UNIT 6

PROBLEM/ SOLUTION ESSAY WRITING

 OBJECTIVES
.

 Analyze a problem/ solution essay.

 Use adverbial clauses and phrases as modifiers.
 Conduct research using multiple sources.
 Synthesize information taken from different sources.
 Write, revise, and edit an education essay.
 WHAT IS A PROBLEM/SOLUTION ESSAY?
 A type of essay that:
 Describes a specific problem
 Proposes one or more solutions
 Evaluates the effectiveness of proposed solutions
 WHAT ARE THE GOALS OF A PROBLEM/ SOLUTION ESSAY?

1. Identify a specific problem: By clearly defining the issue, and

explaining why it is significant.
2. Analyze the causes and consequences: Helps the reader understand
its complexity and urgency.
3. Propose feasible and well-supported solutions:
4. Persuade the audience: By presenting logical arguments, evidence,
and examples.
5. Encourage critical thinking:
6. Promote understanding and awareness:
 KINDS OF ORGANIZATIONAL PROBLEM/ SOLUTION ESSAYS

1. CAUSES - SOLUTION

2. PROBLEMS – SOLUTIONS

3. CAUSES – PROBLEMS

4. SOLUTIONS
MODEL ORGANIZATIONS OF PROBLEM/ SOLUTION ESSAYS

CHAIN ORGANIZATION BLOCK ORGANIZATION

 MODEL ORGANIZATIONS OF CAUSE/ SOLUTION ESSAYS
CHAIN ORGANIZATION BLOCK ORGANIZATION
I. INTRODUCTION I. INTRODUCTION
1. Hook (interesting fact or question)
1. Hook (interesting fact or question)
2. Background information
2. Background information 3. Thesis statement (clearly state the cause
3.Thesis statement (clearly state the and hint at the solution)
cause and hint at the solution) II. BODY
II. BODY Para 1:
Para 1: Explain the Cause 1 + Offer 4. Explain the Cause 1
the Solution 1 5. Explain the Cause 2
Para 2: Explain the Cause 2 + Offer Para 2:
6. Offer the Solution 1
the Solution 2
7. Offer the Solution 2
III. CONCLUSION III. CONCLUSION
4. Summarize the cause and proposed 8. Summarize the cause and proposed
solution solution
5. Call to action or final thought 9. Call to action or final thought
 MODEL ORGANIZATIONS OF PROBLEM/ SOLUTION ESSAYS
CHAIN ORGANIZATION BLOCK ORGANIZATION
I. INTRODUCTION I. INTRODUCTION
1. Hook (interesting fact or question) 1. Hook (interesting fact or question)
2. Background information
2. Background information
3. Thesis statement (clearly state the problem
3.Thesis statement (clearly state the and hint at the solution)
problem and hint at the solution) II. BODY
II. BODY Para 1:
Para 1: Explain the Problem 1 + Offer 4. Explain the Problem 1
the Solution 1 5. Explain the Problem 2
Para 2: Explain the Problem 2 + Offer Para 2:
the Solution 2 6. Offer the Solution 1
7. Offer the Solution 2
III. CONCLUSION
III. CONCLUSION
4. Summarize the problem and 8. Summarize the problem and proposed
proposed solution solution
5. Call to action or final thought 9. Call to action or final thought
 MODEL ORGANIZATIONS OF CAUSE/ PROBLEM ESSAYS
CHAIN ORGANIZATION BLOCK ORGANIZATION
I. INTRODUCTION I. INTRODUCTION
1. Hook (interesting fact or question) 1. Hook (interesting fact or question)
2. Background information
2. Background information
3. Thesis statement (clearly state the cause
3.Thesis statement (clearly state the and hint at the problem)
cause and hint at the problem) II. BODY
II. BODY Para 1:
Para 1: Explain the Cause 1 + Offer 4. Explain the Cause 1
the Problem 1 5. Explain the Cause 2
Para 2: Explain the Cause 2 + Offer Para 2:
the Problem 2 6. Offer the Problem 1
7. Offer the Problem 2
III. CONCLUSION
III. CONCLUSION
4. Summarize the cause and proposed 8. Summarize the cause and proposed
problem problem
5. Call to action or final thought 9. Call to action or final thought
 MODEL ORGANIZATIONS OF SOLUTION ESSAYS
I. INTRODUCTION
1. Hook (interesting fact or question)
2. Background information
3.Thesis statement (clearly state the solution)
II. BODY
Para 1: Explain the Solution 1 in detail (provide evidence: statistics,
examples, expert opinions)
Para 2: Explain the Solution 2 in detail (provide evidence: statistics,
examples, expert opinions)
III. CONCLUSION
4. Summarize the solutions
5. Call to action or final thought
 WRITING THE INTRODUCTION
 Start with a hook to grab attention
 Provide background information to help readers understand the
problem
 End with a clear thesis statement
Example:
“One of the most pressing issues in urban areas today is traffic
congestion. With more cars on the road than ever before, cities are
struggling to keep traffic flowing. This essay will explore the causes of
traffic congestion and propose solutions to address this growing
concern”.
 WRITING THE INTRODUCTION
1. Start with a hook or general statement:
- There are often two general statements. The first general statement is a very general
comment about the subject. Its purpose is to introduce the topic and give background
information on the topic. The second general statement is more specific than the previous
one. It gives further background information about the topic.
2. The thesis statement:
- The thesis statement is the most important sentence in the introductory paragraph. It
states the specific topic and the main ideas that will be discussed in the body of the essay.
The thesis statement comes at the end of the introductory paragraph. The thesis statement
can list the general purpose of the essay, or it can list the specific main ideas to be
discussed in the body.
 Describing the Problem

 Be specific when describing the problem

 Use facts, statistics, or real-life examples
 Answer these questions:
• What is the problem?
• Who is affected?
• Why is it important to solve?
 Proposing Solutions
 How to Propose Solutions:
 Clearly describe each solution
 Explain how it will solve the problem
 Support with evidence (research, expert views)

Example Solution:
“One solution to reduce traffic congestion is to improve public
transportation. By increasing the availability and efficiency of buses and
trains, cities can encourage more people to leave their cars at home”.
 Evaluating Solutions
 Compare different solutions
 Discuss feasibility (cost, time, practicality)
 Address potential drawbacks or challenges

Example:
"While expanding public transportation is effective, it requires
significant investment and time to implement. In the short term,
promoting carpooling and flexible work hours could reduce congestion”.
 Writing the Conclusion

 Restate the thesis in a new way

 Summarize the main points (problem and solutions)
 End with a call to action or a thought-provoking statement
 EXAMPLES OF CAUSE AND PROBLEM ESSAYS
1. CAUSES AND PROBLEMS
- Nowadays many adults have full-time jobs and the proportion of their lives spent on
work is very high. Some of them are under high stress and ignore the other parts of life.
What are causes and problems?
 EXAMPLES OF PROBLEM AND SOLUTION ESSAYS
2. PROBLEMS AND SOLUTIONS
- Nowadays many people complain that they have difficulties getting enough sleep. What
problems can lack of sleep cause? What can be done about lack of sleep? Give reasons for
your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
- What damage does plastic do to the environment? What can be done by the government and
individuals to solve this problem?
- Major cities in the world are growing fast, as well as their problems. What are the problems
that young people living in those cities are facing? Suggest some solutions.
- In many countries, there has been an increase in the number of people who are overweight.
What problems does this cause? What solutions can you suggest?
- Nowadays more and more older people who need employment have to compete with
younger people for the same jobs. What problems does this cause? What are the solutions? -
 EXAMPLES OF CAUSE AND SOLUTION ESSAYS
3. CAUSES – SOLUTIONS
- Overpopulation in many major urban centers around the world is a major problem.
What are the causes of this? How can this problem be solved?
- What are the primary causes of loss of biodiversity? What solutions can you
suggest? Why is it so? How can this problem be solved?
- Obesity rates are rising in many countries around the world. What are the main
causes of this problem, and what solutions can be offered to tackle it?
 EXAMPLES OF SOLUTION ESSAYS
4. SOLUTIONS
- Most new businesses fail within the first five years. Why does this happen? What
steps can new businesses take to avoid this problem.
- What can governments do to encourage children to eat a healthier diet? Give
reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own
knowledge or experience.
- Air pollution in urban areas is becoming worse year by year. State some reasons
for this and provide possible solutions.
 PRACTICE

Lifelong Learning: Promoting Continuous Education

 In an era of rapid technological advancements and global connectivity, the need for
continuous education is more critical than ever. Despite its importance, many individuals face
significant barriers to lifelong learning, such as financial constraints, lack of time, or limited
access to resources. This essay explores the challenges of lifelong learning and offers potential
solutions to promote a culture of continuous education.
One of the primary challenges to lifelong learning is the financial burden associated with it.
Courses, certifications, and advanced degrees can be prohibitively expensive, deterring
individuals from pursuing further education. Moreover, many people struggle to balance work,
family responsibilities, and learning, leaving little time to engage in educational activities.
Additionally, access to learning resources, such as online courses or libraries, can be limited,
particularly for individuals living in rural or underprivileged areas.
Another significant issue is the lack of motivation and awareness about the benefits of
lifelong learning. Many individuals view education as a phase confined to early life, failing to
see its value in personal and professional growth. This mindset can lead to stagnation in skills
and knowledge, making it challenging to adapt to changes in the workforce or society.
 To address financial constraints, governments and organizations can provide subsidies, scholarships, or
low-cost educational programs. Public libraries and community centers could also offer free or affordable
workshops and courses to ensure that education remains accessible to all. Employers could play a role by
funding professional development programs for their staff, thereby investing in a skilled workforce.
Time management challenges can be tackled by offering flexible learning options, such as online
courses and part-time programs. These alternatives allow learners to study at their own pace and balance
their other responsibilities effectively. Additionally, creating learning communities or support groups can
help individuals stay motivated and accountable.
Finally, raising awareness about the importance of lifelong learning is crucial. Public campaigns,
mentorship programs, and success stories can inspire individuals to embrace education as a lifelong
journey. Schools and universities can instill this mindset early by incorporating lifelong learning principles
into their curriculums, emphasizing adaptability and the pursuit of knowledge beyond formal education.
While barriers to lifelong learning exist, they are not insurmountable. By addressing financial
constraints, providing flexible learning opportunities, and fostering a culture that values continuous
education, we can empower individuals to stay relevant in a fast-changing world. Promoting lifelong
learning is not just an investment in personal growth but also a vital step toward a more innovative,
adaptable, and resilient society.
 Before writing a problem/solution essay, follow these steps to ensure clarity and structure:
1. Understand the assignment
- Carefully read the prompt to identify the specific problem(s) and scope of the essay.
- Determine if you're expected to propose one solution or multiple solutions.
2. Choose a focused topic
- Select a problem that is specific, manageable, and interesting to you.
- Avoid overly broad or vague issues.
3. Research the problem
- Gather credible information on the nature, causes, and impact of the problem.
- Look for existing solutions and their effectiveness.
4. Brainstorm possible solutions
- List potential solutions and think through how they can address the root causes.
- Consider the feasibility, benefits, and potential drawbacks of each solution.
5. Create an Outline
- Introduction: Introduce the problem and its significance.
- Problem description: Explain the problem in detail (causes, effects, scope).
- Solution(s): Present your proposed solution(s) with supporting evidence.
- Conclusion: Summarize the main points and restate the importance of solving the problem.
 Your turn

Television or video games and their problems on homework.

I. Introduction
Start by introducing the general topic—how television and video
games are a common source of entertainment for students. Mention that
while these activities are fun and engaging, they can interfere with
students' homework and academic performance if not managed properly.
Thesis statement:
Television and video games negatively impact homework completion
by reducing focus and time spent studying, but this issue can be
addressed through effective time management, parental involvement, and
the creating of structured routines.
II. Body
Explain the problem in detail:
 Time consumption: Watching TV shows or playing video games can consume
hours of a student’s free time, leaving little for homework.
 Distraction: Even when students attempt to do homework while a TV is on or
after gaming, their focus is often split, reducing productivity and learning
quality.
 Sleep disruption: Late-night gaming or binge-watching can interfere with sleep,
which affects energy levels and cognitive performance during homework time.
 Academic decline: Continuous lack of attention to homework results in poor
academic performance and falling behind in schoolwork.
Provide practical solutions to the problem:
 Time management: Suggest using schedules or planners to allocate specific
time for homework and entertainment.
 Parental involvement: Parents can set rules around screen time, ensuring that
homework is completed before leisure activities like TV or video games.
 Structured routine: Creating a fixed routine where homework is done at the
same time every day helps develop discipline.
 Reward system: Implement a reward system where students earn screen time
by completing their homework on time.
III. Conclusion
Summarize the problem and the proposed solutions. Reinforce the idea that
while television and video games can be fun, they should be enjoyed in moderation
so they don’t harm academic performance. With proper time management and
support, students can balance their entertainment and school responsibilities
effectively.
 Your homework
Obesity rates are rising in many countries around the world. What are the main
causes of this problem, and what solutions can be offered to tackle it? Write at least
250 words with time allowed 40 minutes.