Problem-solution

writing
F4
2nd term writing1
 Objectives

• To apply academic vocabulary and formal sentence patterns correctly.

• To explain the significance of problems and justify the effectiveness of
solutions.
 Purpose

• To examine a problem and offer solutions

• easy to understand a complex problem
• Include the strengths and weaknesses of each solution
• State writer’s standpoint in the conclusion and sometimes
asks for some kinds of actions form the readers
Outline of a problem-solution essay
Paragraph 1 Background (problem) • Provide background information of
and thesis statement the issue

Paragraph 2 First solution

• Propose answer to the solution and
provide evidence proving the
Paragraph 3 Second solution effectiveness

Paragraph 4 Third solution

Paragraph 5 conclusion • Provide an overview of stated ideas

along with a call to action
Problem-solution essay typically use:

• Present tense mainly

- to show that the report is examining a current issue
• Fact, statistics, quotations and examples
- to back up the writer’s points
• Conditional sentences (if…)
- to talk about situations, actions and their results
• Passive voice
- when the action is more important than the doer, or when the doer
is not known
• Connectives
- to link points together in a logical way
 Useful notes
Use conditional sentences to hypothesize about situations, actions and their
results.
Type 0 – fact
Type 1 – real and possible situations in the present or in
the future
Type 2 – unreal or impossible situations in the present
or in the future
Type 3 – something that did not happen in the past
Useful sentence patterns
1. Background information + Thesis statement
In today’s world, [Issues問題n.] has become one of
the most challenging, affecting millions of people
and demanding immediate attention. Improving
[Issues 問 題 n.] is vital for their overall
development and future success. This essay aims to
provide practical suggestions to [人群] through [建
議solution 1 ( noun phrase ) ], [建議 solution 2
( noun phrase )] and [建議solution 3 ( noun
phrase )].
 Useful sentence patterns
2. Topic sentence + Supporting ideas
One effective way to boost提升/ alleviate 減輕 … is by (推廣
promoting) 建議solution 1 ( noun phrase).
(Example) has been shown to (V.)….
Moreover, (Example) is beneficial for [n.]

Another important strategy is (促進 fostering) 建議 solution 2.

(Example) can play a crucial role in (V.-ing)/ Noun phrase.
Additionally, (Example) can provide [人群] with a sense of (V.-ing)/
Noun phrase.

[建議solution 3 ( noun phrase )] is also essential for enhancing [Issues

問題n.]
Offering workshops and xxx services can help [人群] recognise and
address xxx issues. By promoting awareness of [Issues問題n.], we can
encourage [人群] to seek help when needed.
Useful sentence patterns
3. Restatement & summary
In conclusion, improving [Issues問題n.] requires a
multifaceted approach. Despite the challenges,
there are clear and actionable steps we can take to
address [Issues問題n.] . By embracing [建議
solution 1 ( noun phrase ) ], [建議 solution 2 ( noun
phrase )] and [建議solution 3 ( noun phrase )], we
can drive positive changes.
Useful sentence patterns
Analysing problems Giving Solutions

➢ The main reason/cause for (the problem) There are many solutions to this problem.
is __(n.)__ ➢ The first is to __(v.)__
➢ The most common reason/cause for (the ➢ We may be able to __(v.)__
problem) is __(n.)__ ➢ We need to __(v.)__
➢ Another reason/cause is __(n.)__ ➢ One possibility is for
➢ __(n.)__ is also a factor. (governments/parents/schools/individuals)
➢ __(n.)__ is the major cause of (the to __(v.)__.
problem). ➢ Focusing on __(n.)__ is the best way to
➢ If-conditional sentences tackle/deal with the problem.
e.g. If + present simple, (the problem) ➢ If-conditional sentences
e.g. If + present simple, (the solution) can be
occurs. achieved.
 Key vocabulary
• embrace 樂意 • ensure 確保 v. • affect/impact 影 • challenges 挑戰 n.
採納 v. • benefit 對...有 響 v. • changes/problems
• adopt 採取 v. 益 v. • positively 正面地 n. 變化/問題
• implement 實 • beneficial 有益 adv. • approach to v-ing/
施 v. 的 adj. • negatively 負面 noun phrase 方法
• strengthen 加 • encourage 鼓 地 adv. 去....
強 v. 勵 v. • effectively 有效 • measure (s) 措施 n.
• foster 促進 v. • provide/ offer 地 adv. • strategy (ies) 策略
• enhance 提升 v. 提供 v. • pragmatic/ n.
• boost 提升 v. • help/support/ practical 實際的
• increase, 增加 assist 幫助 v. adj.
v. • address/naviga • feasible 可行的
• improve 改進 v. te/ cope with/ adj.
• reduce 減少 v. deal with/
• alleviate 減輕 v. • tackle 處理 v.
12 Ways to Solve Problems
Assumes Cause of
Solution How It Works Example
Problem is
More teachers in
Give more money,
schools, more
Add something people, equipment, Lack of resources
money for fire
or stuff
department
Fire bad teachers,
Take something Remove source of One thing or person
get rid of poor
away problem causing problem
textbooks
Give information
People don’t know Say No to Drugs
Educate about the problem
what to do campaign
and solution
Create a new law or School dress code
Current rules don't
Make laws or rules rule, or reform revised to require
solve problem
existing rules uniforms
 Assumes Cause of
Solution How It Works Example
Problem is
Provide a way to enforce
or else provide more
School calls parents if
resources (like more Current rules are adequate
Enforce laws or rules students don't adhere
police or money for but aren't enforced
to dress code
regulators) to enforce
existing rules or laws
Change meeting time
Change the way
Change method or Something isn't being from Tuesday morning
something is done or
procedure done the right way to Saturday to get
organized
more people to come
Use advertising or
emotional appeals to get People know what they
Motivate Anti-smoking ads
people to do or not do should do, but don't do it
something
More buildings or a new
organization is needed Build a new football
Give new facilities or
Build something new because nothing currently stadium to encourage
organization
existing will solve fan support
problem
 Assumes Cause of
Solution How It Works Example
Problem is
Get opposing sides
Problem is mostly lack Trade agreement talks
Work out a compromise together to work out a
of agreement between countries
mutual agreement
Take a solution that Adding taxes on
Adapt a solution that worked somewhere else Current solution does cigarettes decreases
works and apply it to this not fit problem smoking, so put a tax on
problem unhealthy snack foods
Get rid of current
Fire college football
Change leadership leadership and put Leader is the problem
coach
someone new in charge

Present information or
incentives to change the Attitudes are causing Parents give children
Change attitudes
way people feel about problem money to do chores
situation
 Sample essay
What suggestions can you give to help adolescents improve their mental health?

Adolescence is a critical period for mental health, as young people face numerous
challenges that can impact their well-being. Improving adolescent mental health is vital for
their overall development and future success. This essay aims to provide practical suggestions
to help adolescents stay mentally healthy through lifestyle habits, social connections, and
mental health resources.

One effective way to boost adolescent psychological health is by promoting healthy

lifestyle habits. For instance, regular physical activity—ranging from organized sports to daily
walks—has been proven to alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression. In addition to exercise, a
nutritious diet rich in whole grains and vegetables supports brain health and stabilizes mood.
Furthermore, ensuring sufficient sleep is crucial, as chronic sleep deprivation often leads to
increased negativity. Consequently, parents and educators should collaborate to establish consistent
schedules and conducive sleep environments..
 Sample essay
Another important strategy is fostering strong social connections. Adolescents
need supportive relationships with family, friends, and mentors to navigate the challenges of
this stage of life. Encouraging open communication within families can help adolescents feel
understood and supported. Schools can also play a role by creating a positive and inclusive
environment where students feel safe and valued. Extracurricular activities, such as clubs
and volunteer opportunities, can provide adolescents with a sense of belonging and purpose,
which are beneficial for mental wellness.
Providing access to mental health resources is also essential for enhancing
adolescent psychological health. Schools and communities should offer counselling services
and mental health education to help adolescents recognise and address mental health issues.
Training teachers and staff to identify signs of mental health problems and provide
appropriate support can make a significant difference. Additionally, reducing the stigma
around mental health by promoting awareness and understanding can encourage adolescents
to seek help when needed. Online resources and helplines can also be valuable tools for
adolescents who may feel more comfortable seeking help anonymously.

In conclusion, improving adolescents’ emotional well-being requires a

multifaceted approach. By implementing these strategies, we can support adolescents in
developing the resilience and skills they need to handle the obstacles of adolescence and
lead healthy, fulfilling lives