teacher instructions:
A Problem Solution Essay does exactly what it sounds like:

Presents a problem.
Argues for a solution.
Problem Solution Essays (Links to an external site.) are a kind of Argument (Links to an external site.) Essay. They argue that one particular policy would be the way to solve that particular problem. They are sometimes called Propose a Solution Essays. The most important part of this kind of essay is:
Describing a detailed solution.
Arguing that this solution is affordable, feasible and a better solution than anything else.
Choosing an Audience for Your Problem Solution Essay
1. Address Someone Who Can Solve Problem: Choosing the audience you are writing towards is very important in Problem Solution Essays. If you want your solution to really work, you need to choose an audience that has the power to solve the problem, not just one that sees the problem
2. Usually, Your Audience is an Authority: For example, students might not like the food in the cafeteria at school, but writing a paper to the students isn’t going to solve the problem. You need to address the administration or cafeteria workers or some other authority who can actually make changes in the menu
3. Use Reasons that Convince that Audience: Moreover, you need to find reasons for solving the problem that would convince that authority. The students might notice the food is not tasty, but authorities might be more interested in the idea that the food is not healthy, or that parents will be happier if the food is better.

How to Write the paper

What is the problem or issue to be solved? In the introduction the problem should be stated, and any necessary background information (key terms) needed to understand the problem should be addressed. The thesis is the statement of the problem.
What are the causes of the problem? Why did it happen? For whom is this a problem? What are the effects of the problem? Why is it a problem? The better you, the writer, understand the problem and all its implications, the better solution you will find. (Body paragraphs)
What are the options to solving the problem? What are various ways to solve the problem? What resources are available to those who attempt to solve this problem. (Body paragraphs)
Each solution must be examined for its feasibility. What are the advantages What are the options to solving the problem? What are the various ways to solve the problem? What resources are available? (Body paragraphs) and disadvantages? Use logical thinking in your discussion. Apply learned or researched theories and/or principles. Consider all sides and look for repercussions. What could go wrong; what might not work; what might not be supported? (Body paragraphs).
After the analysis which solution is the most feasible and why did you choose it? In this conclusion the value of the chosen solution is rationalized

Where to start?

Pre write ideas in either a brainstorming session or desired cluster.
Search academic resources/databases for source material to be cited in MLA format.
Critically read the potential sources and annotate the potential source materials for potential questions to research further or annotate information to be used. Compare source material for overlapping information or anything that seems to be a red flag.
Consider the format for how you will propose your problem solution essay. Draft according to outline suggested above. Be sure to incorporate the rhetorical triangle with carefully placed usage of ethos, pathos and logos in your argumentation. Be sure to examine how you are addressing your audience and whether your tone is appropriately reflected by your vocabulary usage.
Revise your paper and specifically focus on the organization and whether your argumentation is reasonable and logically supported by your source material.
Edit and correct illogical statements and or sentences that are either awkward, fragmented, run-ons or comma splices. Make sure that your sentences mean what they say and not what you mean.
Have your paper proofread by another person. Check for punctuation, spelling or typographical errors.

The Final Product

3-5 pages typed in MLA Format.
3 scholarly sources cited properly within the text as well as a Works Cited page.
An argument that uses the Rhetorical Triangle.
Appropriate consideration to format, audience, tone and voice.