The HiSET writing portion consists of two essays – one argumentative essay and one narrative essay. Both essays should be between 300-600 words in length. It’s important to choose thought-provoking HiSET writing essay topics that allow you to exhibit your ability to compose well-structured, coherent essays within the timed environment. This article discusses sample essay topics for both essay types as well as strategies for crafting high-scoring responses.
Argumentative Essay Topics
Argumentative essays require analyzing both sides of an issue and taking a stance to support your position with clear reasons and compelling evidence. Some popular HiSET argumentative essay topics include:
Social media has more benefits than drawbacks for society.
Standardized tests are an accurate measurement of student learning.
Community college should be free for all students.
16 should be the universal minimum voting age.
Stricter gun laws would help curb gun violence in America.
Schools should start later in the morning to accommodate teen sleep schedules.
With these types of topics, it’s important to have a clear thesis statement articulating your position and main supporting points. You’ll also want to anticipate opposing viewpoints and thoughtfully address counterarguments rather than dismissing them. Using facts, studies, statistics, examples and quoting experts are strong ways to substantiate your claims. Organize your essay with an introduction, body paragraphs developing each reason, and a conclusion that wraps up your argument.
Narrative Essay Topics
For the narrative essay, choose a memorable personal experience from your life that had significance or taught you an important lesson. Potential HiSET narrative essay topics include:
A time I overcame a significant challenge or obstacle.
An experience that changed my perspective.
My first day of (job, school, camp, etc.).
A fun family tradition or vacation.
An impactful volunteer or community service experience.
A failure that helped me grow as a person.
With narrative essays, it’s crucial to use vivid sensory details and descriptions to engage the reader and bring the experience to life. Incorporate concrete details about sights, smells, sounds, tastes, and textures. Share your thoughts and feelings as well as relevant dialogue to immerse the reader. The plot should have a beginning, middle, and end to tell a complete story with logical sequencing and flow. Reflect on what you learned to tie it back full circle.
Additional Tips for HiSET Writing Essays
Choose topics you’re passionate and knowledgeable about to sustain motivation and depth through multiple body paragraphs.
Allow plenty of time for prewriting, outlining main points, and developing a clear thesis/introduction before starting to write.
Stick to the word limit – being concise is important on a timed test. Remove any redundant or unnecessary information.
Provide heterogeneous examples and personal anecdotes to enhance variety and maintain reader engagement.
Use transitions between paragraphs and within sentences to improve coherence and create a smooth, logical reading experience.
Thoroughly proofread for grammar, spelling, punctuation errors before submitting.
Leave 5-10 minutes at the end to review, reorganize content if needed, and strengthen introduction/conclusion.
With practice choosing thought-provoking topics and crafting well-written, structured essays according to the HiSET scoring rubric guidelines, test-takers can feel confident demonstrating their communications skills on exam day. Approaching the writing portion strategically gives the best chance of achieving a high score to pass this important high school equivalency assessment.