The primary learning objective of this paper is to develop awareness of the importance of investigating problems and proposing solutions. The second learning objective of this paper is to persuade the audience that one solution is better than the others.

Requirements: This essay is to be 500-600words formatted in the MLA style. Students are asked to submit the rough draft and peer review along with the final draft of the essay.

Your topic is your choice. In addition to the information in your textbook, you may want to consider the following:

What is a problem-solution essay?

An argument essay should argue the validity or existence of a problem, suggest possible solutions to the problem and argue the validity and appropriateness of the best solution to that problem.

Subject: Clearly identify the problem.

Thesis: Define the problem and state the best solution to the problem being discussed.

Analysis: Make a problem-solution chart to list aspects of the problem – aspects of the problem that work together to create the problem and reasons the situation is a problem. List steps or solutions which are necessary to remove the problem and the reasons the solution is possible, workable, logical, and reasonable.

Essay Structure:

The Introduction

The introduction should set up the problem, and the problem set-up should lead to the thesis. The thesis should be an arguable claim about why and how the situation is a problem. The claim about a solution should also be included in the thesis.

The Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs should define the nature of the problem, establish its existence by explaining what has caused or led to the problem, explain the extent of the problem, explain its effects and why it is an issue that needs to be solved.Finally, the body paragraphs should warn readers about future effects if no solution is offered. Prior experiences from other communities can be applied to this section.

The body paragraphs should support the claim about the problem. Description, definitions, examples, observations, reasons and results should be used for support. No outside research should be used for the essay. Possible solutions to the problem should be suggested. The best solution should be identified.

The Conclusion

The problem should be redefined along with reasons why the solution will be practical and logical. The importance of solving the problem can be reemphasized. The conclusion can be one or two paragraphs.