Introduction:
Problem-Solution essays ask you to do two things: identify serious problems and propose logical solutions. The key is ensuring your solutions directly solve the problems you’ve identified.
Example Question:
Plastic waste is a major problem worldwide. What are the causes of this problem and what measures can be taken to solve it?
Full Band 9 Model Answer:
(Paraphrase) The proliferation of plastic debris has become a pervasive environmental crisis on a global scale. (Outline) This essay will first outline the primary causes of this issue before proposing actionable solutions.
(Causes – Topic Sentence) The root causes of the plastic waste problem are consumer convenience and inadequate waste management. Firstly, the demand for single-use plastics is driven by a culture of convenience. Products like plastic water bottles, packaging, and disposable cutlery are cheap, hygienic, and immensely popular. Secondly, even when plastics are disposed of, recycling and waste processing infrastructure in many countries is either inefficient or non-existent. Consequently, a significant amount of plastic ends up in landfills or as litter in natural environments, eventually polluting oceans and harming wildlife.
(Solutions – Topic Sentence) Tackling this crisis requires a two-pronged approach involving both government legislation and individual responsibility. To address the issue at its source, governments must implement policies that reduce the production of unnecessary plastics. This could include banning single-use items like plastic bags and straws, and incentivizing companies to use biodegradable alternatives. Simultaneously, individuals must embrace their role by making conscious choices, such as using reusable shopping bags, bottles, and containers, thereby reducing demand. Furthermore, governments and private companies must invest heavily in advanced recycling technologies to manage the plastic that is still in use.
(Conclusion) In conclusion, the plastic waste epidemic is largely a result of our reliance on disposable products and poor waste management. However, through a combination of strict government policy and a shift in public consciousness, this man-made problem can be effectively mitigated.
Vocabulary for This Topic:
- Proliferation / Pervasive crisis: (Nouns) Rapid increase / Widespread problem.
- Root causes: (Phrase) The fundamental origins.
- Single-use plastics: (Phrase) Plastics designed to be used once.
- Inadequate waste management: (Phrase) Poor handling of trash.
- Biodegradable alternatives: (Phrase) Materials that naturally decompose.
- Mitigated: (Verb) Reduced in severity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Proposing Unrealistic Solutions: Solutions like “ban all plastic everywhere” are impractical. Propose solutions that are realistic and specific (e.g., “a tax on plastic bags”).
- Mismatching Problems and Solutions: Each solution should directly address a problem you mentioned. If you cite “laziness” as a problem, your solution can’t be a new technology; it must be “public education campaigns.”
- Using “People should…” too much: Instead of “People should recycle,” write “Governments should make recycling mandatory” or “Recycling facilities should be made more accessible.” This is more formal and powerful.