Problem Solution Essay

In this type of essays you need to discuss the problems with regards to a particular topic and then suggest possible solutions to these problems.

These essays...

• Describe the problem
• Convince the reader the problem needs solving
• Explain the solution proposal
• Argue that this is the best solution

Problem Solution Essay Questions:

• ex. Overpopulation of urban areas has led to numerous problems. Identify one or two serious ones and suggest ways that governments and individuals can tackle these problems.

or

• ex. In the developed world, average life expectancy is increasing. What problems will this cause for individuals and society? Suggest some measures that could be taken to reduce the impact of ageing populations.

ESSAY STRUCTURE

INTRODUCTION (paragraph 1)

• Present the problem and its causes

MAIN BODY (paragraphs 2, 3 and 4)

• Write your suggestions and their expected results (write each suggestion and its results in separate paragraphs)

CONCLUSION (paragraph 5)

• Summarize your opinion

USEFUL TIPS

Address the reader directly

• ex. If YOU want to help the environment, there are lots of things that YOU can do.

Use a quotation

• (a sentence / phrase from a book, a play, etc.- mention the name of the person who said/wrote it)

Use a rhetorical question

USE FORMAL OR SEMI-FORMAL STYLE

USEFUL VOCABULARY

To make suggestions

• It would help if..../be a good idea if......
• A/Another useful suggestion would be to...
• The situation could be improved if/by......
• Steps/ Measures should be taken in order to solve / deal with......

To present results and consequences

• In this way ....
• The effect/ consequence/ result of ..... would be
• This would....
• Then......
• If....., the result would be....
• The effect/ consequences/ result of .... would be......

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