1. Writing about Problems & Their Solutions
English 111
Feb. 20 & 25

2. Genre A category or kind of composition
Informs readers of what to expect and how to read the composition
Informs the writer of what to include and what to exclude in a composition (arrangement, subject matter, information, arguments, kinds of inquiry, etc.)
Informs the relationship between the writer and the readers

3. A Proposal to Solve a Problem
A Proposal to Solve a Problem is a type of persuasive essay that...
describes a problem in some social, political, educational, medical, historical (etc.) context.
offers a solution(s) to the problem described
justifies the solution(s) with arguments for it.

4. Describing the Problem
First, a Proposal to Solve a Problem must describe and prove the existence of the problem it is trying to solve. To help establish the signficance, or importance, of the problem, you need to describe...
The Problem
The specific phenomenon one think needs to be addressed and changed.
Harms
Evidence and explanation of how the problem hurts other people, ideas, or institutions.
Pervasiveness
Evidence and explanation of how widespread or common the problem is.
Evidence and explanation of what groups of people, ideas, or institutions are affected by the problem.
Cause(s)
Evidence and explanation of how the problem came into being, what makes it happen, and who or what is responsible for it.

5. Proposing the Solution
Second, a Proposal to Solve a Problem must describe the solution(s) one devises to solve the problem.
The Solution itself is the measure, steps, or ideas that will reduce the harm and/or prevent the causes. Solutions may be...
A specific, concrete action;
The adoption, modification, rejection, or repeal of a policy;
A change in outlook, values, or thinking;
Any combination of the above.
As well, implementation, or the steps one must take to accomplish the solution, may need to be addressed.

6. Justifying the Solution
Third, a Proposal to Solve a Problem must justify or prove the solution(s) proposed. Typically, four types of evidence and explanation are offered to justify the solution:
Effectiveness
How well the solution reduces the harms or prevents the causes.
Feasibility
How easy or realistic the solution is to implement.
Superiority
How much better the solution is compared to other solutions proposed, including a consideration of what is already being done.
Benefits
How the solution helps out or is advantageous to others, including those affected by the problem, responsible for the problem, affected by the solution, and responsible for the solution.