What ideas could I write about in an essay about climate change?

One common type of essay a student might write on climate change is an argument or persuasion essay. In an argument essay, you are mainly using logic, research, and evidence—or “logos”—to back up an opinion.

To begin, ask yourself: What, exactly, is the controversy or problem, and what is your opinion on it?  The most general argument about climate change revolves around the question of whether or not it is real. But there are also arguments about specific aspects of climate change, such as what to do about sea level rise, how to curb carbon emissions, or how to help climate change refugees.

Once you decide upon your exact scope and point of view, you can begin researching supporting evidence. For example, you might find scientific research which shows statistics about sea level rise in Greenland, and this might prove a point about how the government needs to take a certain type of action. The more supporting evidence you can find for each point, the stronger your argument will be.

It is also important to get familiar with the other side of your argument. Find out what individuals or organizations might disagree with your argument and why. Then you can address them in your essay and present evidence for why they are incorrect.

A persuasive essay is similar to an argument essay, but doesn’t always rely on research and logic. Instead, it can use a lot of emotional appeals, or “pathos,” like getting the audience to change based on their own sense of anger, guilt, sadness, desire, or excitement.  For instance, instead of presenting statistics about sea level rise, you might describe how upset or angry people should be that the polar bear population is being threatened and future children will never experience the joy of sharing this planet with them.

Another method often used in persuasive essays is called “ethos.” This is when you persuade your audience by showing that you, and your point of view, represent the trustworthy and ethical side of the issue, and that the opposing viewpoint is not honest or morally correct.