Prewriting for Problem-Solution Essays
Before you start writing your essay, you need to think about some problems in your community and ways you could help solve them. These prewriting activities will help you examine a problem, come up with a solution, and gather and organize details before you begin a first draft.
Prewriting to Explore Problems
Consider problems.
Think about problems you have noticed at home, at school, and in your community. List them in the table. When you finish, put a star next to the one you feel strongest about. Make a copy of this Google doc or download a Word template.
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One problem at home is |
One problem at school is |
One community problem is |
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I get distracted when I work on my homework.
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There’s too much shoving and pushing during recess.
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Rosemont Park is dirty and unsafe.*
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Outline the problem.
Answer the following questions about the problem you will address in your essay. Your answers will help show why the problem is serious and needs a solution. Make a copy of this Google doc or download a Word template.
- What are some examples of the problem?
- Why is it a problem? Give at least two reasons.
- How does the problem affect me? Who else is affected?
- What might happen because of this problem?
Teaching Tip
If students have trouble answering these questions, encourage them to choose a different topic (problem).
Prewriting to Explore Solutions
Brainstorm solutions.
Brainstorm solutions to your problem. Record each solution that comes to your mind, even if it seems wild or unlikely.
Ways to solve my problem . . .
Write letter to the mayor.
Write letter to the newspaper.
Notify parks department.
Organize a fund-raiser.
Build a new park.
Ask the city to clean it.
Do a school service project.
Plant flowers.
Put in a skate park.
Clean it with friends.
Evaluate solutions.
Pick your three favorite solutions from the list. Answer questions about each solution. Then choose the best solution to the problem. Make a copy of this Google doc or download a Word template.
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Why would the solution work? |
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Solution 1:
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Solution 2:
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Solution 3:
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What problems or obstacles could get in the way of making the solution work? |
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Solution 1:
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Solution 2:
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Solution 3:
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Teaching Tip
Evaluation is a critical-thinking skill that requires students to judge the value or worth of an idea. Consider leading students through the example answers to model the process.