E3: Problem-Solution Essay

In this research paper, you will research a problem in depth, analyze the current problem, and offer a practical solution. The goal of this essay is to discuss the flaws and shortcomings of the current solutions and find a practical solution that reduces/ minimizes the effects and consequences of the problem for the potential audience.

Length

5-6 pages

Format

APA

Sources

At least 5 sources from the library databases

At least two of the sources should be journal articles

Other sources should be credible articles from journals and major, objective, credible publications found in the following databases:

Academic Search Complete

JSTOR

Opposing Viewpoints

Issues and Controversies

CQ Researcher

Topic:

An arguable topic, national or international, that is a current problem and you are able to discuss causes/ effects/ obstacles and offer practical solution(s)

I suggest browsing the topics in online databases such as opposing viewpoints & Issues and Controversies

Writing process

After choosing your topic, compose your research questions, annotated bibliography, rough draft, and final draft

Structure

Introduction

Introducing the problem and/ or providing background information ONLY on the problem; no mention of solution

Background information on the problem/ significance

Compare/ contrast the problem in present vs, past, or between two regions, countries, …

Potential audience

Narrative/ example of the problem

Thesis:

The problem/ a major reason for this problem and the significance of finding a practical solution(s)

Do not list the solutions in the thesis

Problem block (6-7 developed, argumentative paragraphs)

Definition and significance

Causes

Effects and consequences

Audience: concerns, objections, your response

Obstacles: why hasn’t this problem been solved yet?

Transitional paragraph (one brief paragraph)

Major points of the problem and the practical solution (one short paragraph—few sentences)

Solution block (3-4 paragraphs)

Current solution(s) and flaws/ shortcomings

Practical solution and benefits for the audience

Major objections/ myths/ concerns and responding to these points

Although the practical solutions might have minor flaws, Persuade the audience that the practical solutions are better than current solutions

Conclusion

Summarizing major points:

Problem and its significance, major practical solution to resolve this problem

If this problem is not solved, what could happen in future? Who, what will be affected?

Elements of an arguable paragraph:

Arguable topic sentence

Context

Evidence

Explanation

Concluding sentence/ transition

Rhetorical Appeals:

Ethos: credibility as a writer

Pathos: emotionally convincing your audience

Logos: Logically convincing your audience