The Problem-Solution Essay

description

The Problem-Solution Essay
Organization and Coherence
1) What are some signpost words or cohesive phrases in each paragraph that either clearly defined the compositional element of the paragraph (e.g. introduction; body; conclusion) or refered to other parts of the essay?
Language
2) Can you pick out words in the text that are strongly associated with the problem-solution pattern -- as opposed to other text types such as argumentative  essays, business letters, lab reports and wedding invitations?


Topic Sentences
Prompts
Mainland Chinese people experience many instances of discrimination in Hong Kong.  Discuss the problem and suggest some solutions
A number of university students have financial problems.  Discuss the problem and suggest some solutions.

Questions
What is the topic of the paragraph?
Which signposts or other cohesive devices do you use to signal the start of a new paragraph?
Structure
What is happening that is unpleasant/unacceptable?
What are the problems causing this situation?
What can be done to solve this problem?
How good is the solution?
Think about a problem that you face or someone you know faces; write that statement down

Think about two aspects - parts of the problem, that is, two things that are causing the problem; write those down

Walk around the room and share your problem and its components; and solicit advice from your classmates; write down the two best solutions

No girlfriend
No time to date
Not very handsome
So lonely
Online dating service
Cosmetic surgery
Ask Martin to introduce girls to me
Introduction: below I will discuss; experiencing problems and suggest some possible solutions; 
First body (problem) paragraph: first of all; One reason; 
Second body (problem) paragraph: another main reason; can cause problems
Third body paragraph: solutions; despite these problems; 
Conclusion: I think this is; the above solutions; 
1) To begin with, David is not very handsome, which is a significant factor in his not having a girlfriend.
2) Besides not being very handsome, David unfortunately has no time to date any potential girlfriends.
3) That David is very lonely, and hence trapped in his pitiful indolence, is another reason why he cannot find a girlfriend.