Academic english iii November 10, 2014

Today - Problem-solution thesis statement - Providing an outline in a report - Peer feedback

Problem – Solution: Thesis statement In this type of writing, the thesis statement may be two sentences. Sentence 1: State the problem. Sentence 2: Indicate solution(s). Of course, it may also be done in one sentence.

Problem – Solution: Thesis statement Examples: Internet piracy is a big problem for many companies. Smoking should be banned because it is bad for your health, it costs too much and it affects those who do not smoke. The melting ice caps pose a real and present danger to our world and, if left unchecked, will cause world-wide disasters in the future. Scientists have researched two viable ways to slow the disintegration of the ice caps. Many children suffer long-term consequences of bullying. However, the problem can be remedied through a three-pronged approach: educating the parents, encouraging a community atmosphere, and implementing a peer mediation program.

Problem – Solution: Thesis statement The melting ice caps pose a real and present danger to our world and, if left unchecked, will cause world-wide disasters in the future. Scientists have researched two viable ways to slow the disintegration of the ice caps. Many children suffer long-term consequences of bullying. However, the problem can be remedied through a three-pronged approach: educating the parents, encouraging a community atmosphere, and implementing a peer mediation program.

Problem – Solution: outlining In longer reports, providing the reader with an outline of the report’s contents is helpful. - This is also standard in a thesis. - note: not used often in essays Example: This paper begins with an examination of inadequate space at Dongsan Library. It then discusses several failed attempts to address the issue and it ends by suggesting and evaluating new solutions.

Problem – Solution: outlining Samples: This paper begin with an examination of _______. It moves on to discuss several failed attempts to address the issue and end with suggestions for and evaluations of new solutions. This paper begins with a discussion of the situation surrounding ___________. It then moves on to examining two failed attempts to improve the problem. The paper closes with suggestions for and evaluations of new solutions.

Peer feedback Step 1. Read the entire report - do not take any notes. - Goal: get an overall feeling for the paper.

Peer feedback Step 2. Read the Situation section - provide comments - does the writer fully explain the problem? - can you understand how this problem is a real problem? - Are there any missing details that would help you better understand this section?

Peer feedback Step 3. Read the Solutions section - provide comments - Are the solutions clearly explained? - Do the solutions seem possible or are some of them unrealistic? - What details could make the solutions clearer?

Peer feedback Step 4. Read the Evaluation section - provide comments - Does this section discuss both advantages and drawbacks of each solution? - Are the drawbacks justified/explained? - Overall, does the writer evaluate his/her solutions adequately?  what details could be added?

Reminders 1. If you want feedback for your next draft, make an appointment with me (through email) 2. Use the checklist (Files section of website) to help you write your next draft. 3. Pick up your journal.