Assignment: Write a 1,500-word (minimum) problem/solution argument in which you explain a problem and give a
detailed plan for solving it.
Purpose:
Describe a problem
Convince the reader the problem needs solving
Explain the solutions to the problem
Length of assignment: The suggested word count for this essay is 1,500 words. Failure to meet the minimum word
count will result in an automatic 10-point deduction. Please make sure to meet all minimum requirements.
Research: Include three-four library sources to support your argument. Please use no more than four sources. Papers
submitted without citations or with more than the number of sources allowed will receive an automatic failing grade.
Acceptable file types: All submitted work must be in .DOC, .DOCX, .PDF, or .RTF files. Do not submit PAGES files. For
grading and annotation purposes, please submit an attachment in one of the file types above rather than pasting it into the
submission textbox.
Weight/Percentage: 25%
Assignment Guidelines:
• Include an engaging introduction paragraph that introduces your topic
• Include a thesis statement that identifies the subject and the purpose for writing
• Support the thesis statement with topic sentences for each body paragraph
• Support the topic sentences with well-developed, unified body paragraphs
• Use a variety of rhetorical patterns to support your claim
• To support your argument, you should use the following modes of development in your essay:
comparison/contrast, definition, classification, process, and cause/effect.
• Use transitional words and phrases to establish coherence
• Incorporate three-four scholarly (library) sources. Use MLA in-text citations to document research. Use
appropriate signal/attributive phrases to introduce quotes. Use a variety of quotes, paraphrases, and summaries.
• Use research to support your argument. Do not begin or end paragraphs with research. Paragraphs should begin
with topic sentences and end with concluding sentences.
• Synthesize all source material by connecting it to your main idea.
• Conclude by revisiting the thesis and main points and providing a final call to action or prediction
• Include a properly formatted MLA Works Cited page of all sources used in the paper
• Revise for effective and conventional use of language: clear expression, coherent ideas, purposeful word choice,
complete development, and logical organization.
• Edit and proofread for spelling, punctuation, sentence fragments, comma splices, fused sentences, agreement
errors, and sentence style/variety.
• Avoid using first person (I, me, we, us) and second person (you, your). Write your essay in third person.
• Avoid contractions in formal writing
• Use appropriate MLA document formatting
Steps to complete the assignment:
1. Generate ideas using prewriting strategies
2. Propose your topic for approval
3. Formulate a list of research questions and keywords
4. Create an annotated bibliography of scholarly sources relevant to your topic
5. Write a thesis statement with a strong controlling idea to introduce your supporting points
6. Create an outline of the essay
7. Draft the essay
8. Complete a peer review activity
9. Revise, edit and proofread for style and accuracy
10. Complete post-writing reflection
Drafts
You may visit the ILC or REAL Center up to three times to have your paper reviewed. Tutors will not edit or correct your
paper for you. Rather, they will give you feedback and suggest improvements based on the areas of concern you identify
when you sign up. Please refer to the extra credit policy for more information about how to sign up for these services and
how to submit documentation for your visits.
Plagiarism
Please review the policy on plagiarism and academic integrity. Plagiarized papers will receive an automatic zero.
Structure:
I. Introduction: Communicating the Problem
• Describe the problem. Focus on the how and why: how did this become a problem? Why is it important / why
does it need solving?
• Provide a thesis statement at the end of the introduction paragraph stating the problem and a preview of the
solution(s) you will offer.
II. Causes of the problem
• Discuss significant causes of this problem. Who or what is causing the suffering? Why?
• Who is benefiting from the situation?
• What national or international policies contribute to the problem? Are there people indirectly contributing to the
problem by not taking steps to stop it?
. III. Effects of the problem:
• What are the effects of this problem on people/society?
• On the environment. On the economy, etc.
• What are the short-term and long-term impacts? What does the future hold in respect to this
• issue?
II. Body: Communicating the Solution(s)
• Explain each solution in a separate paragraph, or if a multi-step solution, discuss each step of the solution in its
own paragraph.
• In each body paragraph, include a clear topic sentence that is distinct from, though connected to, the other
paragraphs.
• Support each solution or solution step with evidence from your research
• Cite all source information using MLA citation format. In-text citations should correspond to entries on your Works
Cited page.
III. Opposing views
• Are there opposing views to your argument that you should address to make your stance stronger? Respond to
those objections.
III. Conclusion: Reiterating Importance
• Recap your thesis statement (problem + brief overview of solution)
• Close out your paper by emphasizing the importance of solving the problem you have covered.
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