WEEK 6

LESSON 1-2
Organizing solution paragraphs​.

Solution paragraphs writing practice​

Foreign Language 2​
Astana IT University, 2025​
 OUTLINE​

Solution paragraph structure

Organizing solution paragraphs​
 Objectives

Learn the key elements of solution paragraphs

01 in PSE

Create a solution paragraph incorporating all

essential elements in a clear and concise
02 manner​
 Review​

• What is the normal length of a paragraph?

• What three parts of the formal academic English
paragraph do you know?
• What type of structure of PSE do we use in your
assignment?
 Structure of a problem-solution essay

Introduction

Problem 1

Problem 2
Block
structure​
Solution 1

Solution 2

Conclusion
A topic sentence with the solution

Supporting sentences with evidence,

reasons, examples with in-text citations
Solution
An evaluation sentence
paragrap
A concluding sentence
h
structure
 A topic sentence
A topic sentence in the solution paragraphs must consist of two parts:
-one part mentions the problem
-another part offers/suggests solutions.

For example:

To tackle the issues related to circadian rhythms, people should pay attention
to their daily activities and plan their day in advance.
Or
Paying attention to daily activities and planning a day in advance might help in
preventing the issues related to circadian rhythms.
 Activity 1. Match the solutions to the problems.
Share your answers in MS Teams. (3 min)

1. Waste is the result of human activities, that is why … A. …parents of teenagers should pay attention to planning
their children's day.

2. To solve the problems associated with the Internet B. Appropriate policies should be taken to prevent …
addiction among teenagers, ...

3. The first step for treating depression among teens is … C. …people all over the world should be aware about
waste management methods to save our planet.

4. …mass surveillance from the government and D. …to recognize the matter earlier instead of ignoring it,
intruders. to talk to a psychiatrist which may help reduce the burden
of depression at an early stage.

Key word/s may help you develop a proper topic sentence with a solution​
Waste is the result of human activities, that is why people all over the world should be aware
about waste management methods to save our planet. (Analyze other topic sentences for key words)​
 Make sure your solutions are:
you cannot suggest buying computers for all the children in poor families
Cost-effective: to improve their education if they have issues related to electricity​​

Culturally acceptable: you cannot suggest meat-lovers to become vegetarian to

solve the problem with unhealthy diet​​

you cannot suggest North Korea to become friends with South

Politically viable: Korea to make the world a more peaceful place​​

Practical: you cannot just say “quit smoking” if someone asks you to help them quit​​

Sustainable: you can recommend to wear a fabric mask instead of a medical one

Strong: ​if you say, “shut down the computer if you think your eyes are tired”, it is
not a strong argument for an academic essay. ​
 Supporting sentences
The supporting sentences of a paragraph develop the main idea you presented in the topic
sentence.

Supporting sentences should focus on the

following:​​
- They should provide the main supporting
points for the paragraph's topic sentence.​​
- There are usually 3 - 4 supporting sentences
in a paragraph.​​
- They should be arranged in a logical order.
 Evaluation
Evaluation is part of the process of analyzing solutions, and a way of indicating opinion
or stance.
It usually comes before a concluding sentence, but also may come right after a topic
sentence. Apart from that, some authors add an evaluation sentence/s in a concluding
paragraph, indicating the practicality of the offered solutions in the body paragraphs.
Activity 2. Match the structures with examples used in expressing evaluation. Share
your answers in MS Teams. Time - 3 min.
Structure Correct ans Example
wer

1)This is/would be/ can be/ may be (etc) + adjective A) … and has huge implications for the future.
1)B

2) This + would + adverb + verb B) This might be unpopular in urban areas

2)C

3) It is + adverb + adjective + noun C) This would probably help in some extend

3)D

4) evaluation shown with a noun phrase D) It is a highly effective strategy

4)A
 Evaluation
Evaluation is used to express how practical or impractical might the offered solution/s
be.​
For example:​

Educating people to how to invest their money in stocks may help increase the well-being of
families in developing countries. It might be highly profitable if people invest their assets in
American or other foreign stocks. ​
Or

Educating people to how to invest their money in stocks may help increase the well-being of
families in developing countries. For example,… Even though benefits of investing in stock is
beneficial in long-term, investing for short-term may result in losing people’s money up to
100%. Therefore, investing in stocks might be a good option for patient people mostly.​

Which one is more acceptable? Why?​

Both examples are acceptable. The first one gives a short hint that investing
is beneficial if to invest in foreign stocks. The second example discusses
the practicality of the suggested solution more broadly explaining the benefits
and risks.
 Activity 3. Read the topic sentence.
Continue it with evaluation and send to MS Teams. (5 min)

lem
Solution

ob
Pr
Integrating plagiarism-checking tools like TurnitIn may
positively affect the situation with plagiarism in higher
education.
However, it might be ineffective with some ”smart”
students as they may learn how to cheat on the system and
keep committing academic misconduct covertly.
 Sample analysis
Activity 4. Read the sample of a solution paragraph written on the problems of
circadian rhythms. Match the sentences (1-5) with sentence types (A-D). (5 min)
A. A topic sentence with solution ____
1
3,4
B. Supporting sentences with evidence, reasons, examples with in-text citations _____
C. An evaluation sentence with examples_____
2
5
D. A concluding sentence _____

To tackle the issues related to circadian rhythms, people should plan their day in advance and
pay attention to their daily activities (1). It is highly effective to schedule one’s day using different
technological devices or applications such as smart watches, Evernote and others (2).
According to Smith (2016), people who plan their day in advance and allocate at least thirty
minutes a day to physical activities, especially cardio exercises, sleep well at night and feel
energized in a daytime (3). Athletes who track their sleep and water balance, follow a particular
regime in fulfilling daily training goals, improved their circadian rhythm and general well-being
(Johnson, 2018) (4). Planning and following a healthy daily routine will make people feel and live
better as it improves people’s response to the signals of their biological clocks (5).
 Lesson 2

Organizing Solution Paragraphs​

Scan it
 Is this a good example? If yes, explain why.
Reducing Plastic Waste through Plastic Bag Bans

Implementing plastic bag bans is an effective solution to reduce plastic waste,

protect the environment, and promote sustainable practices. Plastic bags contribute
significantly to environmental pollution. According to a study conducted by Thompson et
al. (2009), plastic bags are a major source of marine debris and pose a threat to marine
life. By implementing plastic bag bans, we can reduce the number of bags that end up in
landfills and oceans. Plastic bag bans have proven successful in several countries and
cities. For example, a study by Ho et al. (2018) analyzed the impact of a plastic bag ban
in a city and found a significant reduction in plastic bag consumption and waste. This
demonstrates the effectiveness of such bans in curbing plastic pollution. Alternatives to
plastic bags, such as reusable bags or paper bags, are readily available and more
environmentally friendly. A report by the European Commission (2019) indicates that
reusable bags have a much lower carbon footprint compared to single-use plastic bags,
as they can be used multiple times. Thus, by implementing plastic bag bans, plastic
waste can be significantly reduced, minimize environmental pollution, and foster a more
sustainable future. Promoting plastic bag bans is a proactive step towards reducing
plastic waste and creating a cleaner and greener environment for future generations.
 Activity 5. Analyzing Solution Paragraphs and Identifying
Structural Problems

● In groups, analyze the paragraph and identify

structural problems, suggesting improvements for
each paragraph component based on the information
you learned in the previous paragraphs.
● You are given 10-15 minutes.
 Group 1: Mental Health Awareness​
It is important to provide support to those in need. A survey
conducted by the Mental Health Institute (2018) revealed that 60%
of respondents reported feeling uncomfortable discussing their
mental health due to social judgment and lack of understanding.
Furthermore, a study by Johnson et al. (2020) found that
communities with increased mental health awareness experience
lower rates of suicide and higher rates of individuals seeking
professional help. Thus, by promoting mental health awareness, a
more supportive and inclusive society for individuals struggling with
mental health challenges could be established. …
Group 2. Traffic Congestion Solutions
… A study by the Urban Transportation Research Center (2019) found
that the implementation of intelligent traffic systems, such as traffic
signal optimization and real-time traffic monitoring, can significantly
reduce congestion levels. Additionally, promoting alternative
transportation modes, such as public transit and cycling, can alleviate
traffic congestion and reduce the number of private vehicles on the
road. The National Association of Transportation Studies (2021) reports
that cities with well-developed public transit systems have experienced
a decrease in traffic congestion. Therefore, by adopting these traffic
management strategies, an efficient and sustainable transportation
system could be arranged, benefiting both commuters
and the environment. The effective implementation of intelligent traffic
systems and the promotion of alternative transportation modes are
essential steps toward reducing traffic congestion and improving overall
transportation efficiency.
 Group 3: Waste Management
Solutions
Adopting sustainable waste management practices is crucial in
minimizing environmental pollution and promoting a circular economy. A
report by the Environmental Protection Agency (2018) highlights the
importance of implementing recycling programs to reduce landfill waste
and conserve resources.​ Furthermore, the introduction of composting
initiatives in residential and commercial areas can divert organic waste
from landfills and generate nutrient-rich compost for agricultural use. The
International Institute of Sustainable Development (2020) emphasizes the
benefits of composting in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. … The
implementation of recycling programs and composting initiatives is crucial
in minimizing environmental pollution and moving toward a circular
economy.
 Suggested answer to Group 1:
Mental Health Awareness​
It is important to raise awareness about mental health to
reduce stigma and provide support to those in need. A survey
conducted by the Mental Health Institute (2018) revealed that 60%
of respondents reported feeling uncomfortable discussing their
mental health due to social judgment and lack of understanding.
Furthermore, a study by Johnson et al. (2020) found that
communities with increased mental health awareness experience
lower rates of suicide and higher rates of individuals seeking
professional help. Thus, by promoting mental health awareness, a
more supportive and inclusive society for individuals struggling with
mental health challenges could be established. The implementation
of comprehensive mental health awareness campaigns is essential in
reducing stigma and ensuring individuals receive the support they
need.
Suggested answer to Group 2. Traffic
Congestion Solutions
Implementing effective traffic management strategies is crucial in reducing
traffic congestion and improving transportation efficiency. A study by the Urban
Transportation Research Center (2019) found that the implementation of
intelligent traffic systems, such as traffic signal optimization and real-time traffic
monitoring, can significantly reduce congestion levels. Additionally, promoting
alternative transportation modes, such as public transit and cycling, can alleviate
traffic congestion and reduce the number of private vehicles on the road. The
National Association of Transportation Studies (2021) reports that cities with well-
developed public transit systems have experienced a decrease in
traffic congestion. Therefore, by adopting these traffic management strategies, an
efficient and sustainable transportation system could be arranged, benefiting both
commuters and the environment. The effective implementation of intelligent
traffic systems and the promotion of alternative transportation modes are
essential steps toward reducing traffic congestion and improving overall
transportation efficiency.
Suggested answer to Group 3: Waste
Management Solutions
Adopting sustainable waste management practices is crucial in
minimizing environmental pollution and promoting a circular economy. A
report by the Environmental Protection Agency (2018) highlights the
importance of implementing recycling programs to reduce landfill waste
and conserve resources.​ Furthermore, the introduction of composting
initiatives in residential and commercial areas can divert organic waste
from landfills and generate nutrient-rich compost for agricultural use. The
International Institute of Sustainable Development (2020) emphasizes the
benefits of composting in reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Thus, by
embracing sustainable waste management practices, the pollution could
be reduced, resources could be conserved, and a more sustainable future
could be for next generations. The implementation of recycling programs
and composting initiatives is crucial in minimizing environmental pollution
and moving toward a circular economy.
 Home assignment 10%

● Format of the assignment: MS Word Document (PDF format is

not allowed for a submission)/paper-based format in class.
● Write TWO solution paragraphs in 250-300 words (in 125-
150 words each).
● Before submission, make sure it meets the requirements in
the assessment criteria (Slide 24)
● Deadline: Week 7, Sunday, till 23.59
 Solution Paragraphs Criteria
Score
1. The solution paragraphs have clear topic sentences. 10

2. The supporting sentences expand the idea with at least 2 evidence, reasons, examples in a 20
logical way (claim + evidence (argument type) +conclusion)
3. The evaluation sentences (1 in each paragraph) indicate the practicality/impracticality of 10
the offered solutions.
4.The concluding sentences are relevant to the topic sentences and flow logically within the 10
paragraph.
5. Paragraphs demonstrate a student’s good language control: flexible and wide range of 20
academic vocabulary and grammar (sentence types, relative clauses, impersonal structures,
conditionals, caution language, articles, determiners, infinitive forms of verbs) with no
spelling and punctuation errors.
6. Paragraphs contain a range of cohesive devices (linkers, pronouns, repetitions, etc.). 5

7.The references (both, in-text citations and the reference list) are formatted in APA. 20
Quotations only one case. Narrative and parenthetical citations are mandatory.
8.The word count for the solution paragraphs is 250-300 in total (125-150 words each). 5
 Written Chronicles. Variant
1. to the following solution paragraph on
Write one evaluation and one concluding sentence
a piece of paper and submit it to your instructor. You are given 10-15 minutes.

One effective solution to address the issue of professionals leaving

their country is for their government to improve work conditions,
including increasing wages and investing in state-of-the-art
equipment and training. This can incentivize doctors and teachers to
stay and continue their work within the country (UNESCO,
2018). Another approach is for poorer countries to enhance their
standards of living, promote tolerance, and offer a positive future to
entice professionals back after they have completed their training
abroad. This can involve improving infrastructure, healthcare systems,
education, and social services, creating a more favorable environment
for professionals to return to (OECD, 2017). ​
 Written Chronicles. Variant
2. to the following solution paragraph on
Write one evaluation and one concluding sentence
a piece of paper and submit it to your instructor. You are given 10-15 minutes.

One of the easiest solutions is to encourage people to reduce waste,

recycle and buy products for use on a more long-term basis.
Additionally, the amount of packaging used per product could be
reduced – many companies have already attempted this – which
reduces the amount of waste overall (Evenson, 2004). Packaging
types could be changed (a move away from non-recyclable and non-
degradable plastics) which would reduce the problem of waste
longevity. Finally, there are many suggestions that excess waste could
be put into space to remove the amount of Earth-based land used for
waste disposal, but this comes with its own environmental concerns
(Jublin, Nomark, & Perry, 2010).
 Reflection

Answer the following questions:​

• What are the components of the solution paragraph?​

• How many supporting sentences you should have in your
solution paragraph? Why?​
• Why do we need an evaluation sentence in
solution paragraph?
 RESOURCES
Bailey, S. (2018). Academic Writing: A Handbook for International Students. Routledge:
Taylor & Francis​
De Chazal, E., & Moore, J. (2021). Oxford EAP: A Course in English for Academic Purposes.
Upper-intermediate/B2. Oxford University Press. ​
Dollahite, N. E. & Haun, J. (2012). Sourcework: Academic Writing From
Sources. Heinle/Cengage Learning​
Thank you
for your
attention!
Sample answer keys for written chronicles
for instructors only
• Variant 1
However, it is important to acknowledge that implementing these solutions can be
financially demanding, seeking aid from developed countries can help support the
implementation of these changes and contribute to the overall development of the country.
Overall, addressing the issue of professionals leaving their country requires governments to
prioritize improving work conditions, standards of living, and offering a positive future to
retain and attract skilled individuals.
• Variant 2
These actions have the potential to significantly decrease the amount of waste generated
and contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly society. By implementing
strategies such as waste reduction, recycling promotion, packaging modifications, and
responsible waste disposal, we can make considerable progress in mitigating the
detrimental effects of waste on our planet and pave the way for a more sustainable future.