Task 10: Read the text below to find out more about problem-solution essays.


1. The main purpose of a problem-solution essay is clear by its name. You must address a specific issue, which is outlined in the essay title. This essay title will very often be in the form of a direct question, where the general situation/framework is also presented. For example:


situation


The quality of public healthcare in many developing countries is very poor. What could be done to improve it?


problem-solution


2. There are two main types of structure which can be used when writing a problem-solution essay, namely:


‘Block’ approach Introduction Introduction


Problems (examples and supporting details) Problem 1 and possible solutions Solution (examples and supporting details) Conclusion


Problem 2 and possible solutions


Problem 3 and possible solutions Conclusion


The first type can be described as a ‘block’ approach since all the problems are presented in one paragraph, and all the solutions are presented in the next paragraph. The second type can be described as a ‘chain’ approach, since each paragraph addresses one problem and examines the solutions to this specific problem. The second paragraph does the same for the second problem, and so on.


3. The essay in Part 3 is an example of a ‘chain’ approach. The essay can be broken down as follows:


Paragraph 2 • Problem 1 – not enough investment in the health system • Solution 1.1 – invest more (in total) • Solution 1.2 – invest in a smart, targeted way (i.e., primary care)


Paragraph 3 • Problem 2 – lack of qualified doctors • Solution 2.1 – paying higher salaries/benefits • Solution 2.2 – all medics must spend some time working in the public sector Paragraph 4 • Problem 3 – poor levels of public health • Solution 3.1 – governments and INGOs increase investment • Solution 3.2 – provision of education and training


4. This kind of essay is very common in the IELTS examination. As such, if you are planning on doing IELTS at any point, it is crucial that you understand this kind of essay. In this task, a situation may be given, and you must identify some of the key problems associated with this situation and solutions to these problems. Two typical questions are as follows:


96 ‘Chain’ approach


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