For this essay, even more so than for the first two, it will be important to connect with your readers on a personal level so they can better understand your point of view. You can best do this by including stories in your essay that help put a human face on the issue you want to solve. There are several ways that you can do this, but the most popular are:
1) Hypothetical scenario
· Used in the problem part of your essay, you might paint a picture for readers of what could happen if the problem continues unchecked. It has to be somewhat realistic, though, for your readers to believe you and also become concerned.
· Likewise, used in the solution part of your essay, you could paint a picture for readers of what could be possible if the solution comes to pass. This, of course, would be a happy scenario, but again it still needs to be realistic and detailed.
2) Personal Example
· Used in the problem part of your essay, you could explain in detail how the problem personally affects you, someone you know, or a group of people you are associated with so readers can empathize with you and realize that it is a actually a problem.
· Used in the solution part of your essay, you could explain how this solution will personally help you, someone you know, or a group of people you are associated with.
3) Popular or Media Example
· Used in the problem part of your essay, you could find a popular story to use as an illustration of why this is a problem in society. This could include high-profile court cases, crimes, new stories, etc.
· Used in the solution part of your essay, you could use an example of how the solution has worked well in a different place, culture, group, etc. And then note how you would tweak the solution to work in your particular area of interest.
Note: If you use one of these for a problem, you don’t want to use the same one for the solution, and vice versa. So if you use a hypothetical scenario in the problem section, it will be boring to readers if you use another hypothetical scenario in the solution. Mix it up.
But don’t overuse these. You probably don’t need to include more than three of any combination of the six possible choices above.
Your Task:
I’d like you to select one of these choices out of the six and, as detailed as possible, write out everything you can think of that would be relevant to help make your case to your readers. As it is a brainstorming exercise, feel free to write in whatever tone, voice, and style you would like. Try to write a couple paragraphs, and then you will share with your group members.