Paper #2 Problem-Solution (150 Points)

Problem-Solution Paper For this assignment, you will write a problem-solution paper using the techniques discussed in class and on pp of “The Little, Brown Handbook.” The purpose of this paper is to prove that a problem exists and to offer reasonable solutions based on your opinion and research. At least 75% of the paper should address your proposed solutions.

Problem-Solution Paper (cont.) Proposed solutions will be derived from: Your personal opinion Current research on your topic Interviews with representatives currently working in the field of your subject area and/or surveys from members of your target audience

Problem-Solution Paper (cont.) Magazines, newspapers, radio, TV, and the Internet will provide you with the most current research on your topic. Use research that is no older than a year, if possible. Use at least two print sources in this paper. Articles may be found in magazines or journals or in electronic databases available through the Ivy Tech Community College—Central Indiana library. Include a references page and in-text citations using APA documentation.

Problem-Solution Paper (cont.) Clear thesis Effective introduction Demonstration of problem Audience awareness Minimum of three solutions stated and discussed (original solution offered by writer) Weaknesses and strengths of each solution discussed

Problem-Solution Paper (cont.) Evidence that proposed solutions will work Organization, coherence, paragraph transitions Clear style with few distracting typos or errors Correct in-text documentation and appropriate/correct References page Originals or photocopies of all research materials

Problem-Solution Paper (cont.) At least 1,000 words/4-5 pages, double spaced, in 12-pt. type. Final draft must include a title page and a references page. All pages, beginning with the title page, must have a header and page number. All research materials must be handed in with the paper.

Problem-Solution Paper (cont.) Important Note: Papers missing in-text documentation, References page or photocopies of the sources used for research and documentation will receive 0 points.

Problem-Solution Paper (cont.) “Qualities of Effective Proposals”: A clearly defined problem An effective proposal first establishes the existence of a problem that is both understandable and manageable within the scope of the assignment. An awareness of the audience Your readers need to believe that the problem you are writing about actually exists and that your proposed solutions will work.

Problem-Solution Paper (cont.) “Qualities of Effective Proposals” (cont.) A well-explained solution Your readers need both to understand your solutions and to find them reasonable. Convincing evidence for the effectiveness of the solution You will need to prove that your solutions are viable and that they are the best answers to the problem by supporting your assertions with evidence such as expert testimony, case studies, experimental studies, and examples of similar solutions to similar problems. Solutions need to be feasible, affordable, and effective.

Problem-Solution Paper (cont.) “Qualities of Effective Proposals” (cont.) A well-documented review of alternative solutions While your proposed solution should be able to stand on its own merits, for your proposal to convince the most skeptical readers, you must also acknowledge alternative ways to solve the problem and then carefully show why the alternatives will not work, or work as well, thus demonstrating that your solution is the best option. A call to action At the end of your proposal, you should urge those who can take action to solve the problem to do so.

Problem-Solution Paper (cont.) “Constructing a Complete Draft” “Parts of a Complete Draft”: Introduction Regardless of your organizational approach, begin with a strong introduction to capture your readers’ attention and introduce the problem that you are proposing to solve. Provide a brief history of the problem. Quote an authority who knows the problem well. Cite statistics that demonstrate the nature of the problem. Provide information about the problem that will surprise – and possibly concern – readers.

Problem-Solution Paper (cont.) “Parts of a Complete Draft” (cont.): Body: When you propose a solution to a problem, you should determine the most effective organizational approach for the purpose you are trying to achieve and the audience you are addressing. Present a whole problem and then give solutions. Give a step-by-step solution to the problem.

Problem-Solution Paper (cont.) “Parts of a Complete Draft” (cont.): Conclusion: In your conclusion, review your proposed solution, reach out to your audience, and, usually, call for readers to take action to implement the proposal. Your conclusion should include the following: –An outline of the problem you are working to solve –A summary of your main points, with an explanation of why your solution would work –A call to action: what you would like your reader to do now that he or she knows about the problem and your suggested solutions

Problem-Solution Paper (cont.) “Parts of a Complete Draft” (cont.): Title: As you compose your proposal, a title should emerge at some point – often very late in the process. The title should, of course, reflect the problem that you are addressing and might or might not hint at the solution.

Problem-Solution Paper (cont.) Outline (Title Page) Introduction Statement of Problem Solution #1 Solution #2 Solution #3 (Original) Conclusion References (Page)

Paper #3 Informative Analysis with Research For this assignment, you will be asked to collect and to review information and then to write an objective analysis of the information. Prior to writing the Research/Argument paper (#4), you will write an essay in which you analyze the opposing views on your topic. In objectively presenting the supporting evidence for each opposing view, you will not state your opinion but will merely inform the audience of the different opinions discussed by three or more authors in recent journals or other publications.