ACADEMIC ENGLISH IIIClass 22

May 29, 2013

Today

Organizing a problem-solution essay

Evaluating solutions

Problem – Solution Essay Structure

Key elements of problem-solution writing

- Identification of the problem.

- Situation (information necessary for understanding the problem)

- Identification of solution(s)

- Evaluation of solution(s)

Identifying and explaining problem (situation)

Information to address in the Situation:

- What are the causes of the problem?

- Why did it happen?

- Who does it affect?

- What are the effects of the problem?

- Why is it a problem?

Remember to use supporting evidence to present the situation: facts, statistics, examples, quotations.

General Essay Structure

Introduction

Body

Conclusion

Problem – Solution OutlineIntroduction

- Opening statement (related to topic)- Identification of problem- Thesis statement

Body

A. Situation

B. Solution 1- details of solution- evaluation of solution

C. Solution 2- details of solution- evaluation of solution

Conclusion

- Restate the significance of the problem- Briefly summarize the solution(s)- Re-emphasize the strengths of the solution(s)

- Call to action

Problem – Solution: Introduction

Introduction

- Opening statement (related to topic)- Identification of problem- Thesis statement

Problem – Solution: Introduction

Man employs technology to meet his needs or maintain his standard of living. However, today’s high technology uses so much energy that soon all our resources will be exhausted. Without such energy, industrial production will decrease, agricultural output will drop, transport will be restricted, and standard of living will decline. In other words, the world is on the verge of an energy crisis unless certain measures are taken. The two most commonly proposed solutions to this global problem are reducing the energy waste and developing cheap and convenient energy.

Problem – Solution: Introduction

Drug abuse is rife in many countries. Every society, every age and ethnic group, every social class, and every family has been touched by the devastating effects of drug addiction. Billions of dollars are spent regulating drug use, treating addicts and their families, and fighting drug-related crime. Although drugs threaten many homes and societies, their effects can be combated more effectively

Problem – Solution: Thesis statement

In this type of essay, the thesis statement may be two sentences.

Sentence 1: State the problem.

Sentence 2: Indicate solution(s).

Of course, it may also be done in one sentence.

Problem – Solution: Thesis statementExamples:

Internet piracy is a big problem for many companies.

Smoking should be banned because it is bad for your health, it costs too much and it affects those who do not smoke.

The melting ice caps pose a real and present danger to our world and, if left unchecked, will cause world-wide disasters in the future. Scientists have researched two viable ways to slow the disintegration of the ice caps.

Many children suffer long-term consequences of bullying. However, the problem can be remedied through a three-pronged approach: educating the parents, encouraging a community atmosphere, and implementing a peer mediation program.

Problem – Solution: Thesis statement

The melting ice caps pose a real and present danger to our world and, if left unchecked, will cause world-wide disasters in the future. Scientists have researched two viable ways to slow the disintegration of the ice caps.

Many children suffer long-term consequences of bullying. However, the problem can be remedied through a three-pronged approach: educating the parents, encouraging a community atmosphere, and implementing a peer mediation program.

Solution Paragraphs

Solution 1- details of solution- evaluation of solution

- State the solution:

“One solution to X is to SOLUTION”

- Give sufficient details to allow the reader to adequately understand what the solution is.

Solution ParagraphsGive sufficient details to allow the reader to adequately understand what the solution is.

“One way to increase the number of Japanese tourists in Korea is advertising.”

- Obviously, this is insufficient.

- The writer must be specific about advertising:

- Where?- What kind?- Who is the target?

- What the solution is, exactly, must be explained.

Solution Paragraphs - Evaluation

Evaluating the solution:

-What are the steps that must be taken for the solution to be implemented/for the solution to work?

- Who will be involved- Timeframe- How- Where- Costs

Solution Paragraphs - Evaluation

Evaluating the solution:

- Feasibility: How possible/practical is your solution?

- What are the main advantages? How can it address the problem?

- What are possible issues/disadvantages/objections? Can these be justified, or overcome?

Paper 4 Topic

I am going to make a list of the topics.

Please email me your topic today.

Paper 4 - Timeline

First draft: Friday June 7- Peer feedback day.

Second draft: Monday June 10

Final Draft: Friday June 14