PROBLEM-SOLUTION ESSAY

(4-paragraph essay
with two problems and two solutions)

I. INTRODUCTION
Hook (Optional):

● In today’s fast-changing world, many people face the effects of [TOPIC].

● One of the major challenges we face today is [TOPIC].

Background Sentence: (Paraphrase the question)

● It is often argued that S + V.

● It is true that S + V.

● Many people believe that S + V.

● [TOPIC] has become a growing concern for individuals and society.

● [TOPIC] affects many areas of life, making it harder for people to live
comfortably.
Thesis Statement:

● This essay will outline the problems associated with this situation and some
possible solutions to help tackle it.

● The essay below will analyze the problems arising from this situation and suggest
feasible solutions to it.

● This essay will discuss two major effects of (problem) and propose possible
solutions.

● The purpose of this essay is to highlight two problems caused by (issue) and
suggest practical ways to solve them.
II. BODY PARAGRAPH 1: Two Problems (Effects)
Topic Sentence:

● [TOPIC] may lead to some serious problems.

● [TOPIC] can have a negative effect on both (someone) and (something, i.e. the
society).

● There are several serious problems associated with [TOPIC].

● There are two main issues caused by [TOPIC] that need to be addressed.

Problem 1: Introduction

● One problem arising from this situation is [PROBLEM]…

● An ongoing challenge associated with this situation is [PROBLEM]

● A significant effect that needs to be addressed is [PROBLEM]

● One major problem is that S + V...

Explanation

● This effect is often seen when S + V...

● This happens because S + V...

Example:

● For example, S + V...

● A common case is when S + V...

Problem 2: Introduction

● [TOPIC] is also responsible for [PROBLEM].

● Another problem caused by/triggered by [TOPIC] is + [PROBLEM]

● Furthermore,.../Moreover,.../Additionally,.../
 ● Another serious issue caused by (topic) is that S + V...

● In addition, many people experience difficulties such as...

Explanation

● This effect is often seen when S + V...

● This happens because S + V...
● This second effect happens due to [N-phrase]

Example:

● For instance, S + V...

● A good example of this problem is...

III. BODY PARAGRAPH 2: Two Solutions

Topic Sentence:

● Several measures can be taken to resolve/tackle [these problems].

● It is important that actions be taken to tackle the issues described above.

● Although these problems are serious, there are effective ways to solve them.

● Fortunately, there are several practical solutions that can reduce the effects of
[these problems].
Solution 1: Introduction & Explanation

● One effective/ possible solution is + to V/ that S + V…

● One way to solve [the issues/problems] is + to V.

● This approach works by...

● By implementing this idea, people can...

Example:
 ● For example, (group/place) used this method and succeeded in...

● A case in point is when S + V...

Solution 2: Introduction

● Another possible/viable/feasible solution is + to V.

● Another way/method of dealing with this problem is + to V.

● The situation could be improved if / is likely to deteriorate unless + S + V.

● To address this problem, [governments/organizations/individuals] should + V

● It is [governments/organizations/individuals]’s responsibility + to V

● Another useful strategy is to S + V...

Explanation

● This solution focuses on...

● It helps because S + V...

Example:

● A real-life example of this can be seen when S + V...

● In many places, this has led to [N-phrase…]

Result (Optional):

● These solutions can greatly reduce the negative impact of (problem).

● Therefore, if applied, these actions may lead to lasting change.

IV. CONCLUSION
Summary:
 ● In conclusion, [TOPIC] causes serious effects such as (problem 1) and (problem
2), but there are ways to solve them, including (solution 1 - N phrase) and
(solution 2 - N phrase).

● To sum up, although [TOPIC] leads to multiple negative consequences, practical

solutions can help reduce the damage.
Opinion/Insight:

● From my point of view, solving these problems requires cooperation and action.

● In the long run, taking steps to address [TOPIC] will improve (people’s quality of
life.)
Advice (Optional):

● Hence, it is advisable that people should + V…

● Therefore, individuals and governments should work together to apply these
solutions.

● Thus, people must act now to prevent these problems from getting worse.

In at least 250 words, write a problem-solution essay (4 PARAGRAPHS) about the

topic below. (40 minutes)
In some big cities, pollution is becoming more and more serious, which can lead to
many negative effects on people’s lives. What are the consequences of this issue and
how can people deal with them?

Sample essay:

In today’s fast-changing world, many people face the effects of urban pollution. Urban
pollution has become a growing concern for individuals and society, especially in
large, crowded cities. As this issue continues to develop, it creates several negative
effects on health, the environment, and quality of life. This essay will discuss two major
effects of urban pollution and propose possible solutions.
Urban pollution leads to several serious effects that harm people’s well-being. One
major problem is that air pollution increases the risk of health problems, especially
respiratory diseases. This effect is often seen when vehicles and factories release toxic
gases into the air, making it hard to breathe. For example, many people in cities such as
Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh city suffer from asthma and other lung-related conditions.
Another serious issue caused by urban pollution is the increase in waste and litter in
public spaces. This second effect happens due to poor waste collection systems and a
lack of environmental awareness. As a result, cities become dirty, unpleasant, and even
dangerous for residents.

Although these problems are serious, there are effective ways to solve them. One
effective solution is to promote cleaner transportation, such as electric buses, metros, and
bike-sharing programs. This approach works by reducing traffic pollution and
encouraging people to choose greener options. For example, cities such as Sydney in
Australia have successfully reduced air pollution by investing in sustainable transport.
Another useful strategy is to improve waste management systems and increase
recycling efforts. This solution focuses on reducing the amount of garbage on the streets
and encouraging people to sort their waste. In many cities, this has led to cleaner
neighborhoods and a better environment for everyone. Therefore, if applied, these
actions may lead to lasting change.

In conclusion, urban pollution causes serious effects such as health problems and dirty
living conditions, but practical solutions can help reduce the damage. From my point
of view, solving these problems requires teamwork between citizens and
governments. Therefore, people must act now to prevent these problems from
getting worse.

Some useful language:

Questions:

Outlook and Behavior

1. Many people today struggle to maintain a positive outlook in stressful situations.

What problems does this cause? What solutions can be done to help people stay
optimistic?

2. In modern society, people are becoming less patient and more easily frustrated.
What problems does this cause? What can be done to solve this issue?

Music and Other Arts

3. School systems around the world are cutting funding for music and art programs.
What problems does this cause for students and society? What solutions could be
implemented?

4. Many talented artists and musicians find it hard to make a living.

What problems does this create? What can be done to support them?
Money, Finance and You

5. A growing number of young people lack basic knowledge about personal finance.
What problems does this cause? What are some effective solutions to this issue?

6. Many people today live beyond their means due to pressure to keep up with
trends.
What problems does this create? What can be done to solve it?

Clothing and Appearance

7. Social media often pressures people, especially teenagers, to look a certain way.
What problems does this cause? What can be done to reduce these negative
effects?

8. Fast fashion is very popular but harmful to the environment.

What problems does it create? What solutions can be put in place?

Communities

9. In many neighborhoods, people no longer interact with their neighbors as they

used to.
What problems does this cause? What can be done to rebuild a sense of
community?

10. Urban areas are facing increased issues with overcrowding.

What problems arise from this? What solutions can help reduce overcrowding?

Animals

11. Many wild animals are becoming endangered due to human activity.
What problems does this cause? What can be done to protect these species?

12. Some people keep wild or exotic animals as pets.

What problems does this create? What are possible solutions to this issue?
Advertising and Consumers

13. Many advertisements use unrealistic beauty standards to promote their products.
What problems does this cause for consumers, especially young people? What can
be done to address this issue?

14. Influencers and celebrities are frequently paid to advertise products without
making it clear. What issues can this cause for consumers? What can be done to
ensure transparency in advertising?

Family Trends

15. Many modern families spend less quality time together than in the past.
What problems does this cause for family members? What are some possible
solutions?

16. Vietnam is facing a rapidly aging population. What are the main problems
associated with this trend, and what solutions can be implemented to address
them?

Facts, Theories, and Hoaxes

17. Fake news spreads quickly on social media platforms.

What problems does this cause? What can be done to reduce its spread?

18. Many people believe in hoaxes or conspiracy theories without checking facts.
What problems arise from this? What are effective solutions to promote critical
thinking?

Your Free Time

19. Many people today don’t know how to spend their free time in meaningful ways.
What problems does this create? What can be done to help people use their free
 time better?

20. Too much screen time is becoming a common way to spend free time.
What problems does this cause? What are some solutions to encourage more
active or social hobbies?