WPE Prompts – Writer’s Resource Lab

Essay Topic
DIRECTIONS: You will have a total of 75 minutes to respond
to the topic below.

Write an analytical essay in which you express your thoughts

carefully, logically, and effectively.

Be sure to respond to all parts of the assignment.

Provide examples and evidence to support your ideas.

DO NOT WRITE ON A TOPIC OTHER THAN THE ONE ASSIGNED BELOW

According to recent studies, the suicide rate of American

teenagers is growing at an alarming rate. Suicide is the
second leading cause of death among college students and the
third-leading overall cause of death among young people ages
15 to 24. In fact, every hour and forty-five minutes another
youth commits suicide. The suicide rates have tripled since
1970. If the trend continues, the future for American
teenagers could be in serious peril.

 What are some reasons for the startling number of

teenage suicides?

 What can be done to prevent or decrease this growing

phenomenon?

 Support your response with examples from your

experience, observations, or readings.