topic is clear throughout the essay. It is a subjective essay, and strong personal opinions may be expressed.

In an argumentative essay you must take a stand on a topic and then support your point of view.

A learner’s example of an argumentative essay using the four steps

Step 1: Choose the topic and type of essay This learner chose this essay topic because it fitted an argumentative essay type: Today young people are influenced more by their friends than by their parents. Do you agree?

Step 2: Plan the essay This learner used a list to plan her essay.

Step 3: Write and edit the draft essay

Word count: 282

Main features of an argumentative essay that are shown in this learner's essay

Activity: writing an argumentative essay.

Here are some argumentative essay topics to help you to practise your writing skills:

  • Most teenagers today do not pay much attention to leading a healthy life. Do you agree?
  •  Technology has changed the lives of teenagers. Do you agree?
  • Should alcohol and cigarettes be advertised in the mass media? Discuss your views.

2.6 Writing an essay from a picture

There is always a question in the exam that asks you to write an essay based on a picture. You only need to write an essay about ONE of the pictures. Choose which picture you are going to write about. Then you need to decide what type of essay you are going to write. The content of your essay must link with the picture. Looking closely at the picture, identify information you can use in your essay. For example, the picture below shows a man who is:

  • Laughing/smiling
  • Dressed smartly in a shirt and tie
  • Holding a baby
  • Speaking/listening on the telephone
  • Writing something in a book/diary

There are five different types of essay that could be written about this picture, as shown below.

A learner’s example of an essay from a picture using the four steps

Word count: 297

Activity: Writing an essay from a picture

2.7 essay checklist, 3. what is expected from you in the exam.

In the exam, you must write one essay that is no less than 250 and no more than 300 words long (about 1 to 1 1/2 pages). The essay is worth 50 marks out of 100 marks in the exam - half the total marks for Paper 3. Examiners will give marks for your essay based on:

  • Content and planning (30 marks)
  • Language, style and editing (15 marks)
  • Structure (5 marks)

The rubric on the next two pages is a table the examiners use to mark your essay. It shows the five levels of achievement that the examiners can award an essay, from the lowest achievement (Inadequate column) to the highest achievement (Exceptional column). The table also describes the skills the examiner looks for when marking. For example, when marking an essay’s content, the examiner will assess how well the ideas relate to the topic, and whether they are well planned and organised. The rubric is a useful guide for you to use when practising your essay writing because it reminds you of the skills the examiner will be assessing when marking your exam.

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Decoding the Symbolism and Performances in the Movie “Signs”: a Detailed Cast Analysis

This essay about M. Night Shyamalan’s “Signs” explores the film’s use of symbolism and powerful performances to engage the audience in a story filled with existential questions and deep emotional themes. It highlights the performances of Mel Gibson and Joaquin Phoenix, who bring to life the characters’ struggles with faith and doubt. The narrative also discusses how symbolic elements like crop circles enhance the film’s profound exploration of humanity, faith, and family.

How it works

In the intricate world of M. Night Shyamalan’s “Signs,” symbolism intertwines with exceptional acting to create a captivating narrative full of intrigue and depth. This film invites viewers to explore a complex story replete with hidden meanings and significant discoveries, presenting a narrative landscape rich with existential questions and deep emotional resonance.

Central to this cinematic masterpiece is Graham Hess, played by the compelling Mel Gibson. As a former priest who is struggling with his crumbling faith after a devastating personal loss, Graham is at the core of the film’s examination of the rough terrain of belief and skepticism.

Gibson delivers a nuanced performance, with every look and movement reflecting the turmoil of a man lost in doubt.

Contrasting with Gibson’s reserved intensity, Joaquin Phoenix plays Merrill, Graham’s impulsive younger brother, with fervent energy and indomitable spirit. Phoenix brings a rough-hewn charm and steadfast determination to Merrill, adding a vital balance to the screen. The chemistry between Gibson and Phoenix is electrifying, enhancing the film’s dynamic tension.

Throughout the film, mysterious symbols such as crop circles and trembling glasses of water emerge, each bearing enigmatic significance that challenges conventional interpretation. These symbols serve as a call from Shyamalan to look deeper, to explore the inner workings of the human psyche where fear meets faith in a dramatic clash.

Amidst these profound themes, Rory Culkin’s portrayal of Morgan, Graham’s son, stands out with its portrayal of vulnerability and innocence. Culkin brings a delicate touch to the role, highlighting the poignant contrast between youthful naivety and the darkening forces around him. Abigail Breslin, as Bo, Morgan’s younger sister, shines brightly with innocence and a subtle intuition of the looming dangers.

The interplay among the characters, against the backdrop of impending dread, adds layers of depth to their interactions with each other and the symbolic elements around them. Directed masterfully by Shyamalan and brought to life through powerful performances, “Signs” is more than a genre film—it’s a profound exploration of faith, family, and the essence of humanity.

As the film concludes, the intertwined journeys of its characters offer a narrative of resilience and redemption, leaving the audience in contemplation of the profound impact cinema has on exploring and illuminating the human condition.

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COMMENTS

  1. 50 Narrative Essay Topics

    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!

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    A good narrative essay will begin with an attention-grabbing opening line. But make sure to avoid common clichés, such as "It was the best of times, it was the worst of times.". Instead, come up with something original and specific to you and your situation. For example: "My pre-calc teacher was obsessed with circles.

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  6. Narrative Essay Topics

    A narrative essay is a prose-written story that's focused on the commentary of a central theme. Narrative essays are generally written in the first-person POV, and are usually about a topic that's personal to the writer. Everything in a narrative essay should take place in an established timeline, with a clear beginning, middle, and end.

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  8. Narrative Essay Topics That Help You Create a Masterpiece

    Narrative Essay Topics for Different Grades Let's look at the narrative speech topics for different grades. Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 5. My first bicycle ride. My dad is my hero. A day with my grandmother. My first day at school. My best friend. My favorite teacher. A school trip to the zoo. My grandpa's hands. The most exciting day ...

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    Writing Topics. 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.".

  10. How to Write a Narrative Essay

    When applying for college, you might be asked to write a narrative essay that expresses something about your personal qualities. For example, this application prompt from Common App requires you to respond with a narrative essay. College application prompt. Recount a time when you faced a challenge, setback, or failure.

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  12. 100+ Interesting Narrative Essay Topics For Your Next Paper

    Narrative Essay Topics for Grade 5. My First Day at a New School. The Time I Learned to Ride a Bike. A Visit to a Haunted House. The Day I Met a Real-Life Superhero. My Most Memorable Family Vacation. A Surprising Encounter with an Animal. The Mystery of the Missing Homework. The Best Birthday Party I Ever Had.

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    This is a guide for the best narrative essay topics. It helps students that wish to get help on coming up with interesting and creative essay topics for college, high school, and grade school. ... Level: Grade 12; Level: Grade 1. Take a look at some essay writing topics for grade 1 kids. A day at the beach; After-school games; An important ...

  14. 12 Excellent Narrative Essay Topics for You » JournalBuddies.com

    A narrative essay, on the other hand, is a story that is told in order to explore an idea. And in that regard, its thematic significance is crucial. Now see these… 12 Narrative Essay Topics for Students. Use these engaging narrative essay prompts to help students find creative, meaningful moments from their lives to share!

  15. ELA G12: Personal Narrative Essay

    Description. Students concentrate on the narrative writing process, building on the material they produced during the writing lessons and incorporating a variety of narrative techniques explored in both in Unit 1 and Unit 2. Students draft, revise, and edit their essays extensively over the course of the unit, further developing their narrative ...

  16. Personal Narrative Prompts by Grade (K-12) » JournalBuddies.com

    A personal narrative outline is one of the best ways to start brainstorming ideas for the final piece. After the students have created an outline, they can write the first draft of their personal narrative. At that point, the teacher can review the draft, or the students can participate in a peer-review process.

  17. 120+ Fascinating Essay Topics for High School Students

    All Grades K-5 All Grades 6-12 PreK 6th Grade Kindergarten 7th Grade 1st Grade 8th Grade 2nd Grade 9th Grade 3rd Grade 10th Grade 4th Grade 11th Grade 5th Grade 12th Grade. Topic Topics. ... Narrative and Personal Essay Topics for High School. Think of a narrative essay like telling a story. Use some of the same techniques that you would for a ...

  18. 220+ Narrative Essay Topics for All Academic Levels

    Narrative Essay Topics For Grade 12. Your favorite activities in your leisure time; How you overcome your fears; The hardest thing you did in life; What regrets do you have in life? Your biggest motivation to score well in academics; Share a cherished family tradition and its impact on you. Recall a moment where you stood up for your beliefs.

  19. Essays Topics for Grade 12 and Grade 11 for 2021

    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 ...

  20. Essays Grade 12 Notes

    A learner's example of an essay from a picture using the four steps. Step 1: Choose the topic and type of essay. This learner chose to write a reflective essay based on this picture of a watch: Step 2: Plan the essay. This learner used a mind map to plan his essay. Step 3: Write and edit the draft essay.

  21. 150 Narrative Essay Topics To Impress Teacher in 2024

    Traveling Narrative essay topics: A Journey Through Ancient Cities: Exploring History and Culture. Backpacking Adventures: Lessons Learned from Life on the Road. Navigating the World's Majestic Mountains and Rugged Terrains. Island Hopping: Experiencing the Beauty of Oceans and Beaches.

  22. PDF Guideline for Teaching and Writing Essays and Transactional Texts

    Learners must be taught how to write - and must write - the following kinds of essays: 3.1 Narrative essay . A narrative essay tells a story or tells of a past event. It can be written from any perspective. Example topics: We were having a wonderful time. There was good food, good music and good company. Suddenly there was an earth-shaking crash.

  23. Narrative Essay

    A narrative essay may be entertaining or informative. Looking for an easy way to Learning of English Grammar Exercises for Class 9 ICSE. You have to learn basic English Grammer topics like Tenses, Verbs, Nouns, etc… In this article, we will review the best English Grammer Topics and compare them against each other.

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    This essay about the Punic Wars presents a grand narrative of ambition, strategy, and destiny between Rome and Carthage. It explores the origins of each war, starting with the First Punic War over Sicily, followed by Hannibal Barca's daring campaigns in the Second Punic War, and concluding with the total destruction of Carthage in the Third Punic War.

  25. Decoding the Symbolism and Performances in the Movie "Signs": A

    Essay Example: In the intricate world of M. Night Shyamalan's "Signs," symbolism intertwines with exceptional acting to create a captivating narrative full of intrigue and depth. This film invites viewers to explore a complex story replete with hidden meanings and significant discoveries, presenting